Classroom newsletters will be posted on this website informing you about what we have been doing and about upcoming events.
CLASSROOM HAPPENINGS FOR MARCH 9 - 12, 2020
LANGUAGE ARTS
In phonics we reviewed letter sounds and matched the letter puzzle to its corresponding sound picture. We focused on the long and short vowel sounds in words by tapping out similar words but having different vowel sounds, ie. 'mad' and 'made'. We identified the word having the short vowel sound and built the word with letter cards. We discussed that when a word has a long vowel sound (the vowel says its name), there is often a 'silent e' at the end of the word as in 'made'. We focused on these word pairs: cap-cape, mad-made, mop-mope. We built words on the magnetic board and practiced tapping out the sounds, identifying the letters and making the word. In literature we read Jan Brett's book, Daisy Comes Home. We read Pete the Cat and the Groovy Playdate and talked about the importance of sharing and taking turns both on a playdate and at school. We read the poem, "Chickadees", and found the rest of the sight words. In writers' workshop we learned what to do when we think we are done with our piece of writing: add detail to our picture; add more words; start a new piece. We reviewed the importance of spaces between our words and reading what we have written. We added the word, "like", to our word wall.
MATH
We began our study of shapes. We will learn about 2 dimensional and 3 dimensional shapes in this unit. We started with 2 dimensional shapes and named them: circle, triangle, square, rhombus/diamond, hexagon, rectangle, trapezoid. We observed some of these shapes and identified the sides and the corners (points). We read the book, Shapes in the Kitchen, and identified shapes in parts of a kitchen. In stations we focused on: making teen numbers on 2 10 frames and learning that a teen number is made up of a 10 and some 1's; matching dots on a domino to a number; exploring power blocks; working on Symphony Math on the iPad.
SOCIAL/EMOTIONAL LEARNING
In Open Circle we reviewed what we do at the red light for problem-solving: stop and calm down; put the problem into words and how it makes you feel. We began to learn about what we do at the yellow light. The first part is to brainstorm possible solutions to the problem. We practiced brainstorming solutions to a pretend problem. We learned that when we brainstorm we don't decide whether it's a good idea or not; that comes in the next step.
CHOICE TIME
At the collage table we finished making a winter bird (cardinal, chickadee or blue jay). They look great on our tree in the classroom! At the collage table we started to build our feeder for birds with our partner. In the listening center we have the story, Trouble with Trolls, by Jan Brett. We enjoyed having Ruby Williamson come in and help out.
We celebrated Harper's birthday!
In Book Buddies we made cards for the custodians and the kitchen staff.
______________________________________________________________________________
CLASSROOM HAPPENINGS FOR MARCH 2 - 6, 2020
LANGUAGE ARTS
In phonics we continued practicing tapping out sounds in words and spelling or writing the word. We built words with letter cards and made new words by changing 1 letter. We practiced writing words on the tablet after tapping out the sounds. This practice also helps to review letter formation on the lines. In literature we read Hunter's Best Friend at School. In this story we learned how 1 friend, Hunter, helped his friend, Stripe, learn to follow the directions and to do what was expected. We talked about how friends can help each other make good choices. We read the poem, "Chickadees", and found our sight words. In writers' workshop we worked on 2 opinion writing pieces: favorite kind of weather and favorite dessert. We focused on why we like a type of weather and dessert and giving a reason. We are practicing making spaces between our words using the 'spacer' we made. In independent reading we learned a new reading strategy, "chunky monkey". This strategy encourages us to find a 'chunk' or part of a word that we know and use it to try and read the rest of the word. For example in the word 'today', we find the word 'to' and then add the rest of the word to try and read the whole word. In handwriting we practiced writing W to Z. Now we will practice writing all the uppercase and lowercase letters.
MATH
We solved a subtraction story problem about clothes blowing off of a clothesline. We showed the number of clothes on the line (6) and marked the clothes that blew away (2). We practiced writing the equation for the problem. We learned about 'the question of the day' and how the information informs us about the group. Our question was, "Do you like cookies?" In stations we focused on: learning combinations for a number; writing subtraction equations; adding 2 to a dice roll (or doubling the number and adding 1) and recording the number; exploring attribute blocks; working on Symphony Math on the iPad.
SCIENCE
We learned about 3 common birds that we might see at feeders or around our homes or playgrounds in the winter. We learned about the chickadee, blue jay and cardinal. We watched a video about the 3 birds visiting a feeder. We began our STEAM project which focuses on building a feeder for birds using recycled materials. We watched a video about different kinds of feeders and discussed what characteristics we noticed about the feeders. We worked with a partner to explore the materials available and discussed how we might use them to build something to feed the birds.
SOCIAL/EMOTIONAL LEARNING
In Open Circle we discussed the 2 steps at the "red light" for problem-solving. We reviewed ways to calm down and the importance of calming down when we have a problem. We also discussed how to put a problem into words and identify the feeling we have about the problem. We practiced putting a problem into words by saying, "I feel mad because the boy took the ball."
CHOICE TIME
At the science table we have magnasticks which are small pieces of metal that can be used to build on a small magnet base. At the collage table we are making a winter bird (cardinal, chickadee or blue jay) using craypas and colored feathers. In the listening center we have the story, On Noah's Ark, by Jan Brett. We enjoyed having Allison Kates come in and help out.
EXTRA
Mittens/Gloves: Please continue to send in either mittens or gloves with your child for recess. Although the days are getting warmer, we still have some cold days. Our classroom supply of mittens and gloves to borrow are limited.
Recycle Materials: Thank you very much for sending in the recycled materials for our STEAM project! We are all set!
______________________________________________________________________________
CLASSROOM HAPPENINGS FOR FEB. 24 - 28, 2020
LANGUAGE ARTS
In phonemic awareness we focused on the long and short sounds in words. We tapped out the sounds in 2 similar words and identified the word that had the short vowel sound, ie. 'mad' vs. 'made' and 'pin' vs. 'pine'. In phonics we built words by changing 1 letter from 1 word to the next. For example we built the word 'bag' and then built the word 'tag' by changing the /b/ to a /t/. Although we use the letter cards to build the word, we need to be able to hear the change of the sound in the new word. We practiced writing some CVC words on the writing tablet. We tapped out the sounds and then practiced writing each word in lowercase letters. In literature we read The Hat by Jan Brett and identified the setting, the characters and the problem. We read The Mitten by Alvin Tresselt and compared this version to Jan Brett's version. We also read The Umbrella by Jan Brett and discussed how this book was similar to The Mitten. We learned the poem, "Five Little Chickadees". In writers' workshop we reviewed tapping out the sounds in a word to help us write the sounds in a word. We also reviewed the importance of details in our illustration. The illustration should tell a story. We illustrated the poem, "Roses Are Red", and wrote a second verse for the poem-our own ideas. In independent reading we added a new book basket to our library. The basket has different levels of books and has illustrations to help readers with a changing word in the text.
MATH
In our math journal we solved a subtraction story problem about missing socks. We reviewed how to show something going away in an illustration and how to label the answer to tell what is left. Some of us are also writing an equation to represent the story problem. In stations we focused on: adding and subtracting with number trains; writing numerals on a March calendar; measuring lines with cubes and popsicle sticks; working on Symphony Math on the iPad.
SCIENCE
We continued our exploration of wood and water. We reviewed what happens to wood when water drops are put on it. Then we observed what happened when we put plywood and pine in a tub of water. On another day we worked with a partner to sink a piece of cedar and a piece of particleboard using a rubber band and some paper clips. We recorded how many paper clips it took to sink each kind of wood. Then we discussed why it took more paper clips to sink the cedar than the particleboard.
SOCIAL/EMOTIONAL LEARNING
In Open Circle we discussed what are some problems that Kindergarten children have at school and how we solve them. We reviewed that DD (dangerous or destructive) behavior needs to be reported to a teacher for them to solve. Then we discussed what the lights on a traffic signal mean. We learned that we will be using the model of a traffic light to learn the steps in problem solving.
CHOICE TIME
At the collage table we made a pointer by decorating a tongue depressor with markers and colorful squares. We will use the pointer at writers' workshop to help us make spaces between our words and when we read, pointing to the words. In the listening center we have the story, Comet's Nine Lives , by Jan Brett. At the art table we are recording and illustrating something we learned about magnets. We enjoyed having Ruby Willliamson, Rebecca Kravetz and Neka Melanson come in and help out.
EXTRA
Poetry Binder: Encourage your child to read the poems and sight words in their poetry binder.
Boots: Please continue to send in your child's boots to wear to recess. The playground can be muddy and wearing boots helps.
Thank You: Thank you for sending in the materials for our STEAM project! We will be starting it this week.
______________________________________________________________________________
CLASSROOM HAPPENINGS FOR FEB. 10 - 14, 2020
LANGUAGE ARTS
In phonemic awareness we played "The ship is loaded with ..." and shared words that began with the /k/ sound. In phonics we continued to review the sounds of the letters. We built words and practiced tapping out the sounds and then blending them to say the word. In literature we read The Wolf's Chicken Stew and 100 Snowmen in celebration of 100's day. We read 1 Zillion Valentines and The Valentine Bears in celebration of Valentine's Day. We discussed how both of these stories focused on the importance of thinking of others and showing that we care by doing little things. We learned the poem, "Roses Are Red" and created other verses having alternate items that are red, blue and sweet. In writers' workshop we continued with opinion writing. We wrote about what we thought we would be doing when we are 100 yrs. old. (This writing will go with the collage we made showing us at 100.) We also wrote and illustrated 3 things that we love. We illustrated the poem, "The Mitten Song", and the song, "Working in Our Classroom", for our poetry binder. We added the sight word, 'are', to our word wall. In independent reading we practiced reading our sight words and sounding out words by tapping.
MATH
We celebrated the 100th day of school with several activities focused on the number 100. These are the activities we participated in: collage of ourself at 100 yrs. old; decorate 100 glasses; mystery math on a 100 grid; dice rolls to 100; chain with 100 pipe cleaners; class book about eating or not eating 100 of a certain food; take 100 steps from the classroom; build a tower with 100 cuisenaire rods. We enjoyed having Abby Larson, Allison Kates, Heather Yates and Rebecca Kravetz help with the 100 day celebration! In our math journal we illustrated a subtraction story problem about toys. We learned how to show how to illustrate an amount going away, as in subtraction. We are also focusing on writing a label for our answer, ie, 2 toys. In stations we focused on: knowing what the plus and minus symbol mean; adding 2 or 3 di and writing numerals; matching a numeral to its corresponding 10 frame; working on Symphony Math on the iPad. Symphony Math is a program that students should only use at school.
SCIENCE
We explored what happens to wood when it gets wet with water drops. We observed water drops on cedar wood and particleboard and compared how the wood and water reacted. We learned that when the wood soaks up the water that the water is absorbed.
SOCIAL/EMOTIONAL LEARNING
In Open Circle we discussed the difference between tattling and telling. Tattling we identified as sharing with an adult a problem that is not a DD and can be resolved by ourselves. It usually has to do with getting someone in trouble for something that is not a DD. Telling is when we report to a teacher or adult that someone else is being dangerous or destructive. We did discuss that sometimes we need to talk with a teacher about a situation (that is not a DD) when we cannot solve the problem, ie the other person is not listening to us.
CHOICE TIME
At the collage table we made a lovebug clothespin with cut out hearts glued to a clothespin. At the science table we are exploring magnetic rings on a pole and balls. We are exploring what happens when similar forces (plus to plus, minus to minus) are next to each other; the magnets push away from each other. In the listening center we have the story, Franklin's Valentine. We enjoyed having Neka Melanson come in and help out.
We had Soultana Gulbinus come in and read The Wonderful Fluffy Little Squishy for Ioanna's half birthday!
In Book Buddies we made valentines for each other, made heart creations with cut out hearts and read.
EXTRA
STEAM Materials: Thank you to families who have sent in materials for our upcoming STEAM project! Please continue to send in the items listed. We will be working on the project in the beginning of March.
Boots: Please continue to send in your child's boots. The playground can be muddy and having boots helps.
______________________________________________________________________________
CLASSROOM HAPPENINGS FOR FEB. 3 - 7, 2020
LANGUAGE ARTS
In phonemic awareness we focused on the final sound in words in a picture sort. We sorted pictures ending with the /m/ and the /t/ sound. In phonics we reviewed the sounds of the letters. We read words by tapping out the sounds and blending them. In literature we read 100 Day Worries and learned that the main character was worried about what she was going to bring in for her 100 collection. We read The Mitten by Jan Brett. We made predictions from the border illustrations about the animals that we would see next in the story. We discussed the setting and the characters. We read Fritz and the Beautiful Horses and learned how a pony felt when it was teased by the people and other horses. In writers' workshop we read What Pet Should I Get? by Dr. Suess and wrote an opinion piece about the best pet to get. We chose the pet and wrote about why that pet would be a good pet. We illustrated and wrote about our 100 collection for a class book. In handwriting we continued to learn how to write the uppercase letters. We worked on the letters I to N.
MATH
We worked on 2 story problems that had us think about whether to add or subtract numbers. One story problem was about having 3 toys and a friend having 6 toys- how many toys altogether? The other story problem was about an alligator sculpture made out of straw that had 6 teeth on each side of its jaw- how many teeth altogether? We illustrated the problems and wrote numbers and some equations to show the answer. We are learning that an equation represents the operation in the story, ie., whether to add or subtract. In stations we focused on: identifying amounts on a 10 (or 2 10 frames); the addition and subtraction symbols and what they mean; measuring ourselves with blocks and lincoln logs; working on Symphony Math on the iPad.
SCIENCE
We read about magnets and learned why a magnet attracts some objects and not others. We did the magnet sort from the science table and found out that not all metals are magnetic. They have to have cobalt, iron, steel or nickel in them to be magnetic. We observed the results from our January weather graphs and recorded the type of weather and temperature zone we had the most of in January. We also compared our December and January weather graphs and shared what we noticed.
SOCIAL/EMOTIONAL LEARNING
In open Circle we discussed teasing. We shared whether we had been teased, how it makes us feel and what kids tease others about. We learned that we can use our words in a serious tone of voice to ask someone to stop the teasing. If the teasing continues, we need to find a teacher for help. We reviewed different kinds of behavior and how we would handle it, ie. dangerous or destructive behavior, annoying behavior, teasing.
CHOICE TIME
At the art table we decorated a bag to collect valentines in. We painted the bag and then decorated it with paper hearts. At the science table we are exploring whether a magnet is strong enough to go through different thicknesses of paper. In the listening center we have the story, The Missing Mitten Mystery. We enjoyed having Allison Kates and Jerry Reid come in and help out.
We celebrated Ioanna's 1/2 birthday!
EXTRA
Valentines: If your child is going to bring valentines for the class, they can bring them in starting Mon., Feb. 10.
Snacks: Please talk with your child about the kind and quantity of snack they bring to school to make sure that they like the snack and feel that they have enough to eat.
Boots: Please continue to send in boots for your child as the playground is still muddy. Thank you for sending in shoes to change into.
______________________________________________________________________________
CLASSROOM HAPPENINGS FOR JAN. 27 - 31, 2020
LANGUAGE ARTS
In phonemic awareness we practiced blending sounds together to make a word without seeing the letters. In phonics we practiced tapping and blending sounds together to read words. We practice reading 6-7 words with 1 letter changing (either the initial, middle or final sound) for the next word. For example if we tapped and read the word "mat", then the next word would be "sat". In literature we read David Goes to School and identified any DD behaviors David showed. We read as a read-aloud Five Little Penguins and compared it to Five Little Monkeys. We started an author/illustrator study of Jan Brett. We read one of her first books Annie and the Wild Animals. We learned that Jan Brett often uses her borders to illustrate more details to the story. We learned a new poem, "The Mitten Song". In writers' workshop we read the story, My Dog Rosie, and discussed how we could write about pets we have or have had. We also read The Snowy Day and shared activities we like to do on a snowy day. These ideas can also be topics for our writing. We illustrated the poem, "The Snowman". In independent reading we learned the strategy, 'lips the fish', which encourages us to say the first couple of sounds of an unknown word to help us try to sound it out. We added "has" to our word wall. We started learning how to write the uppercase letters. We learned that all uppercase letters start at the top. We practiced A to G.
MATH
In our math journal we illustrated a problem about snowballs and showed how many snowballs in all using numbers and pictures. We practiced adding playing the game 'addition cross-out'. We rolled 2 dot di and added the amounts and then crossed out the matching numeral. In stations we focused on: generating a story problem and identifying if it's an addition or subtraction problem; writing numerals to 29 for a February calendar; equalizing a pan balance with 2 different materials; working on Symphony Math on the iPad.
SCIENCE
We began our study of materials, specifically wood. We observed 5 kinds of wood and learned their names and uses. The woods that we'll be working with in the unit are: pine, cedar, basswood, plywood, particleboard. We looked around our classroom and labeled items made of wood. We recorded what we found.
SOCIAL/EMOTIONAL LEARNING
In Open Circle we learned about 'double D' behavior. The 2 D's stand for 'dangerous' and 'destructive'. We learned what each word means and shared what we thought might be dangerous or destructive: standing on a chair, jumping off the structure, ripping a page in a book, marking someone's paper. We also learned what annoying behavior is. We shared behaviors that might be annoying at school: someone repeating what you say, someone following you.
CHOICE TIME
At the art table we painted a crayon resist pair of mittens. The mittens are hanging on our inside class tree to replicate the story, The Mitten Tree. At the science table we are sorting items that are magnetic and not magnetic by testing them with a magnet. At the math table we are sequencing and recording by length 3 different color crayons in our measurement journal. We enjoyed having Ruby Williamson, Rebecca Kravitz and Lindsey Carapezza come in and help out.
EXTRA
!00 Collection: Please have your child bring in their 100 collection by Wed., Feb. 5.
Boots: Because the playground is muddy, please continue to have your child bring in their boots for recess.
Snack: Some children are saying that they are hungry after eating their snack or do not like the snack packed. When possible we let them take 1 item out of their lunch. to have for snack. Please check in with your child about their snack - do they like the snack choices and do they have enough to eat. Thank you!
______________________________________________________________________________
CLASSROOM HAPPENINGS FOR JAN. 20 - 24, 2020
LANGUAGE ARTS
In phonemic awareness we worked on blending sounds to identify a word based on the given sounds. For example if the sounds were /r/ /u/ /g/, the blended sounds would make the word "rug". This skill and exercise helps to strengthen our auditory skills when reading and writing. We are working on CVC words or words having a consonant, a vowel and a consonant. In phonics we continued to review the sounds of letters. We are taking turns being the leader when we review them. Given the letters for a word we focused on reading words by tapping out the sounds and then blending them together. In literature we learned a poem, "The Snowman", and acted it out. We read The Gingerbread Baby and compared it to the The Gingerbread Man and The Gingerbread Girl. We read about Ruby Bridges and her first grade experience after schools were desegregated. We read The Mitten Tree and learned how Sarah was kind to knit mittens for the children at the bus stop. In writers' workshop we worked on sounding words for our illustrations as well as writing on lined paper. We made cards and pictures for the 8th grade students who visited our classroom on Friday. In handwriting we practiced writing some lowercase letters.
MATH
We worked on a story problem about the length of a teddy bear (measured in popsicle sticks) and a puppy (measured in cubes). We had to find out which one was longer. We illustrated our answer. We also worked on a story problem about a snowman and 3 friends. We illustrated the snowman, the 3 friends and wrote numerals to show how many altogether. In stations we focused on: modeling addition and subtraction story problems with cubes and learning about number sentences; counting and recording the amount of cubes that filled a design; comparing the weight of 2 objects and determining which was heavier using a pan balance; working on Symphony Math on the iPad.
SOCIAL/EMOTIONAL LEARNING
In Open Circle we reviewed concepts that we had discussed which focused on relationships with others. We discussed cooperation, giving compliments, using a speak up voice, including others and how to express our feelings when we are angry.
CHOICE TIME
At the collage table we are creating a gingerbread person using ribbon, fabric, pompoms and sequins. At the letters table we are using Lexia or Starfall Letters on the iPad. At the hands on table we are playing a tweezer game. We are strengthening our 3 working fingers as we hold the tweezers and pick up small objects to put into a bowl.
We had Book Buddies. We created a story together based on a picture.
On Friday we had 3 8th grade Wayland Middle School students come and visit our classroom as part of their community service project. They were: Garrett Batt, Heather Lui and Mohamed Siidi. Garrett and Heather are former Kindergarten students of mine and Mohamed is Maisa's older brother. They had snack with us, did GoNoodle with us and helped us out in library. We enjoyed having them spend time with us!
EXTRA
Shoes: If your child wears boots to school, please make sure that they have a pair of shoes to wear during the day. Wearing boots all day can be warm and uncomfortable.
______________________________________________________________________________
CLASSROOM HAPPENINGS FOR JAN. 13 - 17, 2020
LANGUAGE ARTS
In phonemic awareness we played 'circle of rhymes' and shared words that rhymed with 'pet'. Some words we shared were: vet, met, let. We focused on the initial sounds in words when we played "The ship is loaded with ..." and shared words that began with the /s/. We focused on the final sound in words as we sorted pictures that ended in /k/ or /n/. We practiced isolating the final sound in each word. We practiced blending sounds in words to identify the word. For example the sounds /g/ /u/ /m/, make the word 'gum' when the sounds are blended together. This is an oral activity which helps strengthen our auditory skills. In phonics we reviewed the sounds that letters make. We are having turns pointing to the letter card, saying the keyword and sound, then having the class repeat. We built words and blended the sounds to read the word. each word is built with letter cards. We practice tapping/saying each sound and then blending the sounds together to read the word. In handwriting we reviewed the letters 'n' and 'h'. In literature we read The Gingerbread Girl . We identified the setting and the characters, and compared it to The Gingerbread Man. We read Dan, the Flying Man and compared how the story was like the gingerbread stories. We read Let's Find Out About Martin Luther King and I Have a Dream and discussed the important message and actions of Dr. King. In writers' workshop we wrote and illustrated our weekend news. We continued to practice writing words and writing on the lines of the paper. We added 'you' to our word wall.
MATH
We focused on the length of objects and compared how long they were. We sequenced by length a crayon, pencil, marker, eraser and popsicle stick, and then illustrated and labeled it in our journal. We worked on a story problem involving 5 mittens, some with stripes and some with dots. We illustrated it and wrote numbers to show the amounts. In stations we focused on: comparing numbers; acting out addition and subtraction story problems with cubes on a story mat; exploring a pan balance; writing numbers on a dice race; working on Symphony Math on the iPad.
SCIENCE
We worked on 2 STEAM projects: a cup challenge, and creating a snowflake with popsicle sticks. We worked with a partner for the cup challenge and worked to make the tallest tower with plastic cups. We illustrated our structure and shared how we got the tower so high. For the snowflake project we worked in small groups and discussed/ illustrated how to create a snowflake with popsicle sticks. We focused on communicating ideas with each other, working collaboratively and problem-solving when an idea didn't work, esp. with stacking the cups.
SOCIAL/EMOTIONAL LEARNING
In Open Circle we discussed what to do if we feel angry, ie. how to show that emotion. We discussed the importance of using our words and not our bodies. We also talked about what kind of words we can use when we are angry. We also talked about what friendship means. We shared what friends do with you, what do they do when you're upset and what are some problems that friends sometimes have. We talked about the fact that sometimes friends have disagreements which is ok and we work together to solve them.
CHOICE TIME
At the art and collage tables we made recycle art creations with a variety of materials we have saved. In the listening center we had the story, When Will It Snow?. At the hands on table we worked on coloring a page of candies using a color code. We worked on the correct grip and using small controlled motions of the marker.
EXTRA
No School: Mon., Jan. 20.
Thank you for sending in the hand sanitizer, Kleenex and sponges! We are all set for now.
______________________________________________________________________________
CLASSROOM HAPPENINGS FOR JAN. 6 - 10, 2020
LANGUAGE ARTS
In phonemic awareness we focused on the initial sound in words by sorting pictures. We focused on the sounds /l/, /h/ and /v/. We practiced isolating the initial sound in each word, ie. What's the first sound in 'vase'? /v/. In phonics we reviewed the short vowel sounds and several consonants. We sequenced the lowercase letters and identified letters by their sound: what letter says /f/? We began decoding words by tapping out the sounds. The words were built with letter cards. We learned how to tap out each sound in a word and then blend all of the sounds to say the word. For the word "mat" we looked at each letter, said the sound as we tapped a finger and then blended the sounds and said "mat". To tap out a word we use our right hand. The pointer finger, the tall finger and the ring finger (in this order) tap the thumb as we say each sound /m/ /a/ /t/. To blend the sounds we slide the thumb under those fingers. In literature we read The Squirrel's New Year's Resolution and learned what a resolution is. We read The Gingerbread Man and discussed the setting and the characters. In writing we moved from our journal to a writing folder. We will be using lined paper and learning how to write words on the lines. We began a piece about our winter vacation. In independent reading we added 'to' to our word wall. We focused on pointing to the words as we read. We learned about the question mark and how to read a sentence with a question mark.
MATH
We continued our focus on measurement. We measured our footprint with cubes and compared the length of our footprint with our partner's. We recorded the measurements. We worked on a problem involving a rocket ship that was 5 popsicle sticks long. With a partner we had to determine how many cubes long it was. We learned about height and used our body to find items in the classroom that were taller than us and shorter than us. We recorded our findings on a chart.
SCIENCE
We looked at our December weather/temperature graphs and recorded what kind of weather and color zone for temperature we had the most of in December. We started a January weather/temperature graph. We built a cup tower as a class and then with a partner. We explored how we could build the tallest tower using cups. We discussed what a wind sock measures and tested it on the playground. We identified what direction the wind blew and how the wind sometimes slowed down which made the wind sock barely move. We illustrated our class tree in winter and wrote/dictated what we noticed about the tree.
SOCIAL/EMOTIONAL LEARNING
In Open Circle we discussed the importance of speaking up and the 4 keys to speaking up: talk slowly and clearly, talk with a loud enough voice, look at the person/s that you're talking to. We practiced a speak up voice by sharing our first and last name, and our favorite food. We also discussed that speaking up can refer to speaking up for a friend that is being teased or needs help.
CHOICE TIME
At the art table we made a 'resolution balloon'. We dictated what we would like to learn or get better at in Kindergarten. At the letters table we did a sight word search to find the word "is". At the science table we are exploring magnets. We enjoyed having Ruby Williamson and Rebecca Kravitz come in and help out.
We had Book Buddies. We read, drew and found hidden pictures in a larger picture.
EXTRA
Poetry Binder: Your child has brought their binder home with some new poems and songs as well as some new sight words. Please encourage them to read the sight words and the poems/songs.
No School: Mon., Jan. 20.
______________________________________________________________________________
CLASSROOM HAPPENINGS FOR DEC. 16 - 20, 2019
LANGUAGE ARTS
In phonemic awareness we focused on the final sound in words by sorting pictures. We identified the final sound /k/ and /r/ in words. We played 'circle of rhymes' and shared words that rhymed with "rock". In phonics we identified the sounds of /z/ and /q/. The keyword for each sound is 'zebra' and 'queen'. We learned that 'q' is always followed by its buddy 'u'. On the alphabet and the magnet tiles 'q' is written as 'qu' to help us remember the rule. We reviewed the vowel sounds and several consonant sounds. In writing we illustrated the song, "Peace Like a River", and highlighted the sight words. In literature we read When I Care About Others and discussed ways that we care for each other. We read Red and discussed what the main idea was. We also discussed whether it's alright to be different, ie. like different foods or kinds clothes, play different games. In handwriting we practiced the letters z and q, and reviewed the letters b, h, e and n. We added the words "we" and "in" to our word wall.
MATH
In our math journal we illustrated 4 fish. We discussed how to illustrate the fish to make it easy to identify them, ie. making groups of 2 and 2, color 2 fish 1 color and 2 fish another color. We reviewed how to measure the length of an object and used our footprint to measure some items in the classroom. In stations we focused on: how to code a BeeBot to move to a specific space on a mat; measure objects with cubes; find objects that are longer and shorter than a popsicle stick; work on Happy Numbers on the iPad.
SCIENCE
We discussed different kinds of weather that we have in Wayland. We also shared different kinds of severe weather that happens in the world. We watched a video of some kinds of severe weather: thunderstorms, hurricanes, tornadoes, blizzards.
SOCIAL/EMOTIONAL LEARNING
In Open Circle we discussed what it means to cooperate. We shared ways we cooperate in the classroom and how it makes us feel when we cooperate with each other.
CHOICE TIME
At the collage table we made a wind sock that we will later use in science to learn about wind. We decorated the wind sock and glued on streamers. At the hands on table we played the gumball game which requires us to pick up pretend gumballs with large tweezers and place them on a game board. The emphasis is on using the 3 primary writing fingers of the writing hand to grasp the tweezers. In the listening center we had The Nutcracker Ballet. We enjoyed having Rebecca Kravitz and Heather Yates come in and help out.
We met with our 3rd grade Book Buddies. We made a verse for the poem/song, " Oh, A-Hunting We Will Go". We wrote the words and illustrated our idea. It will go into our poetry binder.
We attended the Choral Concert.
EXTRA
Early Release: Wed., Jan. 8 at 11:30 am. No lunch will be served. If your child attends BASE, please send in a lunch.
Snow Gear: Please make sure to send in your child's snow gear. Your child can bring it to school each day or leave it in a bag on their hook. Please label your child's winter clothing.
Classroom Supplies: We are in need of: kleenex, sponges and hand sanitizer. Thank you in advance for sending in any supplies!
______________________________________________________________________________
CLASSROOM HAPPENINGS FOR DEC. 9 - 13, 2019
LANGUAGE ARTS
In phonemic awareness we identified the sounds of /y/ and /x/. The keywords are 'yellow' and 'fox'. Both letter sounds are tricky to remember because when we say the letter name, we don't make the sound of the letter. For example when we say the letter name 'b', we make the sound of /b/ as we say the letter. When we say 'y', we make the /w/ sound. We learned that 'x' will not start a word making it's sound /ks/; it will either be in the word or at the end, like in 'fox'. We sorted pictures by their final sound: /d/ or /m/. Some pictures we sorted were bed, yard, jam. We played "The ship is loaded with ..." and shared words that began with /t/. In phonics we reviewed the vowel sounds and several consonant sounds. We did a picture sort for the sounds /m/ and /s/. In literature we read Oh, A-Hunting We Will Go and identified the rhymes in the story. We read Mouse Paint and practiced making predictions and learning how to identify the main idea of the story: the mice learn how to mix colors and to stay hidden from the cat. We also read I Went Walking and did a picture walk to help make a prediction about the story. We shared what the main idea was of the story: taking a walk and seeing animals of different colors. In writers' workshop we illustrated the poem, "Rhymes For You", for our poetry binder. We made a class book which is a take-off of the story, Mary Wore Her Red Dress, and illustrated a page of ourselves wearing a specific color clothing. In handwriting we practiced writing y, x, a and d. In independent reading we learned a reading strategy to help us read an unknown word. The strategy is called "eagle eye". Eagle eye encourages the reader to look at the picture on the page to see if the picture can help us read the unknown word. As an example we looked at an ABC book which has repetitive text and has pictures that identify the new word on each page. We were able to read the unknown word based on the picture (and the first sound).
MATH
We began our unit on measurement. We brainstormed different kinds of measurement: length, height, weight, volume (cups and teaspoons when cooking). We focused on length and identified length as how long something is. We shared why we would need to know the length of objects. We learned how to correctly measure items using our footprint: making sure to line up the end of our footprint with the end of the object. Using a cut out of our footprint we practiced measuring items in the classroom. We did an activity where we had to match a strip of paper with a classmate who had the same length strip as our own. We practiced using the words, longer and shorter. We also made name trains using multi-link cubes with letter stickers on each cube to spell our name. Then we compared our name with other names and found out whose name was longer, shorter or the same length. We also noticed what letters we shared. In stations we focused on: sorting a set of pattern blocks by the number of sides; comparing 3 towers of cubes by least to most; comparing our name train by length; working on Happy Numbers on the iPad.
SOCIAL/EMOTIONAL LEARNING
In Open Circle we discussed including others. We shared what it feels like to be included and what it feels like to not be included. We shared ways we can use our words to include someone into our activity. We read the story, The Invisible Boy, and discussed how the main character, Brian, was not included in the beginning of the story. Then we discussed what happened when the new boy, Justin, came and developed a friendship with Brian. We talked about the importance of including others and being on the lookout to see if someone may want to join you.
CHOICE TIME
At the art table we are making our own color book with illustrations and words. At the science table we are doing a color explosion using color diffusing paper and watercolor markers. We make lines on the paper using 2 different primary colors (yellow, red, blue). Then we put the tip of the paper into water and watch the water be absorbed up the paper. When the water runs into the 2 colors, they mix and make a new color. We enjoyed having Allison Kates and Jerry Reid come in and help out.
We attended the Strings Concert.
I received a beautiful serenade of "Happy Birthday" on Friday! What a gift!
EXTRA
Shoes : Please make sure to send in shoes for your child to change into if they wear their boots to school.
Glass: Please do not send in any containers made of glass for snack or lunch.
______________________________________________________________________________
CLASSROOM HAPPENINGS FOR DEC. 2 - 6, 2019
LANGUAGE ARTS
In phonemic awareness we focused on the final sounds in words. We worked on saying the word and emphasizing the last sound. We sorted pictures by the final sound listening for /t/ or /p/. Some pictures we sorted were: gate, pot, cap, lamp. We played the "The ship is loaded with ..." with the target sound being /b/. Some words we shared were: bats, bugs, bread. We played 'circle of rhymes' and shared words that rhymed with 'Ed'. In phonics we learned the sounds of /v/ and /w/. The keywords are 'van' and 'wind' respectively. We matched several letters on the magnet board to review the lowercase letters. In literature we read The Color of Us and discussed how there are many shades of brown particularly when we think of our skin color. We compared our skin color to others in class and noticed the color difference. We read Pete the Cat and His Magic Sunglasses and learned that sometimes we need to be flexible in situations and that sometimes a problem is not as big as we think it is. As a read-aloud we read I Like Colors. We noticed some of our sight words in the text and discussed how the repetitive text helped make it a good read-aloud book. In writers' workshop we drew and wrote about our vacation news. In independent reading we reviewed our sight words. We also added a new book basket: ABC min books. Each book focuses on a letter of the alphabet and has pictures that begin with the sound of the letter.For example the letter C book has pictures of a cat, cookie, computer. The text in each book is similar and is repetitive which make them good early readers.
MATH
In our math journal we worked on 2 problems: a tree with a certain number of red, yellow, and orange leaves; and on a walk seeing 5 pumpkins and 3 cats. We discussed how to organize the parts on the page to make it easier to see how many. In stations we focused on: comparing 3 different length towers; learning about the greater than/less than symbol (<, >); comparing the amounts in 2 inventory bags; recording a dice roll with the dots, numeral and tallies; working on the program Happy Numbers on the iPad.
SCIENCE
We reviewed what the thermometer measures (the temperature) and what the weather graph tells us. We labeled a weather and temperature graph on which we will be recording the temperature and the weather each day. At the end of the month we will share our observations about the weather and the temperature.
SOCIAL/EMOTIONAL LEARNING
In Open Circle we learned what a compliment is and how it makes us feel when we get a compliment. We learned that a compliment is like a gift and we should always say "thank you" when we receive one. We shared compliments with each other about things we notice that others do.
We discussed what it means if our feelings are 'hurt' and differentiated it from the physical hurt. We read the story, When Sophie's Feelings Are Really Really Hurt. We identified why Sophie's feelings were hurt: someone said something unkind about the picture of her tree. We talked about what the other child could have done differently. We talked about keeping unkind thoughts in our 'thought bubble'.
CHOICE TIME
At the art and collage table we made tissue windows with color tissue paper glued onto wax paper. At the hands on table we colored gumballs certain colors depending on the color code. We worked on having small finger movements with the marker to try and stay within the lines. In the listening center we have the story, Franklin's Secret Club. We enjoyed having Ruby Williamson, Rebecca Kravets and Allison Kates come in and help out.
We had Book Buddies and read books with them. Some of us drew pictures of a favorite part of the book we read.
EXTRA
Open House: Wed., Dec. 11, from 8-8:45 am. Families are invited to visit the classroom with their child and look at projects and work.
Snow Gear: Please remember to send in boots, snow pants, winter coat, hat, and mittens/gloves every day. Putting all the snow gear in a separate bag allows space in their backpack for their snack ,lunch, folder, library book.
______________________________________________________________________________
CLASSROOM HAPPENINGS FOR NOV. 25 - 29, 2019
LANGUAGE ARTS
In phonemic awareness we focused on the initial sound in words in the game, "The ship is loaded with ...". The target sound was /p/. Some words we shared were: popcorn, pizza, Parkers, peas. In phonics we identified the sounds of /h/, /k/ and /l/. The keywords to help us remember the sounds are: 'hat', 'kite' and 'lamp'. We reviewed the sounds of all of the letters we have learned so far. In literature we read The First Thanksgiving and learned how and why the Pilgrims came to America and how the Native Americans helped them during their first year in the new land. We read Franklin's Thanksgiving
MATH
In our math journal we illustrated 3 apples and 2 bananas. We wrote numerals to label how many of each fruit and how many fruits altogether. We discussed how grouping the fruits helps to see how many of each kind. We did some turkey math: color the number of feathers according to the numeral on the turkey; roll a di or dice and color the corresponding turkey.
SOCIAL/EMOTIONAL LEARNING
In Open Circle we reviewed some of the skills we have learned in Open Circle and discussed how we are doing as a class in understanding the concepts. We reviewed: whole body listening; ways to calm down; feeling words; how our body language shows how we feel; positive self-talk.
CHOICE TIME
At the art table we painted still life paintings of gourds, a small pumpkin and Indian corn. We could only use the primary colors (red, blue, yellow) and white, and had to determine how to make the colors we needed to paint the vegetables. In the listening center we have the story, A Color of His Own. We enjoyed having Ruby Williamson and Neka Melanson come in and help out
We attended the Giving Thanks assembly. We enjoyed seeing the 'turkey tango'!
Extra
Snack: Please check in with your child about their snack and ask if they have enough. Several children say they are still hungry after eating their snack. We have them choose 1 item from their lunch when possible. Usually 2 food items (a piece of fruit or vegetables; and crackers/popcorn/cheese/hummus/muffin) plus a drink tends to be a good amount. Please remember not to send in glass containers.
Open House: Wed., Dec. 11, from 8-8:45 am. Families are invited to visit the classroom with their child to look at projects and work.
Snow Gear: Now that snow is in the forecast please make sure to send in snow gear for your child: boots, snow pants, hat, gloves/mittens. Please label all of your child's clothing. Sending snow gear in a separate bag allows your child to carry their snack, folder, library book in their backpack. If you want them to keep their snow gear at school for the week, let me know.
______________________________________________________________________________
CLASSROOM HAPPENINGS FOR NOV. 18 - 22, 2019
LANGUAGE ARTS
In phonemic awareness we focused on the initial sound in words. We played "The ship is loaded with ..." with the target sound /m/. Some words we shared were: mud, mittens, men. We did a picture sort and focused on the initial sounds /p/ and /j/. Some pictures we sorted were: jelly, pink, jellyfish, potatoes. We practiced isolating the first sound for each word. We played 'circle of rhymes' with the target word being "bug". In phonics we matched the letter with the keyword picture to make the puzzle. In literature we read and acted out the poem, "Rhymes For You". We read Feeling Thankful and discussed what the children in the book were thankful for. In writers' workshop we illustrated our weekend news. We illustrated and dictated about a time when we were kind. We added the sight word, "on", to our word wall.
MATH
We read the story, Tally O'Mally, and learned about what a tally is and what it represents. We practiced making tallies to represent an amount: show in tallies how many legs a cat has; show in tallies how many eyes you have; show in tallies how many fingers you have on 1 hand. In our math journal we illustrated and wrote numerals to show "1 brown cat and its 3 friends". We practiced calculating 1 or 2 more for some turkey math. Using die some of us added 2 more to the roll and some of us used 2 die and added 1 more. We focused on counting on from an amount and identifying the corresponding numeral. In stations we focused on: comparing 2 numerals; identifying a numeral given clues of more or less using a number line (Monster Squeeze); sorting, counting and recording the amount of a grab of pattern blocks; matching cuisenaire rods on puzzle mats; counting and identifying numerals on Starfall Math on the iPad.
SCIENCE
We began our study of weather by learning about the thermometer. We learned how a thermometer works, what it measures and identified the color zones that are on our "school thermometer". Instead of focusing on the numbers on the thermometer we will be focusing on zones marked by different colors. For example 40-60 degrees is marked as the 'green zone' on our thermometer. Each 20 degree section is represented by a color. We measured the temperature inside with a thermometer and predicted what would happen when we went outside- would the temperature rise or fall? We went outside and watched the thermometer go down from the 'yellow zone' to the top of the 'blue zone'. We illustrated and labeled a picture of the thermometer for our science journal.
SOCIAL/EMOTIONAL LEARNING
In Open Circle we discussed what it means to be respectful and how we can show others that we are respectful of them. We shared some ways we can be respectful at school: listening to others; helping them; making them feel better if they are sad; taking care of materials in the classroom; including others.
CHOICE TIME
In dramatic play we playing with a doll house. At the collage table we are choosing a color for a chameleon and drawing something that color for the chameleon to be on. For example for the chameleon to be orange it could be on a pumpkin. In the listening center we have the story, Franklin Plays the Game. At the math table we have 3 size bears and cuisenaire rods. We enjoyed having Allison Kates come in and help out.
We celebrated Maisa's birthday! We read the story, The Whole Picture, that she brought in for her birthday book.
We celebrated Sadiq's birthday! We read a chapter of the book, Dog Man For Whom the Ball Rolls, that he brought in for his birthday book.
We had Book Buddies. We made a book about what we are thankful for as it relates to the 5 senses.
EXTRA
Early Dismissal: Wed., Nov. 27, at 11:30 am. Lunch will not be served. There is no BASE.
Open House: Wed., Dec. 11, from 8-8:45 am. Families are invited to come in with their child and look at their child's projects and work.
______________________________________________________________________________
CLASSROOM HAPPENINGS FOR NOV. 11 - 15,2019
LANGUAGE ARTS
In phonemic awareness we played 'circle of rhymes' with the target word being "pot". Some words we shared were: dot, lot, rot, mot. We sorted pictures by their initial sound and focused on the sounds /d/ and /r/. Some pictures we sorted were: red, ruler, daisy, dice. We worked on isolating the initial sound for each picture. In phonics we learned the sound and keyword for the letters 'p' and 'j'. The keywords are "pan" and "jug". We practiced tapping out the syllables for some 2 syllable words and removing either the first syllable or the second. The words we tapped out were: teapot, repeat, paper. In literature we read A Color of His Own. We made an initial prediction and then did a 'picture walk'. We learned that a 'picture walk' helps the reader learn more about the story and think about what may happen. We made another prediction based on the 'picture walk'. We had a guest reader, Caroline Han, come in and read Under My Hijab. We compared how the women in the story wore their hijab outside in public and did not wear it in their home. We also noted the different styles of hijabs. In writing we illustrated our weekend news in our journal. In handwriting we practiced writing 'j' and 'p' and reviewed some of the other lowercase letters we have learned.
MATH
In stations we focused on: comparing amounts and identifying how many more or how many less; adding 1 more to a dice roll; practicing writing numerals 2 to 7; working on numbers up to 20 on Starfall Math on the iPad. In our math journal we worked on illustrating 2 dogs and 2 cats and showing how many altogether. We discussed how grouping or illustrating the dogs and cats makes it easier to identify the amount. For example if the 2 dogs were drawn together and drawn brown and the 2 cats were drawn together and were black, this organization would help the reader see 2 and 2. We will continue to discuss the importance of how we draw and group items for a math problem. We finished our number book with writing the numeral 10 and drawing 10 items.
SCIENCE
We focused on comparing leaves and identifying their size: longer, shorter, wider, narrower. We used a target leaf and found leaves that were longer, shorter, narrower or wider than the target leaf. We practiced using the vocabulary to compare the leaves. We brought a leaf in and recorded how the leaf compared to the target leaf by its size. We illustrated the leaf next to the target leaf and dictated or wrote the measurement word.
SOCIAL/EMOTIONAL LEARNING
In Open Circle we discussed positive self-talk. We shared times when we tried to do something that was hard and who might have said something to encourage us to keep going. We learned that when something is hard to do we need to try and say to ourselves positive or encouraging words to keep with it: "I can do this," "I'll go slower and see if I can do it." If we say "I can't do this," "I'll never learn how to do this,", these words don't help us to keep trying.We shared some times at school when we might use positive self-talk. We discussed the ALICE drill and practiced what to do.
CHOICE TIME
At the science table we have color tubes that mix primary colors into secondary color. We also have color paddles that when looked through make things that color. We can also combine 2 paddles to make a different color. At the hands on table we are 'feeding the creature'. The 'creature' is a tennis ball with a slice in it. Using the dominant hand we squeeze the 'mouth' of the creature open and feed it some buttons. The focus of the game is to strengthen the hand muscles of the dominant hand by using the thumb on 1 side of the 'mouth' and the remaining fingers on the other side. As we squeeze the ball the slit/mouth opens. At the math table we have cuisenaire rods and 3 sizes of bear manipulatives.
EXTRA
Early Release: Wed., Nov. 20, at 11:30. Lunch will not be served. If your child attends BASE, they need to bring a lunch on this day.
Early Release: Wed., Nov. 27, at 11:30. Lunch will not be served. There is no BASE this day.
Open House: Wed., Dec. 11, from 8-8:45 am. Families are invited to come in and look at their child's projects and work.
Recess: Please make sure to pack a hat and mittens/gloves for your child every day. Also make sure that their jacket or coat is warm enough for being outside at recess for 20+ minutes.
______________________________________________________________________________
CLASSROOM HAPPENINGS FOR NOV. 4 - 8, 2019
LANGUAGE ARTS
In phonemic awareness we reviewed rhyming by matching pictures that rhyme. We identified the sound and keyword for the letters, 'e' and 'r'. The keywords are "Ed" and "rat". As with the other vowel sounds we identified the short sound for 'e'. In phonics we worked on identifying the syllables in words and tapping them out. Words we tapped out were: cobweb, airplane, invent. We also removed the first or second syllable and identified the remaining part, ie., if we take away "in" from "invent", we have "vent" left. We found lowercase letters in the poem, "I Can Read Colors". In literature we read Little Blue, Little Yellow and discussed why the parents were confused when their children turned green. We did a read-aloud withBrown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? and sequenced the animals in the story. We read Mary Wore her Red Dress as a read-aloud and identified the text that repeats on each page. In writers' workshop we illustrated our weekend news. We made a page for a class book, illustrating ourselves and writing our name. We focused on the details of ourselves: face, body, clothes. We added the word, "is", to our word wall. In independent reading we reviewed all of our sight words and practiced finding them in the poem, "I Can Read Colors".
MATH
We worked in a math journal and illustrated a story problem: There were 2 green apples and 1 red apple. How many were there altogether? We used pictures and numbers to solve the problem. In math stations we focused on: showing changing amounts on a 10 frame; sequencing numerals and playing "what number is missing?', with a partner; practicing writing numerals to 6 with the dice race; reviewing numbers to 20 on Starfall Math on the iPad. We practiced writing numerals 8 and 9. We compared 2 grabs of different color cubes and identifying the grab with more.
SCIENCE
We read Colorful Leaves and learned about how leaves are different, how they grow, and why they change color. We focused on the shape of leaves and sorted felt leaves by their shape. Then we thought about the shape of a real leaf and recorded its shape on an observation sheet.
SOCIAL/EMOTIONAL LEARNING
In Open Circle we talked about making mistakes. We shared some mistakes that we might make in school. We discussed how making a mistake can be helpful in that we learn what to do differently the next time. We talked about making a mistake on a picture and shared how we could try and fix the mistake.
CHOICE TIME
At the art table we are making shades of the primary colors by adding small amounts of white. At the collage table we are making a collage of Pete the Cat and his colorful shoes. We are choosing a color shoe for Pete and writing about it, "I love my _____ shoes!". This is based on the story, Pete the Cat and His White Shoes. At the listening center we have the story, The Scarecrow's Hat. We enjoyed having Ruby Williamson and Allison Kates come in and help out.
We had Book Buddies. We took an autumn walk and focused on 4 of our senses: see, hear, smell, touch. We found items outside for each sense, wrote the word and drew a picture of it.
We attended a cultural enrichment program, "Become Your Dreams", which traced the history of dance/hip hop.
EXTRA
Recess: Please make sure to send your child with a hat and mittens/gloves every day as well as a warm coat. The temperatures are much colder. We spend up to 20-25 min. outside; it's important that everyone has warm clothes.
Classroom Supplies: We are in need of the following supplies for the classroom: boxes of Kleenex; 4 pack of sponges; hand sanitizer. If you are able to send in any of the above, we would greatly appreciate it! You can it in with your child. Thank you!
Early Release: Wed., Nov. 20. Dismissal is at 11:30. Lunch will not be served. If your child attends BASE this day, they need to bring in a lunch.
______________________________________________________________________________
CLASSROOM HAPPENINGS FOR OCT. 28 - NOV. 1, 2019
LANGUAGE ARTS
In phonemic awareness we sorted pictures by their initial sound. The sounds we focused on were: /s/ and /g/. Some pictures we sorted were: socks, sun, goat, gate. We played 'circle of rhymes' with the target word being 'dog'. In phonics we identified the sounds of /s/ and /d/. The keyword for each letter is "snake" and "dog". When we identify letter sounds we practice 'clipping' the sound, meaning just saying one sound. Often when we say a sound we say "du" which is 2 sounds instead of /d/. We are working on eliminating the /u/ sound. We reviewed all the sounds we have learned so far. We completed letter/keyword puzzles by matching the letter to the puzzle piece showing the keyword picture. In literature we read some poems about different feelings. We tried to name the feeling by looking at the illustration and then listened to the poem. As a read-aloud we read Pete the Cat and His White Shoes and read chorally the refrain. In writers' workshop we focused on facial features of people- eye color, types of hair (straight, curly, short), skin color, someone who wears glasses. We illustrated our weekend news and we also illustrated something about fall. In handwriting we practiced writing lowercase 's' and 'd'. We added the sight word "and" to our word wall.
MATH
In stations we focused on: comparing towers of cubes and identifying how many a tower had; sorting shape puzzles by how many cubes it held; matching the numeral to the corresponding dot card; completing a puzzle with the correct length cuisenaire rod; identifying and counting numbers on Starfall math on the iPad. We practiced writing the numerals 6 and 7. We played a lotto game of adding 1 or 2 to the number on the die.
SCIENCE
We observed our class tree and shared the changes we noticed from our last observation. We illustrated our tree as our fall tree observation.
SOCIAL/EMOTIONAL LEARNING
In Open Circle we discussed how our body can tell others how we might feel. We shared how our own body looks when we feel mad, sad or happy. We reviewed the facial expressions that show us how others feel when they have a certain emotion. We learned about the frontal cortex and the amygdala in our brain. We learned that when we are upset that the amygdala can often over power what the frontal cortex needs to do- help us learn and listen to others. We shared ways we can calm down so that the frontal cortex can do its job.
CHOICE TIME
At the art table we made fall leaves by dripping dye on to damp tissue shaped leaves. At the math table we played 'roll a face' for a pumpkin by using a die and drawing the corresponding face part according to the die roll. We opened the listening center. We had the story, The Biggest Pumpkin Ever. We enjoyed having Allison Kates come in and help out.
We celebrated Alex' birthday! His mom came on and read the story, Pete the Cat and the New Guy for his birthday book.
We had a Wayland fire fighter come in and talk about fire safety. He also showed us what he wears to a fire and how he puts it on quickly.
EXTRA
Recess: Now that the cooler temperatures seem to be here, please make sure to pack a sweater, sweatshirt, hat, gloves/mittens each day. When we go out around 9:30, the temperature is still low.
______________________________________________________________________________
CLASSROOM HAPPENINGS FOR OCT. 21 - OCT. 25, 2019
LANGUAGE ARTS
In phonemic awareness we played 'circle of rhymes' with the target word being 'pig'. We shared real and nonsense words that rhymed: wig, dig, twig, lig. We also brainstormed rhyming words for: bake-take-fake and snow-mow-crow. We sorted pictures by their initial sound, /k/ and /m/. Some pictures we sorted were: can, cap, meat, mittens. We worked to isolate the initial sound as we sorted them. In phonics we identified the sounds of /a/ and /g/; the keywords are "apple" and "game". All of the vowels that we are learning now are the short vowel sound. Later we will learn the long vowel sounds. We reviewed all of the letters and sounds we have learned so far. We identified letters on the magnet board by their sound and then matched the letter to the letter on the board. We began to think about the syllables (or parts) in words. We learned how to tap out the syllables on our arm, tapping our wrist, then our elbow, then our shoulder. Each tap represents a syllable in a word. For the word 'cupcake' we tapped our wrist and then our elbow to show 2 syllables. We also practiced taking away a syllable and identifying the remaining part. For example if we took away 'cup' in "cupcake", we would be left with 'cake'. We used word magnets to help to understand the concept in a visual way. In literature we read some stories about leaves: Going on a Leaf Hunt; The Leaves on the Trees; Fletcher and the Falling Leaves; and Leaves. We made a connection between Fletcher and the Falling Leaves and Leaves because both of the characters in these stories didn't understand why the leaves would be falling in autumn and worried about the trees. We read Going on a Leaf Hunt and The leaves on the Trees as read-alouds because there are many repetitive phrases in each book. The books also show different kinds of leaves and the trees that they come from. We learned the poem, "Pumpkin". In writers' workshop we illustrated the poem, "Autumn", for our poetry binder. We illustrated our weekend news in our journal. In handwriting we practiced writing the lowercase 'a' and 'g' and reviewed some of the other letters we've learned. In independent reading we identified the word, "I', as its own word and added it to our word wall. We learned that the word refers to ourselves and should always be written as an uppercase letter.
MATH
We practiced writing the numerals 4 and 5. We played the game 'roll a tower'. We created towers corresponding to our dice roll and placed the tower on a game board. We started stations in math. We work in small groups and work together at a table on a specific math activity. We focused on: adding 1 more or taking away 1 from a tower; sorting a grab of cubes and recording the amount; exploring cuisenaire rods; working on numbers up to 20 on Starfall Math on the iPad.
SCIENCE
We took a leaf walk and found 5 different kinds of leaves. We focused on different attributes that leaves have: shape, size, color, edges. We worked with a partner and decided how to sort our leaves. Then we glued them by our sort and dictated the label for each group.
SOCIAL/EMOTIONAL LEARNING
In Open Circle we reflected on how we are doing with the topics we have discussed so far in Open Circle. We shared what concepts we need to work on to get better at. We began a discussion about feelings. We identified several feelings: happy, sad, excited, angry. We identified how we might feel in different situations: someone knocks over your block tower; you drop your lunch on the floor.
CHOICE TIME
At the art table we are making secondary colors from primary colors (red, yellow, blue). At the collage table we are making a tree book about the main parts of a tree. At the letters table we are retelling the story, Chicka Chicka Boom Boom using upper- and lowercase letters and a coconut tree. We enjoyed having Allison Kates come in and help out.
We met with our 3rd grade Book Buddies. We interviewed our buddy to learn more about them.
We went to watch the 5th grade 'rocket launch'. Wow! The rockets they made were amazing! It was fun to see how they flew in the air!
EXTRA
Book Fair: Mon., Oct. 28, from 12:45-1:15. Families are welcome to join us as we look at books there.
______________________________________________________________________________
CLASSROOM HAPPENINGS FOR OCT. 14 - OCT. 18, 2019
LANGUAGE ARTS
In phonemic awareness we matched rhyming pictures in the pocket chart. Some pictures we matched were: meat-feet; cat-bat; ox-fox. We generated rhymes for the picture of 'sun'. Some words we shared were: done, fun, ton, bun. In phonics we identified the sound and keyword for the the letters 'c' and 'o'. The keywords are 'cat' and 'octopus'. We practiced saying the keyword and sound for all the short vowels we have learned: /i/, /o/, /u/. In literature we read Amazing Apples and learned about apple trees, how apples grow and what we can do with apples. We also learned that this was a non-fiction book because it gave us facts about apples. We read Apple Coutdown and practiced counting backwards. We read Chicka Chicka Boom Boom as a read-aloud. In writers' workshop we made a class book about our field trip to Lookout Farm. We illustrated and dictated an idea about something we did on the trip. In our journal we illustrated our weekend news. In independent reading we explored a new book basket: non-fiction books. In handwriting we practiced writing 'c' and 'o' and reviewed some other letters.
MATH
We focused on 1 less than a number playing a di game, 1 less. We rolled the dot di and covered the number that is 1 less than the number rolled. We are working on being flexible counting forward and backwards. We used a number line or our fingers to assist us. We practiced writing the numerals '2' and '3'.
SCIENCE
We took a leaf walk and observed different attributes about the leaves from a few trees around our playground. We noticed that leaves are different colors, sizes and shapes. We also noticed that some leaves have points and some have smooth edges. We brought 1 leaf inside and illustrated and dictated what we noticed about leaves.
SOCIAL/EMOTIONAL LEARNING
We discussed expected and unexpected behaviors. We thought about some different scenarios and what the expected behavior would be. We did a few role plays which showed unexpected behavior. We identified the unexpected behavior and shared what behavior would be expected. We read some of David Goes to School and shared what David should have done in certain situations and why.
CHOICE TIME
At the art table we did leaf rubbings of leaves from our class tree. At the hands on table we guided a magnetic ball with a magnetic pen through a maze. We worked on holding the magnetic pen with a pencil grip. In the blocks area we created structures with magna tiles for sea creatures. We also built some marble runs. At the science table we have a collection of leaves and seeds from trees in our school yard that we are exploring with magnifiers and a magna scope.
We had a fun trip to Lookout Farm riding a train to the orchard, picking apples, eating lunch, seeing some animals and playing on the playground.
EXTRA
Poetry Binder: Please make sure that your child looks and shares their poetry binder with you. Encourage them to read the sight words on the ring inside the binder. Keep the poems and sight word ring inside the binder when you return it.
Recess: Please make sure to send your child with a sweater, jacket or sweatshirt every day. We go outside before lunch when the temperature is still cool.
______________________________________________________________________________
CLASSROOM HAPPENINGS FOR OCT. 7 - 11, 2019
LANGUAGE ARTS
In phonemic awareness we focused on generating rhyming words in the game, 'circle of rhymes'. For the game there is a target word that each of us needs to think of a word that rhymes with it. The target word was 'at'. We can share real or nonsense words (made up words that rhyme with the target word, ie. 'lat'). We sorted pictures by their initial sound of /n/ or /b/. Some pictures we sorted were: ball, nails, noodle, bowl. In phonics we identified the short vowel sounds /i/ and /u/. The keyword for each of them is "itch" and "up". We found some lowercase letters (n,t,u,b,m,i) in the poem, "Autumn". Using the magnetic letters we identified letters by their sound and matched them to their corresponding letter on the alphabet. In literature we read Listen Buddy which focused on the importance of listening. We read The Seasons of Arnold's Apple Tree and learned what happens to an apple tree in each of the seasons. We also read Who Stole the Cookie From the Cookie Jar? . In writers' workshop we illustrated our weekend news in our journal. We finished illustrating the poem, "Shining Apples". We illustrated something we like to do on the weekend. In handwriting we practiced writing the lowercase 'i' and 'u' and reviewed writing some other letters.
MATH
We worked with a partner and sorted a set of manipulatives. We each recorded how we sorted the materials (by color, shape, size, or other attribute). Then we shared with the class our recordings. We played a game, di +1.In this game each person rolls the di, adds 1 to that number and covers the numeral on the game board. The focus is to become fluent in identifying one more of a number without counting up to the number or looking at a number line. We began numeral writing and practiced writing 0 and 1.
SOCIAL/EMOTIONAL LEARNING
In Open Circle we discussed what we need to do to listen to others: body calm, no talking, look at the speaker. This is what a school listening look is. We also talked about whole body listening is. When we do whole body listening we listen with: our eyes, our feet, our hands, our body, our mouth, our ears, our brain, our heart. When we listen with our brain and our heart, we are showing the speaker that we are thinking about what is being said and caring about what is being said. We discussed that we feel good when we know that someone is really listening to us when we speak. We are practicing whole body listening when we greet each other and when we are listening to others during the day whether it's a teacher or a classmate.
CHOICE TIME
At the art table we finished our special star with ideas about is special about us. At the hands on table we made designs on a geo-board with rubberbands. In the science area we completed tree puzzles and looked at apple seeds and honey locust seeds with a magnifier.
We celebrated Aaron's birthday!
We had Book Buddies with Ms. Mullin's 3rd grade class. Each of us is paired with a 3rd grader for the year. A couple of times a month we will meet and do activities together. We were excited to meet and spend time reading together. We shared our 'All About Me' book with our book buddy.
EXTRA
Recess: With the cooler days please make sure to pack a sweater, sweatshirt or jacket every day. We will go outside for recess every day unless it is raining.
______________________________________________________________________________
CLASSROOM HAPPENINGS FOR SEPT. 30 - OCT. 4, 2019
LANGUAGE ARTS
In phonemic awareness we identified the sounds of /m/ and /n/ and learned the keywords for each letter: 'man' and 'nut'. We reviewed the other sounds we have learned. We sorted pictures by their initial sound, either /m/ or /f/. Some pictures we sorted were: mittens, mouse, fish, fork. We practiced matching pictures that rhymed and generated rhymes for the word 'pot'. The numbers and pictures for the poem, "Buckle My Shoe", were mixed up. We fixed the order of the numbers by their sequence and moved the pictures to have them rhyme with the numeral. In literature we read 2 books that focused on including others: Yo! Yes! and Can I Play Too? In Yo! Yes! we talked about how some children are shy and may need us to include them in our play or invite them to play with us. In the story Can I Play Too? we discussed how sometimes we may need to be flexible in our play and need to find ways to include everyone. In writers' workshop we illustrated the poem, "Shining Apples", for our poetry binder. In our journal we illustrated something we did over the weekend. We also illustrated ourselves with a friend. We labeled ourselves in the picture and the friend if we wanted to include their name. In independent reading we looked at a new book basket filled with Llama Llama books. We read Llama Llama Time to Share and talked about the importance of sharing- it makes playing with a friend more fun. We added our first sight words to our word wall: 'a' and 'me'. We found them in our poem, "Shining Apples", and highlighted them with highlight tape. In handwriting we practiced writing the lowercase 'm' and 'n'.
MATH
We continued our focus on counting sets of objects. We explored the 10 frame and learned how to put the chips on the frame to show an amount. We practiced putting changing amounts on the 10 frame by spinning a 1-10 spinner. For the inventory bag activity we counted and recorded how many objects were in a bag using pictures and numbers. We played Cross-Out with a partner and practiced matching the dot configuration to its corresponding numeral on the game board. We made a graph about the number of letters in our name and shared our observations of what we learned.
SCIENCE
We read a chapter in the book, Trees and Weather, about what trees need to grow. We learned that a tree needs: water, light, space, air, and nutrients from the earth. We went outside and observed our class tree and discussed whether our tree has all of these requirements. We thought about trees that may be in the nearby woods and whether the smaller trees would be able to grow; would they have enough space and get enough light? We made a bark rubbing of our tree and looked at the leaves of our tree. We found other leaves under our tree and discussed whether they came from our tree and how would they get there. We looked at the nearby trees and matched the leaves.
SOCIAL/EMOTIONAL LEARNING
In Open Circle we learned about non-verbal signals: why we use them and what they mean. We practiced using them for pretend situations, ie. what non-verbal signal would you use if someone was talking to you at writers' workshop- the quiet signal. We also learned a non-verbal we can use if we need to talk to the teacher but the teacher is talking to someone else. We can put our hand on the teacher's shoulder quietly and wait until the teacher is done talking with the other student. The teacher will put their hand on top of our hand to let us know that they'll be with us in a moment.
CHOICE TIME
We learned how to use the choice board and how to make our own choices to areas in the room. In blocks we had legos, blocks and cars, and magna tiles. At the collage table we created pictures using picture hole punchers (leaf, flower, train) and zig zag scissors. In the letters table we played ABC lotto.
EXTRA
Recess: With the cooler temperatures please make sure to send your child with a sweater, jacket or sweatshirt to school every day.
Snack: Some children are still hungry after eating what has been packed for them for snack. When possible we can take a small food item from their lunch. Please check with your child about whether they have enough to eat for snack. Depending on the child, a drink and 2 food items are usually a suitable amount. Let me know if you have any questions.
______________________________________________________________________________
CLASSROOM HAPPENINGS FOR SEPT. 23 - 27, 2019
LANGUAGE ARTS
In phonics we began identifying letters and their sounds. We started with /t/, /b/ and /f/. We named the letter, its keyword and its sound. The keyword is a word that begins with the corresponding letter sound and helps us remember the sound. The keywords for the above letters are: 'top', 'bat' and 'fun'. We are also working to name the lowercase letter for each. We worked on the magnet board and matched the letter magnet to its corresponding letter in the alphabet on the board. We worked on identifying the letters by their sound. We found some lowercase and uppercase letters in the poem, "Shining Apples". We read and acted out the poem, "1,2 Buckle My Shoe", and identified the rhymes. In literature we read A Tree is Nice and shared what we like about trees. We also read One Brown Bunny and discussed how the bunny felt sad at the beginning of the story because no one would play with him. We looked at his expression to help us know how he was feeling. Then we discussed how the bunny felt at the end of the story when the animals decided to play with him. In writers' workshop we illustrated our weekend news in our journal. We also illustrated something we like to do outside. We illustrated the poem, "Kids in the Tub", for our poetry binder. In handwriting we practiced writing the lowercase letters 't' and 'b' on the tablets. In independent reading we learned about a new book basket which has wordless books. I 'read' the wordless big book, Good Dog, Carl, and modeled how I created/read the story by looking at the illustrations. The purpose of the wordless books is that we can all 'read' books whether we can read or not because we can all tell the story by looking at the illustrations.
MATH
We focused on careful counting when we played build a staircase and domino memory. For build a staircase we rolled a die (1-6) and built the corresponding tower. The goal is to create a staircase from 1-6 and know how to sequence the towers to make the stairs in order. For domino memory we worked on matching a numeral card to its corresponding domino card in a memory/concentration game set up. We worked on subitizing sets of dots on the domino card instead of always counting the dots. We practiced sorting ourselves by different attributes (socks/no socks; pants/shorts/dress; length of sleeves) and sharing what we noticed about the groups.
SCIENCE
We illustrated our class tree. We focused on including the main parts of the tree (roots, trunk, branches, leaves) and their colors. Our class tree is a maple tree that we'll be watching through the seasons. We focused on the main parts of the tree by matching pictures to their corresponding word.
SOCIAL/EMOTIONAL LEARNING
In Open Circle we discussed what the Golden Rule means. We shared what we would do in different situations to illustrate the Golden Rule: if someone dropped their lunchbox in the cafeteria- help that person pick up what was dropped; if someone was new to the class- introduce yourself, show them around the room, play with them. We also had a lesson on being calm. We shared ways we are calm at home and practiced 2 breathing techniques to help us get calm: flower breathing and balloon breathing. We discussed why it's important to be calm in class. We learned about 2 tools in our room that we can use to help us get calm: the 'take a break chair' and the cozy cube.
CHOICE TIME
At the art table we created special stars using the picture we brought in and ideas that make us special. At collage we created with playdough. In the block area we built with blocks and used sea creatures. We opened the games area and explored the games we have and learned where they 'live' on the shelf.
We celebrated Mary's birthday! Her dad, Adam, came in and read Fancy Nancy and the Posh Puppy for her birthday book.
EXTRA
Snack: Please talk with your child about their snack. Some children are saying they don't have enough to eat. Having 2 items to eat and a drink is usually a good amount.
______________________________________________________________________________
CLASSROOM HAPPENINGS FOR SEPT. 16 - 20, 2019
LANGUAGE ARTS
In phonemic awareness we continued our focus on rhyming. We sang "Down by the Bay" and shared different rhyming verses: dog dancing with a frog, cow driving a plow, bat wearing a hat. We matched pictures that rhymed: dog-frog; red-bed; cat-hat. In phonics we sequenced uppercase letters as a group from A - R in the game, "I have __; who has __?" We name the letter that we are putting down and then ask who has the next letter in the sequence. We read the poem, "Shining Apples", and identified the uppercase letters in the poem. In literature we read I Like Me! and shared something that we like or are proud about ourselves. We read The pledge of Allegiance and learned what the words in the pledge mean and what we do when we say it. As a read-aloud we read Pete the Cat and His Rocking School Shoes . We also read Truck Duck as a read-aloud and figured out the rhyming words by looking at the illustrations. In writers' workshop we illustrated and dictated what we like in our 'All About me' book. We started our journals and illustrated ourselves on the first page as the writer and illustrator of the journal. We also illustrated our favorite toy and ourselves. We are working on including details in our illustrations: correct colors; body parts; including the setting, ie. being inside or outside and how to show that.
MATH
We focused on sorting a container of junk in a small group. We focused on different attributes of the junk to help sort it a few ways. We shared with the class how we sorted it. We played Grab Bag with a partner and focused on sorting a grab of colored cubes, recording how many of each color cube grabbed and writing the corresponding numeral. We played Di Toss with a partner and worked on recognizing dot configurations on a di and matching the amount to a numeral. We played Racing Bears with a partner and worked together to get the 4 bears to the top by rolling a 1,2,3 di. In this game we learned that we could divide a numeral into parts to move more than 1 bear. If a 3 was rolled, there would be 3 ways to move the bears: move a bear 3 spaces; move 1 bear 2 spaces and another bear 1 space; or move 3 bears 1 space each. This helps us see multiple combinations for a number as well as strategy about how we want to move the bears.
SCIENCE
We began our study of trees by taking a walk to identify trees versus bushes. We identified a broadleaf and a conifer tree and learned that a broadleaf tree has a canopy and a conifer or evergreen has a trunk that goes to the top of the tree. We identified the parts of the tree on posters for a broadleaf and conifer trees: roots, branches, leaves, trunk. We worked with a partner to complete tree puzzles and thought about the parts of the tree to help us solve the puzzle.
SOCIAL/EMOTIONAL LEARNING
In Open Circle we read and gave examples of our class rules: be kind, be safe, take care of the classroom, have fun and do your best. We learned that these rules are 'non-negotiable' meaning that everyone has to follow these rules in our classroom. We talked about how we are alike and different and shared what we noticed about each other. We played the 'stand up' game to help us learn more about each other. We discussed that there are things we don't know about each other by just looking and we need to talk with each other to learn more about others.
CHOICE TIME
At the art table we painted with watercolor paints. At the collage table we made pipe cleaner 'balloons' by twisting a pipe cleaner around a cylinder block using only our thumb and pointer finger of the hand we use for writing/cutting. These are 2 of the 3 'working fingers' for holding a pencil/marker/scissors that we want to have strong. We taped the 'balloons' to a paper and created a scene with them. In blocks we built with blocks and used cars and animals. We opened dramatic play and learned what materials are in the area and how we can use/play with them.
Thank you to all of the families that were able to come for Curriculum Night! Let me know if you need any clarification about anything that was discussed.
EXTRA
Picture Day: Fri., Sept. 27. Please make sure to send in the picture envelope by Friday.
Recess: Because the mornings are a bit cooler, please pack an extra sweatshirt or sweater for your child in case they need it.
______________________________________________________________________________
CLASSROOM HAPPENINGS FOR SEPT. 9 - 13, 2019
LANGUAGE ARTS
During language arts we spend time on phonemic awareness and phonics. Phonemic awareness is the focus on sounds in words without having print or letters. Phonics focuses on print and letter identification, letter sounds, how letters work together to make words. In phonemic awareness we focused on rhyming. We sang the song, "Down by the Bay", and thought of and sang verses that rhymed: bear on a chair, dog on a log, cat wearing a hat. We identified the rhymes in the poem, "Kids in the Tub", (tub-scrub, knee-be) and thought of more words that rhymed with knee-be. In phonics we found uppercase and lowercase letters in the poem, "Kids in the Tub". In literature we read 2 song books ( Down by the Bay, and Wheels on the Bus). We read Peanut Butter and Jelly and did movements to act out the story. We read All About You and thought about different parts and interests about ourselves. We did some "turn and talks" with our neighbor on the rug and shared some interests with our partner. In writers' workshop we worked on our "All About Me" book. We illustrated and dictated ideas for our favorite color, our age and a food we like. We focused on having the picture match our idea.
MATH
We continued to explore manipulatives that we will use this year: junk boxes, ceramic tiles, transportation vehicles, tiles. We shared what we noticed about them. We created an attendance stick and discussed that the stick informs us of how many students are in class on any given day. When we work with the attendance stick, we practiced 1-1 counting by counting the students and the cubes on the stick. We also practice rote counting when we count off to double check the number of students. We played the game, 'count and sit'. In this game there is a target number that we count up to. If you say the target number, then you sit down in the circle and the count begins again. The focus is on rote counting and counting on. The target number was 12.
SOCIAL-EMOTIONAL LEARNING
We continued to focus on learning each other's names as we greet each other during morning meeting. We also sang the song, "Here We Are Together", and name every student and teacher in the circle. We began Open Circle which is a time when we meet in a circle to focus on getting to know each other, how to work and play with each other, how to make friends, and how to solve problems. This week we learned how to get in and out of Open Circle with chairs, being safe, quiet and cooperative. We brainstormed what rules we should have for our class to ensure that we are safe, that we have fun, and that we want to come to school every day.
CHOICE TIME
We explored more materials that we will be using in different areas of our room. At the art table we made pictures with bingo markers. At collage we made strip collages by cutting strips of paper. Then we bent/folded them and glued them on paper to make a 3-D collage. At the math table we created designs with pattern blocks in different shaped trays. We opened the block area and explored the materials: blocks, sea creatures, cars/trucks, animals, magna tiles, legos, marble run, lincoln logs.
We celebrated Ethan's birthday! We read the book, The Bear and the Fly, that he brought in for his birthday book.
We said 'goodbye' to our friend, Jianna. She moved to the Loker School because her older sister is there. We signed a 'goodbye card' for her.
EXTRA
Early Dismissal: Wed., Sept. 18, at 11:30am. We will not be having lunch this day. You do not need to send in a lunch for your child.
Curriculum Night: Thurs., Sept. 19, from 6:30 - 7:45pm. There will be an opportunity to learn about the curriculum and what our day looks like. There will a fall conference sign up. This is a time for adults only. Let me know if you have any questions about this evening event.
Scholastic Book Orders: due on Wed., Sept. 18. If you want to order a book/s, you can order online or send in your order to me with a check made out to 'Scholastic'.
Picture Day: Fri., Sept. 27.
______________________________________________________________________________
CLASSROOM HAPPENINGS FOR SEPT. 2 - 6, 2019
LANGUAGE ARTS
We learned the chants "Mumbo Jumbo" and "Boom Chicka Boom". For "Mumbo Jumbo" we created motions to tap out the beat of the chant. "Boom Chicka Boom" is an echo chant where we echo or repeat what has been said. We created different voices to say the chant in. We read the rhyme, "This Old Man", and then sang it with hand motions. We read the poem, "Kids in the Tub", and added motions to represent words in the poem. In literature we read A Porcupine Named Fluffy and discussed the importance of knowing how to say someone's name and respecting their name- not to make fun of it. We read What's Under Your Hood, Orson? and discussed that we need to get to know someone (what they like to do, their favorites, etc.) before deciding if we like someone or not. In independent reading we are exploring the different book baskets in our room. During morning meeting we are learning how to read the morning message every morning.
MATH
We read the story, First Day, Hooray!, and shared how the characters in the story felt about the first day of school. Then we chose a feeling we had on the first day of school and made a feelings graph. We shared what we noticed about the graph and how our class had answered. We explored different manipulatives that we will be using this year in math: pattern blocks, tiles, junk boxes, ceramic tiles, transportation vehicles. We shared what we noticed about them. We are learning how to do the calendar: name the day, its' number, identifying the pattern, counting days in school and representing that number with straws and stickers.
SOCIAL-EMOTIONAL LEARNING
During morning meeting we are spending time getting to know each other: our names, our likes. We greet each other every morning and are learning the importance of looking at the friend we are greeting and speaking up. At the end of the day we have closing circle and shared something we did at school, our favorite part of the day or someone we played with or talked to. This part of the day helps us reflect on our day and begin to learn names of friends we spent time with. It also encourages us to listen and learn about each other.
CHOICE TIME
We explored some materials that we will be using at areas in the room: art, collage, math and letters. At the art area we explored stencils. At collage we explored playdough and different rollers and cookie cutters. At the math area we explored multi-link cubes. At the letters table we built words and explored letter magnets.
We have had a great first week! We are all working hard to learn new routines and transitions, and are making some new friends.
EXTRA
Folders: Please make sure to look at and empty your child's folder every day. Return any forms or put notes in the folder for your child to bring to school the next day.
Yellow Cards: Some families still have a 'yellow card' in your child's folder. Please take this out. This 'yellow card' is to be used if you pick up your child at school (ie. 'car pick up') and should be placed on the dash board of your car. This helps us know faster whom you are picking up.
Recess: We will go outside every day for recess unless it's raining. Make sure that your child has clothes suitable to play outside in. Also pack a sweater/sweatshirt/jacket in your child's backpack. Sometimes the temperature changes during the day (gets cooler) and we need an extra layer.
______________________________________________________________________________