We had a busy week last week filled with fun and learning!
Class Updates:
After a lot of collaboration, we finished writing our class mission! Each student also picked a word that described how our classroom should be each day and drew an illustration to represent it. We hung these up around our mission statement to remind us about our goals each day.
In math we started Chapter 1, which focuses on addition and subtraction strategies. Students learned about the Identity and Commutative Properties of Addition. They also practiced using the strategies of counting on to add and doubles/near doubles to help them add basic fact problems. Each student has started to use the xtramath app on the class iPads. This is a great way for the children to continue to practice their math facts at their own pace. There is a link to xtramath on this blog so they can also practice at home. Next week, we will focus on lessons 4-6.
During reading, the children have been working on building their independent reading stamina. I am proud to say they have been able to increase their minutes of reading each day! The students have also been doing a great job at keeping their book boxes filled with "just right" books. Next week, we will get started with our guided reading groups!
We read the book, The Best Part of Me, in writing. It inspired us to do a project like the class did in the book. Each student has picked a body part they feel is their best part. Then, they used a graphic organizer to brainstorm why that body part was unique, special, or useful. I loved to see all of the ideas the students came up with! The kids are now working on turning their brainstorming into complete sentences that will be published with a picture of their "best part". I will post some finished projects next week. We will also begin our first big writing unit, which focuses on crafting a personal narrative.
The students has their first spelling test on Friday and spent the week learning many ways to practice their words. Ask your child to tell you about "scoop spelling" or "silly sentence spelling"! They now have a new spelling list on green paper in their green folders. This is a second list of high frequency words. Next week, students will continue to practice spelling routines in class with another test on Friday.
We have been having a lot of fun in social studies! The children have been learning about what makes a community. Students have been using synergy to work in groups to create their own communities. The children designed buildings that represent places where people live, work, play, and solve problems. They are now deciding how to set up their communities, complete with streets and background scenery. I will post the finished projects next week.
I am excited to say that the Donor's Choose Project I submitted for our class is at the halfway point to being fully funded! I have requested funds to purchase additional flexible seating options for the children so they can do their best learning throughout the day. This includes wobble stools for movement and comfy bean bag chairs for reading. Please click here to check out my project and forward it on to anyone who you think might be interested in helping us out. I am so grateful for everyone who has already been so generous supporting the students!
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