We have been busy with subtraction and social studies this week! In math we are working on the concept of subtraction. Today we used pictures to show how we break apart a whole into groups. Tomorrow we are going to meet one of my favorite book characters, Pete the Cat, and use buttons to model "taking away" from the whole.
We have been working hard to build up our independent time during reading. This month we discussed why it is important we learn to read and what we can do to get better at it. Part of that practice is building up stamina for reading and writing independently. The first graders have practiced reading and writing for as long as they can without feeling tired or wanting to give up. So far, we have a record of 6 minutes. They love to see if they beat their longest time each time we practice. We have also been reading the story, Wolf!, and exploring reasons why we think school is important. Part of the Social Studies curriculum is for students to articulate and find examples of the importance of self and school. This week's story is a great way to connect the main character's struggle to learn to read to the work we do every day at school.
This week we started writing in school planners. The first graders are in charge of writing a sentence about their day and sharing that sentence with a family member at home. I will be checking for parent signatures each day. One thing students may write about tomorrow is earning coins and the website Class Dojo. I am using the website to communicate with you about behavior in school. I will send out a link inviting you to join Class Dojo. You are welcome to check your child's progress throughout the day, and even send me a message. The points you see will be tied to the class economy we started today. Students will earn coins to spend on some fun things and some needed materials, like a replacement pencil or extra eraser.
Tomorrow night is the Fall Social! Come enjoy a 1950's themed evening with activities and treats from Hires. Activities go from 6:30-8:00 PM. We hope to see you there!
We have been working hard to build up our independent time during reading. This month we discussed why it is important we learn to read and what we can do to get better at it. Part of that practice is building up stamina for reading and writing independently. The first graders have practiced reading and writing for as long as they can without feeling tired or wanting to give up. So far, we have a record of 6 minutes. They love to see if they beat their longest time each time we practice. We have also been reading the story, Wolf!, and exploring reasons why we think school is important. Part of the Social Studies curriculum is for students to articulate and find examples of the importance of self and school. This week's story is a great way to connect the main character's struggle to learn to read to the work we do every day at school.
This week we started writing in school planners. The first graders are in charge of writing a sentence about their day and sharing that sentence with a family member at home. I will be checking for parent signatures each day. One thing students may write about tomorrow is earning coins and the website Class Dojo. I am using the website to communicate with you about behavior in school. I will send out a link inviting you to join Class Dojo. You are welcome to check your child's progress throughout the day, and even send me a message. The points you see will be tied to the class economy we started today. Students will earn coins to spend on some fun things and some needed materials, like a replacement pencil or extra eraser.
Tomorrow night is the Fall Social! Come enjoy a 1950's themed evening with activities and treats from Hires. Activities go from 6:30-8:00 PM. We hope to see you there!