The First 2 Weeks of January Update

Here's a little update of what we've been doing in the classroom.

Math

We began Unit 4 last week, which focus on adding, subtracting, and measuring.  We began the unit by building a number line to model the number sequence from 0-10.  We have been using the terms greater than and less than when playing Read My Mind.  We are continuing to practice counting by forward and backward between 0-50, starting with any given number.

The children have continued to practice adding and subtracting within 10 through story problems and a new math station called Foxes and Dens.  Lastly, the children were introduced to another new math station called Beat You to 20, which is a similar to previous games they've played.

Writing

We began a new unit, Writing for Readers, last week.  This unit teaches children strategies for writing clearer, richer stories along with helping them strengthen the convection and mechanics of their writing.

The children were reminded of what a true story entails by referencing the following chart, which was created in the fall time.    

Our lessons have been focusing on making sure our writing is easy to read for others.  We've agreed that to make our writing easy to read, we need spaces between our words, neat handwriting, a lot of letters in every word and pictures that help.  These are the big goals for the unit.

Fundations

We began Unit 2, which focuses on learning the uppercase letters and learning how to tap out cvc (cat, dog, mud, net, etc.) words and blend the sounds to form words.  This past week we learned about the -at word family.  See if your child can name some words that are part of this family.

Other Fun Activities

When we returned from the break, we completed a My Goals for 2016 booklet, which has the children sharing something they want to learn more about this year, something they want to get better at this year and a book they want to learn how to read.  These booklets will be coming home this week in your child's Friday folder to share with you.

On Wednesday, we visited the tech lab for the first time this year.  The children were excited and ready to begin something new.  Before even learning how to use the programs on the computer, the children first need to learn how to log on and off from the computer by typing in their user name and password.  They were eager and dedicated to learn and master this skill!

Lastly, before the break, the children were doing a fun activity during their p.e. class.  They were using pool noodles to drum on exercise balls while moving their bodies around the gym to music.  Take a look at the short video below showcasing this activity.