Cover a Flat

In math we learned a new menu math game called "Cover a Flat." This game helps us practice place value and understand regrouping. We will starting double digit addition soon, and this a a good way to start with the basics for this new concept.

We read a book, Whistle for Willie, by our new author of the month, Ezra Jack Keats. We also talked about why his books are so special. Ask your child how his books are different or the same as other ones we have read in class.

Mary Castle Expectations

Today students worked on posters showing the Mary Castle Expectations. Students drew an expectation and a place in school where they might demonstrate it. We are working hard on folllowing these expectations as we return from break, so this is a fun and creative way to practice good behavior. Yesterday we read a book about manners as a way to introduce this idea.

Today we also have done some pre-assessments in reading and math to help me determine groups for the next units. Please do not worry if you see papers coming home that are not finished. Some of these assessments were timed, and some were designed to have problems that your child may not know how to do. This helps me differentiate and compact the curriculum depending on ability.

Happy Holidays

Today was our Holiday Party and the students had fun doing crafts and eating breakfast. Thank you to all the parents who helped with the party and to Mrs. Felli for organizing it for us. I hope you all have a wonderful Winter Break, and I will see you next year!

Snowflakes

Today we read the story of Snowflake Bentley and learned some interesting facts about snowflakes. We also made out own snowflake crystals.

Poinsettias

Today we learned about poinsettias and legend behind them. We read one of Tomie dePaola's books and made our own flowers. This was an exercise in listening and following directions. If one did not carefully make the flower as was directed, it would not turn out to look like one.

In math students learned how to play two new menu math money games: Race for a Quarter and Fill the Bank.