Here is a look at what we've been working on in first grade this week.
- I Reading Workshop, the students are working on ways to solve difficult words. They learned a number of strategies to figure out what the word says. This week, we did some review and practiced doing a "check and then a double check" to make sure that the word makes sense. During partner reading time, I encouraged the kids to ask each other "What do you think?" in order to deepen the conversations that they have about their books.
- The trick words for the week are: he, she, we, be, me, or, for
- The kids also learned about dialogue in stories. They have been identifying quotation marks in stories that we read and using dialogue in the stories that they write.
- In writing, the kids are learning ways to bring their stories to life by "unfreezing" the characters. I've shown them many examples of ways to make the characters move and talk. It's adorable! We also practiced telling stories in "itsy-bitsy" steps, so they can focus on the details of the topic that they choose.
- In math, the kids have been working with subtraction. They have been applying their subtraction skills to story problems. We have also been working with the relationship between addition and subtraction. Here's a cute song I played in class: Pirate Subtraction
- The kids also learned about how the sun moves through the sky during the day. We talked about why it feels like you go to be early in the summer (because the sun is still up), even though it is still the same bed time!
- During the project-based learning session with Ms. Flaherty this week, the kids created 3D figures with shadows.
- We also had our first official Mystery Reader on Wednesday. Thanks so much, Mrs. Ciaccia!
- I sent home the ST Math login information on Monday. It was great to see so many kids try the program at home. It's not required, but I know that a lot of the first graders are eager to do more work with the program. If you misplaced the sheet I sent home and would like another copy, just let me know. Thanks for your support at home!
Tomorrow: Wear pink for breast cancer awareness
10/31 (Thursday): Pumpkin Day in first grade (9:30-11:00)
11/1 (Friday): Library and monster mash (kids can wear costumes to school)
11/5 (Tuesday): No school - parent-teacher conferences
11/6 (Wednesday): Enrichment show for kids during school - Bubblemania
11/8 (Friday): Library
11/11 (Monday): No school Veterans Day
11/13 (Wednesday): Library and Primo Pasta Night
Thanks so much to everyone who has sent in pumpkins for Pumpkin Day!
Looking forward to meeting with everyone and telling you how awesome your kids are during the parent-teacher conferences!
As always, please reach out if you have any questions or concerns.
Katie Barnett
