The kids have been working hard to practice for the Thanksgiving show next week. Can't wait to see you there! Here's a quick look at all of the other things they have accomplished in first grade this week.
- In Reading Workshop, we have been focusing on nonfiction books. The kids are learning how to distinguish the difference between fiction and nonfiction. After one of the lessons, we compiled a list of all the topics they learned about - pretty impressive. I taught the kids how to "study each page" to learn as much as they can. They are learning to notice information in pictures, bold text, and call-out boxes. Later in the week, we talked about how to teach your reading partner about what you read. They picked out one or two facts from the book to share with their partner.
- The new trick words for the week are: were, are, who, what, when, where, there, here
- In math, the kids have been learning how to make 10 to add numbers. For example, 9+4 becomes 10+3. We are also continuing to use the ST Math program in class. I love to watch as the kids discover new ways to solve problems and help their classmates.
- In writing, I shared a couple of new mentor texts with the class. One is titled Ralph Tells a Story about a boy who struggles to find something to write about, even though interesting things happen to him all day long. In the end, he learns how to recognize the stories all around him. As I read these books, I point out all of the techniques that the author uses to make the story interesting and I encourage the kids to use one or two in their own writing. I also taught the kids to "put a story in their pocket" when something interesting happens during their week. That way, they can pull the story out during writing time and put it on paper.
- In our project-based learning art class on Wednesday, the kids made pumpkin patches. They are adorable! And the project dovetails nicely with the nonfiction book about growing pumpkins that we have been studying in class.
- We've also been reading a lot of fun books about family traditions at Thanksgiving time.
- The turkey disguises are hanging in the hallway. Take a peek if you are in the school. So funny!
- The read-aloud for the past couple of week have been Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. The kids love it!
Other Notes
- The food drive is a huge success! Thank you for all of the cranberry sauce! We will continue to collect it this week.
- The Coats For Kids drive is ongoing. Feel free to drop and coats in the box in the lobby.
Upcoming Dates
- 11/22 (Friday): Library
- 11/27 (Wednesday): 9:00am Thanksgiving Show, 11:50am dismissal
- 11/28 and 11/29 (Thursday and Friday): No school
- 12/5 (Thursday): Holiday shop at school (more info to come)
- 12/19 (Thursday): 10:00-11:00am Class Holiday Party (We will be looking for volunteers to help run the crafts.)
- 12/21 (Friday): Last day of school before the December break
Have a great weekend. As always, please let me know if you have any questions or concerns.
Thanks!
Katie Barnett
