Weekly Update

Dear Families,
It is great to be back in school again.  The students were so happy to see each other and share all the wonderful things they did over vacation.    The students also seemed happy to get back into the routine of school.  They are so excited about our new reading logs and our Iditarod unit.
Thank you all for helping our children succeed with the new reading logs.  Many children are so eager to read a little extra, which, of course, is wonderful.  Please keep in mind, however, that the writing piece that goes along with the reading should be done neatly, with full sentences and justifications.  Thank you.  As always, let me know if you have any additional questions.  I hope the email and blog post I sent out earlier this week helped you understand the logs and expectations.

In writing, the children continued learning about research.  This week, we primarily focused on how to take good and relevant notes.  We also learned how to read for information, pause to think about what we just learned and then re-voice those words into our very own before we write them down.  The children are doing an amazing job applying their new skills and their reports are coming along nicely.    Throughout this writing unit, the children will also learn to read with a specific goal in mind.  As they search for information pertaining to their topic, they will experience that readers read with different purposes.  Sometimes we read for enjoyment, but sometimes we read to gather information.

First grade mathematicians continued their work on number sense and fluency in our Number Corner activities and Work Places.  They explored these concepts through the uses of number lines, various manipulatives as well as from a short unit on penguins.

Reminders:

• We have outdoor recess every day (weather permitting) so please make sure your child comes to school with hats, gloves, boots and snow-pants.  Hopefully, Spring will arrive soon!
• Information about Jump Rope for Hearts was in the School Bell if your child wishes to participate
• Information about the Basket Raffle was sent home in Thursday foledrs this week.  Thank you for considering participating!
• Report cards will be sent home next Friday, March 14th