This week went by so fast! The children had a nice week with our new intern Ms. Jess. She subbed for me twice when I was doing various assessments and the children did so well in the class with her. They were so respectful and kind. They are the best! I am so proud of them.
Speaking of assessments; report cards go home next Friday. They will be inside an envelope inside your child's backpack. Please take the time to read these carefully with your child and celebrate all the learning that is taking place at school! As always, let me know if you have any questions.
Reading:
We started reading non-fiction books in our guided reading groups this week. All the children received new "just right" books and started paying attention to the non-fiction text features found inside such books most often. This week, your child learned more about tables of contents, the importance of photographs and bold print. Look for some of the scavenger hunts and activities we did in class inside your child's Friday folder.
Writing:
We started our animal report unit this week as well. The children all chose a Vermont animal to research. Their first writing task was to convince me why they should be able to study their chosen animal. Their opinions and persuasive writing skills are amazing! I cannot wait to share these with you all!
The students also received their new non-fiction writing folders and their new research booklets. They entered all their chapter headings inside their new table of contents as well. Next week, we will start chapter one; the description of the animal. Initially, the children will learn how to use their own words in their writing to create a clear picture of their animal. Later, they will ;earn how to read for information and find specific information about their animal to add to their chapter.
Math:
First grade mathematicians continued work on basic number sense this week in activities related to counting by 10s, counting forwards and backwards and comparing two numbers. They practiced using the terminology "greater than", "less than" or "equal to" when comparing these numbers. They also continued work on problem solving, showing their mathematical understanding in numbers, equations and mathematical representations. All first grade students also completed our yearly district-wide math assessments.
Technology:
We are now fully implementing technology throughout our day. Some students take out chromebooks in the morning to read, code or do math. Every Monday and Thursday, half of the class uses chromebooks in literacy to listen to books online and then respond in writing in the classroom. They are doing great. Some kids, however, are in need of their own head=phones. I have extras in the classroom that they can use, but I just wanted to let you know in case you did not know about this need because it is more sanitary to have your own head-phones than sharing on house. Thank you!
Upcoming Events & Reminders:
- Report Cards go home on Friday, 1/26
- Harmony House has a field-trip to the Flynn Theater on 2/9. We will have an early lunch and will leave ABS at 11:45. Please sign the permission slip (which went home today in your child's folder) and return as soon as possible. Please don't forget to indicate which packed lunch your child wants, if any. Thank you.
- ABS will go to WCS on 2/7 for the WCS Chorus concert. This is an afternoon show so we will dismiss from WCS. If you need to pick up your child on that date, please meet up at WCS. All other children will board their normal buses (and Part 2 kids will return to ABS).
