Friday, December 14, 2012

Season's Greeting and all that Jazz!

What a busy month!  I can't believe that we only have 1 week left until winter break.  Students have been busy with the following concepts along with a little fun!
Math:  We have been practicing addition and subtraction stories.  We got to use a great app on the IPads called "Educreations" to make our own addition or subtraction stories.  Each student got to record them and share with the class.  Click on the links below to see a few of the math superstars in our room.
               
                  
                  
This week we have also been talking about teen numbers.  For example, 11 is really 10+1.  12 is 10+2 and so on.  Our focus has also been focusing on five groups for numbers less than 10.  For example 6 is 5+1, 7 is 5+2 and so on.  Students sometimes have a difficult time with switching their thinking so practicing these skills at home is crucial.  Students have a homework page for math this weekend that is working with 5-groups.  Please complete it and return!

Reading:  Students are really taking off with their take home reading.  If you have not been reading, please try to incorporate this into your evening routine.  We have now introduced the following new star words-he, she, we, me, on.  We talked a little about the "Power of E" went it stands alone at the end of a word.  We also focused on gingerbread stories and story elements.  We discussed the beginning, middle, and end of these stories.  Ask your child to tell you about one of them.
 

 
Writing-We have been sound spelling like crazy!  Our journals are now looking more complete with an attempt at sentences.  These will be sent home next week so you can see the progression.  Students are also busy making cards for friends and family in the "Holiday Hallmark House".  Maybe you will be lucky enough to receive one.
 
Next week we will enjoy more gingerbread stories, Winter Wonderland in gym (hopefully), and BINGO.