Week of November 30, 2009
This Week’s Happenings:
Tuesday – Blue tee shirt and jeans day
Friday – Spelling test - Guest Reader: Mrs. Scarlato
Future Dates:
December 8 – No School (teacher in-service)
December 21 – January 2 Christmas Break
Dear Parents:
It was great having a mini break from the routine of schoolwork; I hope everyone enjoyed their holiday with family, friends, and good food. My hands are a little raw from cooking, washing dishes, and general clean up, but it was worth it sharing Thanksgiving with family.
Officer Lillis will be visiting our classroom on Monday and the following next two weeks. She visits with the children and speaks to them about personal safety. I have found that some of the children struggle knowing their address and phone number. Quizzing you child periodically for this information, would be helpful.
The feast day of Saint Nicholas is Sunday, December 6. A great stocking stuffer idea is math flash cards. Studying a few math facts nightly, takes the sting away when addition and subtraction timed tests begin. Timed tests are introduced at the beginning of third quarter. May this season of Advent bring you peace and a moment for yourself. Linda S,
Language Arts
The children should have mastered short vowel sounds in words. Words such as: can, fun, plant, dress, and best should be easily read and spelled. This week the children will be taught contractions. Some of the contractions are: that’s, let’s, I’ll, and doesn’t. This is a difficult concept and should be practiced.
This week’s comprehension skill develops characterization in stories. Children will tell who the main characters are and use describing words to tell about them. Our stories are: I Can Read and Lilly Reads.
Math
We start a new chapter. It is on plane and space shapes. We begin by discussing the characteristics of cubes, cylinders, spheres, and rectangular prisms. At this time it is also suggested that students begin memorizing their math facts. The children should start with simple number sentences such as: adding on one or two, and the double facts. Ask your child to sing our doubles song.
Religion
This week’s Religion classes take in many different lessons. We begin by talking about Advent and the symbolism of the Advent wreath. A lesson on Saint Nicholas will be taught, and the children will make St. Nick stockings in anticipation of his visit.
Social Studies
The concept of work and how jobs help with wants and needs is explored. We will also discuss different types of transportation and learn how goods are transported.