What a fantastic trip we had to Riverbend! We had a fun day of learning
and experiencing life as a Lenape Native American. The children were
perfectly behaved and respectful.
Now that it is Christmas season, it is important to keep the children
focused while enjoying the preparation for the holidays.
As Advent begins , third grade will be creating our own Advent Wreath. We
will be making a chain of good works as the days move on to Christmas.
The children will also be making a promise tree so that we all remember the
reason we are celebrating and preparing. The children will be learning about
celebrations around the world - the first being St. Nicholas Day. We will
share the story and make puppets and something special for first grade.
Our Math continues with the introduction to times tables. They NEED to be
practiced and memorized. We will learn, understand, play games, make flash
cards. They must be practiced at home every day.
Maintenance worksheets have begun. This week one will be done in school
and one for homework due Friday. Do some every night - not all in one
sitting. The children need the repetition and practice.
Our read-aloud continues with the third and last in the series SIDEWAYS
SCHOOL. Our reading program moves along with an animal fantasy. The children
will practice skills such as author's purpose, character study, predictions,
as well as phonics and grammar skills.
It is interesting that the new chapter in Social Studies is all about
customs and celebrations. This is the perfect season to learn all about the
celebrations that we share as citizens of the USA with ancestors from all
over the world.
We will begin a long-term writing assignment. Last year the children
wrote a class book. This year we will begin a chapter book all about our
class trip. Each child will write his/her own book. THERE IS NO COST FOR THE
BOOK. You may purchase additional copies if you wish. Publishing date is the
end of January. The children will create graphic organizers, rough drafts,
and good copies. The kits have not arrived yet with the special paper and
space for illustrations. Each child will have a lasting memory of what they
learned during our trip. This will all be done in school.
Our study of life science and ecosystems will be concluded by the
holiday or soon after. Earth Science is our next step.
There is so much to enjoy during the Advent Season. It will go by
quickly - so we want to have fun while staying focused on our work.
