This Week...

September 11- September 15, 2017

Reading:  We had the opportunity to read a variety of poems, including the book Swirl by Swirl by Joyce Sidman.  We discussed how poetry is beautiful, but can sometimes contain challenging vocabulary.  We focused on strategies that good readers use when they approach difficult words.  Substituting synonyms, using prior knowledge, studying the illustrations for clues, and using context clues are just a few of the strategies students practiced this week.  Making connections as we read was another main topic this week!  Students learned that good readers make connections to gain a deeper understanding of the text.  Students read poetry and nonfiction articles to practice recording their thinking.  Writing down their thoughts on sticky notes helped the students feel prepared for purposeful reading discussions with their classmates.  Reading Logs are due Monday, September 18.  (100 minutes)

Math:  We focused on comparing numbers using base-10 blocks, place value grids, and number lines.  Students played “Guess that Number” to practice describing the difference between place values.   Completing number sequences by focusing on the pattern was another focus.  On Tuesday, students will be taking the chapter 1 test.  We will spend time reviewing in school on Monday.

Social Studies:  Students learned that the equator and prime meridian divide our world into four different hemispheres.  They also used physical maps to determine the location of various landforms in our country.

Writing:  We started our writing program: The Writer’s Express (WEX)!  Students enjoyed learning about the writer’s mindset, the rules for writing, and how to “show” readers with their words.  They also started working on their first skill: focus.  We practiced focusing on a single moment in time by using careful observation and tiny details.  In grammar, students differentiated between various types of sentences.

Word Study:  Students continued working with words that had consonant clusters.  They played “Go Fish” to help find matching clusters.

Miscellaneous:  We had another wonderful week!  On Wednesday, we had the wonderful opportunity of attending the Music for Youth concert.  By watching peers play the violin and cello, students were able to see if this experience was something they would like to do in the future.  Picture day will be on Thursday, September 21.  Please send in your forms if you plan on ordering pictures.  Have a great weekend and please let me know if you have any questions!