Literacy
In both reading and writing we are working on non-fiction or "teaching" texts. We are learning about text features and how they help us to understand non-fiction text. Some of the important features in first grade text include: captions, labels, bold print and a table of contents. As we learn more about non-fiction writing, we will also begin to experiment with text features in our writing.Some of the students are struggling to think of topics that they can write about, yet I know they are experts in many areas. I am encouraging students to write non-fiction texts about things they are personally very familiar with. For example, a book about sledding or riding the school bus is completely appropriate for a first grader to write. They might also write a book about a favorite stuffed animal or pet. The guideline I typically offer for students is that they must know at least 3 interesting facts with details about the topic in order to write a book. If your child has a favorite hobby or activity, you might encourage them to write a book on that topic.
Discovery
We have begun our Animal Unit. During this unit, we will learn about basic animal classification and adaptations. For the most part, we will focus on vertebrate animals (those with a backbone) but we will also learn about insects and arachnids. This is a unit that will be integrated with both literacy and technology. During technology, students will work with a partner to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of animal classification and specific animals.
Book Orders
A January book order is included in this week's communication folder. They are due by Friday, January 19th. Orders maybe placed online or by sending in the flyer. If you chose to order using the flyer, please make checks payable to Scholastic.
PE Lab
Mr. Blanchard has scheduled our next PE Lab - Outdoor Winter Adventure for Wednesday, January 31st. We will be leaving the school at approximately 9:20 AM and returning around 1:00 PM. The plan for the day is still evolving but will likely include snowshoeing and sledding. We are in need of chaperones and drivers. If you are interested and available to join us, please let me know. A permission slip will be coming home as soon as the details are solidified. In the meantime, if you have questions, please feel free to contact Mr. Blanchard or myself.
Report Cards
Report Cards will be mailed home in late January. There have been many changes made to the report card since last year. Informational meetings about report cards are being held in each elementary school. Please watch for additional information about report cards in the school newsletter. Your feedback about the report card will be very important as we work to continue to improve the reporting system.
Email List
Over vacation, it came to my attention that several families were not receiving the class emails. I believe that I have corrected this problem. I sent out a "test email" on Monday, January 8th. If you do not receive the email and wish to be added to the list, please let me know.
Toys
Please help your child to remember that we have a no personal toys expectation in first grade. Many students are bringing in toys which are then becoming a source of distraction and causing problems. When toys are broken, damaged or lost, children become very upset and have a difficult time focusing. If a child forgets and brings a toy to school, he/she will receive a reminder to leave the toy in his/her bag. After that, I will put the toy in a safe place and return it at the end of the day.
If your child wishes to bring art supplies or special school supplies to school, please help them to understand the expectation will be that all materials are shared.
