Writing
During writing instruction, we are studying writing conventions. Conventions are the the parts of your writing that make it easier for your readers to understand your writing. Some of the conventions we are focusing on are: spacing, handwriting, capital letters, punctuation and making sure the writing makes sense. We are moving from editing someone else's work to proofreading and correcting our own work. This can be a bit challenging as it is always easier to spot errors in someone else's work. For the majority of the class, the expectation is that they will use capital letters at the beginning of sentences and for specific names and punctuation at the end of sentences. There are a few writers that are beginning to explore the use of commas in lists, but I don't expect mastery of the comma in first grade. We are also increasing our focus on correctly spelling sight words and word wall words. One spelling strategy we are using for longer, more complicated words is to spell a word part by part, do the best you can and then move on. I don't want students to become so concerned about conventional spelling that they become frozen in their writing or chose less robust words because of a fear of incorrect spelling.
Math
We have begun our unit on measurement and have measured a lot of things in the classroom. This week we have explored both non-standard and standard units of measuring length. Our big goals have been to learn how to use a different tools to measure length and to use mathematical terms to compare length. As we continue our work on measurement, we will also begin to learn about time (to the quarter hour) and money. If your child is not yet counting by 5s, this is a skill that will help them with both time and money. 
American Red Cross Fundraiser
Prior to vacation, Isaac approached me with an idea about raising money for the American Red Cross. He had heard a podcast about the wildfires in California and wanted to do something to help. After some discussion and planning, we met with Mrs. Lyford to get permission to begin a fundraising project. On Tuesday, Isaac presented his ideas to the class and they were all eager to help. As a group they decided they would like to do a combination of fundraising activities. The ideas include a popcorn/bake sale and a donation box. We are still working on the details of the date and time but I wanted to let you know that the plans are in progress. At this point, we are still planning. I will let you know as we get further in the planning what you can do to help. At this point, I know we will need donations of popcorn supplies and baked goods. We will also likely need some adult support for the sale. My intent is that the class plan and complete as much of the project as possible on their own.
A big shout out to Isaac and his family for bringing this idea to our group. I'm thrilled the class is eager to take their acts of kindness beyond our room and out into the community.
