October 31, 2010

The first two months of school have flown by! The first quarter is almost over and the students have learned so much. I am impressed by their hard work and determination!

This week we will finish learning the correct way to write numbers 1-9. Please practice these at home, particularly 6 & 9--students often reverse these numbers. The more practice they have, the better.

Both classes have earned their second set of Cardinal Cards for fantastic behavior. The students have gotten many compliments for their outstanding behavior, both in the classroom and in the hallways. They are very proud of themselves, and rightfully so! The classes rolled the dice and will have the chance to watch a video next week as their Cardinal Reward. They are so excited!

October 15, 2010

The students have now learned the correct way to write the letters a-w. Next week we will complete the alphabet and then we will move on to writing words and sentences!

In math we introduced reading the numbers 1-9. We also began using "5 Frames" to subitize, count and match. "5 Frames" are tools that we will use to help us learn throughout the year.

In reading the students learned that the term "events" means things that happen in a book. The students did a wonderful job identifying important events in the books we read this week.

Last night, Brantner had a special presentation called "Bats!" This was presented by the Cincinnati Museum Center's Karen Venetian. Miss Karen (pictured) shared many facts about bats with us. I was so excited about all of the things that she brought to share, particulary the two live bats!!!! What a great evening.

Friday 10-8-10

This week the students learned how to write the letters n, o, p, q, and r. Their handwriting is improving by leaps and bounds!

In math we practiced subitizing and counting. I have pronounced the students "Super Duper Subitizers!" They are quickly learning to name how many without counting using the dots on dice and dominoes.

In reading we learned about characters (the people in the story) and setting (the places in the story) as we read books from the always funny "Froggy" series of books.

The students are enjoying their reading groups. They will be bringing home the magazines from Read Well as they pass each unit. These are great materials to have at home for extra practice.

Today, Mrs. Owens, visited our class to work on motor skills. (See photo above.) The class enjoyed her visit and we are hoping to have her return on Fridays as her schedule permits.