December 2

2B: Non-Uniform Fundraiser for the Philippines

2A: Non-Uniform Fundraiser for the Philippines

The weeks are flying by! I probably say this every year, but I can't believe how quickly the school year is going. Is it really Hanukkah already?!

I know it's been awhile since my last update, so I will try to recap some of the highlights.

Spin the spinners and add the two numbers together!

"Making 10" with a rainbow

Math: We wrapped up our unit on place value and have moved onto addition strategies. So far, we've looked at:

Adding 0
Counting on 1
Counting on 2
Counting on 3
Making 10
Adding 10
Adding 9
Doubles

Students become mathematically literate when they are taught using a balanced numeracy approach. Although there have been changes to the B.C. Mathematics curriculum in the past few years, there is still a common focus on building students' procedural and conceptual knowledge base. 

Roll a die, add two, and cover your number!

How this plays out in our classroom:
Typically, we complete a short whole group lesson, followed by some paper and pencil practice or partner games to reinforce the new skills we are learning. Then, students choose a Math Tub to use with a partner. These Math Tubs are filled with games and activities that reinforce topics we have recently learned about in class. We also use the Mathletics program one or two times per week, as well as other online applications and iPad apps. While the students are working independently with the Math Tubs, I am able to work with small groups or individual students who might benefit either from extra support or enrichment. 

If you'd like to help your child practice their addition and subtraction facts, please refer to the strategies package you received during your conference. Alternatively, you can have a look HERE. If you'd like a math booklet for your child to work on at home, please let me know and I will send one home with your child.

Kindergarten Buddies: Using the StoryKit app to
make an audio recording

Language Arts: We wrote to our pen pals in Toronto, composed stories using a story starter, made our own pretend Facebook profiles (on paper), completed our spelling lessons, and acted out some readers' theatre plays.

Did you know that bears don't really hibernate?

Theme:
We have been busy learning about mammals. Each student completed a "practice" project about a bear. Then, students chose their own mammal to research. These gorgeous projects are currently on display in the hallway. I am also happy to report that half of the students were so excited they went home and created an additional mammal project!

In the coming weeks before winter break, we will learn about reptiles (including dinosaurs) and amphibians.

Happy Hanukkah!