Reading: Snowman Illustrations

During Reading this week we are focusing on rebus stories that use pictures within the sentences. I read a story called The Jacket I Wear in the Snow by Shirley Neizel. Afterwards, the class partnered up and had to create their own snowman with the same items (examples: hat, mittens, scarf, buttons, etc.)

They did an excellent job!

Math: Numbers 11-15

This week we are focusing on recognizing, counting, and building numbers 11-15. I introduced a new game and the class had a great time. Each student received a brown paper bag and went to a bucket of unifix cubes. I gave them a "secret number" (11-15) that they had to count out the same number of cubes to hide in their bag. They went back to their table and took turns dumping out their cubes and their teammates had to count to guess their number. So simple and educational, but they thought it was a fun game.

Throughout the week, have your child count to at least 15. The end of the year goal is for them to be able to count to 100. Ideas: count stairs, food on their plate, legos, barbies, shoes, crayons, etc.

Also be on the "lookout" for numbers 11-15. Check your clock, cell phone, menus, tv adds, books, etc.

By talking with your children about numbers both at school and at home, they are more likely to have a better understanding of the numbers. It will also help them make connections. Happy counting!

Winter Party

Wow, what a wonderful party! First, I'd like to thank all of the families who donated supplies and items for our Gingerbread Houses and Party! I was overwhelmed with the amount of support and generosity! Thank you, thank you, THANK YOU!!!

While the class was at Music, I and a few parents come and help me decorate and set up for the party. Thank you Tiffany, Candace, and Brenda! 

As the kids came back they were so happy and excited when they saw the classroom. I heard a lot of, "Oh wow, this looks beautiful." and "This is the best day ever!!!" 

We enjoyed some delicious food and listened to some music.

Parents who were able to attend the party.

After we ate, the kids were eager to start decorating. My intent was to take some "action shots" of the kids decorating and then a "finished product". Well, I was able to take the action shots, but I never got around to taking pictures as the students finished. The classroom was buzzing with excitement and energy. It was so fun to watch the class get creative and sneak a few pieces of candy here and there. :)

It was a fun and exciting day. Everyone had a great time and I hope that you all enjoy your treats over the break. I look forward to seeing all of my class back on January 7th!!! Happy New Year!

All Aboard!!!

Today we had our Polar Express day. We dressed up in warm pajamas, had a parade throughout the school, and watched the movie The Polar Express. Each child received a ticket to enter the classroom and had a wonderful time enjoying the movie.

Winter Rotations

We have had a very busy week with so many fun activities. We had some fun Winter Rotations and the kids had a lot of fun.

Here is a class picture of our class (plus a few others).