Tomorrow afternoon is our school field day! Students will be outside for the majority of the afternoon.
Please make sure your child wears comfortable athletic shoes and clothing. Students can also wear hats while outside. If you send sunscreen with your child they can apply it prior to going outside.
Wednesday, June 1, 2016
Friday, May 27, 2016
Week of 5/31
Starting on Tuesday our daily schedule will look quite different on account of end of the year activities!
During math the students have chosen to do some of the math activities they have enjoyed throughout the school year! These activities will help them to practice their math skills!
On Tuesday the students have their last physical education class of the year. Students will also have their final 45 minute writing prompt on Tuesday afternoon. The students will be asked to write a realistic fiction story. Firefighter John will also visit on Tuesday afternoon for our Summer Safety Presentation. He will talk about fire safety, fireworks, bike safety, and more. Our countdown special activity for Tuesday will be a dance party!
On Wednesday the students have their final art class. We switched art to Wednesday on account of our field trip on Friday. On Wednesday afternoon the kindergartners will visit the first grade classrooms. Our first graders wrote letters to the kindergartners to teach them all about first grade!
On Thursday the students have their final music class. Thursday afternoon we will be outside for field day! Parents are welcome to join us for field day!
On Friday we will leave at 8:45 for Mosquito Hill in New London. Please make sure your child wears comfortable walking shoes. I would also recommend wearing long pants and dressing in layers. We will return to school around 1:45.
Sunday, May 22, 2016
Upcoming Events...
Monday 5/30: No School - Happy Memorial Day!
Tuesday 5/31: Summer Safety Presentation with Firefighter John at 1:00
Wednesday 6/1: Dental Bus (only for students who are signed up)
Thursday 6/2: Field Day 12:15-2:35
Friday 6/3: First Grade Field Trip to Mosquito Hill Nature Center in New London
Wednesday 6/8: Last Day of School
Awards Ceremony at 10:00
Talent Show at 12:30
Tuesday 5/31: Summer Safety Presentation with Firefighter John at 1:00
Wednesday 6/1: Dental Bus (only for students who are signed up)
Thursday 6/2: Field Day 12:15-2:35
Friday 6/3: First Grade Field Trip to Mosquito Hill Nature Center in New London
Wednesday 6/8: Last Day of School
Awards Ceremony at 10:00
Talent Show at 12:30
Week of 5/23
It's hard to believe it's already the last full week of the school year!
This week in math we are reviewing the concepts learned throughout the school year. I am continuing to work with students individually to administer end of year math screeners. This week I am focusing on structuring screeners, which requires students to identify dot patterns, show finger patterns, and combine numbers.
Last week was the final week for weekly spelling sorts. This week during phonics we will study vowel sounds, r controlled vowels, and word endings.
This week in writer's workshop we will wrap up our realistic fiction unit of study. Students will have time Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday to complete their best realistic fiction story. On Thursday we will have our final Author Celebration!
This week in science we will continue to learn about health and safety.
This week in math we are reviewing the concepts learned throughout the school year. I am continuing to work with students individually to administer end of year math screeners. This week I am focusing on structuring screeners, which requires students to identify dot patterns, show finger patterns, and combine numbers.
Last week was the final week for weekly spelling sorts. This week during phonics we will study vowel sounds, r controlled vowels, and word endings.
This week in writer's workshop we will wrap up our realistic fiction unit of study. Students will have time Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday to complete their best realistic fiction story. On Thursday we will have our final Author Celebration!
This week in science we will continue to learn about health and safety.
Monday, May 9, 2016
Happening this week...
Tuesday, May 10th
-Muffins with Moms at 7:15
Wednesday, May 11th
-Unit 9 Math Assessment
-Early Release at 12:30
Friday, May 13th
-Bathke PTO Book Swap!
Saturday, May 14th
-School Carnival and Kickball Game 11:00-2:00
-Muffins with Moms at 7:15
Wednesday, May 11th
-Unit 9 Math Assessment
-Early Release at 12:30
Friday, May 13th
-Bathke PTO Book Swap!
Saturday, May 14th
-School Carnival and Kickball Game 11:00-2:00
Week of 5/9
This week in math we will be wrapping up our final unit of the year! We will further explore fractions and review our addition and subtraction strategies early in the week. On Wednesday the students will take the end of Unit 9 math assessment. Beginning on Thursday we will begin our end of year math screeners. All students will be screened in 2-4 areas of math, beginning with addition and subtraction. While I am working on these screeners the students will be participating in a variety of math activities and games that they learned throughout the year.
This week in phonics all students will receive a new set of their weekly words. Please help your child practice these words at home each evening to get ready for their spelling test on Friday. Also, this week we will be learning about compound words during phonics lessons.
During writer's workshop the students will continue to write their realistic fiction stories.
Last week was the end of social studies in first grade! This week we will begin our final science unit of the year. We will be studying health and safety. This week our focus will be on visiting the doctor and dentist to keep your body healthy.
During reader's workshop the students will continue to work independently or in pairs to practice their reading skills. I will be meeting with students individually to begin our end of the year reading assessments.
This week in phonics all students will receive a new set of their weekly words. Please help your child practice these words at home each evening to get ready for their spelling test on Friday. Also, this week we will be learning about compound words during phonics lessons.
During writer's workshop the students will continue to write their realistic fiction stories.
Last week was the end of social studies in first grade! This week we will begin our final science unit of the year. We will be studying health and safety. This week our focus will be on visiting the doctor and dentist to keep your body healthy.
During reader's workshop the students will continue to work independently or in pairs to practice their reading skills. I will be meeting with students individually to begin our end of the year reading assessments.
Sunday, May 1, 2016
Upcoming Events...
Wednesday, May 11th
-Early Release at 12:30
Saturday, May 14th
-School Carnival and Kickball Game 11:00-2:00
-Early Release at 12:30
Saturday, May 14th
-School Carnival and Kickball Game 11:00-2:00
Week of 5/2
May is here - hopefully some beautiful spring weather follows!
This week in math we will begin Unit 9. This week we will focus on place value and solving two-digit addition facts, and adding and subtracting ten. These are all concepts we have learned about in the past. This week we will focus on strengthening our skills and sharing our strategies. Students will also be introduced to number grid puzzles.
On Monday all students will get their new weekly words. This week during phonics we will also practice word patterns with consonant clusters. We will also begin to learn about compound words.
During writer's workshop students will continue to work on their realistic fiction stories.
This week in social studies we will wrap up our geography unit. Students will learn about water and land forms this week. On Friday we will have our end of unit assessment. Next week we will begin our last science unit on health and safety.
During reader's workshop we will read stories and practice verbally retelling the stories with details. This week we will finish our spring PALS (phonological awareness literacy screening). I will also meet with students for guided reading groups.
This week in math we will begin Unit 9. This week we will focus on place value and solving two-digit addition facts, and adding and subtracting ten. These are all concepts we have learned about in the past. This week we will focus on strengthening our skills and sharing our strategies. Students will also be introduced to number grid puzzles.
On Monday all students will get their new weekly words. This week during phonics we will also practice word patterns with consonant clusters. We will also begin to learn about compound words.
During writer's workshop students will continue to work on their realistic fiction stories.
This week in social studies we will wrap up our geography unit. Students will learn about water and land forms this week. On Friday we will have our end of unit assessment. Next week we will begin our last science unit on health and safety.
During reader's workshop we will read stories and practice verbally retelling the stories with details. This week we will finish our spring PALS (phonological awareness literacy screening). I will also meet with students for guided reading groups.
Sunday, April 24, 2016
Events This Week...
Monday:
*BOGO Book Fair Begins - our class will visit the book fair today!
*PALS Begins - all students will be given a spelling test and asked to read a word list this week
*Dental Clinic
Thursday:
*BOGO Book Fair Family Night 6:00-8:00, Fazoli's meal will be served!
Friday:
*Walking Field Trip to Goodwill at 12:45
*BOGO Book Fair Begins - our class will visit the book fair today!
*PALS Begins - all students will be given a spelling test and asked to read a word list this week
*Dental Clinic
Thursday:
*BOGO Book Fair Family Night 6:00-8:00, Fazoli's meal will be served!
Friday:
*Walking Field Trip to Goodwill at 12:45
Week of 4/25
It's hard to believe it's already the last week of April!
This week in math we will wrap up unit 8. Students will be introduced to fractions. Students need to know how to divide shapes into halves and fourths. On Friday students will take their end of unit assessment.
Students will get their new weekly spelling words on Monday. This week during phonics lessons we will also discuss word endings, digraphs, and consonant clusters.
During writer's workshop students will continue to write their realistic fiction stories.
During social studies we will compare maps and globes. We will also explore atlases and begin to discuss land forms.
Students will participate in independent and partner stations during reader's workshop. As a class we will read books and practice summarizing stories. During reader's workshop I will be assessing students for our end of year PALS (phonological awareness literacy screening).
This week in math we will wrap up unit 8. Students will be introduced to fractions. Students need to know how to divide shapes into halves and fourths. On Friday students will take their end of unit assessment.
Students will get their new weekly spelling words on Monday. This week during phonics lessons we will also discuss word endings, digraphs, and consonant clusters.
During writer's workshop students will continue to write their realistic fiction stories.
During social studies we will compare maps and globes. We will also explore atlases and begin to discuss land forms.
Students will participate in independent and partner stations during reader's workshop. As a class we will read books and practice summarizing stories. During reader's workshop I will be assessing students for our end of year PALS (phonological awareness literacy screening).
Sunday, April 17, 2016
Upcoming Events
Friday 4/22:
Earth Day
School Spirit Day: Our class has decided on 'Donation Day' for our spirit day this Friday. Instead of wearing something special we are asking students and staff to bring in clothes they don't wear anymore. I know my closet could use a good cleaning, and yours probably could too! :)
Monday 4/25:
PALS Literacy Screeners Begin Today
12:10-12:30: Book Fair - All books are 'buy one get one'. Feel free to send money with your student.
Earth Day
School Spirit Day: Our class has decided on 'Donation Day' for our spirit day this Friday. Instead of wearing something special we are asking students and staff to bring in clothes they don't wear anymore. I know my closet could use a good cleaning, and yours probably could too! :)
Students can bring in just one clothing item or a whole bunch from your entire family.
We will send students to each classroom on Friday to collect the donations. Also, our class will take a walk to Goodwill next week to drop off the donations we receive. Since Friday happens to be Earth Day it's a great way to 'recycle' your clothes! :)
Monday 4/25:
PALS Literacy Screeners Begin Today
12:10-12:30: Book Fair - All books are 'buy one get one'. Feel free to send money with your student.
Week of 4/18
This week during math we will begin Unit 8. This week we will review what we have learned about time and money. We will also learn more about place value, missing addend, and subtraction strategies.
Students will receive their weekly spelling words on Monday. We will be practicing these words at school throughout the week, and it is important for students to practice at home as well. Students will take their test on Friday. During phonics this week we will also learn more about contractions and word endings, such as s and ing.
This week during writer's workshop students will begin planning their first realistic fiction story. Last week we studied what realistic fiction author do when they write books. The books we read and studied included: Patches Lost and Found, Enemy Pie, Maggie and Milo, Now One Foot Now the Other, and Knuffle Bunny.
We will continue to learn about geography this week in social studies. Our focus will be learning to make simple maps.
During our reading mini lessons we will continue to practice reading to learn new information. I will also meet with students individually or in small groups for guided reading.
Students will receive their weekly spelling words on Monday. We will be practicing these words at school throughout the week, and it is important for students to practice at home as well. Students will take their test on Friday. During phonics this week we will also learn more about contractions and word endings, such as s and ing.
This week during writer's workshop students will begin planning their first realistic fiction story. Last week we studied what realistic fiction author do when they write books. The books we read and studied included: Patches Lost and Found, Enemy Pie, Maggie and Milo, Now One Foot Now the Other, and Knuffle Bunny.
We will continue to learn about geography this week in social studies. Our focus will be learning to make simple maps.
During our reading mini lessons we will continue to practice reading to learn new information. I will also meet with students individually or in small groups for guided reading.
Sunday, April 10, 2016
Week of 4/11
This week in math we will continue our exploration unit. We will continue to focus on counting forward or backward by tens beginning at any number. An example of this would be 6, 16, 26, 36, 46, 56, 66, 76, 86, 96, 106... We will also be discussing strategies for two digit addition. Students will use friendly numbers and puts groups of tens and ones together to use mental math strategies.
Students will receive their new weekly words on Monday. Please make sure your child practices their words at home each evening to prepare for their test on Friday. During phonics this week we will also discuss plural words with s and es ending, as well as contractions.
During writer's workshop we will read a variety of books to immerse ourselves in realistic fiction writing. We will be studying what author do to prepare students for writing their own realistic fiction stories.
Our social studies focus this week will be cardinal directions and reading maps.
I will continue to meet with small groups and individual students each afternoon for guided reading. During this time students will read to self, have free choice writing time, and participate in a literacy rotation activity.
Students will receive their new weekly words on Monday. Please make sure your child practices their words at home each evening to prepare for their test on Friday. During phonics this week we will also discuss plural words with s and es ending, as well as contractions.
During writer's workshop we will read a variety of books to immerse ourselves in realistic fiction writing. We will be studying what author do to prepare students for writing their own realistic fiction stories.
Our social studies focus this week will be cardinal directions and reading maps.
I will continue to meet with small groups and individual students each afternoon for guided reading. During this time students will read to self, have free choice writing time, and participate in a literacy rotation activity.
Sunday, April 3, 2016
Upcoming Events
Tuesday 4/5 - Voting for the Oshkosh Area School District referendum will be held on Tuesday, April 5th. This referendum will greatly impact our schools, our community, and your child's future. Please get informed about the referendum. Click here for more information!
Friday 4/8 - School Spirit Day: Twin Dress Day!
Wednesday 4/13 - Early Release at 12:30
Week of 4/4
I hope everyone had a fun and relaxing spring break! We had some crazy weather over the last few weeks, but hopefully spring is here to stay! It is hard to believe we only have one more quarter left of the school year. I know the weeks will just fly by!
This week in math we are beginning an exploration based unit. During the unit the students will explore measurement, skip counting, and two-digit addition.
Students will receive their weekly spelling words on Monday. Also, this week during phonics we will discuss word categories and plural words with s and es endings.
During writer's workshop we will read realistic fiction books to get students ready to write realistic fiction stories. Students will also have some opportunities for free choice writing this week. I bet lots of students will have something to write about from their spring break week.
We will switch back to social studies this week. Our April social studies theme is geography. This week we will focus on looking at maps and using the map key.
During reader's workshop I will meet with guided reading groups and individual students for reading conferences. Our mini lesson focus this week will be thinking about what we are reading and making connections as we read.
This week in math we are beginning an exploration based unit. During the unit the students will explore measurement, skip counting, and two-digit addition.
Students will receive their weekly spelling words on Monday. Also, this week during phonics we will discuss word categories and plural words with s and es endings.
During writer's workshop we will read realistic fiction books to get students ready to write realistic fiction stories. Students will also have some opportunities for free choice writing this week. I bet lots of students will have something to write about from their spring break week.
We will switch back to social studies this week. Our April social studies theme is geography. This week we will focus on looking at maps and using the map key.
During reader's workshop I will meet with guided reading groups and individual students for reading conferences. Our mini lesson focus this week will be thinking about what we are reading and making connections as we read.
Tuesday, March 22, 2016
Author Celebration!
Thank you to all families who were able to join us for our author celebration! The students all worked hard on writing opinion pieces, and they were eager to share!
Upcoming Events
Thursday 3/24: School Spirit Day - Wear your favorite clothes!
Unit 7 Math Assessment
Friday 3/25: No School - Spring Break Begins!
Sunday 3/27: Happy Easter!
Monday 3/28-Friday 4/1: Spring Break Week!
Unit 7 Math Assessment
Friday 3/25: No School - Spring Break Begins!
Sunday 3/27: Happy Easter!
Monday 3/28-Friday 4/1: Spring Break Week!
Week of 3/21
This week in math the students have been learning about geometry. We discussed polygons vs. non-polygons, 3D shapes, and symmetry. On Thursday the students will take their Unit 7 assessment.
In word work the students have been learning and practicing long and short vowel sounds. This week we focused on o and u. Students will also have time to practice first grade 'snap words'. Students were not given individual weekly words on account of the short week.
This week we are wrapping up our unit on opinion writing. On Wednesday the students will all write for 45 minutes to demonstrate their ability as writers!
During science time we are learning about plants. On Monday we learned about what plants need to survive. On Tuesday we learned about the parts of a plant. On Wednesday we will plant seeds!
During reader's workshop we are continuing to focus on identifying the author's message. I am continuing to meet with students in guided reading groups and individually for reading conferences.
In word work the students have been learning and practicing long and short vowel sounds. This week we focused on o and u. Students will also have time to practice first grade 'snap words'. Students were not given individual weekly words on account of the short week.
This week we are wrapping up our unit on opinion writing. On Wednesday the students will all write for 45 minutes to demonstrate their ability as writers!
During science time we are learning about plants. On Monday we learned about what plants need to survive. On Tuesday we learned about the parts of a plant. On Wednesday we will plant seeds!
During reader's workshop we are continuing to focus on identifying the author's message. I am continuing to meet with students in guided reading groups and individually for reading conferences.
Thursday, March 17, 2016
Upcoming Events...
Thursday 3/17: Happy St. Patrick's Day!
Friday 3/18: Opera for the Young at 1:30
Tuesday 3/22: Opinion Writing Author Celebration 12:15-12:45
Thursday 3/24: School Spirit Day - Wear your favorite clothes!
Unit 7 Math Assessment
Friday 3/25: No School - Spring Break Begins!
Sunday 3/27: Happy Easter!
Monday 3/28-Friday 4/1: Spring Break Week!
Friday 3/18: Opera for the Young at 1:30
Tuesday 3/22: Opinion Writing Author Celebration 12:15-12:45
Thursday 3/24: School Spirit Day - Wear your favorite clothes!
Unit 7 Math Assessment
Friday 3/25: No School - Spring Break Begins!
Sunday 3/27: Happy Easter!
Monday 3/28-Friday 4/1: Spring Break Week!
Week of 3/14
In math this week we wrapped up Unit 6. Students took their assessment on Tuesday. The assessments will be sent home on Friday. Please look over the assessment with your child and remind them to always check their work so they don't make simple mistakes. On Wednesday we began Unit 7. The overall theme of Unit 7 is geometry. This week we learned about attributes, such as color, shape, size, and thickness. We also reviewed 2D shapes.
During word work we learned about long and short vowel sounds. This week we focused on e and i. The students also worked with their individual weekly words.
In writer's workshop the students have been working hard to wrap up their opinion writing. The students have been writing book reviews and restaurant reviews. We hope to see you at our Author Celebration next Tuesday afternoon!
In science the students have been working in engineering teams to design a shoe with a sole that can grip on ice and snow. The students worked in teams to make a plan and create a model. Then they tested their models. The first time they tested the models none of them worked perfectly. The students learned that engineers always have to go back to the 'drawing board' and fix things, and then retest.
During reader's workshop we have been reading books and discussing the problem and solution, as well as the author's message. Students also have continued to meet for guided reading groups.
Tuesday, March 8, 2016
Upcoming Events...
Thursday 3/10: Family Night 5:30-7:00
Sunday 3/12: Daylight Savings Time
Wednesday 3/16: Early Release at 12:30
Thursday 3/17: Happy St. Patrick's Day!
Friday 3/18: Opera for the Young at 1:30
School Spirit Day - TBD
Sunday 3/12: Daylight Savings Time
Wednesday 3/16: Early Release at 12:30
Thursday 3/17: Happy St. Patrick's Day!
Friday 3/18: Opera for the Young at 1:30
School Spirit Day - TBD
Week of 3/7
Math: On Monday we learned about using the centimeter as another unit of measurement. On Tuesday the students will be exploring pattern blocks and practice efficient addition strategies. On Wednesday we will continue to focus on missing addend or subtrahend problems. Examples of these types of problems include: 2 + ____ = 7 or 7 - ____ = 2. On Thursday the class will be introduced to quarters. Students are not expected to master counting combinations of coins with quarters in first grade, but some are ready for the challenge. On Friday the class will be introduced to telling time to the five minute mark. Again, students are not expected to master this skill in first grade. If you have questions about 'exposure to skills' vs. 'mastery of skills' please let me know!
Phonics: A new set of weekly words was sent home on Monday. Throughout the week your child will practice their words at school and their test will be on Friday. This week we will also discuss finding smaller words within larger words. We will read the book There's an Ant in Anthony!
Writer's Workshop: In writer's workshop our focus continues to be opinion writing. This week the students were asked to choose their favorite restaurant and write about all the great reasons why it is the 'best restaurant'!
Science: We are continuing to talk about animal adaptations, focusing on the different types of feet for different animals. Later this week we will begin to work toward solving an engineering based problem about what type of materials would work best for walking on the snow and ice, based on what we know about animal feet.
Reader's Workshop: This week our spotlight strategies include problem, solution and author's message. Students spend time each day reading independently and participating in a reading station.
Phonics: A new set of weekly words was sent home on Monday. Throughout the week your child will practice their words at school and their test will be on Friday. This week we will also discuss finding smaller words within larger words. We will read the book There's an Ant in Anthony!
Writer's Workshop: In writer's workshop our focus continues to be opinion writing. This week the students were asked to choose their favorite restaurant and write about all the great reasons why it is the 'best restaurant'!
Science: We are continuing to talk about animal adaptations, focusing on the different types of feet for different animals. Later this week we will begin to work toward solving an engineering based problem about what type of materials would work best for walking on the snow and ice, based on what we know about animal feet.
Reader's Workshop: This week our spotlight strategies include problem, solution and author's message. Students spend time each day reading independently and participating in a reading station.
Sunday, February 28, 2016
Events This Week...
Monday 2/29
Tuesday 3/1
Wednesday 3/2
Thursday 3/3
Friday 3/4
- Wear Green - We will read Green Eggs and Ham
- Flags for First Graders Presentation at 12:45
Tuesday 3/1
- Wear a Hat - We will read Cat in the Hat
Wednesday 3/2
- Wear silly or mix matched socks - We will read Fox in Socks
Thursday 3/3
- Wear pajamas - We will read Sleep Book
- First Grade Digital Literacy Mini Lesson with Mrs. Bauer
- Parent/Teach Conferences 4:00-7:00
Friday 3/4
- School Spirit Day - Dress as your favorite Dr. Seuss book character
Week of 2/29
Math: This week we will begin Unit 6. Students will get a new math journal for units 6-9. Their math journals for units 1-5 was sent home on Friday. During Unit 6 the focus will be getting students to be flexible with efficient addition and subtraction strategies. This week students will learn about name collection boxes, fact dominoes, and fact triangles.
Phonics: Each student will receive their new weekly words on Monday. Help your child to complete at least one activity from their Weekly Words Homework Menu each evening. Students will also learn about synonyms this week!
Writer's Workshop: Students will continue to write opinion pieces. We will work to wrap up our book review opinion pieces, and then begin to write restaurant reviews.
Science: Students will be learning about animal adaptations.
Reader's Workshop: We will be reading a different Dr. Seuss book each day to celebrate Read Across America Week! I will also be meeting with small group and individual students all week to teach and practice reading skills.
Phonics: Each student will receive their new weekly words on Monday. Help your child to complete at least one activity from their Weekly Words Homework Menu each evening. Students will also learn about synonyms this week!
Writer's Workshop: Students will continue to write opinion pieces. We will work to wrap up our book review opinion pieces, and then begin to write restaurant reviews.
Science: Students will be learning about animal adaptations.
Reader's Workshop: We will be reading a different Dr. Seuss book each day to celebrate Read Across America Week! I will also be meeting with small group and individual students all week to teach and practice reading skills.
Tuesday, February 23, 2016
Mark Your Calendar!
Voting for the Oshkosh Area School District referendum will be held on Tuesday, April 5th. This referendum will greatly impact our schools, our community, and your child's future. Please get informed about the referendum. Click here for more information!
Upcoming Events
Thursday 2/25 - Unit 5 Math Assessment
Friday 2/26 - Weekly Words Assessment
Monday 2/29 - Flags for First Graders Presentation
Monday 2/29 also kicks off Read Across America Week and the week of Dr. Seuss's Birthday! Stay tuned for some fun first grade events!
Thursday 3/3 - Parent/Teach Conferences 4:00-7:00
Friday 3/4 - Dr. Seuss Themed Spirit Day - more details to come!
Friday 2/26 - Weekly Words Assessment
Monday 2/29 - Flags for First Graders Presentation
Monday 2/29 also kicks off Read Across America Week and the week of Dr. Seuss's Birthday! Stay tuned for some fun first grade events!
Thursday 3/3 - Parent/Teach Conferences 4:00-7:00
Friday 3/4 - Dr. Seuss Themed Spirit Day - more details to come!
Week of 2/22
This week in math we will be continuing to practice addition and subtraction strategies. Students are also practicing finding the missing addend or subtrahend. This is a problem such as: 4 + ___ = 12 or 12 - ____ = 4. We will wrap up unit 5 this week.
In phonics all students received their new word sort today, as well as a new homework menu. Please remember your child should complete at least one spelling activity each evening. I will collect the spelling homework each Friday.
We are continuing to focus on opinion writing during our writer's workshop time. This week we began to write book reviews. Ask your child what favorite book they are writing about. Mine is Diary of a Worm!
In science we are continuing to learn about animal groups and their characteristics. Last week we learned about mammals and fish. This week we will learn about birds, insects, reptiles, and amphibians.
In phonics all students received their new word sort today, as well as a new homework menu. Please remember your child should complete at least one spelling activity each evening. I will collect the spelling homework each Friday.
We are continuing to focus on opinion writing during our writer's workshop time. This week we began to write book reviews. Ask your child what favorite book they are writing about. Mine is Diary of a Worm!
In science we are continuing to learn about animal groups and their characteristics. Last week we learned about mammals and fish. This week we will learn about birds, insects, reptiles, and amphibians.
Wednesday, February 17, 2016
Upcoming Events...
Friday 2/19: Weekly Words Assessment
Monday 2/22: No School - enjoy the long weekend!
Monday 2/22: No School - enjoy the long weekend!
Week of 2/15
This week in math we are continuing our work on unit 5. We have continued to practice and discuss efficient addition and subtraction strategies. We have been using ten frames for models of efficient counting strategies. We know that if the entire ten frame is full it is 10. We know if 4 ten frames are full it is 40.
This week for phonics we have begun using the Words Their Way program to differentiate for students and increase our ability to spell words correctly based on their features. If you have questions about the Words Their Way program or the Homework Menu, please let me know. I will collect the Homework Menu and any attached sheets each Friday.
During writer's workshop we are continuing to work on writing opinion pieces. This week the students are working on writing about their opinion of the best pet. We are focusing on making sure we can explain at least three reasons to support our opinion. For example, I would say the best pet is a dog, because it is cute, playful, and keeps you company.
During our reader's workshop mini lessons we are learning about informational text features. In our classroom we have developed a 'Text Features' wall.
This week we also began our life science unit. We will spend the next six weeks learning about animals and plants. We began with learning about living vs. non-living things and basic animal needs. Over the next week we will explore six main animal groups: mammals, fish, birds, insects, reptiles, and amphibians. We will focus on how babies and mothers of each animal species are similar and different.
This week for phonics we have begun using the Words Their Way program to differentiate for students and increase our ability to spell words correctly based on their features. If you have questions about the Words Their Way program or the Homework Menu, please let me know. I will collect the Homework Menu and any attached sheets each Friday.
During writer's workshop we are continuing to work on writing opinion pieces. This week the students are working on writing about their opinion of the best pet. We are focusing on making sure we can explain at least three reasons to support our opinion. For example, I would say the best pet is a dog, because it is cute, playful, and keeps you company.
During our reader's workshop mini lessons we are learning about informational text features. In our classroom we have developed a 'Text Features' wall.
This week we also began our life science unit. We will spend the next six weeks learning about animals and plants. We began with learning about living vs. non-living things and basic animal needs. Over the next week we will explore six main animal groups: mammals, fish, birds, insects, reptiles, and amphibians. We will focus on how babies and mothers of each animal species are similar and different.
Saturday, February 6, 2016
Events this week...
Monday
*12:45-2:05 School Wide Expectation Review
Tuesday
*1:20-1:45 Jump Rope for Heart
Friday
*School Spirit Day - Wear Valentine's Day Colors (pink, red, white...)
*First Grade Friendship Celebration 1:45-2:35 - families are welcome to join us!
*Family Movie Night 6:00-8:00
Sunday
*Happy Valentine's Day!
*12:45-2:05 School Wide Expectation Review
Tuesday
*1:20-1:45 Jump Rope for Heart
Friday
*School Spirit Day - Wear Valentine's Day Colors (pink, red, white...)
*First Grade Friendship Celebration 1:45-2:35 - families are welcome to join us!
*Family Movie Night 6:00-8:00
Sunday
*Happy Valentine's Day!
Math Exploration
Over the past two weeks the students have been working on a math exploration unit using the bead rack as their main tool. Ask your students what they know about the bead rack. To complete the unit students worked in pairs to write addition and subtraction number stories. Then the students read their number stories to others and they solved them.
Sunday, January 31, 2016
January Author Celebration
Here are some photos from our January Author Celebration. Thanks to all families who were able to join us!
Field Trip: The Building for Kids
Here are some photos from our field trip to The Building for Kids in Appleton!
Events this week...
Monday: Mrs. Kraft will be substitute teaching in our classroom. I will be in the building all day working with students individually to complete their mid-year DRA (developmental reading assessments).
Tuesday: Shapiro STEM Family Night 5:30-7:00 - CANCELLED DUE TO WEATHER
Friday: The 100th Day of School! Students are asked to bring in 100 items for 'show and tell'.
Tuesday: Shapiro STEM Family Night 5:30-7:00 - CANCELLED DUE TO WEATHER
Friday: The 100th Day of School! Students are asked to bring in 100 items for 'show and tell'.
Week of 2/1
Wow! It's hard to believe it's already February!
This week we will complete the second half of our math exploration unit. Students will continue to use the bead rack to use efficient addition and subtraction strategies. This week students will work with their partners to create story problems for addition and subtraction.
Our word wall words this week include: know, little, quit, them
This week during writer's workshop the students will begin to learn about opinion writing. Students will start by choosing what they think is the 'best' object from a collection, and then write their reasons why they think it is the best!
We are continuing our social studies economics unit. This week we will learn about goods and services, and where goods come from.
This week we will complete the second half of our math exploration unit. Students will continue to use the bead rack to use efficient addition and subtraction strategies. This week students will work with their partners to create story problems for addition and subtraction.
Our word wall words this week include: know, little, quit, them
This week during writer's workshop the students will begin to learn about opinion writing. Students will start by choosing what they think is the 'best' object from a collection, and then write their reasons why they think it is the best!
We are continuing our social studies economics unit. This week we will learn about goods and services, and where goods come from.
Thursday, January 28, 2016
Coin Drive
The Shapiro Student Council is excited to raise money for the Children's Hospital of Wisconsin as our winter fundraising activity!
Beginning Monday, February 1st
Students and staff are encouraged to donate loose change to our coin buckets!
(Coin buckets will be placed in each classroom)
Our goal is to raise $150 as a school!
IF WE DO... The entire school is invited to participate in an extra spirit day (Date TBD).
T W I N D A Y!
Event: Coin Drive for CARE
When: February 1st- February 10th
Why: Because WE CARE!
Sunday, January 24, 2016
Events this week...
Tuesday 1/26: First Grade Author Celebration from 12:10-12:45 in Stations 2 and 3
Friday 1/29: School Spirit Day - Dress Like Your Future Career!
First Semester Report Cards posted on Infinite Campus
Family Movie Night at 6:00 in the gym - Hotel Transylvania 2
Friday 1/29: School Spirit Day - Dress Like Your Future Career!
First Semester Report Cards posted on Infinite Campus
Family Movie Night at 6:00 in the gym - Hotel Transylvania 2
Week of 1/25
This week in math we will begin a ten day exploration unit. Students will be working with their peers and using the bead rack to develop addition and subtraction strategies, as well as increase their number structuring skills. During this unit we will not have a math homework packet; instead individual practice sheets will come home daily.
Our word wall words this week include: blue, his, red, show
During writer's workshop we will be wrapping up our unit of study on informational writing. Students are looking forward to sharing their writing during our Author Celebration on Tuesday afternoon. On Wednesday afternoon students will have their end of unit writing prompt to demonstrate their independent writing skills. Our next unit of study will be opinion writing.
Last week we wrapped up our science unit of study on matter. This week we will switch to social studies and learn about economics. Our topic for this week will be earning money and saving and spending money.
Our word wall words this week include: blue, his, red, show
During writer's workshop we will be wrapping up our unit of study on informational writing. Students are looking forward to sharing their writing during our Author Celebration on Tuesday afternoon. On Wednesday afternoon students will have their end of unit writing prompt to demonstrate their independent writing skills. Our next unit of study will be opinion writing.
Last week we wrapped up our science unit of study on matter. This week we will switch to social studies and learn about economics. Our topic for this week will be earning money and saving and spending money.
Monday, January 18, 2016
You're Invited!
You're Invited to our Author Celebration!
Who: All first graders
Where: Stations 2 and 3
When: Tuesday, January 26th from 12:10-12:45
What: All first graders will be reading their all about teaching booklets!
During this time we invite family members and teachers to come listen to the students read their books and celebrate their accomplishments as writers! Please come and read as many books as possible! We hope you can make it!
Who: All first graders
Where: Stations 2 and 3
When: Tuesday, January 26th from 12:10-12:45
What: All first graders will be reading their all about teaching booklets!
During this time we invite family members and teachers to come listen to the students read their books and celebrate their accomplishments as writers! Please come and read as many books as possible! We hope you can make it!
Week of January 18th
I hope everyone is doing their best to stay warm! Our students have been cooped up inside for quite a few days now! I think it's safe to say we are all looking forward to outdoor recess!
This week in math we are continuing to work on strategies for addition and subtraction. On Wednesday we will review the concepts we learned in Unit 4. Students will be bringing home a unit 4 review as homework on Wednesday. On Thursday we will have our end of unit assessment.
Our word wall words this week include: what, where, why, when. All of these words are used to start questions.
This week during writer's workshop the students are working hard to finish their final 'all about' teaching chapter book. Next week we will have our end of unit Author Celebration! The students are looking forward to sharing their writing. Look in your child's folder for an invitation to our Author Celebration! All family is welcome to join us!
This is our final week of our science unit all about matter. We are continuing to learn about solids, liquids, and gases. We will also talk more about how matter can change forms.
Remember - there is no school on Friday.
This week in math we are continuing to work on strategies for addition and subtraction. On Wednesday we will review the concepts we learned in Unit 4. Students will be bringing home a unit 4 review as homework on Wednesday. On Thursday we will have our end of unit assessment.
Our word wall words this week include: what, where, why, when. All of these words are used to start questions.
This week during writer's workshop the students are working hard to finish their final 'all about' teaching chapter book. Next week we will have our end of unit Author Celebration! The students are looking forward to sharing their writing. Look in your child's folder for an invitation to our Author Celebration! All family is welcome to join us!
This is our final week of our science unit all about matter. We are continuing to learn about solids, liquids, and gases. We will also talk more about how matter can change forms.
Remember - there is no school on Friday.
Sunday, January 10, 2016
Week of January 11th
On Wednesday all students will be dismissed at 12:30.
On Thursday all first graders will take a field trip to The Building for Kids. We will be leaving school at 8:45 am and returning around 1:30 pm. Please remember to send back your child's signed permission slip and the $4 admission fee.
This week in math we will continue to learn about measurement and practice telling time to the hour and half hour.
Students will have time to complete their information topic research tomorrow morning, and after lunch students will begin to write their next information chapter book. Ask your child what topic they chose.
During reading we will continue to focus on making connections. We will also begin to discuss non-fiction text features.
In science the students will participate in science experiments to explore liquids.
Have a great week! :)
Tuesday, January 5, 2016
This Week...
After our well deserved winter break we are right back on track with our learning!
This week in math we are continuing to explore different tools of measurement. So far we have learned about measuring temperature using thermometers and measuring items using non-standard units of measurement, such as body parts. As the week continues we will practice measuring with a standard ruler. Students are also continuing to work on basic addition and subtraction, as well as patterns, numbers before and after, number identification, structuring, and more!
During word work this week we will be practicing reading and writing words with short vowels.
Tomorrow students will choose a topic for their next information teaching booklet. Students will explore a variety of topics on the Pebble Go site before choosing their topic. Over the next few days the students will have the opportunity to research their topic in the computer lab!
Our focus for reader's workshop this week is making connections. We are focusing on sharing our connections to a story verbally and through writing. Ask your children what connections they might have to stories they read at home!
During science we are exploring different types of liquids and discussing their properties!
Movie Night!
This Friday our PTO is hosting a movie night from 6-8 pm in the Shapiro gym.
The movie will be Minions!
The movie will be Minions!
Sunday, January 3, 2016
Welcome Back!
I hope everyone had a very enjoyable holiday season! Time sure does fly when you're having fun!
This week we will begin unit 4 in math. This week we will explore reading tools of measurement, such as thermometers, rulers, tape measures, and clocks.
Our word wall words this week are: but, has, read, that
During writer's workshop students will continue to write informational teaching booklets. Students will have the opportunity to pick a topic of interest to them and research the topic using the Pebble Go website.
In science we will continue to study matter. In December we learned all about solid matter. Next, we will study liquid forms of matter.
On Monday your child will bring home a field trip permission slip. We will be going to The Building for Kids in Appleton on Thursday, January 14th. While at The Building for Kids the students will participate in their 'Magnificent Matter' discovery class, and have time for exploration.
Remember - if you scroll all the way to the bottom of this page you will be able to see other upcoming events on the calendar.
This week we will begin unit 4 in math. This week we will explore reading tools of measurement, such as thermometers, rulers, tape measures, and clocks.
Our word wall words this week are: but, has, read, that
During writer's workshop students will continue to write informational teaching booklets. Students will have the opportunity to pick a topic of interest to them and research the topic using the Pebble Go website.
In science we will continue to study matter. In December we learned all about solid matter. Next, we will study liquid forms of matter.
On Monday your child will bring home a field trip permission slip. We will be going to The Building for Kids in Appleton on Thursday, January 14th. While at The Building for Kids the students will participate in their 'Magnificent Matter' discovery class, and have time for exploration.
Remember - if you scroll all the way to the bottom of this page you will be able to see other upcoming events on the calendar.
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