WELCOME BACK!

It has been a GREAT day! I was looking forward to seeing everyone this morning and hearing all about their vacations with friends and family.  It sounds like everyone enjoyed their time off! :] 

  -Homework check in: As we progress positively through first grade I look forward to preparing all of our scholars for the next school year.  With that I would like the students to actively practice responsibility and gain independence.  Nightly homework still needs to be signed and checked by parents.  Mrs. Smith will be filling homework folders with any needed materials for the week.  The students will receive their spelling lists, Spalding papers, new books, and any other addition material every Monday.  Homework will be graded for completion on Fridays. 

-Parent Volunteers: No parent volunteers this week.  I have created a sign up for parent volunteers, with scheduling starting next week.  We have many AMAZING helpers and greatly appreciate all that you do!  I like for you to enjoy helping and look forward to spending time with us.  If you currently volunteer you may sign up for your current time(s)/volunteer slot or choose a new one! Please keep in mind that your consistent weekly commitment is needed.

What to look forward to this week: 

Math: We have introduced and will be working on number forms, counting, and adding numbers up to 40.  The students will have a small assessment on Friday to check for initial understanding. 

Science: Continuing with geology! It ROCKS! We are learning about the 3 types of rocks, Igneous, Metamorphic, and Sedimentary. We are reading short non-fiction texts that give brief summaries on the formation and characteristics of each type.  On Friday scholars will be taking a few notes on one rock of choice!

History: Today we are kicking off our new ancient civilization unit with the study of the Mayan times.  Conversations and songs will be had to help us understand the importance of their practices of hunting, gathering, and farming.  We will also learn about the everyday life in Mayan times and how they created a community. 

Literature: Our literary element will focus on problem and solution. We will be reading short stories and identify the problem and solution in each as well as sequencing the steps taken to solve the problem.  Mrs. Smith place our monthly poem in homework folders. Students will recite "Sing A Song of People".