Friday, October 16^th, 2009

Dear First Grade Families,

          During shared reading this week we read The Chick and the Duckling by Mirra Ginsburg. We completed our first story map.  At this point we are filling them out together so I am not grading them.  In a few weeks I will want them to be filling them out by themselves.  The ability to fill out a story map is a standard that must be met by second grade. We also did a making words lesson, we added words to the word wall and we made a book to take home and read.

          In math this week we learned how to use a calculator, we learned how to tell time by the hour and made a clock to practice with at home, and we started doing math boxes in our math journals.

          Our first week of homework went well.  Please be sure to let me know if you ever have any questions or the work is too difficult.  Make sure you sign your child’s homework sheet everyday.

          I have finished testing the students for guided reading.  This week was the first week for your child to do literacy stations and guided reading.  If your child is ready for guided reading you received a packet of information explaining the process.

          It seems to be getting colder and colder!  We do not stay in for recess unless the weather is REALLY bad so please be sure your child is dressed appropriately for going outside.  Now might be the time to get those hats and gloves back out!

          Our next visit to the Public Library has been moved up to Oct. 19^th.  Please try to have your books returned by then.

          On Monday, Oct. 26^th we will be walking to the Onekama Fire Department to learn about fire safety.  You are welcome to join us if you are available.  We will be leaving school at 11:45.

          Our Halloween party will be in the afternoon on Friday, Oct. 30^th.  Please be sure your child has their costume that day, but leave weapons at home.  Hailey’s family is providing our drink, cups and plates, Dean’s family is providing brownies.  We are still in need of a couple nutritious snacks for our party.  If you are willing to donate a nutritious snack please let me know.  We would appreciate it!  J
          Questions to ask your child this week are the following:

1)      Can you use the following words in a sentence? Too, he, came, me

2)    Can you count to 110 starting at the number 50?

3)    Can you tell me about the problem in the story The Chick and the Duckling?

Have a good weekend!!

Sincerely,

Mrs. Lyman