Weekly Update ~ 5/13/12

Aloha!

We had another fabulous week in first grade!

Language Arts

- In Language Arts, we read a nonfiction selection called, Stormy Weather, which was full of detailed information about thunderstorms, hailstorms, snowstorms, tornadoes, and more.  The children enjoyed viewing real pictures and reading the captions to aid in learning interesting facts about weather. 

As we read the story, we used a Venn diagram to compare and contrast different elements of weather.  We also had time for some creative writing!  After reading, Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs, the students had a chance to write about what they wished it would rain.  The kids came up with some wonderful ideas such as Pokemon, money, gumdrops, and more!   

Extending the Learning in Language Arts For additional practice, check out the following sites: Vocabulary:  http://www.mhschool.com/vocab_games/mmh_games/content/Grade1/Unit5/w3v1/index.html Compare and Contrast:  http://connected.mcgraw-hill.com/media/repository/protected_content/COMPOUND/50000020/31/63/comprehension_launch.html?defaultSkill=4&stateCode=PA&defaultGrade=1 Weather: http://www.weatherwizkids.com/weather-words.htm http://urbanext.illinois.edu/treehouse/ http://urbanext.illinois.edu/kalani/index2.cfm http://www.theweatherchannelkids.com/ http://www.edheads.org/activities/weather/index.shtml http://www.ngfl-cymru.org.uk/vtc/weather_symbols/eng/Introduction/Plenary.htm

Spelling

-In Spelling, the students were introduced to r controlled words spelled with letters -or.  The students took part in many spelling activities throughout the week to practice their new words and sentences.  They especially enjoyed writing their words in shaving cream! 

 

Please be sure that your child completes his/her nightly spelling homework neatly!  Also, the children should be using proper letter formation in their daily writing. 

Extending the Learning in Spelling For additional practice, click on the following links: http://www.mhschool.com/vocab_games/mmh_games/content/Grade1/Unit5/w3sp/index.html http://connected.mcgraw-hill.com/media/repository/protected_content/COMPOUND/50000024/78/21/phonics_launch.html?defaultSkill=41&stateCode=PA&defaultGrade=1

Grammar

-Our Grammar lessons focused on identifying and using synonyms and antonyms.  We played matching games, puzzles, created synonym and antonym posters, and more.  In addition to working with synonyms and antonyms, we’ve also been reviewing contractions. 

Extending the Learning in Grammar For more practice, check out the following links: Synonyms and Antonyms: http://www.do2learn.com/games/synonymsantonyms/index.htm http://pbskids.org/lions/games/synsam.html http://www.scholastic.com/wordgirl/synonym_toast.htm http://school.eb.com/lm/games/GE_2_6/GE_2_6.htm http://languageartsgames.4you4free.com/synonyms.html Contractions: http://www.primarygames.com/contractions/question1.htm http://www.sadlier-oxford.com/phonics/flyby/flyby1.htm http://www.manatee.k12.fl.us/sites/elementary/samoset/RESOURCES/klcontractions.htm

Math

-In Math, we are working on Chapter 23, Money.  The students are learning about pennies, nickels, dimes, and quarters.  Ask your child to sing the Money Rap song. 

If you haven’t heard it already, you’ll surely love it!  (We're still practicing...I'll attach a new video once we get even better!) We also introduced the half-dollar and dollar bill.  We’ve been counting mixed coins, making trades, comparing amounts of money, and showing various ways to make a given amount of money.  We had an awesome time creating Coinstruction creations out of mixed coins!  Check out our final products. 

The students also LOVE having their own banks, and earning money throughout the day!  Last week we even got to buy toys from Mrs. Swisher’s Shop! 

Extending the Learning in Math For additional math practice, check out the following sites: Counting Money: http://www.harcourtschool.com/activity/counting_money/ http://www.ixl.com/math/grade-1/count-pennies-nickels-dimes-and-quarters Comparing Money: http://www.harcourtschool.com/activity/comparing_money/ Equivalent Coins: http://www.ixl.com/math/grade-1/equivalent-coins-1 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Peqc252O1gE&feature=youtu.be http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W2I9AlYp2zk&feature=youtu.be

Teacher Appreciation Week

-I want to send out a big “THANK YOU” to everyone for the kind words, sweet notes, and thoughtful gifts you gave me during teacher appreciation week.  You made me feel so special!  Thank you to the PTC and all who were involved in creating the awesome teacher luncheon.  The food was delicious, the gift baskets were beautiful, and everything was just perfect!  Thanks for making McCormick Elementary a great place to work each and every day!

 

Happy Mother’s Day!

-Lastly, I want to wish all mothers a wonderful Mother’s Day!  We love you “berry” much and appreciate all that you do for us! I hope that you have an amazing day!