Nothing Like a Good Book
In Reading we have continued to build routines and develop our identities as readers. We have continued to practice "private reading", where children chose amongst a selection of books and spend time reading on their own. We have also introduced "partner reading". This is a time for children to share what they've learned during private reading and read together. To support these times, we have discussed what it is readers do. We have talked about reading cover to cover, rereading, looking for more details, and putting pages together. Recently, we added that readers can look for letters or words they might know based on what they've learned from the page. |
See You Later, Alligator
We began our Phonics program this week, and children were introduced to Abracadabra Alligator. He taught us about the letter A and its sound, including a silly saying, a trick to remember the A sound, a cheer, and a song. He had lots to share! Ask your child to share some of this learning with you at home!
Along with our introduction to the letter A, we have added a new part to our week: Handwriting. We learn about the formation of the letter, starting with our song that teaches us that we start our letters "at the top". The children then practice the letter through a variety of sensory experiences during handwriting stations.
Let's Take a Selfie
The children were also introduced to another familiar routine. At the beginning of each month, the children will complete self-portraits. We read We Are All Alike...We Are All Different to inspire us to think of all the ways we are both similar and unique individuals. This book also helped us think about all the different aspects of ourselves that could be captured in a portrait. The children really rose to the occasion!
Buttons and Blocks
In Math, the children were introduced to more materials that we would be using throughout the year: square tiles, buttons, and attribute blocks. As with previous materials, the children had a chance to explore and create with each one.
Next, the children learned about describing and matching objects based on their attributes. We began by exploring with a variety of buttons, noticing their shape, color, size, and other characteristics. Children then played a button matching game in pairs to reinforce this skill. We also explored these concepts by playing "Attribute Blocks Matching".
Wild About Weather
We have continued learning about weather in Discovery. Each day, we collect more data as we check the weather and the temperature. With even more data, we can begin to notice patterns and trends. We have also been thinking about all the different types of weather have have or could experience. The children even got to draw themselves in different kinds of weather.
TEAM Building
We have to continued to explore how we can be a great team in K105 during TEAM Meeting. As part of our TEAM Agreement, we agreed to work together and help each other. In line with these promises, the children each now have classroom jobs. Another part of our agreement is to listen to each other. To help us with this part of the agreement, we learned about "Whole Body Listening" by reading Whole Body Listening Larry at School. As the name and our chart suggests, this means listening with all different parts of our body. As another trick to help us, we have another chart that helps us keep track of the volume in the classroom. Using this chart helps us make sure we can all learn. |
Even More to Learn and Explore
The children continue to enjoy Learn and Explore. They have enjoyed choosing from a variety of options, from the Sand Table to the Block Area. Another popular area is Art, where mask making has been a popular pastime. The children have even been experimenting in the Discovery Area!
Check out all the shots from these last two weeks...