A Whole Month Together!

We did it!  We have spent a whole month together exploring, teaching, and learning cooperatively, as second graders.  And there is so much more to come!  Here are some quick updates:

Subjects

 

Math:  We continue to review as we work through Unit One.  Currently, we are working on fluency with addition math facts, starting with combinations of 10 and doubles, and using that knowledge to help us with other combinations.  For example, if you know that 7+3=10, it will help you know 7+4 (think: 7+3+1; or 10+1).  We will continue to visit telling time and working with coins throughout this unit, and as the year goes on. 

Reading:  Guided Reading and Work Board Centers is under way!  Guided Reading is small group instruction with me.  I meet with each group at least twice a week.  When students are not with me, they are expanding their reading, writing, phonics, fluency, and word work knowledge through various learning centers. 

Writing:  In Writing Workshop, we continue to explore ways to come up with ideas for writing (what to do when you don't know what to write about).  We are also learning about adding detail to our stories.

Spelling:  We have reviewed short vowel sounds, and are now working on VCe words (vowel-consonant-e), such as lake, time, and hope.  These words have a "bossy e" that make the vowel say it's name (long vowel sound).  However, we have learned about "rule breakers" that follow the VCe spelling pattern, but do not have the long vowel sound -- such as: have, give, and are.
Please continue to help your child study spelling words that are sent home, as needed. Your support is greatly appreciated!

Social Studies:  We have started a unit on mapping and communities.We will review and broaden our knowledge on map skills, including understanding what kinds of different maps there are and what features you will find on a map, including a title, map key, symbols, compass rose, and map scale.  We will explore our roles in the community as citizens, as well as learn about human interaction with the environment.

A New Area to Dig Into

We have learned about another area in our classroom that is open to use at any time -- our Reference Area.  These shelves include books such as encyclopedias, dictionaries, rhyming dictionaries, atlases, thesauruses, and other resources.  Right now, these are the student's top pick when they need a book to read!

 

Volunteers:

 

 

I am now looking for volunteers in the classroom.  Specifically, at this time, I would like volunteers to come in during our Reading Block (12:15 - 1:15).  Volunteers can read with individuals or small groups, or help students in Work Centers.  If you are interested, please email me your availability and interest; and make sure that you either have attended the volunteer meeting or contact the office to see about any paperwork that needs to be filled out.

 



Things to Remember:

* Don't forget to send in headphones with your child for the Computer Lab.  Computer is now on Mondays.
* There is no school on Monday, October 8 (Columbus Day) or Tuesday, October 9 (Teacher In-Service Day).