Here's a look at some of our upcoming classroom units of study:
Math -- In math, we are continuing with Unit 3, which is the second of four units that focuses on addition, subtraction, and the number system. We have already explored story problems with various unknowns, as well as odd and even numbers. Now we will take a look at number patterns and develop fluency in skip-counting by 2's, 5's, and 10's. We will also learn how to write a number in expanded form up to the hundreds place. For example: 256 can be written 200 + 50 + 6. We continue to work on becoming fluent in addition facts, now adding Plus 10 combinations to our studies (such as 23+10; 9 +10; and so on). We are also continuing to work with telling time on an analog clock, figuring elapsed time, and working with adding coins and coin equivalencies.
Science -- In science we will briefly finish up an inquiry unit on magnets and will perform some experiments and apply new learning to observations we have made while exploring magnets; and then we will move into a unit on simple machines. In this unit, students will learn about simple machines and use appropriate materials and tools to solve a problem or design a product. We will also take a look at real world inventions and judge how well the product works.
Social Studies -- We will be surrounded by the biographies of important people in the history of our country! We begin with a study of Martin Luther King Jr.'s life and ideas. Then we will move on to take a basic look at our country's government, democratic ideals, important symbols of our country, as well as being able to recognize key government leaders. We will also study the lives of Presidents Washington and Lincoln. People and events that we study this month will be added to our classroom Time Line. All of our exposure to biographies will lead us into writing a biography of someone we know next month.
Writing -- In Writing Workshop, we will continue to improve our writing and apply concepts taught by using the writing process. This includes drafting, conferencing, revising and editing. Specially chosen pieces are honored through some form of publishing and/or sharing. This month, students will work on writing opinion pieces which includes stating an opinion about a chosen topic in an introduction, and then adding supporting details. Students will also work on creating a conclusion for their opinion piece.
Reading -- Reading is, of course, occurring throughout all areas of the day, including Reading Workshop. Students continue to receive small group guided reading, as they learn to apply reading comprehension and decoding strategies. As students make their way through second grade, it is important to point out that just reading words does not make a good reader. Students are challenged to really think about the reading by connecting, responding, and discussing texts. Second graders are always noticing vocabulary, phonics, and grammar concepts taught throughout the weeks in their own reading. We are also thinking about the connection between reading and writing, as we take a look at author's craft and purpose for writing.
As you can see, we have so much ahead of us this month! While I certainly enjoyed relaxing over vacation, I am eager to get back to school and work with your kiddos.
Some dates to keep in mind:
No School (Martin Luther King, Jr. Day) -- Monday, January 20.
