A look at our learning...
Fundations: we completed unit 3 and will begin Unit 4 next week. Unit 4 will focus on diagraphs, which are two letters that make one sound (wh, ch, sh, th, ck) and writing sentences with capitalization at the beginning, punctuation at the end, word spaces between words, quickly spelling known words and tapping out unknown words.
Writing, Shared Reading & Spelling: we recently wrapped up our opinion writing unit with a fun activity based on the book Duck! Rabbit!! Students looked at the cloud image and decided whether they believed it was a duck or a rabbit. They then wrote three reasons to support their opinion and transformed their paper into their chosen animal with creative drawings. It was wonderful to see them practice sharing their thinking clearly while also adding their own artistic touch! Check out a few in the pictures below.
We also loved how we were able to connect our opinion writing across so many areas of learning. During shared reading, we read various versions of The Little Red Hen and discussed characters’ choices. Our new spelling word, “said,” appears many times in the story, giving students extra exposure and practice. Students even created their own Little Red Hen booklet that is coming home today! In their books, they wrote the repetitive parts of the story, practicing the word “said” as they read and wrote.
For our Friday craft, students made a Little Red Hen project and shared their opinion on whether they would share the food if they were the Little Red Hen — and explained why or why not.
I LOVE when we can tie reading, writing, spelling, and crafts together in meaningful ways like this!
New spelling words of the week:
here
one
Math: we are continuing to strengthen our understanding of 2D shapes by focusing on their attributes and using precise math vocabulary in our discussions. Many students are still unsure about identifying a trapezoid and a rhombus. At this point in the year, students are expected to recognize and name all basic 2D shapes (circle, square, rectangle, triangle, hexagon, trapezoid, and rhombus). When report cards come home in a couple of weeks, please take time to practice these shapes if your child has not yet mastered them, as we will be moving on to 3D shapes next trimester.
We are also continuing our daily work with pennies and nickels during Number Corner, reinforcing coin values and counting by 5s. Consistent practice is helping build strong number sense!
Counselor: this week in counselor time, students explored the concept of empathy—understanding and caring about how others feel. Through discussions and books, they practiced putting themselves in someone else’s shoes and thinking about how their words and actions can make a difference. It was wonderful to see them sharing thoughtful ideas and showing kindness toward one another!
Farewell: today we were so sad to say goodbye to our sweet friend Nova, who is moving across town and will be attending a new elementary school closer to home. We will miss her so much but wish her all the best in this new adventure! We celebrated her time with us by sharing cookies together. It was a sweet way to say goodbye.
Coffee truck: every Tuesday from 7:40–8:40 a.m., the Traveling Toms Coffee Truck will be parked in front of school! Run by the same owners as Kona Ice, they are big supporters of BEU. This isn’t just for teachers, any parent dropping off can stop by to grab a coffee. It’s a great way to support a local business and enjoy a yummy drink, especially since there isn’t a coffee shop on this side of town!
Book Fair Volunteers: just like last parent-teacher conferences, the book fair is coming back for our upcoming conferences! Mrs. Fitch needs volunteers to help run it so we can keep it open during all planned days and hours. It’s an easy shift and a fun way to support your child’s school. Have a middle or high schooler? They can volunteer too—a great way to earn service hours! Sign up here.
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