Wednesday, May 27, 2015

End of May Update

We've had a busy few weeks in first grade!  We enjoyed our time raising and releasing butterflies throughout the month of May.  Thank you to all of the volunteers that made our release possible!

Important Dates/Events
  • Thursday, June 4th at 1:00-Talent Show
  • Tuesday, June 16th PTO Carnival
  • Wednesday, June 17th- 1A End of Year Party at 1:00
  • Friday, June 19th- End of year mass hosted by grade 1 at 11:00
Phonics: In phonics for the next few weeks we will be focusing on two syllable words for reading and spelling, as well as syllable division principles.  Two syllable words are different than words with the familiar suffix endings (s, ed, and ing) and we are working to highlight that difference for the students.  We are also introducing the final round of trick words.  We will have an end of year trick word assessment next week.  This assessment will guide your child's work in the summer on trick words.

Reading: I am currently working on the end of year Fountas and Pinnell reading benchmark assessments.  If you have questions about your child's reading level or progression, please let me know.  Here is a link to find out more about F&P.  http://mrsleary1a.blogspot.com/p/benchmark-reading-assessments.html

Math: In math we are wrapping up our study of geometry.  Students will use the iPads in the coming weeks to make some original shape creations using their knowledge of plane shapes and solid figures.  Up next will be a final unit with our math program, Fractions.  In the remaining time in math during the school year, we will touch upon additional concepts in time and money.

Science:  In science we are back to our study of rocks.  This week students will be working with pebbles and sorting them by attribute.  We will work to sort river rocks next week which will include, sand, pebbles, silt, rocks.  The kids are having fun with this!

Religion: In religion students are reviewing the members of the church and how different people can play different roles.

Writing: In writing, students are working to pull together all of the skills they have worked on this year.  We completed out May portfolio pieces, which focused on our study of butterflies from caterpillar to their release. I am excited for you to see the progression of their writing from September to June in their portfolios.