Our Reading unit is Shadows.  The children created a Concept/Question Board for this theme.  They generated questions they have about shadows, as well as, concepts they already understand.  We will read many stories about this topic.  The students will also have an opportuity to experiment creating shadows with flashlights and the overhead projector.

    We are continuing to learn the letters and sounds.  At this point, the children have been exposed to the letters A-H, both capital and lowercase.  Please continue to practice writing the letters, listening to the sounds, and naming the letters.  

    The children are continuing to read their pre-decodable books.  They are becoming very familiar with the Word Wall words we have learned.  "I see the!"  "I see is!", etc. are heard throughout the day.  Our Word Wall words are:
   

a	an	and	he	here	I	is	see
she	the	we

  

    We have enjoyed using the new manipulatives for math:  templates to draw shapes, rocker balances to weigh different items, and magnifying glasses to closely study pennies and leaves.  The students have been observing and creating symmetry.  They painted symmetrical pictures.  Each leaf we find on the playground is looked at closely in order to find the line of symmetry.  
   
    During November we will continue to practice counting forwards and backwards, reading numbers, and recognizing shapes and symmetry.  The children should be able to count forward to 35, backwards from 10, and read the numbers through 15.  

    We will also begin using Math Journals.  The students will be given a question which requires them to use a math skill, such as, guess and check or draw a picture in order to find the answer.  We will be comparing the children's methods to allow them to see multiple ways to find an answer.  

    Our science unit will start soon.  The children will begin learning about different kinds of wood and the properties each wood has.  I know they will enjoy this hands-on unit.  I will also be looking for parent volunteers to help us with the different experiments.  Let me know if you are interested in helping our classroom in this way.   Please continue to save wood samples for our end of the unit project.  

    We will begin going to the Write to Read Lab in November.  For the first few months, we will be concentrating on the letters and sounds using center activities.  I know the children will enjoy going to Mrs. Peterson's room!  

 

    During the month of November, we will be learning about the first Thanksgiving feast.  We will be having our own feast on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving.  The children will be making costumes, butter, cornbread, and other delicious foods for the feast.  If you are interested and available to help us, please let me know.  

Share the Loot Day -- Monday, November 1st

Conference Day (No School) -- Tuesday, November 2nd

Report Cards -- Monday, November 15th

Thanksgiving Feast -- Wednesday, November 24th

Thanksgiving Break (No School) -- Thursday, November 25th - Monday, November 29th