October 22nd Newsletter

Dear Parents and Guardians,

During our literacy block, one very important time of our day is called Community Writing.  During this time, we do some writing together as a whole group, that relates back to a book we read or an experience we had.  For example, after a big book we read called, "In a Dark, Dark Wood," we wrote our own version called "In a Dark, Dark School!"  It was so much fun to share ideas and write the story together.  We work on composing a message, listening for the sounds in the word, spelling word wall words (sight words) correctly, and letter formation.  One goal is to keep the purpose of the writing very authentic, so we also wrote a letter to Ms. Hoeppner's class (by vote) and asked them if they'd like to read our book.  It was very exciting to have a real audience for our writing!

We are really growing as writers, this week we'll focus on telling a story part by part, so that we understand how to include a beginning, a middle, and an end.  See what authentic ways you can get your child writing at home!  They could help with the grocery list, or write a letter to a family member, or keep a diary/journal.  Seeing parents write at home is also very supportive!

This week in math we will solve for unknown addends in equations using multiple strategies (ten frames, number bonds and number lines), understand the meaning of the equal sign, explore the relationship between addition and subtraction, and review double-digit numbers as having groups of tens and leftover ones.

We will be continuing our Land and Water unit in Science.  The students will learn about the ocean, the need for water, and fast and slow changes that happen to Earth's land.

THANK YOU in advance to everyone who will be donating items or volunteering to help at the party this Friday.  The kids are already looking forward to it!

Special Points of Interest

• Remember to bring in your pumpkin for Pumpkin Days (October 22-26)!
• Halloween parties will be on Friday afternoon, please send your child's costume in a bag.  The children will be changing right before the parade.
• No school on Friday, November 2nd.  It is teacher progress report writing day and professional development.