Before getting started with their "read to self" students take a minute to make a plan for their reading. What books will they read today? How many do they think they can read thoroughly? Students use a mat to organize their books and after each book read, record it in their folder. Students are building their stamina for reading and developing life-long habits. INQUIRE with them what habits they have been developing in first grade reading workshop? 
Reading is everywhere in our classroom - from poems, songs, books, and even newspapers! Children spend time each week reading a newsletter made just for kids. This week, conversations were had about classroom rules. As we read, we made connections to our own learning in first grade! Enjoying having conversations each week with your child about the topics in these newsletters. Read it together, or have your child read to you! 
In the first few weeks, students are learning the "first grade way" of doing many things. For example, throughout the year, students play a variety of math games that include dice. Students work together to come up with the expected ways of doing such a thing, "the first grade way." These rules are then kept and reviewed throughout the year. Students come up with these rules, practice them, and then amend them as they see fit. The class decides as a group the most cooperative and respectful way to use all materials in the classroom. We have been exploring the rules around many different materials used routinely- pencils, crayons, folders, scissors, playing cards, etc.
A sneak peak into a few picture day photos...let's hope that the photographer didn't catch the silly picture like this one as a real class photo!
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| Learning to sketch |
Our study of insects has already kicked off. THANK YOU to all families who have sent these 6 legged creature into our classroom. It has been a great way for students to share with each other and engage in conversation. From sharing their knowledge of the bug to telling stories of how they found it, we've had great conversations already. As we kick off this unit, students have been learning about the "1st grade way" of doing art. Much time is focused on practice and sketch. We will be doing a variety of art projects throughout the year, and right off, students are learning that first graders take their time, focus, and try try try. You'll see below the concentration skills some of our 1st graders are already using as they practice drawing a true to life insect!  |
| Learning to sketch |
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| Did you know ladybugs play dead to protect themselves? |
Students spent each afternoon last week exploring with a range of math manipulatives. Throughout the year, these tools will be used for a variety of math games and learning. Students worked together to explore and share out their observations. An important skill of listening to others is emphasized and was practiced throughout the time. 
