Classroom Update 10/27

Hello Rice Creek Families,

We had a great, full week after our MEA break.  The children have been enjoying a variety of work this week.  This has included: The Story of the Four Brothers, decomposition of multiplication problems on the Large Bead Frame, and an introduction to a study of the Earth.  

Writing lessons, given last week, have resulted in a flurry of passionate story-telling.  This work takes many different forms, depending on the development of the author.  Emerging writers are often telling written stories with pictures and labels. Developing writers are able to add details, order, and a clear story line to their pieces.  Where fluent writers are moving into rich stories that require a first draft and a final edited draft.  This writing reveals the voice of each author and we hope you are able to enjoy the writing and stories that come home with your children. We all certainly enjoyed them during Author's Chair today. 

Reminders:

Conferences are on Thursday and Friday, November 16th and 17th.  I look forward to taking some time to connect and share with each of our families.

Wednesday, November 15th is an early dismissal day.  Dismissal will be at 12:00pm on this day.  

Winter is coming.  Please remember we do prioritize time outdoors for students, each day and in all weather.  We follow our school policy for colder temperatures, but will regularly be out in all types of weather.  Please send your child with appropriate outdoor gear for comfortable, safe play outdoors.

Updates:

Many of the children are excited for Halloween.  We will be doing harvest related activities with the children on Tuesday, October 31^st. These will vary from classroom to classroom, but all will involve some fun, hands-on activities and experiences to celebrate this time of year. Some classrooms may do activities with the Upper Elementary students who will be doing presentations on famous individuals and biography stories.  Please make note of the following if your family celebrates Halloween:

• Please do not send the children in costumes; regular school dress is expected.
• Please do not send candy to school in lunch boxes or as gifts to share both on Halloween or in the following days.

A special note for third-year students is here.

Our room is warm and cozy.  Please encourage your child to wear layers, as we find it is often warm enough for a light, short-sleeve shirt in the classroom.

You may begin to see paper books come home with your child.  Please take the time to have your child read these books to you and talk with your child about the book.  These books come home after your child has done work with them in their reading group.  They can also be a great guide as you help your child select other books they can read independently.  Reading each day with your child is vital for their growth as a reader.  Here are some tips for reading with your child at home and understanding how children become readers.

Here is a website that can be used to help your child work on math fact practice each week.

Finally,  have a wonderful, cozy weekend.

In Appreciation,

Nadine McNiff

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