Pages

Thursday, September 24, 2015

week of September 14 | snapshot

Last week we studied all about maps and globes. 
We learned that a map is a drawing of a place, shows a view from above, 
and shows features in smaller size.

We wondered why are maps important?

Why would you use a map? 

After answering those questions, we located Alabama on US map.


We also learned all about map keys. 
We looked at a map key online and the students came up and chose a symbol and told what they thought it might be.










Then using a T-chart, we made a key recording each symbol the students wanted to use with its meaning for our school map.


Here is the map key the students learned about in the Literacy Center with Ms. Kim.
She brought it in the classroom for us to compare.



We used our map key the next day to make our map of the school.
The students did an excellent job of making the key and the map.
I followed their lead!



We also learned about the cardinal directions. 
We learned a funny song about them called The Cardinal Directions Geography Song.
I grew up saying Never Eat Soggy Waffles or Never Eat Shredded Wheat to remember the order :)

Friday, they were asked to bring in a map of their bedroom to share with the class.





















We also compared maps and globes.





Here is our Venn diagram comparing maps and globes.

Tuesday, we had our first SWAP (Stations With Awesome People).  We talked about an early community helper, Johnny Appleseed. His birthday is coming up on September 26th, too!

In my classroom, we did a Johnny Appleseed glyph. While listening to Ms. Jaysa read Johnny Appleseed and learn a new song, Way Up High in the Apple Tree, the students tasted yellow apples, red apples, green apples with a choice of peanut butter or caramel for dipping. They then used all of their opinions on these to complete their Johnny Appleseed glyphs and afterwards we analyzed the data!



















When I asked my class which classroom was their favorite SWAP center, they said mine because they got to eat! lol :)))))) #happyclassrooms





limited centers:

blocks- create a map of the classroom
writing- make a map

discovery- blue and green play-dough to make Earths

math- Number and Number Words file folder game

listening center- K is Kissing a Cool Kangaroo

World Map Puzzle



We began going to the Curriculum Library at Lyon Hall and working with Dr. Rolison's class. They are reading books and working with the students on their sight words and reading one-on-one. 







Thursday, September 17, 2015

it's almost Book Fair time!!!

Reading for pleasure inside and outside the school has real and long-lasting benefits. It unlocks the power of information and imagination and helps children discover who they are. Here’s what you can do to help children develop stronger reading skills and a love for reading:
·         Set the example. Let children see you read.
·         Have a collection of books in your home. Update this collection routinely to keep pace with changing tastes and reading skills.
·         Support our school’s Book Fair. Allow your children to choose their own books to read.

 
Our Scholastic Book Fair is a reading event that brings the books kids want to read right into our school. It’s a wonderful selection of engaging and affordable books for every reading level. Please make plans to visit our Book Fair and be involved in shaping your child’s reading habits.

 
Book Fair Dates: September 21-September 25

Shopping Hours: 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. 

Special Activities:

·         Friday, September 18, Set up the Fair, Sneak Peek for teachers, bring your pennies.
·         Monday, September 21, Come dance and sing with Dr. Mae Daniel and other College of Education Faculty members as we get down to the "Monster Mash" , Grandparents’ Tea at 2:00. Grandparents are invited to come have coffee or tea and pastries with us. Bring your dollars.
·         Tuesday, September 22, Dress up like Community Helpers and enjoy the UWA Athletic Department visitors for Hero Day . Bring your quarters.
·         Wednesday, September 23, bring your dimes.
·         Thursday, September 24, bring your nickels.
·         Friday, September 25, Count All for Books money. Break down the Fair.
 
If you are unable to attend the Fair in person, we invite you to visit our online Book Fair at scholastic.com/fair. Our online Fair is available from September 21 through September 25. 

 
We look forward to seeing you and your family at our Book Fair! Remember all purchases benefit our school.