Valentine's Day is right around the corner and reminds us all of the power of a few kind words. This day in first grade has always been on of my favorites. It is very low-key in terms of celebrations but watching the students read their cards and thank their friends for thinking of them is such a warm fuzzy moment. What is better than a reading and gratitude? Students will pass out their valentine cards throughout the day on Tuesday and will open them once we return from music.
As a staff we have been spending the year deepening our understanding of Reader's Workshop. One aspect is providing students with the opportunity for purposeful independent reading. I have really been enjoying examining my practice to determine ways to enhance this component. Upon reflection I realized that while we had a large number of books for students to choose from, our nonfiction area was not as developed as I felt it should be. With the donation of 2 bookshelves from a friend and the purchase of more tubs we are well on our way to adjusting this. I asked the students what categories of books they would like to have access to. We sorted the books we already had and I was able to bring about 10 tubs of books from my attic to add to our library. I feel so great about knowing these great books will now be in the hands of our readers. We had a great time with our Red Yarn residency. I was so impressed by the work that they did and the fun we had. I've posted some pictures on the photos page. As a result of this great experience we will be exploring another singing performance at the end of our fable unit. We are just getting started and have read our first fable, The Fox and the Grapes. In math we are exploring ways to use the number line to add and subtract from any number. We are also beginning a combined science/math unit focusing on penguins. It's a busy time in first grade! Auction News I am excited for my first Glencoe auction! I am so grateful to be teaching in a community that goes above and beyond to support our students and staff. I'm looking forward to a fun evening. I've been enjoying seeing the different items that are being offered. I can't wait to see how the first grade art project turned out! Another item I am particularly fond of is Item #710 Craftacular Afternoon with Ms. Schiada. Here's the description: Calling all crafty 1st graders! Do you love to paint? Are you a whiz with designing? Come explore your creative side with an afternoon of crafting. We'll pull out the paint, beads, fun foam shapes, wooden picture frames, clay pots and more to create a variety of fun projects for you to take home. Six students will join Ms. Schiada for light snacks and the chance to create unique treasures on Tuesday, May 2nd from 2:45-4:45 p.m. I spent many summers teaching arts and crafts at the Multnomah Athletic Club. I am looking forward to pulling out my supplies and having some fun! Volunteers I have streamlined the volunteer process by using the website Signupgenius.com. Go to the Classroom News page, click on Volunteers and there is a green button that will take you to the sign up page. As of now volunteers are helping with Readers Workshop but more times may be added. Dates to Remember Tuesday, February 14 Valentine's Day (students may bring valentines for their classmates Friday, February 17 Spirit Day - Stripes! Monday, February 20 No School - President's Day Friday, February 24 Book Orders Due Saturday, February 25 Glencoe Auction - Grow Glencoe!
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MS. SCHIADAI teach first grade in southeast Portland where every day brings a new adventure!
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