Reading skills we have been learning and practicing include:
- letter names
- letter sounds
- telling what a book is mainly about
- telling the first sounds of words
- retelling stories: beginning, middle, and end
- sight words (I, like)
We have been writing to tell about our family, school, and places we go. We are learning that nouns are words for people and places. You should notice details in drawings and have your child use the pictures to tell you a story. Students should also be using words to label their pictures. We are also practicing handwriting and you should start to notice consistent letter formation and use of lowercase letters. Consider turning off electronics and spending time writing at home! A journal is a great way to see evidence of learning over time.
Math
We are practicing holding the numbers 5 or 10 in our heads and counting on. Students have learned two math games this week. Count 'Em using dot cards to ten, and Fill the Chutes in which students roll dice and fill the chutes with counters. Playing board games at home is an excellent (and fun) way to build number sense, counting skills, and conservation of number.
Game suggestions: Yahtzee, Sorry, UNO, Connect Four, Chutes and Ladders, Hi Ho Cherry-Oh
Homework
The students were genuinely excited to see homework folders in their mailboxes today. Needless to say I am one happy teacher! This speaks very highly of the value you as parents are placing on homework. Developing positive work/study habits at a young age will benefit students in the future. Thank you for all of the support.
I have mentioned this before, however I will say it again, that spending a few minutes each evening discussing completed work that comes home has great value. Take time to notice strengths and progress in your child's work. Early learning is developmental and takes time. Specific feedback build confidence and understanding.
I LOOK FORWARD TO VISITING WITH ALL OF YOU AT CONFERENCES VERY SOON!!!