There have been lots of great things going on in 1st Grade!

We are comparing cube towers and writing inequalities to match them.

 We began an Opinion Writing Unit for Writing Workshop. Students were shown a collection of beach/ocean items. They chose their favorite one and practiced convincing a partner about why it is the best. For example: "I think the sea horse is the best because I've never seen a sea horse before. Also, the sea horse has a curled tail and it feels rough. Another reason is that I love horses and the sea horse has a head just like a horse."

Now let's explore dragons. Which one is your favorite? Get ready to write about your opinion. 

 We completed or Light Unit by learning about reflections. How can you cause the light to reflect onto the ceiling using a mirror and a flashlight? Where else can we see reflections?

 What can we see in a room with no light? What do we need in order to be able to see? How can you use the flashlight to see what is in the box? The box is opaque, but the tape is translucent.

Can you use a mirror's reflection to see something behind you?

An unexpected whole-school evacuation. Our class did a wonderful job following expectations.

 We will participate in school-wide Exploratories on the Tuesday before vacation. Students will choose from many options including hiking, storytelling, book making, baking bread, computer repair, trains, fairies, etc. This should be a great opportunity for students to enjoy an activity with students from mixed grades and teachers from other classroom.
Colleen Boyce and I have discussed a small holiday party for Tuesday afternoon before vacation. Please sign up if you would like to contribute. Thank you!
My youngest daughter, Taylor, just arrived home from her first semester in college at UCF in Orlando, Florida. Her sister will be home on Wednesday. I haven't seen them since August, so its an exciting time for me. They are great babysitters and will be home until January 10th. Just let me know if you would like their contact information. They babysit for Marley and Tanner Snyder and the McEnaneys if you would like a reference.