Welcome to Classroom 103

What's Going On This Week...

2012-01-23T12:05:00.000-08:00

Monday
Math Quiz

Tuesday
Book Fair
Report Cards

Wednesday
Practice Spelling Test (with dictated sentence)

Friday
Final Spelling Test
Snakes Presentation by Dr. Keth from Clarion University

Academics (January 23rd - 27th)

2012-01-23T11:55:00.001-08:00

Reading
Story: The Shopping List
Concept: Shopping
Comprehension: Cause and Effect
Phonics: long i: i - e; review long a: a -e
Sight Words: after, always, blue, were, & who
Review: Inflectional Ending -s and -es
Study Skill: Charts

Spelling
List 4-1
smile
white
wide
while
bite
hide
after
blue
were
who
Bonus: snowman

Math
Lesson 5-4: Identifying Plane Shapes
Lesson 5-5: Properties of Plane Shapes
Lesson 5-6: Same Size and Same Shape
Granny Grimms (enrichment lesson)
Rocket Math (daily)
Math Vocabulary: plane shape, triangle, rectangle, circle, square, side, vertex (corner), & vertices (corners)

Friday is Camping Day

2012-01-08T18:25:00.000-08:00

We are celebrating our mini camping theme by working in our sleeping bags on Friday. Please send in your child's sleeping bag and a small pillow in a plastic bag with their name written on the outside of the bag. If your child's bag is rather large, please consider bringing it to school for them instead of sending them on the bus with the large item. We are very excited to replace our desks with our sleeping bags for the day.

What's Going On This Week...

2012-01-08T18:06:00.000-08:00

Monday
Chapter 4 Math Test
Warm Reading Fluency Assessment (Ben's Birthday)

Wednesday
Practice Spelling Test (list 3-5)
Granny Grimms lesson
Students may begin bringing in their sleeping bags.

Thursday
Reading Unit 3 Test
Sight Word Assessment (K through 3-4)

Friday - Camping Day
Final Spelling Test
Kid Writing
Mobile Dentist Forms are due

Upcoming Dates
1/ 16 Act 80 Day- Parent/Teacher Conferences (No School for Students)
1/17 - 1/20 - DIBELS Assessments
1/20 - 1/26 - Book Fair
1/24 - Report Cards
2/2 - 2/3 - Mobile Dentist Visits

Academics (January 9th - 13th)

2012-01-08T17:51:00.000-08:00

Reading
Story: Time for Kids: Let's Camp Out
Enrichment Story: A Camping Spree with Mr. Magee
Story Element Review: Plot (beginning, middle, & end)
Phonics: review blends; long a: a-e
Sight Words: review sight words 3-1 through 3-4
Study Skill: Using a Diagram
Other: Contractions

Spelling
List 3-5
house
horse
went
want
won't
are
our
saw
one
once
Bonus: winter

Math
Chapter 4 Test
Introduce Chapter 5: Geometry and Fractions
Lesson 5-1: Identifying Solid Figures
Lesson 5-2: Flat Surfaces and Vertices
Lesson 5-3: Relating Plane Shapes to Solid Figures
Granny Grimms (enrichment lesson with Mr. Henry)
Vocabulary Review: count back, related facts, & fact family
New Vocabulary: solid figures, cube, sphere, cone, rectangular prism, cylinder, flat surface, vertex, face, & corner

Social Sciences
Winter
Martin Luther King Jr.

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T13:59:00.001-08:00

I hope that everyone enjoyed their holiday break! I can't believe that 2012 is here! I am looking forward to hearing all about the holiday break from my little firsties...I always enjoy their stories! Hope 2012 is a positive year for all!

What's Going On This Week...

2012-01-01T13:56:00.000-08:00

Wednesday
Granny Grimms (math lesson)
Practice Spelling Test (list 3-4)
Math Quiz

Thursday
Practice Math Test (Chapter 4)

Friday
Kid Writing
Final Spelling Test (list 3-4)
Chapter 4 Math Test

Upcoming
Monday, January 16th - Act 80 Day/Parent Conference Day

Academics (January 2nd - 6th)

2012-01-01T13:47:00.000-08:00

Reading
Story: Snakes
Concept: Reptiles
Comprehension: Compare and Contrast
Phonics: long a: a - e (snake)
Sight Words: know, under, where, & why
Study Skill: Using a Diagram
Other: Contractions
Grammar: Is and Are

Spelling (List 3-4)
snake
make
lake
came
shade
name
where
why
know
under
Bonus: January

Math
Lesson 4-7: Using Addition Facts to Subtract
Lesson 4-8: Problem-Solving Skill- Choose an Operation
Review for Chapter 4 Test
Granny Grimms (enrichment lesson)
Rocket Math (daily)
Vocabulary Review: count back, related facts, & fact family

Social Sciences
New Year
Winter

Merry Christmas from 103!

2011-12-22T12:03:00.000-08:00

Just a quick post to tell you...

2011-12-16T13:34:00.000-08:00

Dear First Grade Parent(s) and Firsties,

We will not have a spelling list and new sight words for the week of December 19th. We will utilize our time reinforcing previous skills and concepts. We will continue working from our reading series when we return from the holiday break. Although many activities are planned for the week of December 19th, we will continue to follow our classroom schedule and routine. If you have any questions about what we are doing in the classroom, don't hesitate to contact me.

Smiles,
Mrs. Buckley

Makes Me Smile

2011-12-16T10:50:00.000-08:00

This is just another reason why I love first grade SO much!!

Taylor Swift + Recess = Happy First Graders

Questions for Santa by 103

2011-12-14T21:07:00.000-08:00

How does Santa fly on his sleigh?
Do the elves help Santa drive?
-Samantha

Where do your reindeer sleep?
How are your elves?
-Tyler

How old are you?
Who is your favorite reindeer?
-Josh

Why does Rudolph's nose glow?
Does dancer actually dance?
-Mallory

What is your favorite cookie?
How are you?
-Haden

Is it really cold in the North Pole?
I hope Rudolph's nose will be bright to lead the way!
-Issie

How is Rudolph doing?
Are you and Mrs. Claus doing good?
-Emma

How is Rudolph? Is he being good?
How are your elves? Are they being good?
-Brett

Do you watch the elves make toys?
What is your favorite Christmas cookie?
-Paige

How many more bears than reindeer do you have?
How many reindeer do you have?
-Hannah

How are your reindeer?
I like your hat!
-Abigail

How many elves do you have?
How many presents do your elves make?
-Jenna

My Apologies and a Thank You!

2011-12-14T05:21:00.000-08:00

Parents,

I apologize for not updating our weekly information sooner, however the site, Blogger was not being user friendly. Blogger and I are now friends again and I will continue to post class projects and information, so be sure to stop by often.

Also, I would like to thank Mrs. Heeter and Mrs. Schiffhouer for helping with our edible Christmas tree creations for our Cookies with Santa project. Many thanks for the extra hands. It was a bit messy, but well worth the smiles.

Have a great Wednesday,
Mrs. B

What's Going On This Week...

2011-12-14T05:17:00.000-08:00

Tuesday
Cookies with Santa (videoconference)

Wednesday
Practice Spelling Test (list 3-3)
Math Quiz
Granny Grimms

Thursday
Choir Assembly (AM)

Friday
Grinch Centers (grade level) - wear GREEN!
Final Spelling Test (list 3-3)
Friday 12/16 - Gift for our gift exchange is due.

Upcoming Dates
Tuesday 12/20 - Christmas Centers (9:30-1:30)
Wednesday 12/21 - Movie Day
Thursday 12/22 - Christmas Assembly (AM)
Thursday 12/22 - Classroom Christmas Party/Gift Exchange
12/23-1/1/12 - Christmas Vacation

Academics (December 12th - 16th)

2011-12-13T14:18:00.000-08:00

Reading
Story: Sam's Song
Concept: Learn Something New
Comprehension: Compare and Contrast
Phonics: blends ch, wh, nk
Sight Words: eat, now, together, & too
Other: Contractions
Study Skill: Using a Digram
Grammar: Nouns, Verbs, & Adjectives

Spelling
List 3-3: chin, when, wink, chick, sink, think, together, now, eat, & too
Bonus: presents

Math
Granny Grimms (enrichment lesson)
Lesson 4-4: Problem-Solving Strategy: Write a Number Sentence
Lesson 4-5: Using Related Facts
Lesson 4-6: Fact Families
Holiday Graphs (interpreting results)

Holiday Themed Centers/Activities
Gingerbread Men
Mooseltoe

Chapter Book
Ready Freddy, Prefect Present

Technology Projects
Cookies with Santa (videoconference)
If I were a present...(VoiceThread project)

CHECK THIS OUT...Our Math Series is Online

2011-12-08T13:23:00.000-08:00

Dear 103 Parents & Students,

You can access our Scott Foresman Math series online and practice the skills and concepts that are taught during math class by following these steps...
Go to the KES home page > Student Stuff > Math

Username: Keyknox (capital K)
Password: Keyknox (capital K)

Let me know if you have any questions about this site.

We Give Books

2011-12-08T13:14:00.000-08:00

Dear First Grade Parents,

I was introduced to the site, We Give Books and I was very excited to share this with my classroom. This particular site is designed to donate books to a campaign as books are read online from the site. The following was taken directly from the site...

“Each time someone reads a book on the site, we'll donate a book to a charity he or she designates.”

“Created by The Penguin Group and the Pearson Foundation, We give books is a new digital initiative that enables anyone with access to the Internet to put books in the hands of children who don’t have them, simply by reading online. We Give Books combines the job of reading with the power of helping others, providing a platform for caregivers and educators to inspire children to become lifelong readers and lifelong givers. We Give Books also helps some of the world’s best, most inspiring, literacy organizations by spreading the word about their great work and by providing books to the young people these organizations support.”

I created a classroom account for 103. To login, you will need the following information...
username: Keystone103
password: Keystone103

I choose the "Room to Read" campaign. Read a free children's book online today and help Room to Read fill libraries with books for children in Zambia.

"Room to Read transforms the lives of millions of children from disadvantaged communities in Africa and Asia by focusing on literacy and gender equality in education. In collaboration with local communities, the organization helps develop literacy skills and a habit of reading among primary school children. It also provides long-term support for girls to complete secondary school."

"To accomplish these goals, Room to Read establishes libraries, creates local language children's literature, constructs and rehabilitates schools, and provides support and educational opportunities for girls to develop the relevant life skills to succeed in school and beyond."

Happy Reading,
Mrs. Buckley

Thank you, Brett!

2011-12-08T12:53:00.000-08:00

Classroom 103 would like to thank Brett and his family for donating lots of cool floor puzzles and board games to our classroom. We appreciate your kindness by donating to our classroom. Many, many thanks!

Thank you, Jenna!

2011-12-08T12:51:00.001-08:00

Classroom 103 would like to thank Jenna and her family for donating many, many goodies for our upcoming projects. We appreciate your kindness by donating to our classroom.

Academics (December 5th - 9th)

2011-12-06T13:04:00.000-08:00

Reading
Story: Greg's Mask
Concept: Sibling Relations
Comprehension: Compare and Contrast
Phonics: blends
Sight Words: any, grow, old, & new
Study Skill: Using a Digram
Other: Possessives (using apostrophe s to show ownership)

Spelling
List 3-2: class, drop, clap, track, trip, dress, any, grow, old, & new
Bonus: Christmas

Math
Introduce Chapter 4: Strategies for Subtraction Facts to 12
Lesson 4-1: Counting Back Using a Number Line
Lesson 4-2: Counting Back
Lesson 4-3: Using Doubles to Subtract
Rocket Math (daily)
Grannie Grimms (enrichment lesson)

Chapter Book
Ready Freddy, The Perfect Present

Holiday Themed Lessons/Activities
Reindeer
Gingerbread Kids

Christmas Gift Exchange

2011-12-04T20:13:00.000-08:00

We will have our classroom Christmas party and gift exchange on Thursday, December 22nd. If you wish for your child to participate in the gift exchange, please send in a wrapped $5.00 gift. An example of the gift tag...To: A Girl From: Jenna or To: A Boy From: Kolton. Boy students should purchase for a gift for a boy and girl students should purchase for a gift for a girl. If you are not able to purchase a gift for your child to participate in the gift exchange, PLEASE let me know well in advance, so that I may purchase a gift for them...if that is permissable with you (the parents)...As always thank you for your support! Happy Holidays!

Christmas Talk

2011-12-04T20:01:00.000-08:00

Since I have been posting all about the special Christmas activities that we will be completing over the next few weeks, I thought I would take a moment and post about a special Christmas request that I have. Please DO NOT buy any personal gifts for the teacher (meaning...me). I absolutely LOVE my job! I could not imagine walking into a classroom everyday where I'm not greeted with smiling faces and hugs, over the top stories, and feeling the way I do when I get to spend a day in first grade. I LOVE what I do and not many people can say that, so I feel very blessed! I am grateful and honored that I get to be part of your child's life. However, as many times as I make this request, many parents still want to give and I appreciate that. So, in the spirit of giving...if you would like to purchase a classroom gift for all of the students to use and share that would be great. Here are a few ideas...Play-Doh, games, stickers, crayons (I know, but a fresh box of 24+ crayons is a HUGE deal in our classroom), gift cards to purchase items for the classroom. Again, please DO NOT purchase any items for me, thank you so kindly!

Merry Grinchristmas!

2011-12-04T19:42:00.000-08:00

Merry Grinchristmas!

Next Friday (12/16) we will celebrate Grinchristmas in the Land of First Gradeville! This special day is a day reserved for First Grade Whos. Wear green next Friday and get ready to make the Grinch grin!

Cookies with Santa

2011-12-04T19:28:00.000-08:00

Next Tuesday (12/13) the first grade students will get to participate in a special videoconference and collaborate with five our classrooms from the United States. The name of this special tech project is...

Cookies with Santa

The students will get to meet Santa from his North Pole home, where he will read us one of his favorite stories. The students will also get an opportunity to ask Santa questions. We will be creating a special cookie to share with Santa. Here are some items that are needed for our cookie project...

ice cream sugar cones (so we can turn them upside down to look like a tree)

white icing (the icing in a can)

colored sugar

mini M&Ms

plates

plastic knives

napkins :)

paper plates

You are never obligated to purchase items for our many special projects, but any and all donations are ALWAYS so much appreciated! Thank you!

First Graders...wear red and green next Tuesday!

What's Going On This Week...

2011-12-04T19:10:00.000-08:00

Tuesday
Math Journal
Band Assembly (PM)

Wednesday
Practice Spelling Test (list 3-2)

Thursday
Math Journal
Santa Shop at 9:30 (This is the day our classroom will visit the Santa Shop!)

Friday
Gingerbread Activities
Final Spelling Test (list 3-2)

Upcoming Dates
Tuesday 12/13 - "Cookies with Santa" (This is a videoconference that we are participating in. We will be taking a virtual tour of the North Pole and collaborating with five other classrooms from the United States. We will also get to speak to Santa!) *Wear red and green on this day!
Thursday 12/15 - Choir Assembly (AM)
Friday 12/16 - Grinchristmas (Grinch Activities) Grade level activities...wear green on this day!
Friday 12/16 - Gift for our gift exchange is due.
Tuesday 12/20 - Christmas Centers (9:30-1:30)
Wednesday 12/21 - Movie Day
Thursday 12/22 - Christmas Assembly (AM)
Thursday 12/22 - Classroom Christmas Party/Gift Exchange
12/23-1/1/12 - Christmas Vacation

What's Going On This Week...

2011-11-28T09:24:00.000-08:00

Wednesday
Math Quiz
Grannie Grimms

Thursday
Practice Ch. 3 Math Test
Practice Spelling Test (list 3-1)

Friday
Ch. 3 Math Test
Final Spelling Test (list 3-1)
Kid Writing: Letters to Santa

Academics (November 29th - December 2nd)

2011-11-28T09:21:00.000-08:00

Reading
Story: Stan's Stunt
Concept: Woodland Animals
Phonics: Blends
Story Element: Setting
Sight Words: fall, their, try, & would
Study Skill: Using a Diagram
Other: Possessives - apostrophe ( ' ) s

Spelling
List 3-1: want, what, does, they, saw, give, your, likes, her, & put
Bonus: December

Math
Lesson 3-9: Problem-Solving Strategy: Draw a Picture
Lesson 3-10: Problem-Solving Applications: Hop to It!
Grannie Grimms (enrichment lesson)
Review and Practice Ch. 3 Test
Ch. 3 Math Test

Social Sciences
winter

What's Going On This Week...

2011-11-13T18:40:00.000-08:00

Monday
Math Quiz

Tuesday
Math Journal
Absentee Pictures/Picture Retakes

Wednesday
Lighthouse Awards Assembly (AM)
Book 2 Reading Test
Practice Spelling Test (list 2-5)
Grannie Grimms (math lesson)

Thursday
Math Journal

Friday
Turkey themed unit

Upcoming Dates
Tuesday, 11/22 - Thanksgiving Centers (with parent and grandparent volunteers)
Wednesday, 11/23 - Thanksgiving Assembly (AM)
Wednesday, 11/23 - 2 hour early dismissal (walker bell @ 1:35 and bus bell @ 1:38)
Thursday, 11/24 - Monday, 11/28 - Thanksgiving Break
Tuesday, 11/ 29 - Return to School
Tuesday, 12/6 - Band Assembly (PM)
Tuesday, 12/13 - Special Project (still need a few volunteers, please) hint...North Pole

Academics (November 14th - 18th)

2011-11-13T18:22:00.000-08:00

Reading
Story: Time for Kids: A Vet
Phonics: review short vowels /u/, /o/, /e/ and blends /mp/, /nt/, /sp/, & /ll/
Sight Words: review sight words 2-1 through 2-4
no, ride, small, out, saw, two, very, want, away, good, into, put, about, again, around, & use
Study Skills: Using Maps
Story Element: Main Idea
Inflectional Ending: -ed
Other: Using Context Clues

Spelling
List 2-5: bump, jump, went, tent, spill, spell, try, fall, their, & would
Bonus: Thanksgiving (2 bonus points)

Math
Lesson 3-6: Doubles
Lesson 3-7: Doubles Plus 1
Lesson 3-9: Sums of 10
Lesson 3-10: Problem-Solving: Hop to It!
Grannie Grimms (enrichment lesson)
Math Journal
Rocket Math (daily)

Social Sciences
Pilgrims, Native Americans, The First Thanksgiving, & The Mayflower

Science
Owls

Enrichment Reading
Collection of Thanksgiving themed stories

What's Going On This Week...

2011-11-06T19:40:00.000-08:00

Monday
Sight Word Assessment
Rocket Math (introduction)

Tuesday
50th Day of School (mini celebration)
Sight Word Assessment (continued)
Report Cards

Wednesday
Practice Spelling Test (list 2-4)

Thursday
Final Spelling Test (list 2-4)
Veterans Day Assembly (PM)

Friday
Act 80 Day (No School for Students)

Academics (November 7th - 11th)

2011-11-06T19:30:00.000-08:00

Reading
Story: What Bug Is It?
Phonics: blends
Sight Words: about, again, around, & use

Spelling Words
List 2-4: doll, flat, miss, pass, puff, snap, about, again, around, & use
Bonus: Mayflower

Math
Rocket Math (daily)
Grannie Grimms (enrichment lesson)

Social Sciences
Pilgrims
The Mayflower
Native Americans

Donations are DINO-mite!

2011-10-30T20:01:00.000-07:00

We are in need of the following items for our classroom...

-plastic silverware

-paper plates

-napkins

-empty, plastic dish liquid bottles (Thanksgiving craft)

Please know that you are not obligated to purchase and dontate any items to our classroom. Any and all donations are greatly appreicated!

Parent Volunteers Needed

2011-10-30T19:52:00.000-07:00

Dear First Grade Parent(s),

I know that it is very difficult to find the time during your busy work schedules to volunteer in the classroom. I always try to give three weeks or more of a notice when we will have special holiday activities (centers) going on in the classroom. We will celebrate Thanksgiving with themed centers on Tuesday, November 22nd. Parent volunteers are needed for the entire school day. If you are able to help for a few hours, or a portion of the day, or even the entire day, please let me know. Should something change to our schedule, I will notify you immediately.

Looking ahead to December...our classroom is scheduled to participate in a special video conference on Tuesday, December 13th. I can't give away a lot of details about this special project, but a few parent volunteers will be needed. Hint...The North Pole

Please write me a note or e-mail me if you are interested in volunteering in the classroom.

Thank you,
Mrs. Buckley

A round of thank yous!

2011-10-30T19:38:00.000-07:00

Classroom 103 would like to thank Mrs. Pierce for coming in last Tuesday and helping us with our afternoon activities.

Classroom 103 would also like to thank Mr. & Mrs. Albertine, Mrs. Heeter, and Mrs. Weaver for coming in last Friday to help with our Halloween pizza party and parade. I really appreciated the extra help, thank you!

A BIG thank you to all of the parents that sent in apples for our apple activities. I wish that I could thank each one of you that sent in apples, however, many students placed apples on our table, but no one took the credit for bringing them in. So, thank you so much to all that did send apples in!

Lastly, thank you for the donations for our pizza party, we had a great time!

Smiles,
Mrs. Buckley

What's Going On This Week...

2011-10-30T19:20:00.000-07:00

Monday
Red Ribbon Week: wear red
Dem Bones (graphing activity)
Math Journal

Tuesday
Red Ribbon Week: wear a hat
Guidance Lesson with Mrs. Marshall (AM)
Young Americans Assembly (PM)
*We will be walking to the high school for the assembly, please have your child wear appropriate shoes.
1st Quarter Ends

Wednesday
Red Ribbon Week: wear ccamouflage
Practice Spelling Test
Math Journal
Grannie Grimms lesson with Mr. Henry

Thursday
Red Ribbon Week: wear sweatshirts and sweatpants

Friday
Red Ribbon Week: wear Keystone colors
Kid Writing
Final Spelling Test

Upcoming Dates
November 10th - Veterans Day Assembly (PM)
November 11th - Act 80 (InService Day- no school for students)

Academics (October 31st - November 4th)

2011-10-30T19:06:00.000-07:00

Reading and Language Arts
Weekly Story: Splash!
Concept: Helping Out
Comprehension: Story Elements-Main Idea
Phonics: short /e/
Sight Words: away, good, into, & put
Study Skill: Using a Footprint Map
Grammar: identifying telling sentences ( . ) and asking sentences ( ? )
Other Skills: a, b, c order and Context Clues

Spelling
List 2-3: shed, hen, then, red, wet, pet, away, good, into, & put
Bonus: November

Math
Dem Bones (graphing activity)
Math Journal Prompts
Grannie Grimms lesson with Mr. Henry
3-2: Adding in Any Order
3-3: Adding 1, 2, or 3

Science
Bats
Science Vocabulary: noctural, mammal, pup, nursery, echolocation, colony, & roost

Kid Writing
Writing Prompt: "All About Me"

Columbus Blabbers

2011-10-24T13:43:00.001-07:00

First Grade Parent(s),

We used the site, Blabberize to turn our Christopher Columbus portraits and writing into talking pictures, this is a great digital storytelling project. The students had a great time with this writing/technology project. Please be patient as I continue to upload each blabber. *You will need to turn your volume up on your computer, some sweet little voices were very quiet when recording. :)

Thank you and enjoy,
Mrs. B

Thank you!

2011-10-24T13:32:00.000-07:00

Thank you to all of the parents that sent in apples to celebrate Apple Crunch Day on Wednesday! We will be using some of the apples to make homemade applesauce. If you are availabe to come in and help with apple activities on Wednesday morning, please let me know. We would love to have the extra help!

What's Going On This Week...

2011-10-24T13:28:00.000-07:00

Tuesday
Chapter 2 Math Test
Prediction Activity

Wednesday
Practice Spelling Test (Halloween list)
Apple Crunch Day
Grannie Grimms lesson with Mr. Henry
Math Journal

Friday
Math Journal
Final Spelling Test
Halloween Pizza Party/Parade (afternoon)

Upcoming Dates
October 31st-November 4th - Red Ribbon Week

Academics (October 24th-28th)

2011-10-24T13:02:00.000-07:00

Reading
Weekly Story: Halloween themed books
Phonics: review short vowels /a/, /i/, /o/, /u/; digraphs /ck/, /sh/, /th/
Sight Words: review list 1-1 through 2-2
Inflectional Endings: -s & -ed
Skill: making predictions
Grammar: identifying telling ( . ) and asking ( ? ) sentences
Other: a, b, c order

Spelling
Halloween List: patch, mask, candy, bat, trick, broom, witch, bag, fall, & moon
Bonus: Halloween

Math
Review Concepts from Chapter 2
Practice Chapter 2 Math Test
Chapter 2 Math Test (graded assessment)
Grannie Grimms lesson with Mr. Henry
Introduce Chapter 3: Strategies for Addition Facts to 12
3-1: Counting On 1, 2, or 3
Math Vocabulary: count on

Science
Bats
Science Vocabulary: noctural, mammal, pup, nursery, echolocation, colony, & roost

Chapter Book
Frannie K. Stein, Mad Scientist by Jim Benton

Parent Volunteers Needed

2011-10-17T18:50:00.000-07:00

I am in need of some sweet parents that are willing to donate their time in the classroom next week to help with some Halloween themed literacy and math activites. If I receive many offers, I may need to use a lottery system to select volunteers. Please let me know if you are willing to help in the classroom on...
Tuesday, October 25th and/or Friday, October 29th. I appreciate your time and support!

Good-bye, Miss Mathers!

2011-10-17T18:42:00.000-07:00

We will say good-bye to Miss Mathers, our student teacher on Friday. We had an amazing time sharing our classroom with her. We wish her all the best in her teaching journey.

What's Going On This Week...

2011-10-17T18:35:00.000-07:00

Monday
Welcoming Assemby for Mr. Algoe

Tuesday
Poetry Activity
DIBELS Progress Monitor Assessment

Wednesday
Practice Spelling Test

Thursday
Open House at 6:30 PM

Friday
Kid Writing
Final Spelling Test
Party for Miss Mathers

Upcoming Dates
October 26th - Apple Crunch Day
October 28th - Halloween Pizza Party/Parade
October 31st-November 4th - Red Ribbon Week

Academics (October 17th - 21st)

2011-10-17T18:25:00.000-07:00

Reading
Story: The Bug Bath
Phonics: short /o/ example: h o t
Sight Words: saw, two, very, & want
Story Element: Plot (beginning, middle, and end of a story)
Inflectional Ending -ed
Grammar: Nouns (people, places, & things)
Poetry: Fall Leaves

Spelling Words
List 2-2: hot, top, not, hop, lock, rock, saw, two, very, & want
Bonus: October

Math
2-11: Vertical Subtraction
2-12: Problem Solving - Choose an Operation
2-13: Using Cubes to Compare
2-14: Using Subtraction to Compare
2-15: Bugs, Bugs Everywhere!
Grannie Grimms lessong with Mr. Henry
Collect the Candy Activity (addition and subtraction)

Kid Writing
My favorite things about Halloween...

Enrichment Reading
Room on the Broom by Julia Donaldson

Academics (October 10th - October 14th)

2011-10-09T16:53:00.000-07:00

Reading
Story: One Good Pup
Phonics: short /u/ t u g
Sight Words: no, ride, small, & out
Study Skills: Maps
Other: short /i/ and /a/, sh, th, story elements, inflectional ending -ed

Spelling
List 2-1: small, ride, no, out, but, tug, duck, rug, cut, & buck
Bonus: friend
-Note that student's spelling list has now increased to ten words, six decodable words and four high-frequency words

Math
Lesson 2-7: Stories About Separating
Lesson 2-8: Using Counters to Subtract
Lesson 2-9: Using Numbers to Subtract
Math lesson with Mr. Henry (Grannie Grimms)
Lesson 2-10: Zero in Subtraction
Lesson 2-11: Vertical Subtraction
Math Vocabulary: join, add, sum, addition sentence, plus (+), equals (=), subtract, difference, subtraction sentence, minus (-)

Social Sciences
Christopher Columbus

What's Going On This Week...

2011-10-09T16:37:00.000-07:00

Monday
Christopher Columbus Day

Wednesday
Practice Spelling Test
Grannie Grimms (math lesson)

Friday
Final Spelling Test

Upcoming Dates
October 9th-14th - Fire Prevention Week
October 10th - Christopher Columbus Day
October 20th - Open House
October 26th - Apple Crunch Day
October 28th - Halloween Party/Parade (tenative)
October 31st-November 4th - Red Ribbon Week

What's Going On This Week...

2011-10-02T20:03:00.000-07:00

Monday
Bring in your five fall leaves.

Wednesday
Practice Spelling Test
Grannie Grimms (math lesson)

Thursday
Unit 1 Reading Test
Final Spelling Test
Walk to School Day (wear comfortable shoes)

Friday
NO SCHOOL - ALF Day

Upcoming Dates
October 9th-14th - Fire Prevention Week
October 10th - Christopher Columbus Day
October 20th - Open House
October 26th - Apple Crunch Day
October 28th - Halloween Party/Parade (tenative)
October 31st-November 4th - Red Ribbon Week

Academics (October 3rd - 7th)

2011-10-02T19:51:00.000-07:00

Reading
Story: Time for Kids: Ships
Enrichment Reader:
Phonics: review short /a/ & /i/; digraphs /ck/, /sh, & /th/
Sight Words: review all unit 1 words - one, give, likes, this, on, they, what, your, does, her, look, there, be, could, down, & see
Study Skill: review parts of a book

Spelling
List 1-5:
Bonus: fall

Math
Lesson 2-4: Zero in Addition
Lesson 2-5: Vertical Addition
Grannie Grimms (math lesson with Mr. Henry)
Lesson 2-6: Problem Solving Strategy-Write a Number Sentence
Math Vocabulary: join, add, sum, addition sentence, plus (+), equals (=), subtract, difference, subtraction sentence, minus (-)

Science
Fall

Social Science
Christopher Columbus

Chapter Book
Junie B. Jones, Cheater Pants by Barbara Park

What's Going On This Week...

2011-09-25T19:41:00.000-07:00

Monday
Johnny Appleseed Activities
Practice Math Test
Sight Word Assessment

Tuesday
Chapter 1 Math Test (graded)

Wednesday
Practice Spelling Test

Thursday
School Picture Day

Friday
Final Spelling Test

Academics (September 26th - 30th)

2011-09-25T12:59:00.000-07:00

Reading
Story: The Path on the Map
Concept: Animals
Phonics: diagraphs /sh/ and /th/ sh i p th a t
Sight Words: be, could, down, & see
Study Skill: Parts of a Book (picture dictionary)
Other: Context clues

Spelling
List 1-4: path, shack, dish, wish, that, & thin
Bonus: Appleseed

Math
Chapter 1 Practice Test
Chapter Test 1 (Tuesday)
Math Lesson with Mr. Henry (Grannie Grimms)
Lesson 2-1: Stories About Joining
Lesson 2-2: Using Counters to Add
Math Vocabulary: join, add, sum, addition sentence, plus (+), equals (=), subtract, difference, subtraction sentence, minus (-)

Social Sciences
Johnny Appleseed

What's Going On This Week...

2011-09-25T12:51:00.000-07:00

Monday
Math Pre-Test
Johnny Appleseed Day

Tuesday
Math Test

Wednesday
Spelling Pre-Test (list 1-4)
Math Lesson with Mr. Henry

Friday
Final Spelling Test (list 1-4)

Upcoming Dates
October 7th - No School (Autumn Leaf Festival)

Academics (September 19th-23rd)

2011-09-18T10:39:00.000-07:00

Reading
Story: What Does Pig Do?
Concept: Routine
Phonics: short /i/ example: p i g
Sight Words: does, her, look, & there
Study Skill: Parts of a book (table of contents)
Other: Sequencing Events

Spelling
List 1-3: dig, pig, kick, pick, win, & pin
Bonus: apple

Math
Lesson 1-9: Ordering Numbers Through 12
Math Quiz and Centers
Lesson 1-10: Identifying the Pattern Unit
Math Lesson with Mr. Henry (Grannie Grimms)
Lesson 1-11: Translating Patterns
Lesson 1-12: Use Data from a Picture
Lesson 1-13: It's A Party
Math Vocabulary: least, greatest, pattern unit

Science
Lifecycle of A Butterfly

What's Going On This Week...

2011-09-18T10:15:00.000-07:00

Tuesday
-Special Assembly
-Math Quiz and Centers

Wednesday
-Practice spelling test (list 1-3)
-Math lesson with Mr. Henry

Thursday
-Johnny Appleseed Day!

Friday
-Final Spelling Test (list 1-3)

Upcoming Dates
September 20th - Olweus Kick-Off Assembly
October 7th - No School (Autumn Leaf Festival)

We need your help!

2011-09-11T19:10:00.000-07:00

Dear First Grade Parent(s),

We are beginning our unit on the lifecycle of a butterfly. If you happen to see fuzzy caterpillars near milkweed leaves, please snag those little guys up and send them in to our classroom. It is amazing for the students to actually witness the stages of the lifecycle. Thank you for your help.

Smiles,
Mrs. B

DIBELS Asssessments

2011-09-11T18:57:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday, the first grade students will be assessed in reading using the Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills (DIBELS) assessment. The first grade students will be benchmark assessed three times during the academic school year and progress monitored monthly. Your child will be assessed on the following areas for their beginning of year benchmark assessments:

Letter Naming Fluency (LNF) Assessment:
Students are presented with a page of uppercase and lowercase letters and are asked to state the name of the letter, this is a one-minute timed session.

Nonsense Word Fluency (NWF) Assessment:
The development and growth your child possesses with nonsense word fluency helps him/her to become a stronger and more fluent decoder. An example of a nonsense word: zaj; the students are asked to pronounce each individual sound and then blend and pronounce the entire nonsense word. Students are presented with a page of CVC (consonant, vowel, consonant) nonsense words and are asked to read as many as they can correctly in a one-minute timed session.

Phoneme Segmentation Fluency (PSF) Assessment:
During the phoneme segmentation assessment, students listen to the teacher pronounce words, the student is asked to state all of the correct sounds in the spoken word. Example word: smile, /s/ /m/ /i/ /l/, the student would pronounce each individual sound in the spoken word. This assessment measures a child's ability to segment three and four phoneme words into individual phonemes fluently. This is a good predictor of later reading achievement.

You will receive a copy of your child's DIBELS assessment scores with their first progress report.

What's Going On This Week...

2011-09-11T18:32:00.000-07:00

Tuesday
DIBELS Assessments
Book Fair - This is our day to purchase books.

Wednesday
Practice Spelling Test (list 1-2)

Thursday
Epilepsy Foundation Presentation

Friday
Final Spelling Test (list 1-2)

Upoming Dates
September 20th - Olweus Kick-Off Assembly
October 7th - No School (Autumn Leaf Festival)

Academics (September 12th-16th)

2011-09-11T18:10:00.000-07:00

Reading
Story: Quack
Concept: Moving
Phonics: digraph /ck/ example: r a ck
Sight Words: on, they, what, & your
Study Skill: Parts of a Book (author and illustrator)
Other: Inflectional Ending -s (nap or naps)
Sequencing Events

Spelling
List 1-2: back, pack, quack, rack, sack, & tack
Bonus: Keystone

Math
Lesson 1-6: 1 and 2 More Than
Lesson 1-7: 1 and 2 Fewer Than
Lesson with Mr. Henry (Grannie Grimms)
Lesson 1-8: Comparing Numbers 5 to 10
Lesson 1-9: Ordering Numbers Through 12
Math Journal
Math Vocabulary: more than, fewer than

Chapter Book
Junie B. Jones, First Grader, at Last!

Science
Lifecycle of a Butterfly

What's Going On This Week...

2011-09-05T17:56:00.000-07:00

Wednesday
Book Fair Begins
First Grade Back-to-School Night at 6:30

Thursday
Practice Spelling Test (list 1-1)
Math Quiz
Book Fair Family Night

Friday
Final Spelling Test (list 1-1)
Patriot's Day Assembly (Wear your red, white, and blue)
Upcoming Dates
September 20th - Olweus Kick-Off Assembly
October 7th - No School (Autumn Leaf Festival)

Academics (September 6th - 9th)

2011-09-05T17:43:00.000-07:00

Reading
Story: Max, the Cat
Concept: Cats
Phonics: short /a/ example: c a t
Sight Words: one, give, likes, & this
Study Skill: Parts of a Book (title, author, picture, & title page)
Other: Inflectional Ending -s (nap or naps)

Spelling
List 1-1: can, pan, mat, hat, had, & bad
Bonus: student's last name

Math
Lesson 1-4: Making 10
Lesson 1-5: Problem-Solving: Use Objects
Lesson 1-6: 1 and 2 More Than
Math Lesson with Mr. Henry (Math Coach)
Math Vocabulary: more than

Chapter Book
Junie B. Jones, First Grader, at Last!

Welcome, Miss Mathers!

2011-08-31T20:24:00.000-07:00

Classroom 103 would like to welcome Miss Mathers to our first grade room. Miss Mathers is a student teacher from Clarion University, she will be with us till the end of October. She is doing a great job with the kids. Check your child's folder for a special letter from Miss Mathers.

We're Off to a GREAT Start!

2011-08-31T20:03:00.000-07:00

Dear Parents,

Wow, what a great group of kiddos! I have enjoyed the last few days with your children. Boy, am I learning a lot of funny things. We have been busy learning about our first grade classroom, schedule, rules, procedures, and more rules!

The students are VERY excited to have homework, I hope this excitement lasts for quite awhile. Please make an effort to attend the informational Back to School Night on Wednesday, September 7th at 6:30 in classroom 103, this is a great opportunity for you to learn about first grade and to ask any questions that you may have. I will briefly discuss the following items...
*schedule
*classroom blog
*rules and procedures
*behavior ladder
*homework
*tests and assessments
*grades
*progress reports and report cards
*classroom cozies
*classroom volunteers
*parent conferences
*first grade expectations

I would like to extend a BIG THANK YOU to the parents that sent in items from the donation wish list. I truly appreciate your kindness, thank you!

If you ever have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Smiles,
Mrs. Buckley

Changes to Special Classes

2011-08-26T09:48:00.000-07:00

Dear First Grade Parent(s),

Changes were made to our special class schedule. Please note the following changes...
Day 1 - Library
Day 2 - Gym
Day 3 - Computer
Day 4 - Art
Day 5 - Music

I'm so excited!

2011-08-23T14:36:00.000-07:00

Howdy Buckaroos,

The classroom is finally ready, all I need now is 20 smiling faces. I can't wait to meet you. See you on Monday morning.

Smiles,
Mrs. B

Hello, 103 Kiddos!

2011-08-15T18:54:00.000-07:00

Dear 103 Kiddos,

I am so tickled to be your teacher. I have so many exciting things planned for us this year. You will be receiving a special letter from me very soon. I can't wait to meet you.

Smiles,
Mrs. Buckley

Coming to an End!

2011-05-23T13:01:00.000-07:00

As we count down the last few days of school, here is what we will be working on...
Reading
End of Year Unit Test
Stories with Related Activities: Skippyjon Jones and Not Norman
Math
Money - counting sets of coins {including quarters, dimes, nickels, and pennies}
Cumulative Chapters 1-9 Test
Science
Frogs and Toads
Zoo Animals
Writing
Informational Writing about Frogs and Toads {graded assessment}
Class Project: The Important Book about First Grade

Thank you, Chaperones!

2011-05-23T12:55:00.000-07:00

We had a great time on our field trip. I really appreciate the parent chaperones for taking the time to spend the day with us as we enjoyed the Pittsburgh Zoo. A special thank you to...Mrs. Berkery, Mrs. Blazosky, Mrs. Huffman, Mrs. Steinman, Mr. Tharan, and Mrs. Weaver. A slideshow we be posted soon, be sure to stop back!
Thank you again,
Mrs. B

Thank you, Tarah!

2011-05-17T13:16:00.000-07:00

Tarah and her family went on a little outing and found tadpoles. She brought them in for us to observe as we continue to learn about frogs and toads. Thank you, Tarah! We really enjoy having the tadpoles in the classroom.

Awesome Website

2011-05-17T13:12:00.000-07:00

We have been using this site to learn more about animals that we will see at the Pittsburgh Zoo. The kids asked if I would please put a link on the blog for them. Here you go, 103 Kids...

Click HERE to go to the site.

Happy Mother's Day!

2011-05-08T10:07:00.000-07:00

Dear 103 Moms,

I hope you enjoyed the goodies that your kiddo made for you to celebrate Mother's Day. As far as the "All About My Mom" book, I hope you enjoy the wonderful things that your child wrote about you. On a funny note, I learned a lot about each of you as we worked on these books in the classroom. I love your child as if they were my own!

Happy Mother's Day,
Mrs. Buckley

WE NEED YOUR HELP!

2011-05-08T09:59:00.000-07:00

First Grade Parent(s),

We are beginning our unit on frogs and toads this week. We will be learning key science words as we study the life cycle of a frog as well as characteristics of frogs and toads. In the previous years, first grade students brought in frog eggs that they found near their family's home. If you know of a special pond or other water source where you can find a pod of frogs eggs, would you please send them in to our classroom? This will provide the first grade students will an awesome opportunity to witness the life cycle of a frog.

Thank you, thank you, thank you,
Mrs. Buckley

What's Going On This Week...

2011-05-08T09:49:00.000-07:00

Monday
6th Grade Choir Assembly {It's a Kid's Life}
Finish Math Quiz
End-of-Year {EOY} DIBELS and BURST Reading Assessments

Tuesday
EOY DIBELS and BURST Reading Assessments

Thursday
Practice Spelling Test {list 5-9}
Super Speller Packet Due

Friday
Math Quiz
Final Spelling Test {list 5-9}
Kid Writing: First grade is a real picnic because... {I can't wait to read the responses to this prompt!}

Upcoming Dates
Monday, May 9th - Friday, May 13th - Art Show
Thursday, May 19th - Grade 1 Field Trip to Pittsburgh Zoo
Thursday, May 26th - Lighthouse Awards
Monday, May 30th - Memorial Day {No School}
Wednesday, June 1st - Last Day for Students

Academics (May 9th-13th)

2011-05-08T09:42:00.000-07:00

Reading
Story: Young Amelia Earhart
Concept: Famous People
Comprehension: Summarize
Phonics: dipthongs ou and ow; oi and oy
Examples of dipthongs: mouse town coin toy
Sight Words: people, father, should, woman, & horse
Study Skill: Using a Glossary
Other: Compound Words

Spelling
List 5-9: toy, boys, mouse, sound, town, noise, people, father, should, & horse
Bonus Word: airplane

Math
Lesson 8-11: Making Graphs
Lesson 8-12: Maing Bar Graphs
Lesson 8-13: Using Tally Marks
Lesson 8-14: Coordinate Grids
Lesson 8-15: Use Data from a Map
Math Vocabulary: picture graph, bar graph, & tally mark
Rocket Math {daily}

Science
Frogs and Toads
Life Cycle of a Frog

Social Science
Famous Person: Amelia Earhart

Chapter Book
Maybelle Goes to Soup
*Remember that Maybelle {the cockroach} will continue to visit the home of each first grader in 103!

Math Lesson {Comparing Numbers}

2011-05-02T13:33:00.000-07:00

Today in math class we discussed, explored, and compared numbers using the following math vocabulary and symbols...
less than ( < ), greater than ( > ), and equal to ( = )
The following link is a great way to reinforce this concept, we actually played this game in the computer lab today and the kids loved it. Check it out here

Maybelle the Cockroach

2011-05-02T13:25:00.000-07:00

So, I'm sure your kiddo has told you about Maybelle {the cockroach}, we just happen to love her and her little bow. I know this probably may sound a bit crazy, but Maybelle will be visiting each student's home for one evening. Your kiddo will write about Maybelle's adventure. Please feel free to take photographs of Maybelle's visit and send them in or send me digital pictures via email at sbuckley@keyknox.com} The kids are very excited about this special writing project. Check back to read about Maybelle's adventures with first graders.

{Maybelle was representing Keystone Pride with her yellow ribbon, but just like any girl she enjoys fashion. Maybelle may switch up ribbons just to stay with the current fashions.}

Good News OR Bad News?

2011-05-02T13:19:00.000-07:00

The good news is...we have 21 days left until we start summer vacation. The bad news is...we have 21 days left to complete several activities and projects. If you are willing to come in and help in the classroom, please let me know so that I may plan for your visit. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

What's Going On This Week...

2011-05-02T13:17:00.000-07:00

Tuesday
Maybelle will begin coming home with students.

Wednesday
Corporal Shaftic from PA State Police will be visiting the classroom.

Thursday
Math Quiz
Practice Spelling Test {list 5-8}

Friday
Final Spelling Test {list 5-8}

Upcoming Dates
Sunday, May 8th - Mother's Day
Monday, May 9th - Friday, May 13th - Art Show
Thursday, May 19th - Grade 1 Field Trip to Pittsburgh Zoo
Thursday, May 26th - Lighthouse Awards
Monday, May 30th - Memorial Day {No School}
Wednesday, June 1st - Last Day for Students

Academics (May 2nd-6th)

2011-05-02T13:08:00.000-07:00

Reading
Story: The Story of a Blue Bird
Concept: Birds
Comprehension: Fantasy and Reality
Phonics: er {her}, ir {stir}, & ur {burn}
Sight Words: from, sister, walked, mother, & brother
Study Skill: Using a Library Computer {title, author, & subject}
Other Skills: Compound Words and Summarizing

Spelling
List 5-8: bird, girl, first, burn, hurt, were, from, sister, mother, & brother
Bonus: adventure

Math
Lesson 8-6: One and Ten Less/One and Ten More
Lesson 8-7: Comparing Numbers
Lesson 8-8: Number-Line Estimation: Numbers to 100
Lesson 8-9: Ordering Three Numbers
Lesson 8-10: Hundreds
Rocket Math {daily}
Math Vocabulary: less than ( < ), more than ( > ), equal to ( = ), least, greatest, & hundreds

Science
Birds

Enrichment Writing
Maybelle the cockroach will begin coming home with kiddos this week, your child will be responsible for writing about Maybelle's adventure while at your house. Please feel free to take photographs and send them in or you may email me the digital photos.

Chapter Book

Maybelle Goes to Tea by Katie Speck

Upcoming Themed Units:
Frogs and Toads
Zoo Animals

We're Making a Book!

2011-04-14T13:15:00.000-07:00

If your child comes home and tells you that we are making a classroom book, it's true! The best part is...you {the parents} will have an opportunity to purchase a copy of the book to keep as a special first grade memory. Information will be sent home within the next few days explaining this special project in greater detail. Be sure to check your child's folder!

Easter Centers

2011-04-14T13:08:00.000-07:00

Thank you to Mammy {Gavin's grandma}, Mrs. Steinman, and Mrs. Cotton for offering to help with our Easter centers on Monday, April 18th. We are still in need of four dozen hard-boiled eggs (shells on) for our centers on Monday, if you would be willing to donate eggs, please let me know so that we don't end up with an overabundance of eggs. Just wait to you see the finished eggs that will be coming home...they are going to be adorable! Thank you!

Thank you, Rylee!

2011-04-14T12:47:00.000-07:00

Let's give a big cheer!! Classroom 103 would like to thank Rylee and her family for donating juice boxes, yummy cheese sticks, and delicious apples to our classroom. We also appreciate the boxes of Kleenex that were sent in...we have been using lots of tissues due to the spread of germies in the classroom. Lastly, we appreciate Rylee's family for offering to donate two dozen hard-boiled eggs for our Easter centers on Monday. Thank you, thank you, thank you! Love,
Your Buddies in 103

Donations are DINO-mite!

2011-04-12T13:53:00.000-07:00

We are in need of the following item(s) for our classroom...
Kleenex

We are in need of the following items for activities/centers...
6 dozen hard boiled eggs for Monday, April 18th

What's Going On This Week...

2011-04-12T13:48:00.000-07:00

Tuesday
Chapter 7 Math Test

Wednesday
Math Centers

Thursday
Practice Spelling Test {list 5-6}

Friday
Kid Writing {free write}
Final Spelling Test

Upcoming Dates
Monday, April 18th - Easter Centers {Thank you to Mammy, Mrs. Cotton, & Mrs. Steinman for offering to help with centers!}
Wednesday, April 20th - Monday, April 25th Spring Break
Friday, April 22nd - Earth Day
Sunday, April 24th - Easter
Friday, April 29th - Arbor Day

Academics (April 11th-15th)

2011-04-12T13:42:00.000-07:00

Reading
Story: A Friend for Little Bear
Phonics: /u/ oo example: moon
Concept: Islands
Comprehension: Fantasy and Reality
Sight Words: called, friend, only, pulled, & these
Study Skill: Resources from a Library
Inflectional Ending -ing

Spelling
List 5-6: zoo, roof, soon, moon, fool, cool, these, called, only, & friend
Bonus: chocolate

Math
Review for Chapter 7 Test

Introduce Chapter 8: Place Vlaue, Data, and Graphs

Lesson 8-1: Numbers Made with Tens

Lesson 8-2: Tens and Ones

Lesson 8-3: Expanded Form
Math Vocabulary: digit, ones, & tens

Rocket Math (daily)

Chapter Book

Junie B., First Grader Dumb Bunny

Academics (April 4th -8th)

2011-04-04T13:20:00.000-07:00

Reading
Story: Time for Kids: Night Animals
Additional/Enrichment Reading: A Field Trip with...
Phonics: review long vowels
Sight Words: review sight words (list 5-1 through 5-4)
Review: Inflectional Ending -ing, Context Clues, Make Predictions, Using a Dictionary, Draw Conclusions

Spelling
List 5-5: bugs, frog, rat, owl, pond, logs, find, come, many, & kinds
Bonus: April

Math
Lesson 7-11: Odd and Even Numbers
Lesson 7-12: Ordinal Numbers
Lesson 7-13: Problem Solving- By the Sea
Math Quiz {Diagnostic Checkpoint}
Rocket Math {daily}

Science
Learning about the Moon {phases, facts, astronaunts}

Enrichment Reading/Author Study
Collection of books by Mo Willems

Thank you, Rylee and Kiara!

2011-03-31T13:23:00.000-07:00

Classroom 103 would like to thank Rylee and Kiara and their families for sending in snacks this week. I was so tickled to come to school on Wednesday morning to lots of goodies in front of the classroom door. I think my neighbors {first grade teachers} were a little jealous! I told them I have awesome first grade parents! Thank you, thank you!!!!

Pigeon Blabbers {Inspired by Mo Willems}

2011-03-29T13:39:00.000-07:00

Click on your kiddo's name to see and hear their talking pigeon.
Gavin
Mya
Taylor
Kiara
Josiah
Alex
Sara {under construction}
Tarah
Monica
Jason
Kody
Chase
Cameron
Samantha
Mehki
Alyssa
Zayne {under construction}
Isabella {under construction}

What's Going On This Week...

2011-03-29T05:52:00.000-07:00

Tuesday
Math Centers

Wednesday
Lighthouse Awards
Report Cards

Thursday
Practice Spelling Test {list 5-4}
Field Trip Chaperone Form Due

Friday
Kid Writing
Final Spelling Test {list 5-4}
Skype with Mrs. Blazosky's 1st Grade Class

Academics (March 28th - April 1st)

2011-03-29T05:50:00.000-07:00

Reading
Story: Owl and the Moon
Phonics: long i: i, y, & igh
Concept: Friendship
Comprehension: Draw Conclusions
Sight Words: eyes, head, gone, room, & everything
Study Skill: Reading and Using Signs

Spelling
List 5-4: my, night, shy, sky, child, tight, eyes, head, gone, & room
Bonus: weather

Math
Rocket Math {daily}
Lesson 7-7: Skip-Counting Pattern on the Hundred Chart
Lesson 7-8: Using Skip Counting
Lesson 7-9: Problem-Solving: Look for a Pattern
Lesson 7-10: Before, After, and Between
Math Vocabulary: before, after, and between
Math Centers {review telling and writing time, place value, and fact families}

Author Study/Enrichment Reading
Collection of book by Mo Willems

Technology and Writing
April Fool's Day Writing and Skype Project {with Mrs. Blazosky's 1st Grade Class at Clarion Elem.}

Science
Moon

Thank you, Parents!

2011-03-21T20:19:00.000-07:00

Classroom 103 would like to thank the following students and their families for their generous donations for Go For the Greens Day and donations to our snack cabinet...

Chase - pretzels
Mya -marshmallows and Cheerios
Alex - carrots, marshmallows, and Cheerios
Sara - broccoli, celery, and peanut butter
Alyssa - carrots, celery, cucumbers, ranch dressing, marshmallows, and Cheerios
Isabella - graham crackers

There are times when snacks and goodies are placed on the classroom table and no one claims that they brought the goodies in, so please let me know if I missed your donation to our classroom, we like to thank students and their families for all of the goodies that are sent in to the classroom. Thank you so very much!

What's Going On This Week...

2011-03-21T20:09:00.000-07:00

Monday
Begin Cumulative Chapters 1-6 (math test)

Tuesday
Marshmallow Math
Complete Cumulative Chapters 1-6 (math test)

Thursday
Super Speller Packet Due
Practice Spelling Test (list 5-3)

Friday
Kid Writing
Final Spelling Test (list 5-3)

Academic (March 21st - 25th)

2011-03-21T20:00:00.000-07:00

Reading
Story: You Can't Smell a Flower with Your Ear
Concept: Five Senses
Comprehension: Make Predictions
Phonics: long o: o, oa, oe, and ow
Sight Words: by, find, high, kind & more
Study Skill: Using a List
Other: Draw Conclusions and Context Clues

Spelling
List 5-3: cold, hold, goes, road, boat, show, by, find, high, & more
Bonus: spring

Math
Rocket Math
Lesson 7-4: Counting with Groups of 10 and Leftovers
Lesson 7-4: Estimating with Groups of 10
Lesson 7-5: Problem-Solving: Use Data from a Graph
Marshmallow Math
Complete Math Journal Prompts

Independent Reading
Henry and Mudge Literacy Journals

Author Study
Mo Willems

Just a Reminder!

2011-03-15T06:46:00.000-07:00

Just a reminder that LEPRECHAUN TRAPS are due tomorrow (Wednesday, March 16th), students will need to have their leprechaun traps in order to complete our Kid Writing lesson on Friday. I would like to thank the parents for helping with this special project. I appreciate the time and support you give to your child. Thanks again!

What's Going On This Week...

2011-03-14T13:08:00.000-07:00

Monday
St. Patrick's Day Activity with Mrs. Ferringer's Class

Tuesday
Math Journal Prompt

Wednesday
Leprechaun Traps Due
Math Journal Prompt

Thursday
St. Patrick's Day Activities
Math Journal Prompt

Friday
Kid Writing
Final Spelling Test

Academics (March 14th-18th)

2011-03-14T08:39:00.000-07:00

Reading
Story: The Shrinking Mouse
Concept: Things Aren't Always What They Seem
Enrichment Story: The Green Mystery
Phonics: long e: ea (leaf) and ie (field)
Sight Words: before, come, off, our, & right
Study Skill: Reading a Newsletter
Skill: Making Predictions

Spelling
List 5-2: reach, read, sea, leaf, fields, piece, off, our, come, & before
Bonus: leprechaun

Math
Introduce Chapter 7: Counting to 100
Lesson 7-1: Numbers to 19
Lesson 7-2: Counting by 10s and 100s
Lesson 7-3: Hundred Chart
Lesson 7-4: Counting with Groups of 10 and Leftovers
Rocket Math
Wizard of Oz Journal Prompts

Science
Rainbow Experiment - making predictions

Kid Writing
Leprechaun Trap Explanation (using transitional words)

I'm Sorry!

2011-03-09T05:41:00.000-08:00

Dear Parent(s),

I apologize for not posting the details of the week sooner than this. I know that many of you check the classroom blog often {which I appreciate} and I will continue to always keep you informed using the blog and the parent letters that are often sent home. Again, sorry I didn't post about this week until now.

Mrs. B

Leprechaun Traps

2011-03-08T20:25:00.000-08:00

As I stated in a past post, your child is encouraged to make a leprechaun trap to set in the classroom. We have noticed some very silly things happening in the classroom and the students have come to the conclusion that it is...leprechauns. Help us save our classroom by creating a leprechaun trap. A few leprechaun traps have already been sent in, keep them coming...I think we are going to need lots. Who knows what the classroom will look like on St. Patrick's Day.

Just a little funny!

2011-03-08T20:04:00.000-08:00

We are always hard at work in room 103. We recently completed a writing prompt related to the Tooth Fairy. The kiddos created their own version of the Tooth Fairy {quite cute by the way} and this is what happened when I told the kids to get busy and be imaginative. Many teachers might be appauled by this "mess," but I loved that they were able to be creative. The funny pary was every kiddo helped clean up and the classroom was back to normal within ten minutes, no biggie!

Academics (March 7th - 11th)

2011-03-08T18:51:00.000-08:00

Reading
Story: Seven Sillies
Leveled Reader: A Lake for Lee
Phonics: long e: e (he) and ee (tree)
Sight Words: all, four, many, over, & so
Concept: Reflections
Study Skill: Using a Dictionary

Spelling
we, she, bee, tree, sheep, three, all, four, many, & over
Bonus: calendar

Grammar
Adjectives {words that describe nouns}

Enrichment Reading
Collection of Fairy Tales

Math
Lesson 6-9: Days of the Week
Lesson 6-10: Months of the Year
Lesson 6-11: Problem-Solving {What's Inside the Egg?}
Chapter 6 Practice Test/Review Concepts
Rocket Math
Math Journal Prompts

Enrichment Video
Wizard of Oz {We are really enjoying our fairy tale unit.}

What's Going On This Week...

2011-03-08T18:42:00.000-08:00

Tuesday
Passages Presentation

Wednesday
Practice Spelling List (5-1)
Gym Show (assembly)
Math Quiz

Thursday
Practice Math Test (completed together in class)
Practice Math Test (sent home as homework)

Friday
Kid Writing (Wizard of Oz inspired writing prompt)
Final Spelling Test (5-1)
Chapter 6 Math Test

The Spell Has Been Broken!

2011-03-01T12:58:00.000-08:00

It's true, the spell that was cast on classroom 103 has indeed been broken {go ahead and cheer!} Today was an A-M-A-Z-I-N-G day with great behavior and pleasant exchanges. I don't know who or what broke the spell, but I am one very happy lady. I really hope we are never cast with a spell like again. Parents~ give your kiddo a big hug and kiss after you read this post and please send "that" kiddo back to school tomorrow. By the way, did I tell you that I was smiling during indoor recess {in case, you didn't know...indoor recess is not one of my most favorite things and I was smiling today because it was GREAT!}

Have a super evening~ Mrs. B