Happy Snowy Day!
I hope the snow day wasn't too big of a inconvenience for your family. I know it can be hard to find childcare and/or take the day off.
We will be celebrating our final day of school (22nd) before the break by having a Polar Express celebration. The kids are encouraged to wear pajamas, bring a small stuffed animal and /or blanket. It needs to fit in their backpack. Please don't let them bring anything that is very special to you or them as there is a good possibility it could get stained with hot chocolate. We will be reading the Polar Express and watching the movie. We will drink hot cocoa and eat snacks. It should be a lot of fun. Would you be interested in bringing a healthy snack for our celebration? Some ideas would be cheese and crackers, veggie platter with ranch, already popped popcorn, trail mix etc. I suppose we could have a few sweets too. If you are willing to help, please email me with what you want to bring at martinw@billingsschools.org. This way we won't have doubles of the same thing.
Wishing you well!
Wednesday, December 16, 2015
Sunday, December 13, 2015
BRRRRR
Please make sure your child is dressed warm this week. When there is snow on the ground students must have snow boots, snow pants, and gloves to play on the big toy. If they do not have the proper snow clothes they have to play on the blacktop during recess.
Our holiday program is Friday at 9:30. The kids have been working very hard on their performance. Hope to see you there!
We will not be having reading groups this week as we will be assessing 2nd quarter reading levels.
We will also be working on our 2nd quarter math assessments.
We will not have a spelling test this week.
In writing we will be working on publishing our how-to books. We will also be working on writing a class poem.
In between our assessments we will be doing some fun holiday projects, including our parent gift!
Have a great week!
Wednesday, December 9, 2015
HOPE FOR THE HOLIDAYS: OPERATION COZY CHRISTMAS
Sixth grader Hannah Hall in Mr. Crofutt’s room is on a mission to
bring holiday help to the Tumbleweed program. All Bitterroot
students and staff are invited to join in a
HOLIDAY CRAZY HAIR SPIRIT DAY ON
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11TH
Donations of hairbrushes and combs will be collected
for teens served by the program.
Money donations are welcome as well!
Hannah will also be at the PTA Family Holiday Night accepting donations!
Monday, December 7, 2015
Elf Time
Hello Parents,
PTA is still looking for volunteers to help with their Holiday Family Night. They are also in need of volunteers to bake sugar cookies. To sign up as a volunteer head to their volunteer site... thttp://bitterrootpta.weebly.com/volunteers.html.
This week our reading comprehension lessons will focus on identifying the problem and solution in a book. We will also review identifying the characters and setting.
We have some interesting books to read in reading groups this week. We are learning about how matter can change. Our book topics include: water, geysers and different solids that can change form.
We will be finishing up our "How-to" writing unit this week.
Our spelling focus is short e. We will have a spelling test on Friday. I was very impressed by last week's spelling test scores. Those were some hard words and the kiddos did very well with them. Also, I have noticed great improvements in handwriting!
We will continue to review in math. Next week we will start some of our 2nd quarter math assessments.
We will also be doing some fun Christmas projects! I love this time of year!
I'm sure you have heard, but Santa sent us an elf! We named him Snowflake. He seems to be a bit mischievous. So far, he has gotten hung out on Mickey Mouse's nose, dumped our rock bucket over, and sat on top of our projector!
Have a great week!
PTA is still looking for volunteers to help with their Holiday Family Night. They are also in need of volunteers to bake sugar cookies. To sign up as a volunteer head to their volunteer site... thttp://bitterrootpta.weebly.com/volunteers.html.
This week our reading comprehension lessons will focus on identifying the problem and solution in a book. We will also review identifying the characters and setting.
We have some interesting books to read in reading groups this week. We are learning about how matter can change. Our book topics include: water, geysers and different solids that can change form.
We will be finishing up our "How-to" writing unit this week.
Our spelling focus is short e. We will have a spelling test on Friday. I was very impressed by last week's spelling test scores. Those were some hard words and the kiddos did very well with them. Also, I have noticed great improvements in handwriting!
We will continue to review in math. Next week we will start some of our 2nd quarter math assessments.
We will also be doing some fun Christmas projects! I love this time of year!
I'm sure you have heard, but Santa sent us an elf! We named him Snowflake. He seems to be a bit mischievous. So far, he has gotten hung out on Mickey Mouse's nose, dumped our rock bucket over, and sat on top of our projector!
Have a great week!
Sunday, November 29, 2015
Welcome Back!
I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving and enjoyed a few extra days off! We had a wonderful Thanksgiving surrounded by family and friends. I can't believe it is already December this week!
Don't forget our Holiday Music Program is on December 18 at 9:30. I hope you can make it.
We are starting to run low on snack. We have enough to make it through Christmas. If you are able to donate a box or two of snack we would be very grateful.
This week we will be doing a close read with the book "An Orange in January." We will continue to gather more ideas on how out world changes and try to answer the question, "How does nature affect the way we move and change?"
Our spelling focus this week is r-blends. Please help your child study. We will be having a test on Friday.
We will continue to work on our how-to writing this week. We will be putting it in a book, using transition words, revise/edit, and learn how to use detailed pictures to teach.
In math, we will focus on missing addend and counting on and back from any number between 0-120.
Don't forget our Holiday Music Program is on December 18 at 9:30. I hope you can make it.
We are starting to run low on snack. We have enough to make it through Christmas. If you are able to donate a box or two of snack we would be very grateful.
This week we will be doing a close read with the book "An Orange in January." We will continue to gather more ideas on how out world changes and try to answer the question, "How does nature affect the way we move and change?"
Our spelling focus this week is r-blends. Please help your child study. We will be having a test on Friday.
We will continue to work on our how-to writing this week. We will be putting it in a book, using transition words, revise/edit, and learn how to use detailed pictures to teach.
In math, we will focus on missing addend and counting on and back from any number between 0-120.
Sunday, November 22, 2015
Gobble, Gobble
We have a short week coming up, but just a few reminders.
We have school on Monday and half-day Tuesday. If you are going to pull kids for early holiday travel, please call and let Mrs. Zimmerman know.
Make sure that your kids are dressed appropriately for the weather. With Montana weather, you never know what is going to happen! When it is snowing, kids will not be allowed to play anywhere but the blacktop unless they have snow boots, snow pants, gloves (not cotton mittens), and an appropriate coat. They will be sent outside no matter what, but it's not very much fun playing on the blacktop all day!
We had such a blast with our Disguise a Turkey project!
Also, we are running low on snack. We have about enough to make it until Christmas, but we will be cutting it out if we don't get any donations.
There will not be any spelling this week!
Check out the slideshow with all the fabulously disguised turkeys!
We have school on Monday and half-day Tuesday. If you are going to pull kids for early holiday travel, please call and let Mrs. Zimmerman know.
Make sure that your kids are dressed appropriately for the weather. With Montana weather, you never know what is going to happen! When it is snowing, kids will not be allowed to play anywhere but the blacktop unless they have snow boots, snow pants, gloves (not cotton mittens), and an appropriate coat. They will be sent outside no matter what, but it's not very much fun playing on the blacktop all day!
We had such a blast with our Disguise a Turkey project!
Also, we are running low on snack. We have about enough to make it until Christmas, but we will be cutting it out if we don't get any donations.
There will not be any spelling this week!
Check out the slideshow with all the fabulously disguised turkeys!
Monday, November 16, 2015
A few reminders...
How to Disguise a Turkey project was due November 16th. If you have not returned this in yet, please due so as soon as possible
The peanut butter and jelly drive goes until November 20. Please help out by sending jars of peanut butter and jelly.
Friday, November 20 is PTA's Health and Fitness Night in the gym from 6-7.
Tuesday, November 24 is a noon dismissal day. There is no school Wednesday-Friday. School resumes Monday, November 30.
Here's whats happening this week...
In reading we are focusing on character traits and reviewing how to retell a story with a beginning, middle, and end.
We had our personal narrative writing celebration on Friday. It was tons of fun. We went to Mrs. Hugh's class and we shared our personal narratives with them. Then we got to have ice cream with whip cream and chocolate sauce! This week we will begin our "how-to" unit.
In math, we are working on subtraction strategies, missing addends, and word problems.
We will have a spelling test this week but not the short Thanksgiving week.
Have a great week!
How to Disguise a Turkey project was due November 16th. If you have not returned this in yet, please due so as soon as possible
The peanut butter and jelly drive goes until November 20. Please help out by sending jars of peanut butter and jelly.
Friday, November 20 is PTA's Health and Fitness Night in the gym from 6-7.
Tuesday, November 24 is a noon dismissal day. There is no school Wednesday-Friday. School resumes Monday, November 30.
Here's whats happening this week...
In reading we are focusing on character traits and reviewing how to retell a story with a beginning, middle, and end.
We had our personal narrative writing celebration on Friday. It was tons of fun. We went to Mrs. Hugh's class and we shared our personal narratives with them. Then we got to have ice cream with whip cream and chocolate sauce! This week we will begin our "how-to" unit.
In math, we are working on subtraction strategies, missing addends, and word problems.
We will have a spelling test this week but not the short Thanksgiving week.
Have a great week!
Friday, November 6, 2015
Thank you!
Thank you to those who attended conferences. I enjoyed sharing about the great things your child has done so far this year.
Your child will have 2 homework assignments this week. There will be a math paper and also a turkey to disguise. Please HELP your child disguise their turkey, but don't do it for them. Only use supplies around your house-- do not spend money on supplies. Some disguises used in the past include: robot, peacock, police officer, farmer, football player. Be creative and have fun! We will be using these turkeys for a writing project. Please make sure your child has their completed and back to school by Monday, November 16.
Schools around town are participating in a PB & J drive to help Family Services feed those in need. Family Services feeds over 7,000 people each month. If you would like to participate please send jars of peanut butter and/or jelly to school between November 9-November 20. The goal is to raise 1,000 jars. 1,000 jars would last Family Services 1 month. The classroom with the most jars donated will win a pizza party.
Next week we will be wrapping up our personal narrative unit and will have a writing celebration on Friday. We have some great stories to share!
We also will be moving on to our next unit in Lead 21. This unit focuses on science. We start off by learning about the desert.
We will be having a spelling test this week.
In math, we are continuing to work on subtraction strategies and missing addends.
Have a great weekend
Your child will have 2 homework assignments this week. There will be a math paper and also a turkey to disguise. Please HELP your child disguise their turkey, but don't do it for them. Only use supplies around your house-- do not spend money on supplies. Some disguises used in the past include: robot, peacock, police officer, farmer, football player. Be creative and have fun! We will be using these turkeys for a writing project. Please make sure your child has their completed and back to school by Monday, November 16.
Schools around town are participating in a PB & J drive to help Family Services feed those in need. Family Services feeds over 7,000 people each month. If you would like to participate please send jars of peanut butter and/or jelly to school between November 9-November 20. The goal is to raise 1,000 jars. 1,000 jars would last Family Services 1 month. The classroom with the most jars donated will win a pizza party.
Next week we will be wrapping up our personal narrative unit and will have a writing celebration on Friday. We have some great stories to share!
We also will be moving on to our next unit in Lead 21. This unit focuses on science. We start off by learning about the desert.
We will be having a spelling test this week.
In math, we are continuing to work on subtraction strategies and missing addends.
Have a great weekend
Thursday, November 5, 2015
Pumpkin Bars!
The kids loved making these and thought they were delicious! I buy the cream cheese frosting. I hope you get a chance to make them!
Sunday, November 1, 2015
Conference Week!
Happy November!
I hope you and your child had a fun and safe Halloween! Please make sure they keep their candy at home.
Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday are noon dismissal days due to Parent Teacher Conferences. Please call the office if you need to switch your conference time. I am looking forward to sharing all the great things your child has accomplished so far!
Report cards go home on Tuesday. Please remember report cards are not like they used to be. They are now a standards based progress report. This means we look at the full year expectations and report where your child is currently. However, in the reading categories we look at the current quarter's reading level expectations and report based on those reading levels. There will be many 1s and 2s on your child's report card. This is perfectly normal. A 3 is our goal for the end of the year. A 1 does not necessarily mean your child is not where they should be academically. It could also mean that we have not taught all parts of the standard. We will go over your child's report card during conferences and visit more on how your child was assessed. Be proud of their accomplishments!
A quick peek at our week...
We will be wrapping up unit 1 in reading groups this week.
Our reading comprehension focus is identifying the beginning, middle, and end of a story.
In writing, we will be working to stay on topic, writing a good beginning and ending, and writing different sentence beginnings.
We will be starting subtraction in math. We will learn many different strategies such as, using a number line to count back, using doubles, and draw a picture.
We will practice more high frequency words during spelling this week, but we will not be having a spelling test. With the noon dismissal days we will not be getting to spelling each day and do not have time on Friday for a test. The words we will be practicing this week are still listed if you would like to help your child practice at home.
We might have snow! Make sure and label all snow gear- hats, mittens, boots, snow pants, coats, etc. It is amazing how many kids shop at the same place. Also, kids are not allowed to go off the blacktop unless they have their snow gear. In the mean time, I will be wishing for sun and warm weather.
Have a great week!
I hope you and your child had a fun and safe Halloween! Please make sure they keep their candy at home.
Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday are noon dismissal days due to Parent Teacher Conferences. Please call the office if you need to switch your conference time. I am looking forward to sharing all the great things your child has accomplished so far!
Report cards go home on Tuesday. Please remember report cards are not like they used to be. They are now a standards based progress report. This means we look at the full year expectations and report where your child is currently. However, in the reading categories we look at the current quarter's reading level expectations and report based on those reading levels. There will be many 1s and 2s on your child's report card. This is perfectly normal. A 3 is our goal for the end of the year. A 1 does not necessarily mean your child is not where they should be academically. It could also mean that we have not taught all parts of the standard. We will go over your child's report card during conferences and visit more on how your child was assessed. Be proud of their accomplishments!
A quick peek at our week...
We will be wrapping up unit 1 in reading groups this week.
Our reading comprehension focus is identifying the beginning, middle, and end of a story.
In writing, we will be working to stay on topic, writing a good beginning and ending, and writing different sentence beginnings.
We will be starting subtraction in math. We will learn many different strategies such as, using a number line to count back, using doubles, and draw a picture.
We will practice more high frequency words during spelling this week, but we will not be having a spelling test. With the noon dismissal days we will not be getting to spelling each day and do not have time on Friday for a test. The words we will be practicing this week are still listed if you would like to help your child practice at home.
We might have snow! Make sure and label all snow gear- hats, mittens, boots, snow pants, coats, etc. It is amazing how many kids shop at the same place. Also, kids are not allowed to go off the blacktop unless they have their snow gear. In the mean time, I will be wishing for sun and warm weather.
Have a great week!
Wednesday, October 28, 2015
Pumpkin Patch is cancelled!
WARNING: HOMEWORK IS TOUGH TONIGHT! We have been working hard this week on related facts (2 + 4 = 6 and 6 - 2 = 4 ). Your child will probably need your help with their homework tonight.
Please fill out the conference time form and send it back in your child's Wednesday folder.
We will not be going to the pumpkin patch this week. It is still too muddy. We will put the money towards our field trip to Alberta Bair Theater to watch Clifford the Big Red Dog in March.
The Pumpkin Patch Party is on Friday. The cost for school age children is $5.00. Adults are free.
Monday, October 26, 2015
Red Ribbon Week
It was another beautiful weekend. I am loving this weather. You won't hear that from me when it starts to snow and gets cold!
It's Red Ribbon Week! This is a fun week to show we are drug free and make healthy choices. Here are the themes for each day:
Monday, October 26-"Be Red-y to say no to drugs." Wear red
Tuesday, October 27-"Put a cap on drugs." Wear a hat
Wednesday, October 28-"Drugs stink, wear pink." Wear pink
Thursday, October 29-"No drugs in this hood." Wear a hoodie and sweats
Friday, October 30-"These paws don't touch drugs." Show your school spirit and wear Bitterroot Bobcat colors and paws
We will be having an assembly on Monday to kick off Red Ribbon Week.
The field trip has been rescheduled for Thursday, October 29. We will be leaving at 12:10. Hopefully, the weather will cooperate this week!
This week we are back to our regular routine and will have reading groups. Our spelling is a bit different for the next few weeks. After each unit in spelling we usually work on high frequency words for a week or two. As the year goes on the high frequency words will get harder and harder. This week most of the words are pretty easy and that's OK! We like the kids to feel successful and we need to know that they can read and write their high frequency words.
We will be completing our 1st quarter assessments in math and writing this week. Can you believe first quarter ends on Friday.
Have a great week!
It's Red Ribbon Week! This is a fun week to show we are drug free and make healthy choices. Here are the themes for each day:
Monday, October 26-"Be Red-y to say no to drugs." Wear red
Tuesday, October 27-"Put a cap on drugs." Wear a hat
Wednesday, October 28-"Drugs stink, wear pink." Wear pink
Thursday, October 29-"No drugs in this hood." Wear a hoodie and sweats
Friday, October 30-"These paws don't touch drugs." Show your school spirit and wear Bitterroot Bobcat colors and paws
We will be having an assembly on Monday to kick off Red Ribbon Week.
The field trip has been rescheduled for Thursday, October 29. We will be leaving at 12:10. Hopefully, the weather will cooperate this week!
This week we are back to our regular routine and will have reading groups. Our spelling is a bit different for the next few weeks. After each unit in spelling we usually work on high frequency words for a week or two. As the year goes on the high frequency words will get harder and harder. This week most of the words are pretty easy and that's OK! We like the kids to feel successful and we need to know that they can read and write their high frequency words.
We will be completing our 1st quarter assessments in math and writing this week. Can you believe first quarter ends on Friday.
Have a great week!
Wednesday, October 21, 2015
Brrr!
What a great 4 day weekend! I spent Thursday and Friday learning and connecting with teachers from across the state.
Your conference preference sheet will come home in the Wednesday folder. Please fill out and return by Friday. Thanks!
Your conference preference sheet will come home in the Wednesday folder. Please fill out and return by Friday. Thanks!
On Thursday, we have bus safety in the morning and our field trip to the pumpkin patch in the afternoon. Please be sure to send your child's permission slip back to school before Thursday. The field trip costs $4.00. If you are unable to pay the $4.00 please contact me so we can work something out.
This week we have been working on words with short /o/ and start our DRAs to see how much each student has grown in reading since the beginning of the year. Remember to send your child with a full stomach and plenty of sleep so they can do their best! In math, we'll continue reviewing addition strategies, 3 addend word problems, and start learning about related facts. Ex. 6+4=10 10-6 =4 We will start preparing for our end-of-the-quarter assessments. Where has the time gone?! Has your child been practicing Xtra Math? It really helps when they have fluency with their math facts. Most concepts are built upon math facts.
Parent teacher conference information will be in your child's folder on Wednesday. Please be sure to fill out your preferences for day and time and get it sent back to school.
You child is still working on their personal narratives. This week we will talk about verbs and speech bubbles. They will love the speech bubbles.
Your child has been making predictions about fiction and non-fiction books. They get clues from the cover and the pages inside. Then we read the book and they modify their predictions.
Next week is Red Ribbon week. Each day we celebrate being drug free by wearing different things.
Check out the Important Dates on my blog so your child can participate.
Save the date! October 30th is the Pumpkin Patch Party! The kids love this event. Look for the flyer in you child's folder.
Just a suggestion! Now is the time to buy snow boots! The first snow always surprises us. It is good to have them on hand and once it does snow, the boots in the store disappear quickly.
Have a great week!
Wednesday, October 14, 2015
With the next few days off, I hope you get to do something fun with your child. I will be at the MEA-MFT Educators Conference. It should be fun. More learning to be done.
Mr. Barbeau, a Billings firefighter and paramedic, came and spoke to 1st grade on Monday. He taught them about what do to in case of a fire. Some information came home in your child's green folder today. Please take the time to review the facts and set up a meeting place in case of a fire.
Our class will be taking a field trip to the pumpkin patch on October 22. The cost is $4.00. If you are unable to pay please let me know and we can work something out. The permission slip will be in your child's Wednesday folder.
Bitterroot school is still in need of gift card donations for the Karen Cox Memorial Scholarship raffle. Any amount is greatly appreciated. Currently we have 4 gift cards.
Mr. Barbeau, a Billings firefighter and paramedic, came and spoke to 1st grade on Monday. He taught them about what do to in case of a fire. Some information came home in your child's green folder today. Please take the time to review the facts and set up a meeting place in case of a fire.
Our class will be taking a field trip to the pumpkin patch on October 22. The cost is $4.00. If you are unable to pay please let me know and we can work something out. The permission slip will be in your child's Wednesday folder.
Bitterroot school is still in need of gift card donations for the Karen Cox Memorial Scholarship raffle. Any amount is greatly appreciated. Currently we have 4 gift cards.
Our class has been working on not interrupting and paying attention when the teacher is talking. I am usually the master of getting students attention but this class is exceptionally chatty. Well, can we just call them a friendly bunch? They have so much to say but just have not learned the appropriate time to share. It has been getting a little better but we will continue to work on it.
Your kids continue to surprise me. They are writing more and more each day. We will continue to work on their personal narratives. We will be adding time words. Remember, if your child is writing at home, please do not correct their spelling. They are focusing on getting words down on paper using phonics. If they worry about spelling, they will get very few words on the paper in fear that they might spell something wrong.
We will continue to work on addition strategies. This week we worked on adding 3 numbers. First we look to see if there is a way to make the problem easier. We look for doubles or ways to make 10. Then we add the third number to the sum of the first two. We will start fact families next week.
Reading groups are going well. This is my favorite part of the day. It is so exciting to see kids figuring out words using the strategies taught earlier this year. We will be testing for reading levels next week so make sure your darling gets all their sleep.
Wednesday, October 7, 2015
It looks like we will have another nice week for weather. Whew! Make sure your child has a coat for those chilly morning and for unexpected rain. We go out for recess unless it is down pouring or below zero degrees.
Picture Day- All kids get their photo taken on Monday. Make sure your little darling looks adorable even if you do not plan to purchase.
Homework- This weeks homework is "Making 10 Number Search". Your child needs to circle at least 15 making 10 equations. We have been working on this in class so it should be easy for them. I attached their "Making 10 rainbow" for support.
Scholarships-Mrs. Dimock and Mrs. Hughs are in charge of the Karen Cox Memorial Scholarship Basket Fundraiser at our school. Karen Cox was a beloved educator in our district who lost her life in a tragic car accident in 2004. Her legacy lives on through the BEA Karen Cox Memorial Scholarship. This scholarship is awarded to three high school seniors. We are calling for gift cards, of any nature or amount (labeled with the amount), for our school's basket. You may also make a cash donation and which will go purchase a gift card to add to our basket. This is a community effort and we look forward to collecting as many as we can. We have until October 23rd and then the baskets from all over the district will be raffled off in November. It sounds like we'll have some pretty neat ones to pick from, so help our basket be one of them!
Pack the Place in Pink order forms are in your green folder. If you are interested in ordering a PPP shirt please fill out the order form and send the money back to school.
XTRA MATH sign up directions are in the green folder
Xtra Math is a free web program that teaches addition, subtraction, multiplication and division facts which are critical to success in mathematics. Speed and accuracy are both important to fluency, and Xtra Math will help kids build up both. Math fluency is essential for success with fractions, decimals, multi-digit algorithms and any higher level math. It is based on the assumption that students who regularly practice will quickly and easily recall answers when needed, freeing up mental resources for more complex problem solving (also known as fluency).
After a simple placement exam, fluency goals are achieved through timed practices. Students are given 3 seconds to correctly answer each individual math fact. If they answer the fact in under 3 seconds (the deemed rate for fluency) they earn a smiley face. An answered keyed in under 10 seconds earns a green check mark. Finally, if a student takes 10 seconds or more, the answer will display in grey beneath the math fact and the student still must key it in. Any incorrect answers show a red “x” and still require the correct answer to be keyed in. This is great, because it forces the student to focus on the right answer before moving on. These problems will also show up again soon, so that the student reviews them quickly, before they have lost the fact from their memory (a research based strategy for learning new facts).
Book orders are due Friday. There is a lot of great books that are very reasonably priced!
We are started reading groups this week! Hooray! I love teaching reading groups. In first grade we do "Walk to Read." This allows the students to be placed into more appropriate groups based on their reading level. These groups are flexible and allow students to placed in different groups as their reading ability grows. Some of the kids in our class will be in reading groups with Mrs. Dimock and Mrs. Hughs. It is fun to be able to work with and get to know some of the kids in the other classes. Our first unit is about friends and family.
In math, we will continue to focus on ways to make 10. This week we made 10 rainbows. We will be playing 10 Go Fish and we will be jumping back into the Go Math! workbooks.
In writing, we are still working on our personal narratives. Last week, the kids worked with a partner to share what they had written and to discuss what they are going to add next to their narrative. Hopefully, we will be able to finish up the first draft of our narratives this week.
Our practice spelling test went okay on Friday. Please help your child practice their spelling words. It makes a huge difference. I did however have to mark many letters incorrect. Please make sure you are helping your child with correct letter formation. The correct letter formation went home in the parent orientation folder. This week the spelling test will be graded. Good Luck!
Homework Suggestions:
Monday- Read (10 minutes) Practice spelling words (5 minutes)
Tuesday- Read (10 minutes), Xtra Math session, Practice spelling words (5 minutes)
Wednesday- Read (10 minutes) Green Folder homework, Practice spelling words (5 minutes)
Thursday- Read (10 minutes), Xtra Math session, Practice spelling words (5 minutes)
Friday, Saturday, and Sunday- Have fun first and enjoy your family! If time allows, read, do an Xtra math session, and explore fun math and reading games on my blog!
Have a great rest of the week!
Picture Day- All kids get their photo taken on Monday. Make sure your little darling looks adorable even if you do not plan to purchase.
Homework- This weeks homework is "Making 10 Number Search". Your child needs to circle at least 15 making 10 equations. We have been working on this in class so it should be easy for them. I attached their "Making 10 rainbow" for support.
Scholarships-Mrs. Dimock and Mrs. Hughs are in charge of the Karen Cox Memorial Scholarship Basket Fundraiser at our school. Karen Cox was a beloved educator in our district who lost her life in a tragic car accident in 2004. Her legacy lives on through the BEA Karen Cox Memorial Scholarship. This scholarship is awarded to three high school seniors. We are calling for gift cards, of any nature or amount (labeled with the amount), for our school's basket. You may also make a cash donation and which will go purchase a gift card to add to our basket. This is a community effort and we look forward to collecting as many as we can. We have until October 23rd and then the baskets from all over the district will be raffled off in November. It sounds like we'll have some pretty neat ones to pick from, so help our basket be one of them!
Pack the Place in Pink order forms are in your green folder. If you are interested in ordering a PPP shirt please fill out the order form and send the money back to school.
XTRA MATH sign up directions are in the green folder
Xtra Math is a free web program that teaches addition, subtraction, multiplication and division facts which are critical to success in mathematics. Speed and accuracy are both important to fluency, and Xtra Math will help kids build up both. Math fluency is essential for success with fractions, decimals, multi-digit algorithms and any higher level math. It is based on the assumption that students who regularly practice will quickly and easily recall answers when needed, freeing up mental resources for more complex problem solving (also known as fluency).
After a simple placement exam, fluency goals are achieved through timed practices. Students are given 3 seconds to correctly answer each individual math fact. If they answer the fact in under 3 seconds (the deemed rate for fluency) they earn a smiley face. An answered keyed in under 10 seconds earns a green check mark. Finally, if a student takes 10 seconds or more, the answer will display in grey beneath the math fact and the student still must key it in. Any incorrect answers show a red “x” and still require the correct answer to be keyed in. This is great, because it forces the student to focus on the right answer before moving on. These problems will also show up again soon, so that the student reviews them quickly, before they have lost the fact from their memory (a research based strategy for learning new facts).
Book orders are due Friday. There is a lot of great books that are very reasonably priced!
We are started reading groups this week! Hooray! I love teaching reading groups. In first grade we do "Walk to Read." This allows the students to be placed into more appropriate groups based on their reading level. These groups are flexible and allow students to placed in different groups as their reading ability grows. Some of the kids in our class will be in reading groups with Mrs. Dimock and Mrs. Hughs. It is fun to be able to work with and get to know some of the kids in the other classes. Our first unit is about friends and family.
In math, we will continue to focus on ways to make 10. This week we made 10 rainbows. We will be playing 10 Go Fish and we will be jumping back into the Go Math! workbooks.
In writing, we are still working on our personal narratives. Last week, the kids worked with a partner to share what they had written and to discuss what they are going to add next to their narrative. Hopefully, we will be able to finish up the first draft of our narratives this week.
Our practice spelling test went okay on Friday. Please help your child practice their spelling words. It makes a huge difference. I did however have to mark many letters incorrect. Please make sure you are helping your child with correct letter formation. The correct letter formation went home in the parent orientation folder. This week the spelling test will be graded. Good Luck!
Homework Suggestions:
Monday- Read (10 minutes) Practice spelling words (5 minutes)
Tuesday- Read (10 minutes), Xtra Math session, Practice spelling words (5 minutes)
Wednesday- Read (10 minutes) Green Folder homework, Practice spelling words (5 minutes)
Thursday- Read (10 minutes), Xtra Math session, Practice spelling words (5 minutes)
Friday, Saturday, and Sunday- Have fun first and enjoy your family! If time allows, read, do an Xtra math session, and explore fun math and reading games on my blog!
Have a great rest of the week!
Saturday, October 3, 2015
We had an assembly on Thursday where Mr. English introduced the "Bobcat 200." This is a program that rewards great behavior. Teachers will have 1 chip to hand out to a student each day. If it is a blue chip the teacher hands it out to a student in their class. If it is a yellow chip they hand it out to someone in a different class who they catch having great behavior. The student takes the chip to Mrs. Zimmerman and she will let them sign the book of fame and draw a number. They place their name on the number they selected on "Bobcat 200" board. Once there are 10 names in a row (horizontal, vertical or diagonally) on the "Bobcat 200" those kids whose names make the 10 in a row get to participate in the special motivator. We will be starting this program on Monday.
As many of you have seen in the news recently there have been multiple students hit by cars on their way to school. PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE talk with your kids and remind them to be safe and watch for traffic. Mr. Bouck sent out some great information and safety tips. They are certainly worth taking a look at. Please set a good example and use the crosswalk at all times.
I am unable to receive text messages with Remind. I am only able to send out text messages and emails with it. If you need to get a hold of me please email me at martinw@billingsschools.org or call me at 281-6991.
We had our first "practice" spelling test on Friday. We will have our first official test this Friday. Please help your child study!
Have a great weekend!
As many of you have seen in the news recently there have been multiple students hit by cars on their way to school. PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE talk with your kids and remind them to be safe and watch for traffic. Mr. Bouck sent out some great information and safety tips. They are certainly worth taking a look at. Please set a good example and use the crosswalk at all times.
I am unable to receive text messages with Remind. I am only able to send out text messages and emails with it. If you need to get a hold of me please email me at martinw@billingsschools.org or call me at 281-6991.
We had our first "practice" spelling test on Friday. We will have our first official test this Friday. Please help your child study!
Have a great weekend!
Wednesday, September 23, 2015
Going to be gone!
Hello fabulous parents,
I just wanted to let you know that I will be out of town Wednesday afternoon through Monday. My son was selected to play in the Nature Valley First Tee Open in Pebble Beach, California. It is a Champions Golf Tour event where champions are paired with junior golfers. Definitely a once in a lifetime opportunity. My husband and I are very excited to support him in this adventure. This will be publicized on the Golf Channel. How fun!
Ms. Lind will be their guest teacher. She has subbed several times for me. A big thanks to her!
In math, we are continuing our math facts. We have been working on ways to make 11 and 12. We also have been learning the addition strategies: commutative property (aka flip flop) and adding with zero. We will be learning counting on, doubles, and doubles + 1.
In reading, we have been learning about schema (what we already know) and how we can correct our schema. We learned many new facts about bees and chameleons. We continue to work on our center rotations and we will be starting reading groups on October 5. I can't wait!
We will begin practicing spelling next week. Our first word list will be words with short a. Our first spelling test will be on October 9 and will be words with short i.
In writing, we just finished our first story. We went through all the phases: planning, drafting, revising, and editing. We will be publishing next. Next week we will start on narrative writing.
In handwriting, we are continuing to work through the alphabet and should be done the first week in October.
Don't forget about Saturday Live! The PTA is very short on candy donations. Would you be able to bring a couple bags of non-melting candy?
Have a great rest of the week. If you have any questions or concerns, I will be checking my email periodically.
I just wanted to let you know that I will be out of town Wednesday afternoon through Monday. My son was selected to play in the Nature Valley First Tee Open in Pebble Beach, California. It is a Champions Golf Tour event where champions are paired with junior golfers. Definitely a once in a lifetime opportunity. My husband and I are very excited to support him in this adventure. This will be publicized on the Golf Channel. How fun!
Ms. Lind will be their guest teacher. She has subbed several times for me. A big thanks to her!
In math, we are continuing our math facts. We have been working on ways to make 11 and 12. We also have been learning the addition strategies: commutative property (aka flip flop) and adding with zero. We will be learning counting on, doubles, and doubles + 1.
In reading, we have been learning about schema (what we already know) and how we can correct our schema. We learned many new facts about bees and chameleons. We continue to work on our center rotations and we will be starting reading groups on October 5. I can't wait!
We will begin practicing spelling next week. Our first word list will be words with short a. Our first spelling test will be on October 9 and will be words with short i.
In writing, we just finished our first story. We went through all the phases: planning, drafting, revising, and editing. We will be publishing next. Next week we will start on narrative writing.
In handwriting, we are continuing to work through the alphabet and should be done the first week in October.
Don't forget about Saturday Live! The PTA is very short on candy donations. Would you be able to bring a couple bags of non-melting candy?
Have a great rest of the week. If you have any questions or concerns, I will be checking my email periodically.
Wednesday, September 16, 2015
I can't believe we have already been in School for 15 days. How time flies when you are having fun!
A big thank you to those of you who came to open house last night. It really helps your child be successful when we are all on the same page and you understand the expectations of your first grader. If you were unable to make it, I put some of the things we went over in your Wednesday folder. I will try to get the presentation up on the blog.
We are lucky! We have foster grandparent working in our room all day Wednesday and Thursday afternoon. Her name is Grandma Kay and she is absolutely wonderful. The kids get so excited when she is working in our room. She is as sweet as they come! We also have a high school student, Angel who comes and works for 1 1/2 hours a day. She was a previous student of mine. What a great help she is.
We only have a few more centers to learn this week and then we are pretty much set for center rotations. This week the kids will learn how to read and use the center rotations chart and will rotate to their next center once they have completed a center. This allows the kiddos to work at their own pace and be able to fully complete a center before having to switch. It also helps with students not getting bored and acting up!
We will be wrapping up unit 1 of our reading comprehension unit and begin unit 2. Unit 2 is how readers use their schema (what they already know). The class will use their schema to read fiction, use their schema to understand character's feelings, use their schema to understand character's actions, and they will use their schema to read nonfiction.
Our high-frequency words for the week are: see, go, I. Please help your child practice spelling and reading our weekly high-frequency words at home. You can find the previous taught high-frequency words on the right side of the blog towards the bottom.
We will continue with handwriting and letter sounds. This week we will focus on the following letters/sounds: o, d, n, g, w.
In writing, the students will be completing an opinion and informational writing sample. We will also begin learning about choosing a piece to publish and revising by adding more details.
We will continue to work on addition and the commutative property in math (adding in any order). We will also begin working on ways to make 6-10 (0+6, 1+5, etc.). We have some fun games planned to help teach these skills!
Saturday Live is at the end of the month. Bitterroot will be at the candy shack. Could you please donate two non-melting candy to help our booth? PTA will also take monetary donations if you do not have time to candy shop!
Enjoy the rest of your week!
A big thank you to those of you who came to open house last night. It really helps your child be successful when we are all on the same page and you understand the expectations of your first grader. If you were unable to make it, I put some of the things we went over in your Wednesday folder. I will try to get the presentation up on the blog.
We are lucky! We have foster grandparent working in our room all day Wednesday and Thursday afternoon. Her name is Grandma Kay and she is absolutely wonderful. The kids get so excited when she is working in our room. She is as sweet as they come! We also have a high school student, Angel who comes and works for 1 1/2 hours a day. She was a previous student of mine. What a great help she is.
We only have a few more centers to learn this week and then we are pretty much set for center rotations. This week the kids will learn how to read and use the center rotations chart and will rotate to their next center once they have completed a center. This allows the kiddos to work at their own pace and be able to fully complete a center before having to switch. It also helps with students not getting bored and acting up!
We will be wrapping up unit 1 of our reading comprehension unit and begin unit 2. Unit 2 is how readers use their schema (what they already know). The class will use their schema to read fiction, use their schema to understand character's feelings, use their schema to understand character's actions, and they will use their schema to read nonfiction.
Our high-frequency words for the week are: see, go, I. Please help your child practice spelling and reading our weekly high-frequency words at home. You can find the previous taught high-frequency words on the right side of the blog towards the bottom.
We will continue with handwriting and letter sounds. This week we will focus on the following letters/sounds: o, d, n, g, w.
In writing, the students will be completing an opinion and informational writing sample. We will also begin learning about choosing a piece to publish and revising by adding more details.
We will continue to work on addition and the commutative property in math (adding in any order). We will also begin working on ways to make 6-10 (0+6, 1+5, etc.). We have some fun games planned to help teach these skills!
Saturday Live is at the end of the month. Bitterroot will be at the candy shack. Could you please donate two non-melting candy to help our booth? PTA will also take monetary donations if you do not have time to candy shop!
Enjoy the rest of your week!
Monday, September 14, 2015
Parent Orientation Night
PARENT ORIENTATION NIGHT 5:30-6:30 Tuesday, September 15th, 2015
Hello Bitterroot Parents and Families,
I hope your weekend was fun and restful. I am writing to tell you about our Parent Orientation Night coming up on Tuesday, September 15th from 5:30 to 6:30 PM. The goal of our evening will be classroom and school orientation. You will have an opportunity to hear from your child’s teacher and to see and learn about classroom procedures and the outstanding programs we have to offer here at Bitterroot school.
This event is for parents and guardians only and will be a group instruction format. Please leave the kids at home so we can move quickly and efficiently through the evening’s tasks. We will do three rotations of 15 minutes each with 5 minutes for passing with bells or announcements to mark the time. This allows parents with multiple children in school to see more than one classroom.
I am looking forward to seeing you and to another great year here at Bitterroot.
Principally yours,
John English,
Principal
Hello Bitterroot Parents and Families,
I hope your weekend was fun and restful. I am writing to tell you about our Parent Orientation Night coming up on Tuesday, September 15th from 5:30 to 6:30 PM. The goal of our evening will be classroom and school orientation. You will have an opportunity to hear from your child’s teacher and to see and learn about classroom procedures and the outstanding programs we have to offer here at Bitterroot school.
This event is for parents and guardians only and will be a group instruction format. Please leave the kids at home so we can move quickly and efficiently through the evening’s tasks. We will do three rotations of 15 minutes each with 5 minutes for passing with bells or announcements to mark the time. This allows parents with multiple children in school to see more than one classroom.
I am looking forward to seeing you and to another great year here at Bitterroot.
Principally yours,
John English,
Principal
Tuesday, September 8, 2015
Rested and Ready!
I hope you had a great Labor Day weekend. It was so nice to have an extra day off to get rested up. I was exhausted after a full week of school!
Unfortunately, we have had a few sick kids already this week. Be on the watch for upset stomachs and a fever.
This week we will continue to learn new centers and work on center rotations. The kids will learn how to do spelling search, picture search, stamps, pocket chart, and roll-a-word. It is nice to get the kids trained on the centers and rotations now, so when we start reading groups they know what to do and I do not have to stop teaching reading groups to help them.
During our whole group reading time will learn our final two reading strategies, Flippy Dolphin (flip the vowel sound) and Chunky Monkey (look for chunks in words). We will also be working on answering questions using text evidence. Our poem for the week is "The Getting Along Song" and we will work on the high-frequency word like.
In writer's workshop we will be working on stretching out words, using our alphabet chart, writing words we know, and word patterns. I am blown away at how well the kids are doing with their writing.
In math, we will continue to work on chapter one, addition concepts. This week we will be working with bar models, adding zero, and adding in any order.
Did you remember to sign and send back your child's poetry binder?
Wishing you well
Unfortunately, we have had a few sick kids already this week. Be on the watch for upset stomachs and a fever.
This week we will continue to learn new centers and work on center rotations. The kids will learn how to do spelling search, picture search, stamps, pocket chart, and roll-a-word. It is nice to get the kids trained on the centers and rotations now, so when we start reading groups they know what to do and I do not have to stop teaching reading groups to help them.
During our whole group reading time will learn our final two reading strategies, Flippy Dolphin (flip the vowel sound) and Chunky Monkey (look for chunks in words). We will also be working on answering questions using text evidence. Our poem for the week is "The Getting Along Song" and we will work on the high-frequency word like.
In writer's workshop we will be working on stretching out words, using our alphabet chart, writing words we know, and word patterns. I am blown away at how well the kids are doing with their writing.
In math, we will continue to work on chapter one, addition concepts. This week we will be working with bar models, adding zero, and adding in any order.
Did you remember to sign and send back your child's poetry binder?
Wishing you well
Tuesday, September 1, 2015
A Whole Week in the Books!
We survived the one whole week of school! We stayed busy this week learning new procedures, rules, and expectations. We also jumped right in to handwriting and spelling. We worked on the letter m, s, b, and f. We also learned how to spell the word can. We made "I can" boxcars and did an art project with our names. You will be able to see what we have been working on at open house on September 15.
Earlier this week your child came home with the PTA fundraiser information in their backpack. Orders are due on September 14. Coupon books will be delivered September 16. I love these books. I get my moneys worth after only using a few coupons. It was a great fundraiser last year and hopefully we will do just as well this year.
Green folders will come home most Wednesdays. Homework and items that need to be returned will be on one side and items to stay home will be on the other side. Both sides of the folder are labeled. Please return the green folder on Thursday or Friday. Thanks!
On Friday, your child will be coming home with their poetry binder. The first page will contain the directions for you and your child. Each week we will practice reading a poem together. They will have this poem in their binder and will read it to you. Make sure and sign the BACK of the poem and return it on Monday. When they return their signed binder on Monday, they get a sticker to put on back. Their goal is to fill up the entire back with stickers before the year is over.
I am still missing a few beginning of the year packets. Please sign and return ASAP. There is also a green student info sheet that I keep in my room. These were on your childs' desk on the supply drop off night. If you were unable to attend, it will be in the green folder that comes home every
Wednesday.
Also, would you please send a family picture(s) to add to our Friends and Family Wall. The kids love showing off their families. Thanks!
Today we started in our new math series, GO Math! We will also introduce a few reading strategies and start some writing. We have lots of learning to do!
Book orders are due Friday, September 18. There is a Scholastic link on the blog. Book order forms will come home on the 2nd.
Have a great rest of the week!
Earlier this week your child came home with the PTA fundraiser information in their backpack. Orders are due on September 14. Coupon books will be delivered September 16. I love these books. I get my moneys worth after only using a few coupons. It was a great fundraiser last year and hopefully we will do just as well this year.
Green folders will come home most Wednesdays. Homework and items that need to be returned will be on one side and items to stay home will be on the other side. Both sides of the folder are labeled. Please return the green folder on Thursday or Friday. Thanks!
On Friday, your child will be coming home with their poetry binder. The first page will contain the directions for you and your child. Each week we will practice reading a poem together. They will have this poem in their binder and will read it to you. Make sure and sign the BACK of the poem and return it on Monday. When they return their signed binder on Monday, they get a sticker to put on back. Their goal is to fill up the entire back with stickers before the year is over.
I am still missing a few beginning of the year packets. Please sign and return ASAP. There is also a green student info sheet that I keep in my room. These were on your childs' desk on the supply drop off night. If you were unable to attend, it will be in the green folder that comes home every
Wednesday.
Also, would you please send a family picture(s) to add to our Friends and Family Wall. The kids love showing off their families. Thanks!
Today we started in our new math series, GO Math! We will also introduce a few reading strategies and start some writing. We have lots of learning to do!
Book orders are due Friday, September 18. There is a Scholastic link on the blog. Book order forms will come home on the 2nd.
Have a great rest of the week!
Wednesday, August 26, 2015
We had a great day in first grade. I hope they enjoyed today as much as I did. We started our day by checking supplies and drawing a self-portrait. Next, we sang a song to help learn each other's names. We had library this morning with Mrs. Anderson. They even got to check out a book. They need to return it by next Wednesday. We worked on some classroom procedures and before we knew it the morning was over and we were heading to lunch. We came back from lunch and made a classmate bookmark. Read "The Little Engine that Could" and discussed how we will be doing some challenging activities in first grade. With an "I think I can" attitude they will be able to complete those challenges! We went to afternoon recess, came in and had snack, and then it was time to get ready to go home.
Make sure you return the green student information sheet I sent home with you on "Meet the Teacher" night. It is two-sided and I can only post pictures of your child on the home page with your permission. Make sure you circle whether or not you will allow it.
Thank you for sharing your child with me this year! They are a really fun and energetic class!
Make sure you return the green student information sheet I sent home with you on "Meet the Teacher" night. It is two-sided and I can only post pictures of your child on the home page with your permission. Make sure you circle whether or not you will allow it.
Thank you for sharing your child with me this year! They are a really fun and energetic class!
Tuesday, May 26, 2015
Zoo Visit on KULR 8
Click the link below to see our video on Kulr 8!
http://www.kulr8.com/video?autoStart=true&topVideoCatNo=default&clipId=11518718
We have a very busy week coming up.
Did you know Mr. English is a former science teacher? He will be taking the first graders Wednesday morning to teach a fun science lesson.
Thursday is our field trip to Riverfront Park. Please make sure your child wears tennis shoes that day. They will also need to bring a lunch if you did not send back the sack lunch form. Make sure they have sunscreen already applied and bug spray if you wish. Hats are always a good idea if your child would like to wear one. We will be gone from 9:30-2:00.
Friday is Mrs. Buss' field day. The kiddos will be outside from 9:20-10:50. Please make sure your child wears tennis shoes that day also.
Have a great week!
http://www.kulr8.com/video?autoStart=true&topVideoCatNo=default&clipId=11518718
We have a very busy week coming up.
Did you know Mr. English is a former science teacher? He will be taking the first graders Wednesday morning to teach a fun science lesson.
Thursday is our field trip to Riverfront Park. Please make sure your child wears tennis shoes that day. They will also need to bring a lunch if you did not send back the sack lunch form. Make sure they have sunscreen already applied and bug spray if you wish. Hats are always a good idea if your child would like to wear one. We will be gone from 9:30-2:00.
Friday is Mrs. Buss' field day. The kiddos will be outside from 9:20-10:50. Please make sure your child wears tennis shoes that day also.
Have a great week!
Sunday, May 17, 2015
ZOO!
We had some special guests in our class Friday! We were lucky enough to have some animals from the zoo visit us through their Classroom Outreach Program. Kulr 8 News also stopped by to see the presentation. Be sure to watch the news! They didn't tell us when it would air but I believe they are doing a special on the zoo this week.
Thank you to those who have donated to the Boeckel family. Your generosity is greatly appreciated.
Friday, May 22 at 1:15 is our Barnyard Moo-sical. They have been practicing all week and it's going to be a great performance!
Please return your child's field trip permission slip. Your child will not be able to go if it is not returned.
We are missing a few Lead 21 books. Please take a look around your house and return them if they happen to be there. We are missing the following titles:
A Look at Water Habitats
My Day with Rocks
Window Shopping
Why the Sky is So Far Away
Shop with Mom
We are done with poetry binders. You do not need to sign and return them anymore.
In math this week, we will be finishing up measurement and beginning our end of the year math assessments.
Have a great week!
Thank you to those who have donated to the Boeckel family. Your generosity is greatly appreciated.
Friday, May 22 at 1:15 is our Barnyard Moo-sical. They have been practicing all week and it's going to be a great performance!
Please return your child's field trip permission slip. Your child will not be able to go if it is not returned.
We are missing a few Lead 21 books. Please take a look around your house and return them if they happen to be there. We are missing the following titles:
A Look at Water Habitats
My Day with Rocks
Window Shopping
Why the Sky is So Far Away
Shop with Mom
We are done with poetry binders. You do not need to sign and return them anymore.
In math this week, we will be finishing up measurement and beginning our end of the year math assessments.
Have a great week!
Monday, May 11, 2015
Bitterroot PTA is sponsoring a fundraiser to help the Boeckel Family after the horrific explosion
and fire that injured two members of their family. We will be having a hat day on Friday, May 15th. Students who choose to wear a hat are asked to make a $1.00 donation to the Boeckel Family Fund. We will also be hosting a change jar at the school. Funds can be contributed to the collection bin by the office and all proceeds will go to the Boeckel Family to help with their expenses. We hope that you can participate in one or both of these events. Thank you for your help!
Bitterroot PTA
You can also donate to the famiy directly on-line at
http://www.gofundme.com/u54dgc
Sunday, May 10, 2015
Permission slips for our end of the year field trip went home in your child's green folder last week. Please complete them and return ASAP.
If you checked "Yes" on the volunteer for field day and/or the field trip, I will be in contact with you. Thanks for your help, we couldn't do it without you.
If you are planning to attend the BBQ on May 14 please return your form and payment by May 12.
We will not be having anymore spelling tests this year. We will work on high frequency words.
This week we will be completing our last reading assessment. I am looking forward to seeing the growth in reading levels. We had some very hard workers this quarter and I know many students improved their reading level!
In math, we will be working on measurement. This is one of my favorite units! We will also try to squeeze a few assessments in.
I will be putting in our last book order this Thursday.
Have a great week!
If you checked "Yes" on the volunteer for field day and/or the field trip, I will be in contact with you. Thanks for your help, we couldn't do it without you.
If you are planning to attend the BBQ on May 14 please return your form and payment by May 12.
We will not be having anymore spelling tests this year. We will work on high frequency words.
This week we will be completing our last reading assessment. I am looking forward to seeing the growth in reading levels. We had some very hard workers this quarter and I know many students improved their reading level!
In math, we will be working on measurement. This is one of my favorite units! We will also try to squeeze a few assessments in.
I will be putting in our last book order this Thursday.
Have a great week!
Thursday, May 7, 2015
Hello Bitterroot Families,
It is springtime already and time to begin planning for next school year. If you have a kindergarten student starting in the fall it is time to get them registered with Christy in the main office. We are still figuring out if we will have enough space for all our kindergartners here next fall so please get them registered early to insure your place in the building here at Bitterroot.
If you would like to have input in the process we use to make classroom placements we need your letter by May 22nd. A short note indicating the educationally significant reason(s) you are making a request for a particular teacher will be taken into consideration by the team making those decisions.
Spring testing is underway. Please encourage your students to do their best. Remember to ask them how they did, and encourage good brain performance with outdoor activities, a good night's rest and thoughtful nutrition.
Sixth graders moving to middle school must have their booster shots, and any records requested, (updated parenting plans, contact information, birth certificates etc.) to Christy before May 20th. They will have orientation day at Castle Rock and class registration coming up in April and May.
Out of area attendance requests should also be in by the end of the school year. I will make decisions on those requests the second week of August.
Please feel free to call if you need more information.
Sincerely,
John English
Principal
Bitterroot School
englishj@billingsschools.org
406-281-6205
It is springtime already and time to begin planning for next school year. If you have a kindergarten student starting in the fall it is time to get them registered with Christy in the main office. We are still figuring out if we will have enough space for all our kindergartners here next fall so please get them registered early to insure your place in the building here at Bitterroot.
If you would like to have input in the process we use to make classroom placements we need your letter by May 22nd. A short note indicating the educationally significant reason(s) you are making a request for a particular teacher will be taken into consideration by the team making those decisions.
Spring testing is underway. Please encourage your students to do their best. Remember to ask them how they did, and encourage good brain performance with outdoor activities, a good night's rest and thoughtful nutrition.
Sixth graders moving to middle school must have their booster shots, and any records requested, (updated parenting plans, contact information, birth certificates etc.) to Christy before May 20th. They will have orientation day at Castle Rock and class registration coming up in April and May.
Out of area attendance requests should also be in by the end of the school year. I will make decisions on those requests the second week of August.
Please feel free to call if you need more information.
Sincerely,
John English
Principal
Bitterroot School
englishj@billingsschools.org
406-281-6205
Sunday, May 3, 2015
It's May
Mark you calendars!
May 28-Field Trip to Riverfront Park-9:30-1:30- We will be exploring the pond habitat and playing outdoor games. Would you like to help? I still need 5 volunteers to meet us at Riverfront Park this day. Unfortunately, siblings and other children may not come. It is a great trip and the kids love it!
May 29- Field day- This is a fun morning for K-3 with a lot of outdoor games. Would you like to volunteer to take our first grade class around to each game? It will be from 9:20-10:50. I need 1 more volunteers for this event. However, siblings and non-school age kids are not allowed to come with you since you will be supervising our little firsties.
We will be doing our AIMSWeb reading and math assessments this week. Please make sure your kids gets plenty of rest and has a good breakfast before coming to school this week. Assessments are much tougher for hungry and tired kids.
This is our last week of Lead 21. We will be wrapping up our unit about habitats. This is also our last week of spelling. Please be sure to help your child study each night.
In math we will be learning how to tell time to the hour and half hour.
Thank you to the parents who sent snack. We now have enough to make it through the year.
Please make sure to pay any negative balances on your child's lunch account. The lunchroom will not accept any more lunch charges after May 1st. So please make sure you child has money in their account.
May 28-Field Trip to Riverfront Park-9:30-1:30- We will be exploring the pond habitat and playing outdoor games. Would you like to help? I still need 5 volunteers to meet us at Riverfront Park this day. Unfortunately, siblings and other children may not come. It is a great trip and the kids love it!
May 29- Field day- This is a fun morning for K-3 with a lot of outdoor games. Would you like to volunteer to take our first grade class around to each game? It will be from 9:20-10:50. I need 1 more volunteers for this event. However, siblings and non-school age kids are not allowed to come with you since you will be supervising our little firsties.
We will be doing our AIMSWeb reading and math assessments this week. Please make sure your kids gets plenty of rest and has a good breakfast before coming to school this week. Assessments are much tougher for hungry and tired kids.
This is our last week of Lead 21. We will be wrapping up our unit about habitats. This is also our last week of spelling. Please be sure to help your child study each night.
In math we will be learning how to tell time to the hour and half hour.
Thank you to the parents who sent snack. We now have enough to make it through the year.
Please make sure to pay any negative balances on your child's lunch account. The lunchroom will not accept any more lunch charges after May 1st. So please make sure you child has money in their account.
Friday, April 24, 2015
Dear Bitterroot Families,
Thank you for your generous support of the November 2013 school bond. You made it possible for some long overdue repairs and updates to our 50 year old building. This summer our school is getting new windows, lighting, ceilings, and room heating units. With this great blessing comes the challenge that we have to be completely moved out of the building by June 8th. It is a huge task so we have decided as a staff to “eat the elephant one bite at a time”. As a result, you may find things like bulletin boards and books are being packed in your child’s classroom on an ongoing basis. During this time we will be looking for educationally sound opportunities that give staff some time to pack but keep students engaged in positive learning activities. There may be a grade level PE event out on the playground or a movie in the gym. We will keep you informed as these opportunities arise. Thank you for your patience. It will be a little pinch for a big gain.
Gratefully,
John English
Principal, Bitterroot School
No school Friday, May 1.
We are continuing learning about habitats in Lead 21. We have learned so many facts in reading groups about grasslands, oceans, forests, and deserts. The kids have been very engaged throughout this unit!
In math we will be wrapping up our money unit. This week we will introduce the quarter and continue to work on counting money.
Mark your calendars!
May 28-Field Trip to Riverfront Park-9:30-1:30- We will be exploring the pond habitat and playing outdoor games. Would you like to help? I need 5 volunteers to meet us at Riverfront Park this day. Unfortunately, siblings and other children not in our class may not come. It is a great trip and the kids love it!
May 29- Field day- This is a fun morning for K-3 with a lot of outdoor games. Would you like to volunteer to take our first grade class around to each game? It will be from 9:20-10:50. I need 2 volunteers for this event. However, siblings and non-school age kids are not allowed to come with you since you will be supervising our little firsties.
Have a great weekend!
Monday, April 20, 2015
We finally have a 5 day week! It seems like it has been forever since we have had a full week. Hopefully we can survive.
We have a new student. His name is Kris. We now have 22 students.
Thank you to the parent volunteers and those who donated items and time for the classroom carnival. The kids had a blast.
Thank you to those of you who brought snack. First graders are starving by the afternoon especially when they play hard in this nice recess weather!
Our first grade "moo-sical" will be on May 22 at 1:15. We hope to see you there!
We will continue learning about habitats. The students are really enjoying this unit and are very engaged. They have lots of great questions about the different habitats. Spelling is another toughie. Please help your child study at home.
We will continue to work on money in math. We will be working with the penny, nickel, and dime.
We have a new student. His name is Kris. We now have 22 students.
Thank you to the parent volunteers and those who donated items and time for the classroom carnival. The kids had a blast.
Thank you to those of you who brought snack. First graders are starving by the afternoon especially when they play hard in this nice recess weather!
Our first grade "moo-sical" will be on May 22 at 1:15. We hope to see you there!
We will continue learning about habitats. The students are really enjoying this unit and are very engaged. They have lots of great questions about the different habitats. Spelling is another toughie. Please help your child study at home.
We will continue to work on money in math. We will be working with the penny, nickel, and dime.
Friday, April 10, 2015
Short week!
NO SCHOOL MONDAY, APRIL 13. Teacher training
The school carnival is Friday, April 17. If you would like to help with the duck pond, we still have a few slots open. Hope you can make it! If you would like to donate to our theme basket, PTA is taking donations through Tuesday. Games and puzzles is our theme or you can make a cash donation.
If you have not yet returned your picture packet or purchase envelope, please do so ASAP. Thanks!
We begin a new unit this week in Lead 21. We will be learning about habitats and discovering what is needed to make a perfect place to live. Spelling is tough this week. Please make sure you help your child study.
In math, we are starting to learn about money. We will be working with the penny, nickel, and dime this week.
Congrats to Lola and Ryleigh for winning the Bobcat Award!
See you Tuesday!
The school carnival is Friday, April 17. If you would like to help with the duck pond, we still have a few slots open. Hope you can make it! If you would like to donate to our theme basket, PTA is taking donations through Tuesday. Games and puzzles is our theme or you can make a cash donation.
If you have not yet returned your picture packet or purchase envelope, please do so ASAP. Thanks!
We begin a new unit this week in Lead 21. We will be learning about habitats and discovering what is needed to make a perfect place to live. Spelling is tough this week. Please make sure you help your child study.
In math, we are starting to learn about money. We will be working with the penny, nickel, and dime this week.
Congrats to Lola and Ryleigh for winning the Bobcat Award!
See you Tuesday!
Monday, April 6, 2015
Report Cards!
It is going to be cold this week! We had a few kids without the proper gear and they didn't enjoy recess much.
I have had one parent bring snacks for the class. We will be out soon.
Report cards go home on Tuesday. Please remember to praise your child for their successes in the third quarter. They worked very hard. I still can't believe how fast this year has gone. Only one quarter left.
Thank you to the parents who have volunteered to help with the duck pond. We could still use some volunteers. We are needing one person to help from 7:00-7:30 and one person to help from 7:30-8:00. Please email me if you can help.
We will begin our final week of our history unit in Lead 21. We will be wrapping up and reviewing what history can teach us and also discussing what we can learn about our communities from stories of the past. In reading groups we will be reading about famous women in history.
We will continue geometry in math. We will be learning about attributes of shapes. We will also continue with fractions and splitting shapes into halves and quarters.
I have had one parent bring snacks for the class. We will be out soon.
Report cards go home on Tuesday. Please remember to praise your child for their successes in the third quarter. They worked very hard. I still can't believe how fast this year has gone. Only one quarter left.
Thank you to the parents who have volunteered to help with the duck pond. We could still use some volunteers. We are needing one person to help from 7:00-7:30 and one person to help from 7:30-8:00. Please email me if you can help.
We will begin our final week of our history unit in Lead 21. We will be wrapping up and reviewing what history can teach us and also discussing what we can learn about our communities from stories of the past. In reading groups we will be reading about famous women in history.
We will continue geometry in math. We will be learning about attributes of shapes. We will also continue with fractions and splitting shapes into halves and quarters.
Tuesday, March 31, 2015
Sun and Fun
What a great week of weather! It looks like it could get hot enough that you may even want to put some sunscreen on your child this week. Make sure that they come with it on or can reapply it themselves.
This week we will continue with our history unit in Lead 21. We will be focusing on what we can learn from amazing people. Even though it is a short week we will be having a spelling test on Thursday. This test can be hard for them. A little extra practice will help.
In math, we will continue with geometry. We are moving away from solid figures and onto plane shapes. The class is having lots of fun with geometry.
We are still very low on snacks. If you have time to pick up an extra box of crackers I know the kids would appreciate it.
Our annual classroom carnival is coming up on Friday, April 17. All proceeds go directly to the classes that participate. First grade uses their money for field trips, to bring in special presentations, etc. First grade is in charge of the duck pond. We are in need of some parent volunteers to help run our booth. We are asking that you work a minimum of 30 minutes, but you are certainly welcome to work longer. If you are available to help out at the duck pond please email me at martinw@billingsschools.org. We appreciate your help!
We will have noon dismissal on Thursday. No school on Friday or Monday. School resumes on Tuesday, April 7.
Have a great week and safe travels to those who will be traveling over the holiday weekend.
This week we will continue with our history unit in Lead 21. We will be focusing on what we can learn from amazing people. Even though it is a short week we will be having a spelling test on Thursday. This test can be hard for them. A little extra practice will help.
In math, we will continue with geometry. We are moving away from solid figures and onto plane shapes. The class is having lots of fun with geometry.
We are still very low on snacks. If you have time to pick up an extra box of crackers I know the kids would appreciate it.
Our annual classroom carnival is coming up on Friday, April 17. All proceeds go directly to the classes that participate. First grade uses their money for field trips, to bring in special presentations, etc. First grade is in charge of the duck pond. We are in need of some parent volunteers to help run our booth. We are asking that you work a minimum of 30 minutes, but you are certainly welcome to work longer. If you are available to help out at the duck pond please email me at martinw@billingsschools.org. We appreciate your help!
We will have noon dismissal on Thursday. No school on Friday or Monday. School resumes on Tuesday, April 7.
Have a great week and safe travels to those who will be traveling over the holiday weekend.
Friday, March 20, 2015
No School and SNACKS!
There is no school Monday, March 23.
Our snack supply is very, very, low. We are down to 1/2 box of Cherrios, 1 bag of goldfish, and a few animal crackers. Make sure it something that the whole class can share and doesn't need to be refrigerated. Thanks!
Our annual classroom carnival is coming up on Friday, April 17. All proceeds go directly to the classes that participate. First grade uses their money for field trips, to bring in special presentations, etc. First grade is in charge of the duck pond. We are in need of some parent volunteers to help run our booth. We are asking that you work a minimum of 30 minutes, but you are certainly welcome to work longer. If you are available to help out at the duck pond please email me at martinw@billingsschools.org. We appreciate your help!
We finished up our 3rd quarter assessments last week. The kiddos did absolutely amazing on their assessments. I am so proud of them.
We will be starting our new reading groups on Tuesday. We will continue to learn about history in Lead 21. The focus for this week is "Why do we tell stories from long ago". We will be making a family tradition quilt on Friday. If your child has not returned their homework from last week, My Family's Special Day, they need to have it back by Friday to participate in making the quilt.
I love 4th quarter math! It is very hands on and the students have so much fun learning the skills. We are starting off with geometry and working with geometric solids this week.
Have a fun weekend!
Our snack supply is very, very, low. We are down to 1/2 box of Cherrios, 1 bag of goldfish, and a few animal crackers. Make sure it something that the whole class can share and doesn't need to be refrigerated. Thanks!
Our annual classroom carnival is coming up on Friday, April 17. All proceeds go directly to the classes that participate. First grade uses their money for field trips, to bring in special presentations, etc. First grade is in charge of the duck pond. We are in need of some parent volunteers to help run our booth. We are asking that you work a minimum of 30 minutes, but you are certainly welcome to work longer. If you are available to help out at the duck pond please email me at martinw@billingsschools.org. We appreciate your help!
We finished up our 3rd quarter assessments last week. The kiddos did absolutely amazing on their assessments. I am so proud of them.
We will be starting our new reading groups on Tuesday. We will continue to learn about history in Lead 21. The focus for this week is "Why do we tell stories from long ago". We will be making a family tradition quilt on Friday. If your child has not returned their homework from last week, My Family's Special Day, they need to have it back by Friday to participate in making the quilt.
I love 4th quarter math! It is very hands on and the students have so much fun learning the skills. We are starting off with geometry and working with geometric solids this week.
Have a fun weekend!
Monday, March 16, 2015
SNOW, SUN, SNOW????
We are going to have crazy weather week. Make sure your kids are prepared for recess.
Tuesday is St. Patrick's Day. Hopefully, we will have a very green class.
It's that time of year again...time for reading and math assessments.
We will not have reading groups or spelling because of the reading assessment.
We will also be completing our third quarter math assessments.
I am excited to see their growth in both math and reading. They have worked very hard this quarter and I know they will do a wonderful job on their assessments!
Please make sure your child is getting plenty of sleep and a good breakfast this week.
Make it a great week!
Tuesday is St. Patrick's Day. Hopefully, we will have a very green class.
It's that time of year again...time for reading and math assessments.
We will not have reading groups or spelling because of the reading assessment.
We will also be completing our third quarter math assessments.
I am excited to see their growth in both math and reading. They have worked very hard this quarter and I know they will do a wonderful job on their assessments!
Please make sure your child is getting plenty of sleep and a good breakfast this week.
Make it a great week!
Sunday, March 8, 2015
Congratulations!
SPRING FORWARD! Remember Daylight Savings begins on Sunday, March 8. Be sure to move your clocks forward an hour. I guess we will see how tired we are missing that extra hour of sleep. Try really hard to keep your first graders bedtime. As it gets lighter out at night, it seems to be harder to convince them that it REALLY is bedtime. Then getting them up in the morning is pure agony!
Congratulations to Dalton and Lola! They were the two top readers in our class for the read-a-thon. They each received a 64-pack of crayons and a $10.00 gift certificate to Scholastic Book Clubs. Way to go! I am so impressed with how much our class read. My favorite thing about first grade is seeing your children flourish into competent readers.
We will begin unit 5 in Lead 21 this week. Our focus this unit is "What history can teach us". The first week focuses on family history. The students will have homework this unit about their family traditions and special days. We will be working on plurals and adding -es in spelling.
I will be out of town Wednesday-Sunday. My son was chosen to attend The First Tee 2015 Outstanding Participant & Leadership Summit in Dallas. He was 1 of 28 participants chosen nationally. I am very excited for him. Miss Lind will be my guest teacher. She is the same one who covered for me earlier this year. I should have access to email if you need to reach me.
The weather is suppose to be in the 60's this week. Please make sure your child has a jacket available even if it seems warm. Sometimes, it is still in the 30's & 40's when we go out for morning recess. Also, the wind often comes up and it gets chilly! Thanks for your support.
Have a wonderful week!
Congratulations to Dalton and Lola! They were the two top readers in our class for the read-a-thon. They each received a 64-pack of crayons and a $10.00 gift certificate to Scholastic Book Clubs. Way to go! I am so impressed with how much our class read. My favorite thing about first grade is seeing your children flourish into competent readers.
We will begin unit 5 in Lead 21 this week. Our focus this unit is "What history can teach us". The first week focuses on family history. The students will have homework this unit about their family traditions and special days. We will be working on plurals and adding -es in spelling.
I will be out of town Wednesday-Sunday. My son was chosen to attend The First Tee 2015 Outstanding Participant & Leadership Summit in Dallas. He was 1 of 28 participants chosen nationally. I am very excited for him. Miss Lind will be my guest teacher. She is the same one who covered for me earlier this year. I should have access to email if you need to reach me.
The weather is suppose to be in the 60's this week. Please make sure your child has a jacket available even if it seems warm. Sometimes, it is still in the 30's & 40's when we go out for morning recess. Also, the wind often comes up and it gets chilly! Thanks for your support.
Have a wonderful week!
Sunday, March 1, 2015
March is here!
Wow! I am so proud of the amount of reading our class did for the read-a-thon. For all of our reading, we were able to travel into 7 books and everyone received a compass! The kids were so much fun to watch while they played and explored with their compasses! We will be having our read-a-thon celebration assembly on Friday. Awards for top readers will be handed out and lots of fun will be had! A huge thank you to those that donated! All proceeds will be going to the Bitterroot library.
This week is supposed to be pretty cold. Please make sure your child brings their coat. We have had some very cold first graders at recess because they are only bringing sweatshirts. BRR!
Monday is Dr. Seuss' birthday! We will be doing some fun activities throughout the month to celebrate Mr. Seuss.
We will be wrapping up unit 4 in Lead 21. This means we will be reviewing the different comprehension and vocabulary skills we learned in this unit. We will also be revisiting the books we read throughout the unit. Our spelling for the week focuses on long i.
This week in math we will be working on 10 more 10 less and subtracting multiples of 10. These are some tough skills and take lots of practice.
In writing, we will continue to write opinion pieces.
Have a great week!
This week is supposed to be pretty cold. Please make sure your child brings their coat. We have had some very cold first graders at recess because they are only bringing sweatshirts. BRR!
Monday is Dr. Seuss' birthday! We will be doing some fun activities throughout the month to celebrate Mr. Seuss.
We will be wrapping up unit 4 in Lead 21. This means we will be reviewing the different comprehension and vocabulary skills we learned in this unit. We will also be revisiting the books we read throughout the unit. Our spelling for the week focuses on long i.
This week in math we will be working on 10 more 10 less and subtracting multiples of 10. These are some tough skills and take lots of practice.
In writing, we will continue to write opinion pieces.
Have a great week!
Monday, February 23, 2015
READ, READ, READ!
Can you believe we are in the last week of February? Hopefully March will bring some warm weather.
The kids have been reading a ton for the read-a-thon. We are currently in 1st place as of Friday. This year it is a close race and with a little extra reading from everyone we can keep the lead! It is really important that everyone participates. Reading will be this weeks homework. Besides the prizes awarded by the PTA, we will also have some classroom prizes.
We are supposed to have some cold weather later in the week. Please make sure your child is dressed appropriately. Shorts and sweatshirts are not warm enough in this weather!
This week we are learning why we must protect Earth and its natural treasures. We will also be learning a few new comprehension strategies, visualizing and drawing conclusions. The kids will get lots of practice with these new comprehension strategies in reading groups.
In math, we are continuing 10 more and 10 less. We will also learn how to subtract multiples of 10.
In writing, we will be working on stating our opinion with two supporting facts and a closing sentence.
We have a special presentation from the Lions Club on Friday. They will be teaching us about the flag.
The kids have been reading a ton for the read-a-thon. We are currently in 1st place as of Friday. This year it is a close race and with a little extra reading from everyone we can keep the lead! It is really important that everyone participates. Reading will be this weeks homework. Besides the prizes awarded by the PTA, we will also have some classroom prizes.
We are supposed to have some cold weather later in the week. Please make sure your child is dressed appropriately. Shorts and sweatshirts are not warm enough in this weather!
This week we are learning why we must protect Earth and its natural treasures. We will also be learning a few new comprehension strategies, visualizing and drawing conclusions. The kids will get lots of practice with these new comprehension strategies in reading groups.
In math, we are continuing 10 more and 10 less. We will also learn how to subtract multiples of 10.
In writing, we will be working on stating our opinion with two supporting facts and a closing sentence.
We have a special presentation from the Lions Club on Friday. They will be teaching us about the flag.
Monday, February 16, 2015
I hope you enjoyed the few extra days off with your kids.
Thank you so much to the parents who donated food and drinks for our Valentine's party. The kids had a great time!
Mr. English is back from his training. A big thanks to Mrs. Hardgrove for filling in for him.
We will get back to learning about Earth's natural treasures in reading this week. We will be learning about the different ways we use Earth's natural treasures.
In math we will continue with 10 more and 10 less and continue to work on counting and writing to 130.
The read-a-thon will start the 18th and end the 27th. The kids will be bring home information Wednesday after the assembly.
Have a fantastic week!
Thank you so much to the parents who donated food and drinks for our Valentine's party. The kids had a great time!
Mr. English is back from his training. A big thanks to Mrs. Hardgrove for filling in for him.
We will get back to learning about Earth's natural treasures in reading this week. We will be learning about the different ways we use Earth's natural treasures.
In math we will continue with 10 more and 10 less and continue to work on counting and writing to 130.
The read-a-thon will start the 18th and end the 27th. The kids will be bring home information Wednesday after the assembly.
Have a fantastic week!
Sunday, February 8, 2015
Short Week
The students will be dismissed at noon on Thursday, February 12. There is no school on Friday, February 13 or Monday, February 16.
We will be having our Valentine's Day party on Thursday, February 12. If you are able to send a healthy snack for the class please let me know. Don't forget to send your child's Valentines cards before Thursday!
We will not be having reading groups or a spelling test this week. We will be working on some close reads about Valentine's Day and dental health.
In math, we will continue to work on writing numbers 100-120. We will also begin 10 more and 10 less of a number.
Have a great week!
We will be having our Valentine's Day party on Thursday, February 12. If you are able to send a healthy snack for the class please let me know. Don't forget to send your child's Valentines cards before Thursday!
We will not be having reading groups or a spelling test this week. We will be working on some close reads about Valentine's Day and dental health.
In math, we will continue to work on writing numbers 100-120. We will also begin 10 more and 10 less of a number.
Have a great week!
Monday, February 2, 2015
Valentines Day
We will be having a Valentine’s Day party on Thursday, February 12th. The kids will exchange Valentine cards and have some fun. Please make sure your child has a card for every student in the class. I encourage you to have your child address the cards. You may bring the Valentine cards any time between February 9th and the 12th.
Since our Valentines party is on a half day and the kids are generally starving, I would love for our class to have some healthy snacks (cheese and crackers, veggie and fruit tray, juice boxes, etc.) as part of our party. Please email me if you would like to contribute. We will also need paper plates and napkins. Please, please, please do not bring any extra sweets like cupcakes or cookies!
Here is a list of students and teachers:
Aaliyah Takeem Hanna
Kimberly Tony Hayden
Ryleigh Matthew Akyle
Dalton Nicoli Mrs. Martin
Zander Eliken Grandma Barb
Jenalynn Lydia Helper Angel
Sumalee Lola Ms. Hughs
Kelsey Taylor Mrs. Dimock
Allie Trinity
Since our Valentines party is on a half day and the kids are generally starving, I would love for our class to have some healthy snacks (cheese and crackers, veggie and fruit tray, juice boxes, etc.) as part of our party. Please email me if you would like to contribute. We will also need paper plates and napkins. Please, please, please do not bring any extra sweets like cupcakes or cookies!
Here is a list of students and teachers:
Aaliyah Takeem Hanna
Kimberly Tony Hayden
Ryleigh Matthew Akyle
Dalton Nicoli Mrs. Martin
Zander Eliken Grandma Barb
Jenalynn Lydia Helper Angel
Sumalee Lola Ms. Hughs
Kelsey Taylor Mrs. Dimock
Allie Trinity
Sunday, February 1, 2015
Tuesday is the 100th day of school. Please make sure your child has brought their 100 items for 100th Day Stew. We have some fun activities planned that day.
We are starting a new Lead 21 unit. We will be learning about Earth's natural treasures. Our theme question for the unit is, "How do we use and keep Earth's treasures?" Our focus question for the week is, "What are Earth's natural treasures?" Our comprehension strategies for the week are making connections and identifying cause and effect.
This is one of the toughest weeks for spelling. We will be working with er, ir, ur words. Er, ir, and ur make the same sound, so it's just memorization. Please be sure to do some extra practice this week!
In math, we will be working on counting and writing numbers 100-120. We will also be playing 100 tic-tac-toe and a 10s and 1s game!
A FUN MATH GAME
2-Card Top It
This game works best as a 2-player game, but you can play with more. You will need a deck of playing cards. Take out the 10s, jacks, queens, kings, and aces. Deal out the remaining cards. Don't look at the cards. Each player flips over the top 2 cards on their deck. Make the largest number with your 2 cards. For example, if you flipped over a 2 and 9 you could make 29 or 92. The player with the largest number gets the cards, but the have to say _____ is greater than _______. If they do not say which number is greater the other player gets the cards! Continue playing until one player runs out of cards.
There is also a greater than less than game under the math heading on the blog. Keep practicing Xtra math and RAZ kids. It is unbelievable how much growth the kids make when they make this a habit.
Hope your Super Bowl Sunday was enjoyable!
We are starting a new Lead 21 unit. We will be learning about Earth's natural treasures. Our theme question for the unit is, "How do we use and keep Earth's treasures?" Our focus question for the week is, "What are Earth's natural treasures?" Our comprehension strategies for the week are making connections and identifying cause and effect.
This is one of the toughest weeks for spelling. We will be working with er, ir, ur words. Er, ir, and ur make the same sound, so it's just memorization. Please be sure to do some extra practice this week!
In math, we will be working on counting and writing numbers 100-120. We will also be playing 100 tic-tac-toe and a 10s and 1s game!
A FUN MATH GAME
2-Card Top It
This game works best as a 2-player game, but you can play with more. You will need a deck of playing cards. Take out the 10s, jacks, queens, kings, and aces. Deal out the remaining cards. Don't look at the cards. Each player flips over the top 2 cards on their deck. Make the largest number with your 2 cards. For example, if you flipped over a 2 and 9 you could make 29 or 92. The player with the largest number gets the cards, but the have to say _____ is greater than _______. If they do not say which number is greater the other player gets the cards! Continue playing until one player runs out of cards.
There is also a greater than less than game under the math heading on the blog. Keep practicing Xtra math and RAZ kids. It is unbelievable how much growth the kids make when they make this a habit.
Hope your Super Bowl Sunday was enjoyable!
Sunday, January 25, 2015
What Beautiful Weather!
So the weather is going to be fabulous this week! I am guessing the kids are gonna get kinda soggy so make sure they have boots or they will need to stay on the blacktop.
If you have not returned your child's report card envelope, please do so next week. Also, green folders and homework are due the following Tuesday. I stuff folders Tuesday night. If they are not there Tuesday night they are considered late.
This is our final week learning about communities. Our focus question is, "Do we have everything we need in a community?" With how much we have learned about communities I think this will be an easy question for the students to answer!
In math, we will continue to work on 10s and 1s. We will also introduce greater than, less than, and equal to. We will also introduce the symbols that represent those phrases <, >, =.
On February 3, we will celebrate the 100th day of school. For homework, each child needs to gather 100 of one edible item to be added to our 100-day stew(trail mix) . Each child should count the items at home and bring them to school in a gallon size or smaller Ziploc bag to share and display. Please help your child by making 10 piles of 10 items and then counting by 10 to reach 100.
Examples of items brought in previous years:
Candy hearts goldfish
Small marshmallows gumdrops
Pretzels M&M’s
Skittles Fruit Loops
Wheat Thins Hershey kisses
Graham sticks circle soup crackers
Cheerios gummy bears
Please feel to bring them anytime between now and February 3.
If you want to start the search for Valentine cards, go for it. We have 20 students in our class. I will put up a list of names on the blog when the time gets closer. We will have our Valentines Day party of the 12th so you can start bringing their cards on February 9.
Don't forget Science Night is Friday, January 30 from 6:00-7:30. This will be a very fun event! I hope you can make it!
If you have not returned your child's report card envelope, please do so next week. Also, green folders and homework are due the following Tuesday. I stuff folders Tuesday night. If they are not there Tuesday night they are considered late.
This is our final week learning about communities. Our focus question is, "Do we have everything we need in a community?" With how much we have learned about communities I think this will be an easy question for the students to answer!
In math, we will continue to work on 10s and 1s. We will also introduce greater than, less than, and equal to. We will also introduce the symbols that represent those phrases <, >, =.
On February 3, we will celebrate the 100th day of school. For homework, each child needs to gather 100 of one edible item to be added to our 100-day stew(trail mix) . Each child should count the items at home and bring them to school in a gallon size or smaller Ziploc bag to share and display. Please help your child by making 10 piles of 10 items and then counting by 10 to reach 100.
Examples of items brought in previous years:
Candy hearts goldfish
Small marshmallows gumdrops
Pretzels M&M’s
Skittles Fruit Loops
Wheat Thins Hershey kisses
Graham sticks circle soup crackers
Cheerios gummy bears
Please feel to bring them anytime between now and February 3.
If you want to start the search for Valentine cards, go for it. We have 20 students in our class. I will put up a list of names on the blog when the time gets closer. We will have our Valentines Day party of the 12th so you can start bringing their cards on February 9.
Don't forget Science Night is Friday, January 30 from 6:00-7:30. This will be a very fun event! I hope you can make it!
Tuesday, January 20, 2015
Folders and reports cards Thursday
Green folders will go home on Thursday this week instead of Wednesday. Your child's report card can be found in their green folder. Please be careful when reviewing your report card with your child. Focus on improvements even if they are small. Try to help them set some reasonable and attainable goals for next quarter.
Thanks to those of you who brought snacks. If you have not brought snacks yet, we should be good for a couple of weeks so just bring them when you can.
The time of Science Night has changed. It will be from 6:00-7:30 on Friday, January 30. PTA is still looking for helpers for this event. You do not need to have any science background to volunteer. Shifts are from 6:00-6:45 and 6:45-7:30. There is a link to the PTA on the right side of the blog. Last year, the kids loved this event! I am sure it is going to be even better this year!
Now that we are done with our assessments, we are back to our normal reading schedule. We are still learning about communities. This week we are focusing on neighbors and how they play together.
In spelling, we are working on words that contain ch, tch, and wh. Please practice the spelling words with your kiddos. It makes such a huge difference in their success.
In math, we are continuing place value. This is a very important concept. We will spend all of 3rd quarter focusing on place value. This week we will still be using rods (10s) and units (1s) to represent two-digit numbers. We will also continue to become more familiar with the 100s chart and writing numbers 1-100.
Thanks to those of you who brought snacks. If you have not brought snacks yet, we should be good for a couple of weeks so just bring them when you can.
The time of Science Night has changed. It will be from 6:00-7:30 on Friday, January 30. PTA is still looking for helpers for this event. You do not need to have any science background to volunteer. Shifts are from 6:00-6:45 and 6:45-7:30. There is a link to the PTA on the right side of the blog. Last year, the kids loved this event! I am sure it is going to be even better this year!
Now that we are done with our assessments, we are back to our normal reading schedule. We are still learning about communities. This week we are focusing on neighbors and how they play together.
In spelling, we are working on words that contain ch, tch, and wh. Please practice the spelling words with your kiddos. It makes such a huge difference in their success.
In math, we are continuing place value. This is a very important concept. We will spend all of 3rd quarter focusing on place value. This week we will still be using rods (10s) and units (1s) to represent two-digit numbers. We will also continue to become more familiar with the 100s chart and writing numbers 1-100.
Have a great week!
Sunday, January 11, 2015
We need snacks!
Well we survived the first week back after break! It's always tough getting back into the school routine after having a few weeks off.
We are still in need of snacks. The students really look forward to that snack at the end of the day. I don't know how but they seem to be starving in the afternoon. Thanks!
Can you believe second quarter ends on Friday? That means we are half way through the year! This year is going so fast.
Please make sure your child is dressed for the weather this week. It's supposed to be fairly warm for this time of year so we are planning on being able to go out for morning walk and recesses. Also, make sure your child's mittens, hats, snow pants, scarves, etc. are labeled with their name or initials.
We will not be doing reading groups this week. Instead we will be completing a few reading assessments. I am excited to see how much the student's reading levels have increased this quarter. We have some great readers in class. We will be having a spelling test on Friday.
In math we are going to continue learning about place value. The students will be introduced to rods and units to help understand 10s and 1s. They will also learn that the numbers in a 2 digit number represent 10s and 1s.
We are still in need of snacks. The students really look forward to that snack at the end of the day. I don't know how but they seem to be starving in the afternoon. Thanks!
Can you believe second quarter ends on Friday? That means we are half way through the year! This year is going so fast.
Please make sure your child is dressed for the weather this week. It's supposed to be fairly warm for this time of year so we are planning on being able to go out for morning walk and recesses. Also, make sure your child's mittens, hats, snow pants, scarves, etc. are labeled with their name or initials.
We will not be doing reading groups this week. Instead we will be completing a few reading assessments. I am excited to see how much the student's reading levels have increased this quarter. We have some great readers in class. We will be having a spelling test on Friday.
In math we are going to continue learning about place value. The students will be introduced to rods and units to help understand 10s and 1s. They will also learn that the numbers in a 2 digit number represent 10s and 1s.
Sunday, January 4, 2015
Happy New Year!
I hope everyone enjoyed the break. I know I did, but I am ready for school to start back up and see the kids.
We are going to get right back on schedule. In Lead 21, we will continue Unit 3 which focuses on Social Studies "In My Neighborhood". Students explore the concept of neighborhood as a place where people interact socially and contribute economically.
In math, we will continue assessing skills taught this quarter. We will be starting to learn more about 10's and 1's. Keep practicing Xtra Math! I love seeing the updates and how your child is progressing. Those that practice at least a couple times a week are much further ahead than their peers. Keep up the great work!
In writing, we will be focusing on writing our opinion, supporting it with two facts, and having a sense of closure.
Remember kids need all their snow clothes (snow pants, snow boots, winter jacket, hat, and gloves) to be allowed to play in the snow. If they come unprepared, then they have to stay on the blacktop and that is not very fun. Also, remember to pack tennis shoes for PE. This allows them to participate safely and it is also part of their grade.
Have a great week!
Wishing you well!
We are going to get right back on schedule. In Lead 21, we will continue Unit 3 which focuses on Social Studies "In My Neighborhood". Students explore the concept of neighborhood as a place where people interact socially and contribute economically.
In math, we will continue assessing skills taught this quarter. We will be starting to learn more about 10's and 1's. Keep practicing Xtra Math! I love seeing the updates and how your child is progressing. Those that practice at least a couple times a week are much further ahead than their peers. Keep up the great work!
In writing, we will be focusing on writing our opinion, supporting it with two facts, and having a sense of closure.
Remember kids need all their snow clothes (snow pants, snow boots, winter jacket, hat, and gloves) to be allowed to play in the snow. If they come unprepared, then they have to stay on the blacktop and that is not very fun. Also, remember to pack tennis shoes for PE. This allows them to participate safely and it is also part of their grade.
Have a great week!
Wishing you well!
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