Happy New Year! It was a strange first week back with a shortened week, early dismissal, and a two hour delay. However, we did our best to get back into our normal routine. Here is a look at what we did this week:
This week we began topic 7: factors and multiples. It was a real test of our multiplication fact knowledge. Please keep working on basic multiplication and division facts with your child if they are weak in this area. These skills are embedded in everything we teach this year. We had a chance to work on our Chromebook this week to practice some of these skills online An assessment will be given next Wednesday (1/10) on these concepts.
This week in small group, we continued working on cause and effect skills by reading stories about King Tut and following recipes. We are also practicing our RADD (restate, answer, detail, detail) strategy with short written responses. The students are really improving.
In writing, we wrote some resolutions for 2018. They really thought hard about what they would like to improve upon and came up with some pretty impressive projects. Look for these in our hallway if you're visiting!
We started a new topic in social studies this week. We discussed the first European explorers that reached North America and New York. We had a lot of fun learning interesting facts about each explorer and creating passports for each one. Next week we will begin learning about the first Dutch settlement in Albany.
With a new year comes a few friendly reminders. Please be sure that your child has everything they need to be their best each day. These things include a healthy snack, snow pants and boots, and missing school supplies. We took an inventory on supplies that some students were missing and a checklist was attached to your child's agenda if they are in need of new supplies. Thank you for your support! Please remember that the children go outside each day that the temperatures are above 20 degrees.
In closing, I would like to thank you all for your understanding about canceling our holiday hot cocoa and cookie party. I understand many of you did a lot of prep-work and organizing to help make this party a success. Your efforts do not go unnoticed. However, the teachers felt as though a party after vacation would prevent us from getting back to a normal routine after our long break. Your hot cocoa money that was sent in will be saved and used for our Valentine's Day party.
Also, I am overwhelmed and grateful for all of the very generous and thoughtful cards, notes, and gifts this holiday season. Your unexpected generosity is so very much appreciated. I hope you all stay warm this weekend.
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out.
- Mrs. Kusche