Well here we are at the last day of September already! The month has flown by, and October is likely to race by even more quickly, what with holidays and 3 Pro-D Days!
Today began with RW, and the students continued with their Literature Study of 'Henry and the Clubhouse'. They are finishing the questions to do with Chapter 3 now.
Afterwards they did their Spelling pre-test (words can be found on the Spelling page), and were so relieved to see that this week's memory verse is much shorter than the last two. :)
They enjoyed an indoor game of soccer for DPA, then had recess.
During WW we talked about using our senses in writing, focusing this time on words to do with colour. Each student was paired with another and worked on words that are a certain colour (i.e. blue - blueberries, water, ocean, sky, etc.). Ask your child what colour he or she worked on and the words they came up wtih.
Then we had Math, and many students had corrections to do from last week's work. Some have this for homework if they didn't manage to complete it in class.
We had a fun Science class this afternoon, where we learned about the difference between the speed of light and the speed of sound. Ask the students about our experiment and what they learned (it involved a whistle and we went outside).
Then, what they had all been waiting for, we finally had our B.U.G. draw! The students were thrilled to discover that the grand prize was a pizza B.U.G. lunch with me on Friday. I will contact the parents of those children who will be joining me Friday so that they are in the loop.
Friday is also a school spirit day, meaning that the children can wear Fall colours in lieu of their uniform if they bring $1 which will go towards the middle school missions trip later this year.
Monday, September 30, 2013
Friday, September 27, 2013
September 27,2013
Sorry for the late post today! We are celebrating my daughter's ninth birthday this afternoon so it's busy busy busy! As they swim at the pool I figured I'd update you on what went down in Grade 3/4 today.
We started the day with the start of a new component to Reading Workshop; Guided Reading groups. The children are grouped in groups of 3-4 students and are working together on reading a novel. Most of the reading will be done out loud which is a great opportunity for them to practice their fluency and expression. They will do group activities and projects based on their books as well as some individual comprehension work. Here are some photos from today's groups:
After recess the students had Math and they continued with their work on patterns. The Grade 4's are now working with a favorite program of mine called Math to the Max to build their confidence with this unit. The grade 3's will be starting it soon as well.
For WW today we talked about helping our readers hear what is happening in our writing. Ask them about some of the sound words we talked about today. We had a fun time reading an extensive list of them.
Then off to the lab for some typing practice. Most of the students are very consistent about keeping their hands on the home row which is major progress.
After lunch we had Science and we did an interesting experiment about sound and what materials block sound and which don't. Ask your child what he or she discovered about this topic.
The students ended their day with PE with a special guest teacher - Mr. Morrow! I hope they had a blast.
I can't figure out how to update the homework page from my phone but the only work this weekend is overdue work and the Spelling Worksheet for Unit #4.
Have a wonderful weekend everyone!
Thursday, September 26, 2013
September 26, 2013 - Terry Fox Run!
We started this morning with Bible, and we used the block to discuss Terry Fox, and the Christ-like personality traits that he exemplified in his effort to run across Canada. We also worked on our memory verse in anticipation of the test tomorrow, as it's a doozy!
For Handwriting the Grade 3 students worked on printing G, H, I, and J, and the 4's focused on the letter A in cursive.
In Grammar today we discussed words that are spelled the same but have different meanings (pound, wind, etc.), and prefixes.
Then the students had 20 minutes to catch up on work that wasn't complete yet.
After Recess we had the Terry Fox Run which was lots of fun and the weather couldn't have been better! The students understood the person and cause they were running for which made it even more meaningful for them.
This was followed up with Math. The Grade 4's finished the 'Show What You Know' section on patterns while the 3's worked with me on decreasing patterns again. We also did another math drill. Next month we're going on to subtraction drills. Please feel free to search for math drills online to work on at home with your child as this will increase their memory for their basic facts which is essential for success in mathematics.
We had Art in the afternoon and the students who weren't finished their Initial paintings worked on those, and the remainder of the class worked on their Social Studies culture posters.
We ended the day with Chapel (we learned an awesome new worship song - find the video here - that the kids loved).
For Handwriting the Grade 3 students worked on printing G, H, I, and J, and the 4's focused on the letter A in cursive.
In Grammar today we discussed words that are spelled the same but have different meanings (pound, wind, etc.), and prefixes.
Then the students had 20 minutes to catch up on work that wasn't complete yet.
After Recess we had the Terry Fox Run which was lots of fun and the weather couldn't have been better! The students understood the person and cause they were running for which made it even more meaningful for them.
This was followed up with Math. The Grade 4's finished the 'Show What You Know' section on patterns while the 3's worked with me on decreasing patterns again. We also did another math drill. Next month we're going on to subtraction drills. Please feel free to search for math drills online to work on at home with your child as this will increase their memory for their basic facts which is essential for success in mathematics.
We had Art in the afternoon and the students who weren't finished their Initial paintings worked on those, and the remainder of the class worked on their Social Studies culture posters.
We ended the day with Chapel (we learned an awesome new worship song - find the video here - that the kids loved).
Wednesday, September 25, 2013
September 25, 2013
Today is our simple day - not a lot of different subjects combined with early dismissal. We started with Writing Workshop, and continued working on writing strong sentences using adjectives, verbs and nouns, as well as prepositions. The students also tried writing sentences with an -ing verb to start (Soaring through the sky, the eagle spotted a mouse.). Then we also discussed sensory sentences, which are sentences that we, as the reader, feel like we can hear, smell, taste, touch or see what's being described.
During Reading Workshop we continued with Matilda and then went on to Ch. 3 of Henry and the Clubhouse with some children completing Ch. 2 corrections.
After Recess we had Math, and we continued pushing through the Patterns unit. This is a struggle for many of the students, but we'll keep practicing and hopefully everyone will feel confident with it soon.
Then the students had P.E. and P.O.W. with Mr. Banmann.
After lunch we had S.S. and continued with the topic 'Getting Along'. We started work on 'All About Me' posters, where the students are going to describe their culture and traditions for the rest of the class. You can help at home by talking about some of your family's culture and traditions that they could include on their poster.
During Reading Workshop we continued with Matilda and then went on to Ch. 3 of Henry and the Clubhouse with some children completing Ch. 2 corrections.
After Recess we had Math, and we continued pushing through the Patterns unit. This is a struggle for many of the students, but we'll keep practicing and hopefully everyone will feel confident with it soon.
Then the students had P.E. and P.O.W. with Mr. Banmann.
After lunch we had S.S. and continued with the topic 'Getting Along'. We started work on 'All About Me' posters, where the students are going to describe their culture and traditions for the rest of the class. You can help at home by talking about some of your family's culture and traditions that they could include on their poster.
Tuesday, September 24, 2013
September 24, 2013
Tuesdays always start with Bible, and today was no different. Ask your child about the "field trip" we took today (it wasn't far), and more importantly, what the point of our excursion was.
For Reading Workshop we continued with Matilda by Roald Dahl, and then had Independent Reading.
During Writing Workshop today we talked about powerful sentences. Ask your child to come up with a verb, a noun and an adjective (random is great!) and then create a sentence using those words. We also used prepositions in our sentences, but I called them "Position Words" with the students. They should be able to give you a noun - verb - position word - noun sentence such as (The dog jumped over the car.)
After Recess the students had Music, which was followed by Math. The Grade 4's have come to the end of their text section on Patterns, which means I will provide some enrichment work for them now from other resources to further develop their understanding. The Grade 3's are nearing the end of their text section, working today with more decreasing patterns.
After Lunch we had S.S., and today each student received their own textbook. The topic was 'Getting Along', and to demonstrate that we knew how to get along, each student was paired with another to do a reading and question and answer activity.
For Reading Workshop we continued with Matilda by Roald Dahl, and then had Independent Reading.
During Writing Workshop today we talked about powerful sentences. Ask your child to come up with a verb, a noun and an adjective (random is great!) and then create a sentence using those words. We also used prepositions in our sentences, but I called them "Position Words" with the students. They should be able to give you a noun - verb - position word - noun sentence such as (The dog jumped over the car.)
After Recess the students had Music, which was followed by Math. The Grade 4's have come to the end of their text section on Patterns, which means I will provide some enrichment work for them now from other resources to further develop their understanding. The Grade 3's are nearing the end of their text section, working today with more decreasing patterns.
After Lunch we had S.S., and today each student received their own textbook. The topic was 'Getting Along', and to demonstrate that we knew how to get along, each student was paired with another to do a reading and question and answer activity.
It's wonderful to see these students working so well together. :)
The students finished their day with Library and P.E.
Have a wonderful evening!
The students finished their day with Library and P.E.
Have a wonderful evening!
Monday, September 23, 2013
September 23, 2013
We had a busy, busy day today, but accomplished a lot! We started with Reading Workshop, where the students continued with our literature study, Henry and the Clubhouse. They should now be reading Chapter 3, if not finished reading it.
The new Spelling words are posted, along with some super words that the children are expected to study as well. This week's memory verse is another long one. I promised the students next week's would be shorter. :)
Before recess we had a game of soccer, and then afterwards we went on to Writing Workshop, where the focus of the lesson was on using precise verbs, descriptive words, and avoiding VBO's (Vague, Boring and Overused words, such as good, nice, sad, bad, big, small, etc.)
During Math, the students are continuing to work on their patterning skills. The 4's were doing some pre-algebra work today (ask them about it!), and the 3's were using snap cubes to make decreasing patterns.
After lunch we had Science, and did a couple of experiments which demonstrated sound waves. Ask your kids about our failed glass experiment, as well as our successful slinky experiment.
I led chapel today, and we talked about the importance of obeying God, and what to do when we disobey Him, our teacher, our leaders, our parents, and our coaches.
The new Spelling words are posted, along with some super words that the children are expected to study as well. This week's memory verse is another long one. I promised the students next week's would be shorter. :)
Before recess we had a game of soccer, and then afterwards we went on to Writing Workshop, where the focus of the lesson was on using precise verbs, descriptive words, and avoiding VBO's (Vague, Boring and Overused words, such as good, nice, sad, bad, big, small, etc.)
During Math, the students are continuing to work on their patterning skills. The 4's were doing some pre-algebra work today (ask them about it!), and the 3's were using snap cubes to make decreasing patterns.
After lunch we had Science, and did a couple of experiments which demonstrated sound waves. Ask your kids about our failed glass experiment, as well as our successful slinky experiment.
I led chapel today, and we talked about the importance of obeying God, and what to do when we disobey Him, our teacher, our leaders, our parents, and our coaches.
Friday, September 20, 2013
September 20, 2013
Mrs. Everett started the day with devotions, and then I administered the Spelling Test and memory verse test afterwards. We followed this with Reading Workshop, where the students continued on their work with Henry and the Clubhouse.
During Math, the Grade 3 students used snap cubes to study decreasing (shrinking) patterns, and the Grade 4's played a game with pattern blocks.
For Writing Workshop today, we learned about complete sentences, and everyone hopefully understood that each sentence needs a subject and a verb (a 'who' and a 'what'). Give your child an example of an incomplete sentence and see if they can fix it this weekend!
The students are loving using All the Right Type, and we spent 20 minutes on it today during Computers. I'm emphasizing the importance of keeping their fingers on the home row of the keyboard, which is proving to be challenging for many!
After lunch we had Science, and continued our work with the decibel meter, walking around the school and finding loud and quiet sound sources (making predictions and then recording our results).
The children ended the day with P.E. with Mr. Banman.
Have a wonderful weekend everyone! We'll see you next in Autumn! :)
During Math, the Grade 3 students used snap cubes to study decreasing (shrinking) patterns, and the Grade 4's played a game with pattern blocks.
For Writing Workshop today, we learned about complete sentences, and everyone hopefully understood that each sentence needs a subject and a verb (a 'who' and a 'what'). Give your child an example of an incomplete sentence and see if they can fix it this weekend!
The students are loving using All the Right Type, and we spent 20 minutes on it today during Computers. I'm emphasizing the importance of keeping their fingers on the home row of the keyboard, which is proving to be challenging for many!
After lunch we had Science, and continued our work with the decibel meter, walking around the school and finding loud and quiet sound sources (making predictions and then recording our results).
The children ended the day with P.E. with Mr. Banman.
Have a wonderful weekend everyone! We'll see you next in Autumn! :)
Thursday, September 19, 2013
September 19, 2013 - Bee + Classroom = Mayhem!
What a fun day we had today! We started with an opening exercise, and then moved on to Bible. We've mastered (or almost mastered) the first 6 books of the Bible now. Please quiz your child on these any time (Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy, Joshua) to help it stick in their minds. We also talked and wrote about how to build a strong mind, body and spirit.
During Handwriting, the Grade 3's worked on their printed C's, D's, E's and F', while the 4's worked primarily with cursive A.
For Writing Workshop today we focused on homonyms (words that sound the same but mean something different - ie. their/they're/there).
The children had Library and Music, as well as DPA (with Mrs. Everett) today too.
Math today was further work with patterns for Grade 3 (ask them about the towers of pattern blocks we worked with), and the Grade 4's continued with solving and creating equations.
We finished the day with Art, and today we tied in our Math unit of patterns into our art assignment, which was to create a bubble/block letter of the first initial from our name, and then fill it in using a horizontal line pattern with watercolours. We had a buzzing visitor in our classroom during Art, which led to some chaos, but eventually I put on my super hero cape and trapped the bee in the garbage bag. We've left a note for the custodian to NOT open the bag!
I've also installed All the Right Type on our classroom computer, so early finishers have an opportunity to work on their writing skills. I've set up an account for each student in our class, so they will continue to improve their typing rather than starting over each time. I look forward to seeing how well they're doing!
We had a blast in Chapel today singing Pharoah, Pharoah, and Gonna Jump Up and Down, as well as I've Got Peace Like a River. I love worshiping with the kids - it's a highlight of my week. :) If you have any songs your child really enjoys that you feel would be a great fit for chapel, please comment below! Fresh music is always welcome!
During Handwriting, the Grade 3's worked on their printed C's, D's, E's and F', while the 4's worked primarily with cursive A.
For Writing Workshop today we focused on homonyms (words that sound the same but mean something different - ie. their/they're/there).
The children had Library and Music, as well as DPA (with Mrs. Everett) today too.
Math today was further work with patterns for Grade 3 (ask them about the towers of pattern blocks we worked with), and the Grade 4's continued with solving and creating equations.
We finished the day with Art, and today we tied in our Math unit of patterns into our art assignment, which was to create a bubble/block letter of the first initial from our name, and then fill it in using a horizontal line pattern with watercolours. We had a buzzing visitor in our classroom during Art, which led to some chaos, but eventually I put on my super hero cape and trapped the bee in the garbage bag. We've left a note for the custodian to NOT open the bag!
I've also installed All the Right Type on our classroom computer, so early finishers have an opportunity to work on their writing skills. I've set up an account for each student in our class, so they will continue to improve their typing rather than starting over each time. I look forward to seeing how well they're doing!
Here's a photo of Kylie trying our ATRT.
We had a blast in Chapel today singing Pharoah, Pharoah, and Gonna Jump Up and Down, as well as I've Got Peace Like a River. I love worshiping with the kids - it's a highlight of my week. :) If you have any songs your child really enjoys that you feel would be a great fit for chapel, please comment below! Fresh music is always welcome!
Wednesday, September 18, 2013
September 18 - POW x 2
The kids were very chatty about the schedule today, as Wednesdays are quite minimal when it comes to the actual subjects taught (quantity, not quality, rest assured!). They thought it was going to be a super short day!
We started today with something new, called Opening Exercises. I wrote a phrase on the board with eight errors in it, and the children were to rewrite it, correcting as many errors as they could find. This will focus on grammar, spelling and punctuation. I will take them in every Friday.
During WW we talked about narrowing our focus once we've chosen a topic to write about. Ask your child about the topic he/she narrowed their focus on this morning. Then those who weren't finished their Bio Poems continued working on them.
For RW today the children read the second chapter of 'Henry and the Clubhouse' and then started working on the three worksheets associated with chapter 2.
During Math, the Grade 3's finished page 17 (patterns in 100 charts), and then started some extra practice using pattern blocks to create their own patterns and extend patterns. The Grade 4's finished writing word problems to solve equations, and created their own equations using numbers and symbols provided (15,4,(mystery number), = + -). Then they went on to do an activity with dice where we rolled the dice (virtual dice because I couldn't find any in time!), then created a quotient using the two numbers we rolled, then found two factors of that quotient to create a multiplication sentence.
Then the students had P.E. with Mr. Banman and P.O.W. as well. Have they told you about P.O.W.? Last week's was quite challenging, but today's was easier. They needed to sort a variety of vehicles based on similar attributes.
We finished the day with Social Studies, finally making it to the first chapter of our textbook, which is all about 'Getting Along', a topic that is useful for every one of us to review!
Have a wonderful afternoon!
We started today with something new, called Opening Exercises. I wrote a phrase on the board with eight errors in it, and the children were to rewrite it, correcting as many errors as they could find. This will focus on grammar, spelling and punctuation. I will take them in every Friday.
During WW we talked about narrowing our focus once we've chosen a topic to write about. Ask your child about the topic he/she narrowed their focus on this morning. Then those who weren't finished their Bio Poems continued working on them.
For RW today the children read the second chapter of 'Henry and the Clubhouse' and then started working on the three worksheets associated with chapter 2.
During Math, the Grade 3's finished page 17 (patterns in 100 charts), and then started some extra practice using pattern blocks to create their own patterns and extend patterns. The Grade 4's finished writing word problems to solve equations, and created their own equations using numbers and symbols provided (15,4,(mystery number), = + -). Then they went on to do an activity with dice where we rolled the dice (virtual dice because I couldn't find any in time!), then created a quotient using the two numbers we rolled, then found two factors of that quotient to create a multiplication sentence.
Then the students had P.E. with Mr. Banman and P.O.W. as well. Have they told you about P.O.W.? Last week's was quite challenging, but today's was easier. They needed to sort a variety of vehicles based on similar attributes.
We finished the day with Social Studies, finally making it to the first chapter of our textbook, which is all about 'Getting Along', a topic that is useful for every one of us to review!
Have a wonderful afternoon!
Tuesday, September 17, 2013
September 17
We started the day continuing with our bible topic of Matthew 7:24-27 (the wise and the foolish builder). The children have a solid understanding of a parable, the Rock, and building plans, and how these relate to this story in the Bible. We've also started our list of the books of the Bible, starting with Genesis, Exodus and Leviticus.
For Reading Workshop today, the students completed their last assignment for Chapter 1, writing a summary of events from the chapter.
In Math, the students continued working with patterns. The Grade 3's are making patterns using a 100 chart, and the 4's were creating addition and subtraction equations using patterns and mental math. I want to be sure to let you know how well the students are doing overall with their math drills! There has been a significant improvement over the past 2 weeks!
We spent Writing Workshop discussing how books can trigger ideas in our minds, and I read 'The Relatives Came' by Cynthia Rylant. The students had so many ideas and created an Idea List in their Writer's Notebooks, and then did a short write on one of their topics. Many complained when I said they had to put their work away! It was so great to see them excited to write!
The children had Music between Recess and Lunch as well.
After Lunch we went on to Social Studies, and we finished up our mapping assignment. Then we went on to check out our textbooks for the first time.
The students ended the day with Library and then P.E.
Photos were handed out at the end of the day, which are due back by September 24th. Scholastic book orders were sent home today as well.
For Reading Workshop today, the students completed their last assignment for Chapter 1, writing a summary of events from the chapter.
In Math, the students continued working with patterns. The Grade 3's are making patterns using a 100 chart, and the 4's were creating addition and subtraction equations using patterns and mental math. I want to be sure to let you know how well the students are doing overall with their math drills! There has been a significant improvement over the past 2 weeks!
We spent Writing Workshop discussing how books can trigger ideas in our minds, and I read 'The Relatives Came' by Cynthia Rylant. The students had so many ideas and created an Idea List in their Writer's Notebooks, and then did a short write on one of their topics. Many complained when I said they had to put their work away! It was so great to see them excited to write!
The children had Music between Recess and Lunch as well.
After Lunch we went on to Social Studies, and we finished up our mapping assignment. Then we went on to check out our textbooks for the first time.
The students ended the day with Library and then P.E.
Photos were handed out at the end of the day, which are due back by September 24th. Scholastic book orders were sent home today as well.
Monday, September 16, 2013
September 16, 2013
Our first indoor day today, which many of the children were excited about. Finally a chance to play the games in our classroom!
We started with Reading Workshop for the 3's, who had silent reading and then continued working on their literature study. The 4's worked with me on Math, and have some homework if they didn't complete the work in class.
Then we had our Spelling Pre-Test, which most of the students did very well on. Each child also has a worksheet based on the words that they'll need to have done by Friday. You can find the spelling words and memory verse on the link on the homepage.
For DPA we played a fun version of tag called Pacman Tag. Ask your child about it :)
After recess we had Writing Workshop and each student created a heart map. This is a way to organize their ideas, and they've glued them into their Writer's Notebooks for safe-keeping and reference later.
Then the 4's had Reading Workshop while the 3's worked with me in Math, continuing on with patterns. We just started on finding patterns in a 100 chart when the bell went for lunch. To be continued next class!
After lunch we had Science, and continued working with the decibel meter, noticing how the intensity of sound changes based on how near or far you are to the object producing the sound. If you have an iPad, check out the app called 'Decibal 10th', which is a pretty cool app that we've been using in class.
We filled out our planners and then headed off to Chapel, and that ended our day. It's good to be back at school - a fresh week, a new start, and praising God for this day.
Here's a funny photo taken in Math class...Avery was attracting the trapezoids!
We started with Reading Workshop for the 3's, who had silent reading and then continued working on their literature study. The 4's worked with me on Math, and have some homework if they didn't complete the work in class.
Then we had our Spelling Pre-Test, which most of the students did very well on. Each child also has a worksheet based on the words that they'll need to have done by Friday. You can find the spelling words and memory verse on the link on the homepage.
For DPA we played a fun version of tag called Pacman Tag. Ask your child about it :)
After recess we had Writing Workshop and each student created a heart map. This is a way to organize their ideas, and they've glued them into their Writer's Notebooks for safe-keeping and reference later.
Then the 4's had Reading Workshop while the 3's worked with me in Math, continuing on with patterns. We just started on finding patterns in a 100 chart when the bell went for lunch. To be continued next class!
After lunch we had Science, and continued working with the decibel meter, noticing how the intensity of sound changes based on how near or far you are to the object producing the sound. If you have an iPad, check out the app called 'Decibal 10th', which is a pretty cool app that we've been using in class.
We filled out our planners and then headed off to Chapel, and that ended our day. It's good to be back at school - a fresh week, a new start, and praising God for this day.
Here's a funny photo taken in Math class...Avery was attracting the trapezoids!
Friday, September 13, 2013
September 13
The students started their day with Mrs. Everett doing devotions and the Spelling Test and Memory Verse. This year they are expected to write out their memory verses.
Then the Grade 3's continued reading Henry and the Clubhouse and answering some questions about it. The Grade 4's worked with me on Math, building some patterns using the pattern blocks and answering questions about continuing patterns. After recess we swapped subjects.
Then we worked on our Bio Poems (some students are now done), and our Poetry Anthologies (for those who were done) for 20 minutes.
At that point we ventured off to the computer lab, where we started using All the Right Type. The students generally enjoyed this activity (a typing drill game) and we'll do it again next Friday. Word processing is such an essential skill these days, and this is a perfect age to acquire it.
After a beautifully sunny lunch play time, we continued with our Science experiments, this time making a xylophone (ask your child what we did!).
The students ended their day with P.E. with Mr. Banman.
Have a wonderful weekend! :)
Then the Grade 3's continued reading Henry and the Clubhouse and answering some questions about it. The Grade 4's worked with me on Math, building some patterns using the pattern blocks and answering questions about continuing patterns. After recess we swapped subjects.
Then we worked on our Bio Poems (some students are now done), and our Poetry Anthologies (for those who were done) for 20 minutes.
At that point we ventured off to the computer lab, where we started using All the Right Type. The students generally enjoyed this activity (a typing drill game) and we'll do it again next Friday. Word processing is such an essential skill these days, and this is a perfect age to acquire it.
After a beautifully sunny lunch play time, we continued with our Science experiments, this time making a xylophone (ask your child what we did!).
The students ended their day with P.E. with Mr. Banman.
Have a wonderful weekend! :)
Thursday, September 12, 2013
September 12 - First Handwriting Lesson!
We started the day continuing with our Bible lesson following the parable in Matthew 7:24-25 about the wise man who built his house on the rock, and discussing the importance of applying that to our lives.
Then we had our first handwriting class. This will give me a good idea of where everyone is at. The Grade 3's worked on printing and the 4's were working on cursive.
For Writing Workshop today we worked on our grammar books, with the focus being antonyms (does your child remember that an antonym is an opposite?).
The students then had a short library class which they'll have every Friday right before Recess.
I went off to teach French and our class had Music and DPA, and then we went into Math. I have noticed a significant improvement with most students on their Mad Minutes (one minute math drills) over the past week. They receive a sticker if they beat their best score, emphasizing the importance of them competing with themselves and no one else. Then we went on to continue our work in patterns with both grades.
After lunch on Thursdays is Art, and today we did portraits of a classmate. This proved to be quite challenging for many, but overall the children had an enjoyable time, especially looking at the finished products!
Then off to chapel, where Mrs. Bloch spoke about how unique each of us are (much like the zebras!), and read a book that is fresh in the mind's of our class, 'You Are Special' by Max Lucado (we read it on the first day).
Then we had our first handwriting class. This will give me a good idea of where everyone is at. The Grade 3's worked on printing and the 4's were working on cursive.
For Writing Workshop today we worked on our grammar books, with the focus being antonyms (does your child remember that an antonym is an opposite?).
The students then had a short library class which they'll have every Friday right before Recess.
I went off to teach French and our class had Music and DPA, and then we went into Math. I have noticed a significant improvement with most students on their Mad Minutes (one minute math drills) over the past week. They receive a sticker if they beat their best score, emphasizing the importance of them competing with themselves and no one else. Then we went on to continue our work in patterns with both grades.
After lunch on Thursdays is Art, and today we did portraits of a classmate. This proved to be quite challenging for many, but overall the children had an enjoyable time, especially looking at the finished products!
Then off to chapel, where Mrs. Bloch spoke about how unique each of us are (much like the zebras!), and read a book that is fresh in the mind's of our class, 'You Are Special' by Max Lucado (we read it on the first day).
Wednesday, September 11, 2013
September 11 - Fire Drill
What an exciting day we had today! We started with writing workshop, and read a very interesting book called 'Thank You, Mr. Falker' by Patricia Polacco. Be sure to ask your child about the lessons they learned from it. This will lead into a lesson about the importance of writing about something that matters to you, and communicating that to your audience.
I introduced our new literature study to the students today in Reading Workshop. We'll be reading 'Henry and the Clubhouse'. Some of the reading will be done in class, some independently, and then the activities will be done in groups, pairs, and independently. For now, the children are reading to the end of Ch. 1.
We started Math using a geoboard app on my iPad, creating a variety of shapes and patterns. Then we had fun with a Math drill activity focusing on addition. In the middle of Math we had a fire drill which went very well.
Mr. Banman had the students for P.E. today (I forgot to tell you that they need their P.E. strip here Wednesdays as well, so Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday), and then he did P.O.W. (Problem of the Week from Math) with them too.
After lunch we had S.S. where we continued on our mapping, this time mapping the world, and Canada's rivers. Then it was time for planners and early dismissal. The day flew by!
I introduced our new literature study to the students today in Reading Workshop. We'll be reading 'Henry and the Clubhouse'. Some of the reading will be done in class, some independently, and then the activities will be done in groups, pairs, and independently. For now, the children are reading to the end of Ch. 1.
We started Math using a geoboard app on my iPad, creating a variety of shapes and patterns. Then we had fun with a Math drill activity focusing on addition. In the middle of Math we had a fire drill which went very well.
Mr. Banman had the students for P.E. today (I forgot to tell you that they need their P.E. strip here Wednesdays as well, so Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday), and then he did P.O.W. (Problem of the Week from Math) with them too.
After lunch we had S.S. where we continued on our mapping, this time mapping the world, and Canada's rivers. Then it was time for planners and early dismissal. The day flew by!
Tuesday, September 10, 2013
Sept 10 - photo day!
We also started Bible this morning, and will be working through the 'Building on the Rock' series, with our focus throughout the year being serving and buildling a relationship of harmony with others as we serve them in love. We'll also be learning the books of the Bible (or trying to anyway!) throughout our Bible class this year.
We had perfect weather for photo day today, allowing class photos to be taken outdoors. The whole class was present too, which is always wonderful for picture day.
Writing workshop today was spent working on our Bio Poems. The students now know about the writing process at the back of the classroom where they each have a sticky note with their name. They move through each of the stages of writing and I always know exactly where they're at based on where their name is.
The students had Music with Mr. Banman today, and then we went on to Math. We studied patterns using the geoboards which is always fun.
Today was our first Social Studies (S.S.) class as well! We are starting with a unit on mapping, and today spent some time with a map of Canada, writing down the provinces and territories. I emphasized the importance of neat, legible work with the students, particularly when it comes to mapping.
Library and P.E. were the subjects the students ended their day with.
I hope to see all of you tonight at 6 PM at the Meet the Teacher BBQ! Don't forget your $2 per person for food. :)
We had perfect weather for photo day today, allowing class photos to be taken outdoors. The whole class was present too, which is always wonderful for picture day.
Writing workshop today was spent working on our Bio Poems. The students now know about the writing process at the back of the classroom where they each have a sticky note with their name. They move through each of the stages of writing and I always know exactly where they're at based on where their name is.
The students had Music with Mr. Banman today, and then we went on to Math. We studied patterns using the geoboards which is always fun.
Today was our first Social Studies (S.S.) class as well! We are starting with a unit on mapping, and today spent some time with a map of Canada, writing down the provinces and territories. I emphasized the importance of neat, legible work with the students, particularly when it comes to mapping.
Library and P.E. were the subjects the students ended their day with.
I hope to see all of you tonight at 6 PM at the Meet the Teacher BBQ! Don't forget your $2 per person for food. :)
Monday, September 9, 2013
September 9th
Today was our smoothest day by far! Everyone's starting to get accustomed to the routines in our classroom and things are moving along.
We started the day with Reading Workshop, and I did a book talk about the Geronimo Stilton books. I've encouraged the children to recommend books to their classmates. They each have a place in our recommended books holder for these books. They are welcome to bring a book from home too, just make sure that their name is on the inside cover.
Then we had our first Spelling Pretest (see the link above for Spelling and Memory Verses), and if the students had any incorrectly spelled words they were to rewrite them twice. They also have a Spelling worksheet that they will be completing through the week as well as a memory verse that they will recite on Friday morning, right before the Spelling test.
After recess we had Writing Workshop (WW), and we read a great book by Lynne Perkins titled, "Pictures From Our Vacation". Ask your child about it! Then they went on to work on this week's journal entry about their vacation. The student's journals are not assessed for spelling or grammar or punctuation. I am simply looking for them to write, write, write and not worry about the "rules".
Then we had Math. I'm still working on the most effective way to teach Math to both grades and I almost have it mastered. Give us one more class and we'll be a fine-tuned machine, I'm certain! We continued our work with patterns today, with the Grade 4's working with a self-created Hundred Chart, and the Grade 3's working with grid paper.
After lunch it was time for Science, and we did a fun (albeit noisy!) experiment with sound. Be sure to ask your child about the balloons, and quiz them about what type of sound it was (explosion, vibration or blowing air).
We finished the day with Chapel, and Mrs. Everett led worship today. Have a wonderful evening everyone, and don't forget that it's picture day tomorrow and Meet the Teacher BBQ tomorrow night ($2 per person for the BBQ). I hope to see all of you there!
Some pictures of our Science experiment today...the fearless poppers...
and the timid observers!
We started the day with Reading Workshop, and I did a book talk about the Geronimo Stilton books. I've encouraged the children to recommend books to their classmates. They each have a place in our recommended books holder for these books. They are welcome to bring a book from home too, just make sure that their name is on the inside cover.
Then we had our first Spelling Pretest (see the link above for Spelling and Memory Verses), and if the students had any incorrectly spelled words they were to rewrite them twice. They also have a Spelling worksheet that they will be completing through the week as well as a memory verse that they will recite on Friday morning, right before the Spelling test.
After recess we had Writing Workshop (WW), and we read a great book by Lynne Perkins titled, "Pictures From Our Vacation". Ask your child about it! Then they went on to work on this week's journal entry about their vacation. The student's journals are not assessed for spelling or grammar or punctuation. I am simply looking for them to write, write, write and not worry about the "rules".
Then we had Math. I'm still working on the most effective way to teach Math to both grades and I almost have it mastered. Give us one more class and we'll be a fine-tuned machine, I'm certain! We continued our work with patterns today, with the Grade 4's working with a self-created Hundred Chart, and the Grade 3's working with grid paper.
After lunch it was time for Science, and we did a fun (albeit noisy!) experiment with sound. Be sure to ask your child about the balloons, and quiz them about what type of sound it was (explosion, vibration or blowing air).
We finished the day with Chapel, and Mrs. Everett led worship today. Have a wonderful evening everyone, and don't forget that it's picture day tomorrow and Meet the Teacher BBQ tomorrow night ($2 per person for the BBQ). I hope to see all of you there!
Some pictures of our Science experiment today...the fearless poppers...
Friday, September 6, 2013
September 6
It was another busy day today as we continue to work on routines and classroom management, along with starting some subjects. Mrs. Everett led devotions this morning, and then we had Reading Workshop (RW), where the students listened to a book talk and then did some Independent Reading (they are reading silently while I am conferring with individual students to discuss what they're reading, whether or not it's appropriate for their reading level, what they're enjoying about the book, and what they find challenging).
After recess we had Math, which was challenging as both grades were doing tough work at their grade levels. We are working on patterns right now, and the Grade 3's are using pattern blocks to do their activities. The Grade 4's are working with a hundreds chart.
Then we started a Bio Poem about ourselves, which we will publish in the next couple of weeks, and afterwards we ventured off to the computer lab. You can ask your child about it, but it ended up being a bit of a flop. By the time we got the computers started up, and discovered that the website I had hoped to use was not so useful, it was time to go outside for lunch! I promised them that next time will be more productive. I hope to do some word processing with the students in computers, as well as some typing practice.
After lunch we had Science, and started our unit on Light and Sound. The students made a quick cover page for this unit in their duotangs, and then we discussed where sound comes from using a drum, a whistle and a balloon. Be sure to ask your child about our experiments in class! They then completed a worksheet based on this activity.
The children ended their day with P.E., taught by Mr. Banman.
Have a wonderful weekend everyone, and I look forward to our first full week next week!
After recess we had Math, which was challenging as both grades were doing tough work at their grade levels. We are working on patterns right now, and the Grade 3's are using pattern blocks to do their activities. The Grade 4's are working with a hundreds chart.
Then we started a Bio Poem about ourselves, which we will publish in the next couple of weeks, and afterwards we ventured off to the computer lab. You can ask your child about it, but it ended up being a bit of a flop. By the time we got the computers started up, and discovered that the website I had hoped to use was not so useful, it was time to go outside for lunch! I promised them that next time will be more productive. I hope to do some word processing with the students in computers, as well as some typing practice.
After lunch we had Science, and started our unit on Light and Sound. The students made a quick cover page for this unit in their duotangs, and then we discussed where sound comes from using a drum, a whistle and a balloon. Be sure to ask your child about our experiments in class! They then completed a worksheet based on this activity.
The children ended their day with P.E., taught by Mr. Banman.
Have a wonderful weekend everyone, and I look forward to our first full week next week!
Thursday, September 5, 2013
September 5th
We're gradually getting into our regular schedule now, and today was jam-packed with activities. We started with our first Reading Workshop, and most of the time was spent reviewing the guidelines for Reading Workshop and working through a Reading Interview, where the students answered questions about their reading habits for me.
Then we went on to a goal-setting activity. The students wrote their most important goal for the year on a star, and then traced their arms and hands. You'll have to pop by and see our door for the finished product!
Typically we will have Library on Thursdays and Tuesdays but the librarians are still setting things up this week. Our first library block will be next Tuesday and the children are eager to check out a book!
After recess, the students got to enjoy a Music class with Mr. Banman, which will also take place every Thursday after recess. Then they had DPA with Mrs. Everett. This is the hour on Thursdays when I am teaching French in the middle school portable.
Just before lunch we finished our goal-setting activity, and the students listened along to our current read aloud, 'Judy Moody'. We finished the morning with our first Writing Workshop. Be sure to ask your child about their Writer's Notebooks which we started today. They will be used on a regular bases in class.
After lunch we had our first Math class! We did a 1 minute math drill to begin with, using addition. We'll likely start each Math class this way, just to reinforce the basic skills. Then the Grade 3's went on to working on a project about guessing a numeral based on clues, and the Grade 4's were doing some estimating and measuring of circumference and height. The classroom was buzzing with activity, and so much learning was taking place!
Then on to Art, which will happen every Thursday. Today we worked on a Fireworks project, which, once they're complete and dry, will be posted on the bulletin board in the hallway. Be sure to stop by and see them soon.
Tomorrow, Friday, is the day that I don't come in until 9AM. Mrs. Everett will be leading the students in a devotion during this time and will typically administer the Spelling Test, but that won't be happening tomorrow as we didn't have any Spelling words this week. I also will leave at 1:45, after Science. The students have P.E. for the last hour of the day with Mr. Banman, who will dismiss them. I will update the blog from home on Friday afternoon/evening so that you have up to date information for the weekend.
Again, if you have any questions or comments, please post them below. I love to know that someone is reading the blog!
Then we went on to a goal-setting activity. The students wrote their most important goal for the year on a star, and then traced their arms and hands. You'll have to pop by and see our door for the finished product!
Typically we will have Library on Thursdays and Tuesdays but the librarians are still setting things up this week. Our first library block will be next Tuesday and the children are eager to check out a book!
After recess, the students got to enjoy a Music class with Mr. Banman, which will also take place every Thursday after recess. Then they had DPA with Mrs. Everett. This is the hour on Thursdays when I am teaching French in the middle school portable.
Just before lunch we finished our goal-setting activity, and the students listened along to our current read aloud, 'Judy Moody'. We finished the morning with our first Writing Workshop. Be sure to ask your child about their Writer's Notebooks which we started today. They will be used on a regular bases in class.
After lunch we had our first Math class! We did a 1 minute math drill to begin with, using addition. We'll likely start each Math class this way, just to reinforce the basic skills. Then the Grade 3's went on to working on a project about guessing a numeral based on clues, and the Grade 4's were doing some estimating and measuring of circumference and height. The classroom was buzzing with activity, and so much learning was taking place!
Then on to Art, which will happen every Thursday. Today we worked on a Fireworks project, which, once they're complete and dry, will be posted on the bulletin board in the hallway. Be sure to stop by and see them soon.
Tomorrow, Friday, is the day that I don't come in until 9AM. Mrs. Everett will be leading the students in a devotion during this time and will typically administer the Spelling Test, but that won't be happening tomorrow as we didn't have any Spelling words this week. I also will leave at 1:45, after Science. The students have P.E. for the last hour of the day with Mr. Banman, who will dismiss them. I will update the blog from home on Friday afternoon/evening so that you have up to date information for the weekend.
Again, if you have any questions or comments, please post them below. I love to know that someone is reading the blog!
Wednesday, September 4, 2013
Wednesday, September 4th
What a busy day we had today in Grade 3/4! We took some individual photos, read some hilarious letters from last year's students, read Max Lucado's 'You Are Special' and started a Judy Moody book as a read aloud. The students also did a fair bit of writing today, with the topic being themselves. I saw some awesome work, and neat printing, which made me so proud of them!
Please remember Picture Day and the Meet the Teacher BBQ on September 10th!
Please remember Picture Day and the Meet the Teacher BBQ on September 10th!
Tuesday, September 3, 2013
First Half-Day Of Grade 3/4
Well, we made it! The first half day of Grade 3/4 is complete and the children all went out with smiles on their faces so I'd say it was a success.
Most of today was spent getting organized. We labeled our duotangs, exercise books, etc., and found a home for all the extra things. If your child was missing anything then they wrote what was missing on a yellow post-it note, which hopefully makes it home. Please ensure that they bring anything that was missing to school tomorrow.
We had a brief assembly today too, where Mr. Morrow welcomed everyone back to school. I mentioned in that assembly that I will be starting a drama club next Wednesday at lunch for students Gr. 4 and up who are interested.
Please complete the yellow handout your child brought home at the back of the newsletter and return it to school tomorrow. Also, please initial your child's planner.
I'm excited about the year ahead and the plans God has for this classroom. The students are eager to learn and I can't wait to start the journey with them.
Please feel free to comment below as to how your child felt today went - was it exciting for them? Too slow? Do they feel organized? Are they eager for tomorrow or nervous? If you have any questions at all, please feel free to post them here too, or if they are of a more private nature, feel free to email me anytime (kbergen@cascadechristian.ca).
Most of today was spent getting organized. We labeled our duotangs, exercise books, etc., and found a home for all the extra things. If your child was missing anything then they wrote what was missing on a yellow post-it note, which hopefully makes it home. Please ensure that they bring anything that was missing to school tomorrow.
We had a brief assembly today too, where Mr. Morrow welcomed everyone back to school. I mentioned in that assembly that I will be starting a drama club next Wednesday at lunch for students Gr. 4 and up who are interested.
Please complete the yellow handout your child brought home at the back of the newsletter and return it to school tomorrow. Also, please initial your child's planner.
I'm excited about the year ahead and the plans God has for this classroom. The students are eager to learn and I can't wait to start the journey with them.
Please feel free to comment below as to how your child felt today went - was it exciting for them? Too slow? Do they feel organized? Are they eager for tomorrow or nervous? If you have any questions at all, please feel free to post them here too, or if they are of a more private nature, feel free to email me anytime (kbergen@cascadechristian.ca).
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