Tuesday, May 28, 2013

X-Day May 28th

This morning we had lots of fun at Field Day!  We played many games and ate a few snacks.  This afternoon we silent read.  Then, we learned four cursive letters: T, F, J, and Q.  We also completed a geography packet.  Then, we went outside for extra recess day.  At the end of the day, we raffled off the Washington, D.C. projects and several random class projects as well. 

Please send an extra bag with your student tomorrow as we will be cleaning out our desks.

Friday, May 24, 2013

W-Day-May 24th

We had some Wacky Hair going on today!  Thanks for having fun with us and sending your child to school with wacky hair-dos! 

Today we learned about dental health.  We spent a good portion of the morning on a dental project and working in a dental packet.  We also had centers/guided reading.  This afternoon we had music and gym.  After, we added poems about the human body to our poetry binders. Please send them back to school on Tuesday!  We'd like to have some time to read our poems to each other next week!  Then, we took our final Science test on the human body and dental health.  At the end of the day, we learned the capital cursive letters I and X.

Have a wonderful Memorial Day weekend!

Thursday, May 23, 2013

V-Day-May 23rd

This morning we worked on our human body projects.  They are looking great!  The students also made organ flipbooks to study tonight for their test tomorrow.  They have two packets of information to study as well.  The "fun packet" can stay at home...it does not need to be returned.  We also had Book Buddies and we took our Social Studies test.  This afternoon we watched Roald Dahl's Charlie and the Chocolate Factory for V-Day.  The children enjoyed his exaggerated characters, as are in the book Matilda we read earlier this year.  At the end of the day, we finished the human body projects and read some books on the human body.

Tomorrow is Wacky Hair Day!!!!

Monday, May 20, 2013

S Day-May 20th

Today was Sidewalk Chalk Day!  We had a great time being creative with our drawings like Ali did in our story Cool Ali.  They looked great!

We covered a lot of Science today!  We reviewed last week's lesson on solids, liquids and gases.  Then, we learned about physical and chemical changes.  We explored with oil and water mixtures and how apples can be changed chemically when exposed to oxygen.  Tomorrow we will have a test on matter, solids, liquids and gases, and changes (chemical or physical).  In Social Studies we learned about landmarks in the United States and all over the world.  It was very interesting!  We will take our Social Studies test on Thursday of this week.  We took a math timed test and went to the computer lab this afternoon.

Tomorrow is T-Shirt Day!  Everyone should wear a T-Shirt to school.

Friday, May 17, 2013

R Day-May 17th

We have been so busy this week that I have not updated the blog!!!  Our field trip was a total success on Wednesday....the children had a wonderful time and learned many things about Science. 

Today we squeezed in a lot of things.  First, we worked in our ABC books.  Then, we reviewed contractions and completed our DLP. We went to the computer lab.  We took our Reading and tests.  Then, we had guided reading/centers.  This afternoon we read "Z is for Moose" to go along with our ABC Countdown Theme.  The children went to gym and music.  In Science, we learned about the three states of matter.  We are covering this unit very quickly.  There will be another Science test next Tuesday.  Talk about solids, liquids and gases at home.  Some students have a page of Science for homework over the weekend.

Monday, May 13, 2013

N Day-May 13th

We had fun wearing neckties and necklaces today!  In the beginning of the day we wrote about our weekends in our journals.  Then, we learned words with aw, au, augh.  We introduced our spelling words.  This will be our last week of Spelling due to Theme Testing next week.  We completed our DLP, talked about giving/following directions, and helping verbs.  Then, we learned the cursive letters H and M.  In Social Studies we started our last unit.  We learned about Ellis Island today.  If your family immigrated here through Ellis Island, please share your family history with your child!  In math, we learned how to find the area of a shape.  We also reviewed for our Geometry test tomorrow.  We do have homework to finish tonight.  In Science, we learned about Sound.  Mrs. Prieboy has been helping us teach the lesson on sound in music class.  We will have our test on heat, sound and light on Thursday.  We plan on seeing exhibits about all three at the Museum of Science and Industry on Wednesday.

We are changing pajama day to THURSDAY.  Please do not send your child to the museum in their pajamas on Wednesday!

Friday, May 10, 2013

M Day-May 10th

Today was Mystery Day!  First, we each wrote a mystery and shared some with the class.  We had to include characters, a setting, problem and solution.  Then, we had a mystery box.  Every half our the children received another clue as to what was in the box.  They wrote down their guesses based on the clues throughout the day.  At the end of the day it was a ????????????????????????????  Ask your child!

We reviewed words with ew and ui sounding like oo.  We completed our DLP and a contractions activity.  Then, we had centers/guided reading.  Some groups got to read books about Amelia Earhart.  They loved them!  We also took our Reading and Spelling test.  This afternoon, we went to gym and music.  Then, we presented our Native American dioramas.  They looked fabulous, as you saw last night.  We set up our Poetry Binders and turned in our book bags. 

Coming home to you this weekend is the last sheet of spelling/vocabulary words.  There will be no story the following week because we will be theme testing. 

Thanks to all who attending Celebration of Learning Night!  It really was a pleasure to show you all of the things we have been working on in class!  The children were so proud to show off their learning!

Thursday, May 9, 2013

L Day-May 9th

We cannot wait for you to see all the things we have prepared for Celebration of Learning Night tonight!  Please come to see all the great things we do at Wesley School tonight between 6 and 7:30! 

This morning we wrote letters for L Day.  Then, we reviewed our vocabulary and word wall words.  We practiced making predictions.  We made an airplane project to go with our story Ruth Law.  Then, we completed our DLP, did a contractions worksheet and a scavenger hunt as well.  We then took our Social Studies test.  This afternoon, we silent read.  Then, we did an experiment.  Ask your child what happens when you add heat to butter, chocolate and ice!  We had fun in the kitchen!  In math, we learned about fractions today.  We do have one page of math homework to complete. 

There will be a Reading and Spelling test tomorrow.  I look forward to seeing all of you tonight!

Tuesday, May 7, 2013

J Day-May 7th

This morning we wrote about flying airplanes in our journals.  Then, we reviewed words with over and un.  We did a Making Words activity.  Then, we introduced our vocabulary words.  We also talked about the reading strategy making predictions.  Then, we read our story about Ruth Law.  It is a non-fiction biography.  The students really enjoyed it.  After that we had art class.  This afternoon we read Poppy Pendle.  Then, we went to gym and music.  We took an AIMS-WEB Reading test.  In math, we learned how many faces, edges and vertices 3-D shapes have.  The students have one page of math homework.  At the end of the day, we worked on Jigsaw Puzzles.  Some students had great difficulty using strategies when putting together puzzles! Work on one as a family....it's fun! 

We will have a Social Studies test on Thursday.

Monday, May 6, 2013

I Day-May 6th

We read I-Spy books today!  It was fun searching with a partner for specific objects in our books!  During journal time, we worked on our ABC books and wrote about our weekends.  Then, we learned our phonics pattern of the week--prefixes over and un.  We introduced the spelling words and practiced them.  Then, we completed the DLP and talked about contractions.  In Social Studies, we analyzed timelines.  Then, we read about some famous Americans like Abraham Lincoln, Frederick Douglass, Harriet Tubman and Jackie Robinson.  It was quite fun!  We also watched a brainpop and short video clip about these people's lives.  This afternoon we took our Math MAP tests.  Then, we learned about 3D shapes.  We do have one page of math homework. 

Tomorrow, your child may bring a jigsaw puzzle to school for "J Day".  We will also be taking a Social Studies test on Thursday on Unit 5.  Spelling packets are due on Thursday, as usual.

Friday, May 3, 2013

H Day-May 3rd

In our half day, we squeezed in a whole lot of learning!  First, we wrote in our journals and worked in our ABC books.  Then, we reviewed present and past tense verbs.  We took our Spelling test and completed our DLP.  We had centers/guided reading.  We also took our Reading test.  Then, we learned the capital cursive letters C and D.  At the end of the morning, we watched a Magic School Bus video about Light to reinforce our Science lesson this week. 

The Poetry Binders were not sent home this weekend.  Enjoy!

Thursday, May 2, 2013

G Day-May 2

Thanks to all who wore green today!  Tomorrow is hat day.  This morning we worked on our class timelines.  Then, we practiced words containing this week's phonics pattern, talked about author's purpose, used vocabulary and word wall words, and completed our DLP.  Then, we read with our Book Buddies.  We had centers/guided reading.  Then, we learned more about timelines and started working on our individual ones.  After lunch, we learned more about light in Science and made something special for you to see on Celebration of Learning Night next Thursday.  In math, we worked on story problems with shapes.  Some students have math homework.

There will be a Reading and Spelling test tomorrow.  It is a half day for students.

Wednesday, May 1, 2013

F Day-May 1st

Today was flashlight day!  We learned a lot with our flashlights!  First, we read with a buddy in the dark.  Then, we read a lesson in Science about light.  We did an explore activity to see what happens when you shine a flashlight in a mirror.  Then, we made shadow puppets with the projector to see what happens when light is blocked.  Most students finished their lesson outline in class, but some need to finish for homework.  Thanks for helping us learn by sending in flashlights!

We also worked with our phonics pattern today, reviewed our vocabulary words, and re-read Dinosaurs Travel.  We completed a scavenger hunt and then went to the library.  Then, we had centers/guided reading.  In Social Studies, we learned about timelines.  We started making a class timeline before we start on our own timelines tomorrow.  In math, we learned how many sides and angles shapes have.  Most students have one page of math homework.

Tomorrow is G Day...please send your child to school in something GREEN tomorrow.

Tuesday, April 30, 2013

E Day-April 30th

Today was Exercise Day!  We had so much fun doing jumping jacks and playing Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes together!  Tomorrow the children can bring a flashlight as we will be reading in the dark. 

This morning after we shared our journals we reviewed our phonics pattern (ou, ough) and we did a Making Words activity with our spelling words.  We introduced the vocabulary words, talked about author's purpose, and read our story for this week Dinosaurs Travel.  Then, we went to art class.  This afternoon we read Poppy Pendle, went to music and gym class and then switched classes for math.  We introduced two dimensional shapes.  Most students have one page of math homework.

Don't forget that the timeline information is due tomorrow as we will be making timelines of events for each child's life.

Monday, April 29, 2013

D Day-April 29th

This morning we drew pictures of our favorite second grade memory for D Day.  It was fun to reflect back on our school year and the many things we have done!  Then, we worked on our ABC books.  We learned our phonics pattern of the week ou and ough.  We introduced the spelling words and practiced sorting them, too!  Then, we talked about writing how-to paragraphs and completed our DLP.  We talked about the present and past tense forms of go and do.  We learned our last lowercase cursive letters: v and z.  In Social Studies, we learned more about Lewis and Clark and their journey westward.  We watched a video clip about them, too.  We also learned about Sacagawea and her role in their success.  After lunch we took our MAP test for Reading.  We've made some great progress this year!  We took a timed test in math and introduced our new unit on Geometry.  At the end of the day, we learned our first two capital cursive letters.  It was a great day!  Tomorrow is excersize day...make sure to send your student to school in gym shoes if he/she does not have an extra pair here at school!

Friday, April 26, 2013

C Day-April 26th

Today was Compliment Day!  We wrote compliments to our friends and delivered them.  The smiles lasted a long time!  Then, we reviewed the prefixes re and pre.  We corrected our DLP and completed a grammar activity.  Then, we took our Spelling test.  Next, we had centers/guided reading.  Our Reading test was completed after that.  This afternoon we read Poppy Pendle.  Then, we went to gym/music.  We took our math test on measurement.  Next week we will start a Geometry unit.  At the end of the day, we looked at our plants....we have some seedlings!

Have a wonderful weekend!

Thursday, April 25, 2013

B Day---April 25th

Today I tested half the class to see what reading level they are now at....it is so exciting to see the progress the students have made this year!  Next week we will take MAP Tests again....more data to show the growth of our students! 

While I was testing the students wrote in their journals about life in the colonies.  Then, they did a phonics activity, reviewed the vocabulary words, and worked in a comprehension packet to go along with Beginner's World Atlas.  They completed their DLP and a grammar worksheet.  They also had centers/guided reading.  In Social Studies, they learned about Sacagewea and Lewis and Clark while discussing westward expansion.  This afternoon we got to read with a Buddy for B Day.  The students enjoyed it!  Then, we took our Science test and the children completed some Earth Day activities when they were finished.  At the end of the day, the children finished learning about measurement and we will be taking our test on this unit tomorrow.

There will be a Reading and Spelling test tomorrow.

Wednesday, April 24, 2013

Alphabet Countdown Day---A Day (April 24th)

Today we started an Alphabet Countdown to the last day of school.  For A Day, we made Alphabet books.  I am sending home a list of things we will do each day until the end of the year....starting with letters from A-Z.  We hope to have a little fun every day.  Some days we will need your help.  Please refer to that sheet daily.  Then, we finished reading the Beginner's World Atlas.  We talked about different types of maps and features of North America.  Then, we went to the library.  After, we had guided reading/centers.  In Social Studies, we read more about the first colonies and Paul Revere.  We read The Midnight Ride of Paul Revere, too.  After lunch, we read Poppy Pendle.  Then, we practiced and presented our Washington, D.C. paragraphs.  The students did a great job!  At the end of the day, we did an Explore Activity showing what would happen if water was polluted.  We also reviewed for the Science test and there are two pages of homework to help study.  The Science test will take place tomorrow.

Don't forget that Spelling Packets are due tomorrow as well! 

Tuesday, April 23, 2013

April 23rd

This morning after we wrote in and shared our journals, we reviewed words with oo.  Then, we did a Making Words activity.  After, we introduced this week's vocabulary words (the word "feature" is difficult!) and began talking about different reference materials.  We discussed the function of a dictionary, encyclopedia and an atlas.  We learned that an atlas is a book of maps.  This week, we will read about atlases.  Grades will be entered in both Reading and Social Studies.  We will finish reading the atlas tomorrow.  Then, we completed our DLP and went to art class.  This afternoon, we read more of Poppy Pendle.  Then we went to music and gym class.  In math, we learned how to measure with a number line.  Students needed to use their subtraction skills to help measure!  Most students do have homework. We will have a math test on measurement later this week.

There will be a Science test on Water Habitats on Thursday.  A sheet with pages to review was sent home with your child today along with his/her Science book.

Monday, April 22, 2013

Happy Earth Day!

Today we squeezed in as many Earth Day activities as we could!  First, we wrote paragraphs on how we can help the earth.  Then, we completed an ABC order activity that had a word search on the back.  Then, we learned our phonics pattern for this week and practiced sorting our spelling words.  We completed our DLP and talked about the present and past tense of the words come and run.  In Social Studies, we learned how to read History Maps.  Then, we learned about the 13 colonies and why the Declaration of Independence was written.  We read a short paragraph about the American Revolution, too. Then, we watched a video clip about the Declaration of Independence.  After lunch, we planted seeds for Earth Day!  It was a lot of fun!  We have a Grow Lab that we got as a grant so we thought we could do some experiments.  We will keep you posted with our progress.  In math, we learned how to related centimeters and meters.  We also went outside on a scavenger hunt to measure various things at Wesley School.  Most students do have math homework.  At the end of the day, we went to the computer lab.  It was a great day!

Friday, April 19, 2013

April 19th

What a crazy day!  We started with a program called Junior Achievement where a community worker comes in to teach the children about economics and assembly lines/unit production.  Your child has many handouts that were used in class.  Please talk about all of the sheets and have him/her explain to you what we did.  Then, in the afternoon we read more of Poppy Pendle.  Then, we went to gym and music.  At the end of the day we learned how to compare measurements by subtracting.  We also did some problem solving using measurement.  Some students have math homework. 

Because of the day we missed yesterday, we did not take a Reading test this week.  It wouldn't have been fair because the children did not have their books at home and missed a day of instruction due to the bad weather.  Hopefully the weather clears and it turns out to be a beautiful weekend!

Wednesday, April 17, 2013

April 17th

This morning we wrote non-ficiton Native American paragraphs in our journals.  Then, we re-read our story, Abuela, in small groups.  Then, we completed a Scavenger Hunt.  We visited the library.  Then, we had centers/guided reading.  In Social Studies, we re-read our lesson on the first colonies and watched a video clip about the first Thanksgiving.  After lunch, we finished our Washington, D.C. projects, chose what lines each student will present and practiced saying our lines.  Please practice at home with your child because we will be grading the students' presentations next week.  In math, we learned how to choose the correct tool to measure certain items.  Some students do have homework.

Spelling packets are due tomorrow!  Dioramas are due on Friday.

Tuesday, April 16, 2013

April 16th

This morning we wrote about what it would be like to fly.  Then, we reviewed words with -air and -are.  We introduced the vocabulary words and read the story Abuela.  We also talked about what happened in the beginning, middle and end of the story.  Then, we went to art class.  This afternoon, we read more of Poppy Pendle and made predictions about what we thought would happen next.  We went to music and gym class.  Then, we learned about meters in math class.  We used meter sticks to measure objects around the classroom.  We compared them to centimeters too.  Most students have math homework.

Don't forget that OPTIONAL Native American Dioramas are due on Friday.

Monday, April 15, 2013

April 15th

This morning we read a fantasy story and talked about elements that cannot happen in real life.  Then, we talked about words with -air and -are.  We completed a word sort and introduced our spelling words.  We also did a challenging alphabetical order activity.  We finished two sentences of DLP, talked about personal narratives and subject/verb agreement.  In Social Studies we read about three different colonies.  We took notes on St. Augustine, Jamestown and Plymouth.  Then, we watched a couple of short video clips on each colony.  This afternoon we silent read and set up our Book Bags.  In math, we learned about centimeters.  Tomorrow we will focus on measuring in meters.  Some students have math homework.  We took a timed test and then we went to the computer lab to work on Earth Day activities.  It was a great day.

Wednesday, April 10, 2013

April 10th

This morning we learned how Chinese food can be cooked in a wok.  Then, we re-read our story about Chinatown.  We reviewed our vocabulary words and our phonics pattern for this week.  We completed our DLP, too.  Then, we saw an amazing animal assembly that we be back at Wesley TONIGHT!  Every student got a pass with the information about tonight's show.  If you can, please come!  There is an entry fee.  In Social Studies, we made a chart showing information about three different Native American tribes.  There is one page of Social Studies homework.  Information was sent home today about an optional Native American project that will be due a week from Friday.  In Science, we learned about salt water habitats and the animals that live there.  We watched a video clip showing the layers of the ocean.  Some students need to finish a Science worksheet for homework.  In math, we continued to measure objects.  Today we compared their lengths.  Most students have homework.

I will be attending the Illinois Education Association's Conference tomorrow through Saturday so I will not be in class.  I have left detailed plans for the sub to follow and the students know my expectations.  I will see them again on Monday!

Tuesday, April 9, 2013

April 9th

We have been learning about Chinese culture this week!  We've talked about Chinese food, Chinese customs, and traditions, too.  It has been a lot of fun!  Our story this week is called Chinatown.  Those students who have visited Chinatown in Chicago have had a lot to add to our conversations!  If you have a wok at home, please show your child!  It was interesting to learn this morning that a lot of our classmates have never tried Chinese food!  We also did a Making Words activity, completed our DLP, and worked on a grammar activity.  Then, we went to art class.  This afternoon we went to gym and music.  Then, we learned to measure using rulers, yardsticks and measuring tapes.  Most students have one page of math homework.

Thursday, April 4, 2013

April 4th

This morning we reviewed many skills: words with gh and ph, vocabulary, how to summarize, and subject/verb agreement.  We also completed our DLP sentences.  Then, we read with our Book Buddies.  We had centers/guided reading and we learned the cursive letter "n".  After lunch we read more of Poppy Pendle.  Then, we re-read our lesson in Science on fresh water habitats.  We completed an activity together and then did one individually.  Since we had more time, we began reading the next lesson on salt water habitats.  The students need to complete the lesson outline for homework tonight.  In math, we learned how to measure using inches.  If your child does not have a ruler at school, he/she needs one quickly!!!!  There is one page of math homework to be completed. 

There will be a Reading and Spelling test tomorrow!

Wednesday, April 3, 2013

April 3rd

We are getting back into the swing of things after Spring Break!  This morning we had a visit from the Addison Fire Department.  They reminded students what to do in case of an emergency.  We practiced "calling" 911.  We needed to be able to tell what our addresses and phone numbers were and what our emergency was.  If your child does not know his/her address or phone number, it is imperative that it is learned!  Please practice at home.  After our visit, we finished reading Anthony Reynoso: Born to Rope.  It is a non-fiction personal narrative that teaches us about roping in the Southwest.  Then, we re-read it in small groups and completed a scavenger hunt.  After we went to the library, we had guided reading/centers.  Then, in Science, we started learning about Water Habitats.  We did an explore activity to find out how ducks stay dry in water.  Ask your child what happened to his/her duck in the experiment.  Then, we read the lesson, took some notes in a flip-book, and started the lesson outline.  It needs to be completed for homework.  At the end of the day, we worked very hard on our Washington, D.C. projects.  We are almost finished!  Students are writing and typing their reports to add next to the posters.

Don't forget that the Spelling packet (only two pages this week) is due tomorrow.  There will be a Spelling and Reading test on Friday.

Thursday, March 21, 2013

March 21st

This morning we wrote about what we would do if we were in a band.  It was quite fun!  Then, we practiced breaking words into syllables.  We talked about words that have multiple-meanings.  We also wrote some acrostic poems and completed our DLP.  We read with our Book Buddies, too.  Then, we had centers/guided reading.  We took our Science test.  This afternoon we read more of Poppy Pendle.  Then, we presented the last of the President Projects.  We also learned the cursive c and q.  We practiced a fire drill and discussed the importance of our safety in an emergency situation.  At the end of the day, we reviewed how to tell time.  Tomorrow we will have a math and reading test.

Friday, March 15, 2013

March 15th

This morning we chose our own topic to write about in our journals.  Then, we read our poem of the week.  We chose a St. Patrick's Day themed poem in honor of the holiday this weekend.  Then, we had math.  We learned how to tell time to the quarter hour.  Please practice telling time with your child at home.  We made practice clocks for you to use.   Use the words "quarter after" and "quarter to" with your child as well.  Most students do have homework. Then, we completed our DLP and did a worksheet on verbs.  We took our Reading test.  We were also able to present a few more President Projects.  They are looking great.  This afternoon we read more of Poppy Pendle.  Then we went to gym and music.  We had an assembly to go over our PBIS rules at Wesley and went over the classroom statuses for this trimester.  Our class needs to work hard to earn some Shout Outs!  At the end of the day, we had "Celebration Day".  We worked on a packet of St. Patrick's themed activities.  Have a wonderful weekend!

Thursday, March 14, 2013

March 14th

We wrote in our journals about whether or not we'd like a surprise party thrown in our honor.  Parents, start surprising your children because ALL of them liked the idea!  =)  Then, we practiced writing contractions and comparing/contrasting story elements.  We reread Good-bye, Curtis and completed our DLP.  We also completed a Scavenger Hunt.  Then, we had centers/guided reading and read with our Book Buddies.  This afternoon we continued reading Poppy Pendle.  In Science, we finished our rain forest pop-up displays, watched a video clip on rain forest animals and completed two activities in class.  Those who did not finished need to completed them for homework.  At the end of the day, we worked on our Washington, D.C. projects.  More and more groups are starting their research and typing their paragraphs!  We hope to have them completed before Spring Break.  There will be a Reading test tomorrow and a Science test next week on Land Habitats.

Wednesday, March 13, 2013

March 13th

After we wrote in our journals today, we practiced working with contractions. Then, we reread our story Good-bye, Curtis.  Afterwards, we went to the library.  We had centers/guided reading.  In Science, we learned about the layers of the rain forest.  We also did an explore activity to show how certain animals protect themselves (find shelter) in a rain forest.  We started making models of rain forests, but will continue another day.  This afternoon we started a new chapter book, The Power of Poppy Pendle.  The students really enjoyed the first chapter and we discussed the problems presented thus far.  We continued to work on our Washington, D.C. projects.  Some groups are done with their paragraphs and are starting to type.  In math, we did some problem solving using clocks and elapsed time.  There is math homework.   The Spelling Packet is due tomorrow.

Tuesday, March 12, 2013

March 12th

This morning we worked a lot with contractions. Then, we talked about how to compare and contrast elements of a story.  We introduced the vocabulary words for Good-Bye, Curtis.  Then, we read the story.  We completed our DLP and a workbook page on subject/verb agreement.  We also went to art class.  This afternoon we silent read.  Then, we went to gym/music.  In math we learned how to tell time to the half hour.  Most students have homework.  Some have a packet and the workbook page.  I sent home a two-sided spelling worksheet.  This is due on Thursday as usual. 

Monday, March 11, 2013

Monday, March 11th

We had another busy day!  We wrote about letter carriers this morning because our story of the week is about a letter carrier's retirement.  Then, we learned all about contractions and how to make them.  We introduced the spelling words which proved to be pretty challenging.  The spelling packet did not make it home with students today so it will come home tomorrow with only two pages.  Then, we worked on a word sort and completed our DLP.  We talked about poetry, rhyming words and how authors use repeating words to make rhythm in poems, too.  Then, we learned more cursive letters.  This afternoon we silent read.  Then, we learned how to tell time to the hour in math.  Most students have homework.  We went to the computer lab and set up our Book Bags at the end of the day.

Friday, March 8, 2013

Friday, March 8th

This morning we chose our own topic to write about in our journals.  Then, we practiced sorting words according to how many syllables they have.  We worked on our Washington, D.C. projects.  Some groups are starting to write and type their paragraphs.  We have some posters hung in the hallway!  Then, we had centers/guided reading.  We also took our Reading test.  This afternoon we went to gym and music.  In math, we switched classes and started learning about telling time.  We will be working on this until Spring Break.  If your child has an analog watch, please encourage him/her to wear it and practice telling time! 

Have a wonderful weekend!

Thursday, March 7, 2013

March 7th

This morning we wrote about places we'd visit in Washington, D.C.  Then, we clapped out words in syllables.  We talked about narrative elements (characters, setting, problem and solution).  We completed our DLP and an activity on comparing words.  Then, we acted out the play The Pine Park Mystery.  We completed our Theme 1 test, too.  Then, we read with our Book Buddies.  This afternoon, we took an AIMS-WEB math test and a timed test, too.  We drew pictures of the Arctic habitat and watched a video clip on it as well.  At the end of the day, we worked on our Washington, D.C. projects. They are starting to come to life!

Reading and Spelling tests will take place tomorrow!

Wednesday, March 6, 2013

Wednesday, March 6th

We were so excited to bring in our President Projects today!  They are looking fantastic!  A few of us got to present our projects today, too.  We also wrote about Presidents in our journals.  Then, we reviewed our vocabulary words and re-read The Pine Park Mystery.  After we went to the library, we took part of our Theme 1 Reading/Language Arts test.  In Science, we took notes on the Arctic, analyzed a map of the Arctic and completed an activity together.  We also learned the cursive letters "a" and "d" today.  This afternoon we worked on our Washington, D.C. project.  Some groups are starting to color their posters.  Then, we took our Math test at the end of the day.

Spelling Packets are due tomorrow!

Tuesday, March 5, 2013

Let it snow! Let it snow! Let it snow!

It sure was an exciting day for us watching the snow fall all day!  We wrote about what we like to do in the snow, too.  Then, we reviewed prefixes pre- and re-.  We did a Making Words activity.  Then, we made a web about community workers.  There are several community workers in our story this week.  We read the play The Pine Park Mystery.  Then, we completed our DLP and worked on verbs in the present tense.  We also went to art class.  This afternoon we silent read and changed the books in our Book Bags.  Then we went to gym and music class.  In math, we reviewed for our test on Data Analysis. We will take it tomorrow.

Don't forget the President Project is due TOMORROW.  I have really enjoyed seeing the ones that have been turned in already! 

Monday, March 4, 2013

Monday, March 4th

This morning we started talking about and writing mysteries.  The story in our book this week is called The Pine Park Mystery which is written in a play format. We introduced the phonics pattern and spelling words.  We also completed our DLP and talked about words that compare.  Then, we had guided reading/centers.  This afternoon, we analyzed line plots in math.  The students do have math homework.  They need to read the question carefully and make sure they understand what it is asking!  At the end of the day, we went to the computer lab.

Don't forget the President Project is due on Wednesday!

Friday, March 1, 2013

March 1st!

This morning we wrote about what we would do if we had a magic wand.  Then, we added a poem about penguins to our poetry binders.  Then, we completed an activity using comparing words with endings -er and -est.  We spent some time working on our Washington, D.C. posters.  Then, we had centers/guided reading.  We also finished our Penguin Paragraphs.  We also took our Reading test.  This afternoon we silent read.  Then, we went to gym and music.  In math, we learned how to make line plots.  We will analyze line plots next week.  There is one page of math homework.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Thursday, February 28, 2013

Thursday, February 27th

This morning we wrote about our favorite board games.  If we made a bar graph, we would find a lot of votes for Monopoly!  Then, we reviewed adverbs.  We were able to watch the documentary The March of the Penguins.  It is a fantastic non-fiction movie about penguins to go along with our story this week.  The children took notes to write paragraphs when it was over.  Then, we read with our 4th grade Book Buddies.  This afternoon, we learned about the Arctic.  We talked about its climate and the animals that live in that habitat.  We also did an explore activity to see why Arctic animals have different colored coats in the summer and winter.  At the end of the day, we worked on our Washington, D.C. posters.

There will be a Spelling and Reading test tomorrow.

Wednesday, February 27, 2013

Wednesday, February 27th

We got to choose our own topic to write about in our journals today.  Some chose non-fiction writing, others chose personal narratives, and some wrote fiction stories.  It was fun to listen to them all!  Then, we re-read our story The Emperor's Egg in small groups.  We wrote down three facts about penguins to use later this week for a non-fiction paragraph.  Then, we went to the library.  Afterwards, we had centers/guided reading.  We then learned how to address an envelope.  We are sending letters to Washington, D.C. to request information to help with our research projects.  So far our posters are turning out great!  This afternoon, we worked on our posters for about an hour with our group partners.  In math, we did some problem solving using a table and skip-counting to get our answers.  Students have one page of math homework.

Tuesday, February 26, 2013

Tuesday, February 26th

We squeezed a lot into our day!  We wrote about Antarctica in our journals this morning.  We read a poem about baby penguins and how they sit on their fathers' feet.  Then, we made a web about penguins and their lives at the South Pole.  We read a story called The Emperor's Egg.  It is a non-fiction story about penguins.  They loved it!  We also reviewed words with -ing and -ly endings and did a Making Words activity.  Then, we went to art class.  When we returned, we set up our Book Bags for this week.  This afternoon, we did a Reader's Theater production about Abraham Lincoln's struggle as President.  We will continue tomorrow.  We went to gym and music.  In math, we analyzed bar graphs.  Most students have math homework. 

Play in the snow tonight!  The children are extra-excited about the snowfall!!!

Friday, February 22, 2013

Friday, February 22nd

This morning we wrote about George Washington since it is his birthday today.  After we shared, we got into groups with the other second graders and started our Washington, D.C. projects.  Each group will produce a poster and paragraph about their specific place of study.  So far they look great!  Then, we read a book about former presidents and I assigned a special project to be completed at home.  Every child chose a President to research.  Directions for the projects are being sent home today.  The President Project will be due on March 6th.  Then, we took our Reading test.  This afternoon we silent read.  Then, we went to gym and music.  In math, we analyzed picture graphs.  We do have one page of math homework.  It was a great day!

Happy Friday!

Wednesday, February 20, 2013

Wednesday, February 20th

This morning we added third trimester words to our Word Rings and took the second trimester words off.  Then, we wrote in our journals about how to keep cool on a hot day.  We practiced using words with f (v) and add -es.  Then, we did a Making Words activity.  We learned the vocabulary words for Cool Ali and we read the story.  We practiced visualizing and imagining how we would feel in different settings.  We went to the library.  Then, we made some U.S. symbols...liberty bell, bald eagle, and Uncle Sam.  We also started a review packet for the S.S. test tomorrow.  It should help you practice tonight.  This afternoon we learned about the woodland forest.  We did a couple of activities in class including the animals and environment in a woodland forest.  In math, we started taking surveys and making tally charts.  The students have one page of math homework.

Don't forget that the Spelling Packet is due tomorrow and we will have a Social Studies test as well.

Tuesday, February 19, 2013

Tuesday, February 19th

We had a lot to do today!  We started by writing about how we would feel on a hot and dry day. Then we read a story about a drought and how the characters felt when it finally rained.  After that, we learned our phonics pattern of the week (changing f to v and then adding -es).  We introduced our spelling words, corrected our DLP, and talked about adjectives.  Then, we went to art class.  When we returned, we practiced our handwriting skills.  This afternoon we went to music and gym class.  In math, we started a new unit on data analysis.  We showed different forms of graphs and took an "Am I Ready?" quiz.  We also cut apart new vocabulary cards. 

We will have a Social Studies test on Thursday.  Pages to be reviewed were sent home today.  Spelling Packets will also be due on Thursday.

Friday, February 15, 2013

Friday, February 15th

This morning we chose our own topics to write about in our journals.  We enjoyed sharing with the class.  Then, we reviewed words with silent letters like kn, wr, and gn.  We practiced finding adjectives and completed our DLP.  We took our Spelling and Reading tests.  We also had centers/guided reading.  There was a little time to squeeze in the cursive letters p and j.  After lunch we silent read.  During music/gym, we attended an assembly. Ask your child what it was about!  At the end of the day, we took our math test on money. Next week we will start learning about data analysis and graphing.

Have a wonderful three day weekend!  Your child should be able to tell you why we have Monday off of school!

Thursday, February 14, 2013

Happy Valentine's Day!!!

This morning we decorated little pouches to hold our valentines and we worked on a packet of fun Valentine's Day activities.  Then, we got down to business.  We practiced working with compound words.  Then, we discussed and practiced using the strategy inferencing.  We completed our DLP and worked on a worksheet to identify adjectives.  Then, we used everything we learned this week about whales to write non-fiction paragraphs.  They look great!  We also had centers/guided reading.  This afternoon we silent read and set up our book bags.  Then, we passed out our valentines.  During math we reviewed for our test on Money that we will take tomorrow.

There will be a Reading and Spelling test tomorrow, as well as the math test.  The good news is that with all those tests, there won't be homework over the three day weekend! =)

Wednesday, February 13, 2013

Wednesday, February 13, 2013

Today we finished working on our Abraham Lincoln projects from yesterday.  They all look great!  Then, we got into small groups to re-read Dear Mr. Blueberry and completed a study guide.  After we went to the library, we had centers/guided reading.  During Social Studies, we learned how to read and use map grids.  This afternoon we learned about woodland forests in Science.  We watched a video clip, worked on our lesson outline and drew pictures of the woodland forest.  In math, we learned about the dollar.  Most students have math homework. 

Don't forget that Spelling Packets are due tomorrow!  We will be having a Unit 4 Social Studies test next week.

Tuesday, February 12, 2013

Tuesday, February 12, 2013

Happy Birthday, Abraham Lincoln!  We started our day by writing down everything we already knew about President Lincoln.  Later in the day, we used our facts to make miniature Lincolns while we watched a video clip about his life.  The children were really excited to learn about our past President! 

We also reviewed words with -oo and -ue.  We did a Making Words activity, too.  Then, we made a web with facts about whales.  We will use that later in the week to write paragraphs.  We talked about inferencing and we read our story Dear Mr. Blueberry.  The story is written in a letter structure.  We analyzed the parts of a letter and picked out non-fiction facts about whales.  We completed our DLP and then we went to art.  This afternoon, we went to gym and music.  In math, we learned how to problem solve using coins.  Some students have math homework, but some finished in class.  There will be a math test on money on Friday.

The Spelling Packet is due on Thursday.

Monday, February 11, 2013

Monday, February 11, 2013

Today we started activating our prior knowledge about whales.  We will read a story this week about whales and by the end of the week, will have written non-fiction paragraphs about them. Then, we learned about our phonics pattern of the week -oo and -ue.  We learned our spelling words and did a word sort.  We also completed our DLP.  At the end of Literacy, we talked about adjectives, writing invitations, and set up our Book Bags for this week.  In Social Studies, we learned about different symbols of the United States (bald eagle, Uncle Sam, Liberty Bell) and watched a BrainPop video about them.  We also talked about Presidents Washington and Lincoln.  We completed a vocabulary worksheet and drew pictures of a famous monument.  This afternoon we learned how to count groups of coins.  We have one page of math homework.  Please get out actual coins and have your child count them!  This is a very short unit of math and there is so much to retain on how to count money!  Give your child practice at the store by having him/her pay when you check out.  At the end of the day, we went to the computer lab.

Spelling Packet is due Thursday.

Friday, February 8, 2013

Friday, February 8th

I'm so happy to be back and glad to see all the children!  We caught each other up on what has been going on in the classroom by writing about our week in our journals.  I learned so many new things about teaching the Common Core Standards and can't wait to implement them in our classroom!  We reviewed words with -eer and -ear sounds this morning.  We also completed our DLP and a grammar worksheet on pronouns and adjectives.  We took our Spelling and Reading tests.  For "Celebration Day", we watched a video clip about the real life of cowboys and decorated cowboy/cowgirl hats.  Then, we went to an assembly about Jump Rope for Heart.  Information about it will be coming home today!

Have a wonderful weekend!  Practice those Poetry Binders!

Thursday, January 31, 2013

Thursday, January 31st

This morning we wrote about what we like to do and how to behave on field trips.  Then we did many Jimmy's Boa activities.  We made a cause/effect chart, put words from the story in ABC order, answered comprehension questions, and practiced our vocabulary words.  Then, we completed our DLP.  We also read with our 4th grade book buddies.  In Social Studies, we read about the voting process.  We took our Science test this afternoon.  We learned the cursive letters k and f.  They are very difficult.  Some students could finish the page at home for more practice.  In math, we reviewed three digit subtraction and will have a test tomorrow.  There will also be a Reading and Spelling test tomorrow. 

FYI--Tomorrow I will be at a Joint Evaluation Committee Meeting.  I will be here on Monday for Conferences.  I have been invited by the Superintendent to attend a No Child Left Behind Conference next Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday downtown Chicago.  Therefore, the children will have a substitute for four days.  I have left explicit plans for the substitute to follow.  Because I will not be here, there will be no blog next week.  I will be back next Friday for the Early Release Day. 

Wednesday, January 30, 2013

Wednesday, January 30th

Wow!  We sure had a busy day!  We practiced visualizing this morning.  We drew pictures of animals that we would have on our farms if we were farmers.  We also made a list of all the animals on our farms.  Then, we re-read the story Jimmy's Boa with small groups.  We completed a graphic organizer to tell what happened in the beginning, middle and end.  We also drew a picture of our favorite part.  We do have a scavenger hunt to complete for homework, along with a grammar worksheet on pronouns.  After we went to the library, we had centers/guided reading.  In Social Studies, we re-read our lesson on the federal government, completed a worksheet and made vocabulary cards.  We watched two brainpop videos on the duties of the President and the three branches of government.  In Science, we reviewed for our Science test tomorrow.  Books were sent home again tonight for practice.  In math, we learned how to subtract across zeros.  Students have one page of math homework.

Spelling Packets are due tomorrow!

Tuesday, January 29, 2013

Tuesday, January 30th

This morning we wrote non-fiction information about snakes in our journals.  I was amazed at how much the class already knew!  Then, we reviewed words with -ou and -ow.  We did a Making Words activity, too.  Then, we learned this week's vocabulary words.  We talked about cause and effect.  Then, we read The Day Jimmy's Boa Ate the Wash and used the cause/effect strategy while we discussed the story.  We completed our DLP and a grammar activity on pronouns as well.  Then, we went to art class.  This afternoon, we silent read and set up our Book Bags.  Then we went to music and gym class.  In math, we learned how to problem solve using three digit subtraction.  Most students do have math homework, but a few finished in class.

There will be a Science Test on Thursday on Animal Classifications.  Notes and definitions of the vocabulary words went home today along with the Science book for review.  The Spelling Packet is due on Thursday.

Monday, January 28, 2013

Monday, January 28th

We imagined what it would be like to have any pet we wanted....then we wrote about it in our journals.  The children had some interesting pets that I'm sure you wouldn't want to have living in your house!  Then, we learned about words with -ou and -ow.  We completed a word sort and then introduced our spelling words.  We also learned about pronouns today.  We will be working with them all week.  Then, we learned the cursive letters b and h.  They are really coming along!  In Social Studies, we learned about the federal government and the jobs of Congress, the President and the Supreme Court justices.  We took notes on a tri-fold that we've been working on.  This afternoon we learned how to rewrite horizontal math problems vertically.  The students have one page of math homework.  At the end of the day, we went to the computer lab.

The Spelling Packet was sent home today. It is due on Thursday, as usual.  We will also be taking a Science test on Thursday.  Information on what to study will be sent home tomorrow.

Friday, January 25, 2013

Friday, January 25th

This morning we introduced our exciting Washington, D.C. project to the children.  We will be combining the three second grades to research different monuments and buildings there.  They will eventually produce a poster and paragraph to present to the rest of the second grade.  After we sorted the children into groups, we selected which building/monument each would be researching.  Then, we wrote letters to send off to Washington, D.C. requesting information to help our research.  It is a huge project that we all look forward to working on!  This afternoon we went to music and gym.  At the end of the day, we learned how to regroup in all place value columns.  We do have one page of math homework.  Have a wonderful weekend!

Don't forget that the Fun Fair is tonight!

Wednesday, January 23, 2013

Wednesday, January 23rd

Finally, it's snowing!!!  The children are so excited to see the large flakes!  This morning, we reviewed what we learned about Martin Luther King, Jr. and put on a play about his childhood.  It was quite fun!  Then, we took part of our Theme 3 Literacy Test.  We also went to the library.  We practiced some map reading skills.  Then, we learned the cursive letters u and w.  This afternoon we learned about the life cycle of certain animals.  We read about how they grow and change.  Then, we watched a video clip showing the life cycle of a butterfly.  We completed our lesson outline in class. In math, we reviewed how to regroup in the tens column while subtracting three digit numbers.  Most students have one page of homework.

Thank you to all of you who visited our classroom yesterday!  I was so sorry to have missed it, but I attended a district math committee meeting.  I hope you enjoyed your experience and saw what we do here every day at Wesley School.

Thursday, January 17, 2013

Thursday, January 17th

We had a busy day!  We wrote about amphibians in our journals.  The children did great using some non-fiction writing.  Then, we reviewed our vocabulary and word wall words.  We practiced making predictions.  We completed our DLP, too.  We read with our 4th grade book buddies.  Then, we learned the cursive letter t.  We had guided reading/centers.  In Social Studies, we made a vocabulary card for the word "governor".  We also completed a worksheet on the state government.  This afternoon we silent read.  Then, we learned about animal adaptations in Science.  We completed two activities in class.  We also watched a video clip showing some different adaptations.  In math, we started switching with all three 2nd grade classrooms.  We introduced the new unit on 3-digit subtraction and taught the students to subtract hundreds.  They have one page of math homework. 

There will be a Reading and Spelling test tomorrow!

Wednesday, January 16, 2013

Wednesday, January 16th

After we wrote in our journals this morning, we reviwed our vocabulary words.  We wrote the word "crown" on a crown and used it in a sentence.  Then, we re-read Pumpkin Fiesta in small groups.  We checked out new books in the library.  Then, we completed our DLP and a grammar worksheet on possessive nouns.  We also had centers/guided reading.  In Social Studies, we took notes on the state government and talked about how a governor runs a state.  This afternoon, we looked at animal classifications and took notes on our bulletin board.  Then, we read about animal adaptations.  We watched a video clip as well.  Most students completed the lesson outline in class, but a few have to finish for homework. 

Don't forget that the spelling packet is due tomorrow!  We will have our Reading and Spelling tests on Friday, as usual.

Tuesday, January 15, 2013

Tuesday, January 15th

We started our day by writing about our hobbies.  Then, we practiced writing plural nouns with -ies endings.  We learned our vocabulary words and read the story Pumpkin Fiesta.  We completed our DLP and did a grammar activity on possessive nouns.  Then, we went to art class.  This afternoon we silent read.  Then we went to gym and music.  In math, we took two tests, one on problem solving and the other on 3-digit addition.  The students did so well and we are so proud of their progress!  They are really rising to the Common Core Standards!  At the end of the day, we worked on a practice math worksheet.  Those who used their time wisely finished, those who didn't need to finish for homework.

Monday, January 14, 2013

Monday, January 14th

This morning we wrote about what we would do if something precious to us disappeared.  Then, we turned and told our neighbor what we wrote.  The neighbor then had to report back to the class about what they had heard.  It was an interesting lesson that tested our listening and summarizing skills.  We will practice this more often.  Then, we learned about plural nouns with -s, -es, and -ies endings.  We did a word sort and practiced our spelling words as well.  We completed our DLP and learned about possessive nouns, too.  Then, for the first time, we learned a cursive letter!  I explained to the students that we are only allowed to practice letters that have been taught in class.  Please do not encourage your child to write cursive at home because bad habits form before they have even been introduced to them!  There is nothing harder to do than break a bad habit.  As we learn the letters, we will learn to write our names, but we have to be patient.  We will learn all lower and uppercase letters by the end of May.  In Social Studies, we took notes on the local government.  We also watched a Brainpop video on local and state government.  We will learn about the state government later this week.  This afternoon we used the strategy guess and check to solve problems in math.  Students have review pages for homework as we will have a test tomorrow on adding three digit numbers.  On Wednesday, we will begin subtracting three digit numbers.  At the end of the day, we went to the computer lab.

Friday, January 11, 2013

Friday, January 11th

This morning we chose our own topics for journal writing.  Then, we added a new poem to our poetry binders.  We reviewed words with -ear and completed our DLP.  We took our Spelling test.  After centers/guided reading, we took our Reading test.  At the end of the day, we had Celebration Day.  The only homework over the weekend is to practice reading the poems in the poetry binder.  Enjoy the nice weather!

Thursday, January 10, 2013

Thursday, January 10th

In our journals, we told what we would do if we could change one thing in Addison.  Then, we reviewed our phonics pattern and vocabulary words.  We re-read Watermelon Day in small groups.  We also completed our DLP and did a grammar activity.  We read with our 4th grade Book Buddies.  Then, we had centers/guided reading.  We re-read our lesson on the local government in Social Studies and made vocabulary cards.  After lunch, we silent read.  In Science, we re-read our lesson on animal classifications. We completed a Reading Pictures worksheet and reviewed the vocabulary from the lesson.  In math, we practiced rewriting three digit numbers and added them together.  There is one page of math homework. There will be a Reading and Spelling test tomorrow. 

Remember tomorrow is an Early Release Day. We are done at noon.

Wednesday, January 9, 2013

Wednesday, January 9th

Throughout the day today, some students were given a Fountas and Pinnell Reading test to help us pinpoint students' reading levels.  Those who were not tested today will be tested sometime between now and mid-February. 

The students wrote about what they would like to do if they had their own Watermelon Day.  Then, they reviewed the phonics skill and re-read the story.  They completed their DLP and a grammar activity, too.  We visited the library.  We had centers/guided reading.  In Social Studies, we read about the local government and completed an activity in class.  This afternoon we silent read.  Then, we learned about animal classifications in Science.  Some students need to finish the lesson outline for homework.  In math, we learned how to regroup in both the tens and hundreds columns.  We have one page of math homework. 

Spelling Packets are due tomorrow.

Tuesday, January 8, 2013

Tuesday, January 8th

This morning we wrote about our likes and dislikes of watermelon.  It was interesting!  Then, we worked on activities with a watermelon theme.  Our story this week is called Watermelon Day.  We read the story and enjoyed thinking about eating watermelon on a hot, summer day.  We also reviewed our spelling words/phonics pattern and completed our DLP.  We then went to art class. This afternoon, we silent read.  Then, we went to music and art class.  In math we learned how to regroup in the hundreds column.  The students do have math homework.

Spelling Packet is due on Thursday.

Monday, January 7, 2013

Monday, January 7th, 2013

Welcome back!  I hope everyone enjoyed the holiday break!  We took it a little slow this morning.  We wrote about what we did over break and everyone got to share today.  Then, we learned about words with silent letters with kn, gn, wr.  The Spelling words and packet are coming home today.  There are several difficult words to be studied.  We completed a word sort, our DLP and talked about how to abbreviate both the days of the week and months of the year when writing the date.  In Social Studies, we started a new unit on our government.  We practiced the reading skill main idea and details.  We also watched short video clips about our local government.  This afternoon we started to add three-digit numbers with regrouping.  Please practice at home!  There is one page of homework to be completed.  At the end of the day, we went to the computer lab and took a timed test.