December 14, 2012


Dear Gefen Families,

This week in math we started learning how to tell time. In addition to practicing during math time, all throughout the day I stop the class for a few seconds and ask different children to report the time. Then, I ask them questions such as how much time needs to go by until the next subject on the schedule. I'm so impressed with their ability to solve these tricky math problems! You can do these types of problems at home as well.

Through our continued practice on alphabetizing, the students have learned to determine which words would be on a dictionary page based on the two given guide words. Next, we will tackle entry words, definitions, parts of speech and syllabication. Please make sure that you have a children's dictionary at home. After vacation there will be homework involving use of the dictionary. It will also be needed for the next book report.

Our first and second grade scientists learned about cirrus, cumulus and stratus clouds. They were put into groups and asked to make representations of the clouds using cotton balls and then had to report back to the rest of the class. We also went outside and blew bubbles using dish soap and water. We noticed that there is air inside the bubbles and that the bubbles were moving through the air because of wind.

In Torah we read and discussed the story of Abraham and Sarah having three strangers visit their tent. We talked about the mitzvah of welcoming guests and we came up with ways that we can welcome people into our classroom as well as into our homes.

A special thank you to Talia's family for the gift card to the New England Mobile Book Fair in honor of Talia's 7th birthday. Books were purchased to add to our Reader's Workshop book collection.


Shabbat Shalom,

Hamorah Caren


Reminders:

The book report is due this coming Tuesday, December 18th.
Please purchase a children's dictionary to keep at home for use with homework.