Math Explorations

Wyatt, our star student, conducting a survey about classroom pets, with Helena.

A highlight of last week was Math Explorations!  We learned that explorers look at things in a way they haven't tried before.  We also learned that the cool math things we use are NOT toys but are TOOLS to learn about math.  The kids LOVED exploring with pattern blocks, geoboards, base ten blocks and unifix cubes.  I saw a lot of creativity in using these tools in ways I have never seen before!  We will do Math Explorations at least one time each math unit.

MATH TEST: Unit 1: THIS WEDNESDAY!  Tomorrow your child's homework is a review worksheet of skills we've covered in this unit.  We have practiced these skills many times, so please do not feel you have to "study" for this test with your child.  Checking the review homework before sending it back in on Wednesday should be adequate preparation.  We will go over the review answers on Wednesday morning and take the test in the afternoon.

JUNIOR TEACHERS:  This was another highlight of our week.  During Daily 5, I select 2 students to wear special Junior Teacher visors.  As the students finish a Word Work activity, they have to read their sorted words or ABC words or poem to a Junior Teacher before turning the paper into my basket.  Having this job is a privilege.  I will try to have all students be a Junior Teacher before repeating; however, I have in the past not giving this privilege OR taken the privilege away on a certain day IF the Junior Teacher is not demonstrating exemplary behavior in that role.  I want to stress with the students what a privilege this is.  So far, everyone has been outstanding!  Having Junior Teachers really helps me when I get into reading groups!  I apologize I forgot to take pictures of our Junior Teachers last week, so I will try to remember to include them in my next post.

Please don't forget to check out our OMS First Grade Blog for the spelling list and Reading Comprehension strategies for this week.

Some photos of Math Explorations: