So Many "First's"

There were a lot "firsts" happening in our first grade world this week!

1. First week with the homework packets.

-Everyone did a fantastic job working on their homework throughout the week. I was very pleased with all of the hard work the kiddos put into getting those packets done. Well done!

2. First week that we got to share our snacks!

-The children absolutely LOVE bringing in snack for the whole class. Each day the student who brings snack is also the Leader of the Day. There will be more things happening for those daily leaders as the year goes on. Also, please let me know if there are any conflicts or issues with your child's scheduled snack days. I am willing to do everything that I can to make things as easy and convenient as possible.

3. First time taking the STAR Early Literacy test (as first graders).

-If your child was in the Independence School District as kindergartners, they are familiar with these tests. More information about the STAR tests will be provided on Curriculum Night (September 3rd). Considering it was the first time for a lot of them, they all did an excellent. Tests can be intimidating, but this little group had no fear!

4. First time (of this year) writing stories, taking a spelling test, and working in our poetry notebooks (pictured below).

-There were so many new procedures and activities introduced to your kiddos this week. Its a gradual process to get everything we need into the perfect routine, but once our classroom becomes more predictable and comfortable to them, the more authentic learning will take place.

To further explain the poetry notebooks...
Mondays: I introduce a new poem. I read it to the class as they follow along. They cut the poem out and glue it into their poetry notebooks.
Tuesdays: I read the poem to the students again as they follow along. Also, each week we will be focusing on a certain sound. This week was the -sh sound. On Tuesdays students will use a yellow crayon or highlighter to highlight the sound of the week as they find them in the poem.
Wednesdays: I will echo read the poem with the class. Then, students use a green crayon to underline any tricky/spelling words they can find in the poem.
Thursday: Students read the poem with a partner.
Friday: One student will volunteer to read the poem aloud to the class as everyone else follows along. Then, students illustrate the poem.

I am looking forward to another fantastic week in Room 25! Please remember to check the "Important Dates" tab to keep up with upcoming events. Also, remember to e-mail or call me if you have any questions or concerns!