March 17th, 2023

Hello families,

This week students finished up their Shopping Spree Project which many of you saw durning student led conferences. This was our last big addition task before we move into word problems and then subtraction!





We also learned about the greater than, less than, and equal to symbols. The rule our class learned is the "alligator always eats the greater". This is now a part of our opening math task.






We have also been learning about time for a few weeks now which is a part of our morning meeting!


In writing students moved on to the final copy of their "Dear Earth" writing which will be published in their sketchbooks.

   

We also learned about verbs and the Montessori symbol for them. Students engaged in a parts of speech word sort to demonstrate their understanding. Ask your child what all the Montessori symbols are (and why!).

In Science we were lucky to have Mrs. Bouchard from grade 3/4 show us how she cleans and cares for the fish aquarium. We learned about PH, the temperature that is required for the fish to stay safe, how to clean the tank, as well as watched them get fed! 

 












This week our class has been focusing on responsibility and resiliency. I have been noticing that often when a conflict or challenge occurs between peers, or when completing a task, students carry this frustration with them throughout the day. (I am guilty of this too as an adult!). 

As a class we discussed "turning a problem into a positive".  This includes taking responsibility, moving forward, and doing better in the future, or taking a break and coming back to something.  We read the book Three, by Stephen Michael King to help illustrate the power of positivity and how often things can change depending how you look at them.

For International math day we began some "math art" or MART. We are exploring  patterns in nature, specifically underwater creatures. I can't wait to see the final products! 



In the spirit of St. Patricks day students worked independently, in pairs, or in small groups to create Leprechaun traps! We first learned about engineering, including what blueprints and a bill of materials (supplies list) are.  Students then began their plans, working together to create a small structure that will lure and trap a Leprechaun without hurting it!



To spark creativity, we explored some different ways to cut and connect cardboard without glue or tape.



Thank you to everyone who sent in supplies. It was so fun watching students work on their problem solving, collaborative, and STEM skills!









On St. Patricks day we came in to a very upside down classroom! Our Leprechaun was up to no good at LBS!

  




 



During Tea Time Tuesday students continue to show grace and courtesy when preparing, enjoying and cleaning up their tea mugs. We read a really fun book called Tea Rex by Moly Idle.


Tai Chi
Here are some photos from our first session with Sifu Greenhall. The students had a blast! Sinfu will be back in the Spring to continue our learning!




International Down Syndrome Day

 

Tuesday March 21st is International Down Syndrome Day. Students are invited to wear their funkiest socks out where everyone can see them! On this day we will celebrate and continue to extend our ongoing learning about diversity and inclusion within our classroom, school, and community. We look forward to seeing everyone's funky socks!


Guest Speakers


We are so fortunate to have two guest speakers coming in next week to talk with our class about our fish inquiry.



On Tuesday, March 21st, Mr. Brett (Ms. Greenhall's husband) will be coming in to teach the class about fish conservation, the needs of trout (habitat, diet etc.) and the sport of fishing. Students will be learning about different types of flies, as well as get the opportunity to look at a variety of fishing gear including rods and flies. 


On Friday, March 24th, Dr. Morris will be visiting our classroom in the morning. He is a marine biologist who studies the genetics and evolution of fishes at Ambrose University. Dr. Morris has preserved samples of local fish species to show the students, to talk about fish identification and the role of fish in Calgary's ecosystems. While students will be using their eyes only to observe these preserved fish, they will have a strong smell due to the solution the fish are kept in. Please let me know before Friday if you wish for your child to not participate in this experience. 


Students and myself are very excited to welcome these guests and extend our inquiry!


Have a great weekend,

Ms. Greenhall


Upcoming Dates

  • Every Tuesday : Tea Time 

  • Home Reading and Library Books : Students can exchange as needed
  • Monday, March 20th: First day of Spring 
  • Tuesday March 21st: Mr. Brett presenting in morning
  • Tuesday March 21st : International Down Syndrome Day (funky socks day!)
  • Thursday, March 23rd: Fun Lunch 
  • Friday March 24th: Dr. Morris presenting in morning
  • Monday, March 27th-Friday, March 31st: SPRING BREAK


Khan Academy Kids
Our class is now signed up on the the Khan Academy Kids App. This app has literacy and math activities and is an excellent resource for students. We will be using it as an additional option at our "Listening to Reading" and "Math with Technology" stations during Daily L.A. and Math Stations. Here is our classroom login information if you would like your child to practice at home:
Please note that when in a topic you may need to switch between "grade 1" and "grade 2" to reflect your child's needs. Happy learning!


EPIC Reading
Our class code is: ypq1713



Prodigy Login
Please let me know if you would like your child's prodigy login information and I can email it to you!


Scholastic Book Flyers
Looking to shop for books online through Scholastic year round? I have set up a scholastic account for our class! Happy reading!

Class Code: RC358893