Newsletter Friday, September 12

Mr. H’s Newsletter

Friday, September 12

Spelling

Week 1

One Syllable Words

shock

fish

chunk

rock

trunk

dish

Two Syllable Words

napkin

magnet

basket

Reading

This past week we have been preparing for Guided Reading by learning more about the Daily 5, which are centers that go on during our reading time.  These centers enable me to meet with small groups of kids and provide them reading instruction at their particular level. 

So far, we have practiced being independent readers.  Next, we will be learning the steps it takes to become great independent writers.

Math

In math students have been working on building numbers and developing a sense of the groups involved in a particular number.  Next week, we will be working on number placement and patterns on a number chart.

NWEA Testing

Next week the second graders will be taking their first computer-based NWEA test.  These tests assist us in measuring competency in math and reading skills.  These assessments are also used as baselines to help kids utilize such resources as Title I, Special Education, and the Gifted and Talented programs.   In addition, we are able to use these scores as guidelines for flexible grouping in math class.

Responsive Classroom

As an Elementary School we are moving towards a particular behavior approach called Responsive Classroom.  This approach focuses on what the child can do and the positive behavior that each child exhibits.  We continue to build our classroom community.  Our class recently created our classroom rules, which stemmed from the goals each child has made for him/herself in second grade.

Handwriting

We will be starting our handwriting program, Handwriting Without Tears.  This is the same type of program that was used last year and will assist kids in correctly forming letters.

Reminders

Our NWEA testing days are September 17^th and 19^th.

Picture retakes-October 9^th