Inquiry
Systems: Having found systems in our classroom, and around the school, we begin to look at larger systems. We will revisit our investigation into waste management, continuing our exploration of recycling and composting. But, we will also use our zoo trip as the foundation for conversations about public transportation and animals. Finally, we will look at the scientific method as a system and apply our scientific thinking skills during an experiment or two.
Math
Place Value: After studying Roman Numerals, the Magical Minds will revisit the concept of place value. We will build and use abacuses to strengthen our understanding. We will also learn a couple new games to reinforce these concepts.
Reading
We continue our investigation into different genres, as well as begin to look at comprehension strategies. Our first strategy, “activating schema,” refers to the process of using prior knowledge to increase meaning and joy while reading. We will use what we know about genre to make predictions about what will happen in our books.
Writing
This week in Writer’s Workshop we will edit our rough drafts, polish them by adding details, and create final draft books! These hand-crafted books will eventually be read at an Author’s Chair celebration and we will add them to our class library for our friends to read and enjoy. We will also spend time reflecting on and writing about our awesome adventures last week.
Homework
Monday
We will send home a picture from our recent adventures. Write a story about this photo. Feel free to add your own drawings and labels to the picture, as well as lots of wonderful, descriptive words.
Tuesday
Paper and Pencil Game: Set aside time to play for at least 15 minutes
Reading Party: Carve out a moment when everyone can grab a book and settle down for at least 20 minutes of reading. Brew some tea, play some soft music, turn off the phone, and just read. Read together or read on your own, talk about your books and laugh together.
Thursday
Iodine Test: We discovered that iodine turns a bluish-purple color when it comes into contact with starch.
· Use the small vial of iodine and paintbrush to test a variety of foods in your home for starch.
· Record your findings on the guide sheet.
Announcements
Back to School Night: Discover what it’s like to be a second grader at Alta Vista School. Join us on Monday, September 26th at 6:30pm for an evening of scientific discovery and play. Erin will provide further information about routines and expectations, as well as answer your questions.
Systems: Having found systems in our classroom, and around the school, we begin to look at larger systems. We will revisit our investigation into waste management, continuing our exploration of recycling and composting. But, we will also use our zoo trip as the foundation for conversations about public transportation and animals. Finally, we will look at the scientific method as a system and apply our scientific thinking skills during an experiment or two.
Math
Place Value: After studying Roman Numerals, the Magical Minds will revisit the concept of place value. We will build and use abacuses to strengthen our understanding. We will also learn a couple new games to reinforce these concepts.
Reading
We continue our investigation into different genres, as well as begin to look at comprehension strategies. Our first strategy, “activating schema,” refers to the process of using prior knowledge to increase meaning and joy while reading. We will use what we know about genre to make predictions about what will happen in our books.
Writing
This week in Writer’s Workshop we will edit our rough drafts, polish them by adding details, and create final draft books! These hand-crafted books will eventually be read at an Author’s Chair celebration and we will add them to our class library for our friends to read and enjoy. We will also spend time reflecting on and writing about our awesome adventures last week.
Homework
Monday
We will send home a picture from our recent adventures. Write a story about this photo. Feel free to add your own drawings and labels to the picture, as well as lots of wonderful, descriptive words.
Tuesday
Paper and Pencil Game: Set aside time to play for at least 15 minutes
- Play Foreheaded.
- Use your understanding of place value to guess the mystery number on your forehead.
- Record your guesses on the guide sheet.
Reading Party: Carve out a moment when everyone can grab a book and settle down for at least 20 minutes of reading. Brew some tea, play some soft music, turn off the phone, and just read. Read together or read on your own, talk about your books and laugh together.
- Question of the Week: “Considering the genre of your book, what do you think will happen.”
Thursday
Iodine Test: We discovered that iodine turns a bluish-purple color when it comes into contact with starch.
· Use the small vial of iodine and paintbrush to test a variety of foods in your home for starch.
· Record your findings on the guide sheet.
Announcements
Back to School Night: Discover what it’s like to be a second grader at Alta Vista School. Join us on Monday, September 26th at 6:30pm for an evening of scientific discovery and play. Erin will provide further information about routines and expectations, as well as answer your questions.