During this unit we discuss people who face special challenges in their lives such as using a wheelchair, reading with braille and using sign language to communicate. We started with discussions and activities around how we are all alike and how we are all different. We have also begun to learn the terms; ability, disability and courage.

The first graders have been learning about the first Thanksgiving and discussing Pilgrims and Native Americans and giving thanks. They worked with their Book Buddies to do a special painting project called "Leaves of Gratitude" in which they wrote something they were thankful for on a fall leaf . These leaves will be hung in the Gates Cafeteria with other Leaves of Gratitude created by all Gates students.

Math: We are continuing to practice our doubles facts. Please practice these at home with your child (1+1, 2+2, 3+3 all the way through 10+10). Once the students are fluent with these doubles facts, they are able to use the doubles plus one or doubles minus one strategies. For example, when trying to solve 6+7, the students could use 6+6=12 and then add 1 more to determine that the sum is 13.

Fundations (our phonics program): Please check your child's folder next week for their corrected Unit 3 assessment. For more information on our Fundations program, please visit our classroom website and find the "Literacy Links" tab under "Important Links".