Daily News

News for Sunday, April 5th...

I hope everyone is keeping well. I will be sending an email to all families in our class later this evening regarding virtual learning. My email will include all the information you should need to begin 'virtual learning' tomorrow.

Missing you all,

Ms. Alderson

News for Tuesday, March 31st...

Between today and Friday, a staff member from Ryerson will be touching base with your family. Teachers will be calling the families of the 'youngest/only child.' I completed most of my calls today. Thank you for taking the time to speak with me...it was so great to hear familiar voices! Once the Minister of Education makes his announcement re: education/schools, we should know more about where we are headed. Please continue to check the Board's website (tvdsb.ca) for up to date information. If you have anything I can help with, please email me at: a.alderson@tvdsb.ca

Missing you all! Stay safe and healthy,

Allison

News for Friday, March 13^th...

The announcement was made yesterday afterschool that all Ontario schools will be closed after today until Monday until April 6^th. We had a quiet Friday to start the March Break, with quite a few students away in our class, as well as throughout the school.

Notes:

The announcement was made yesterday afterschool that all Ontario schools will be closed effective Monday until April 5^th.

1. Communication Bags/Planners: I have kept all communication bags and planner at school for over the break.
2. Things to work on at home, if you wish: As we just found out last night about the school closures, there was not time to prepare a package of sorts to work on at home...but here are a few ideas your child can work on over the next three weeks:

• Dreambox – this would be a great activity for your child to spend a bit of time doing each day, working on their math skills
• In Math – we will be continuing to work on 3D Shapes when we come back to school in April, so reviewing the names and properties of the 3D shapes would be great. After our unit on shapes, we will be starting a unit on time. In Gr. 2, children will be working on telling time to the quarter-hour (:00, :15, :30, :45) on both analogue and digital clocks. Telling time at home, in real-life settings, would be great practice. The children should be able to read, as well as write (draw the hands) on clocks for such time.
• Language – you can have your child read daily, as well as do a journal type writing activity each day (working on generating ideas, sentence structure, and grammar).
• Website Links – on our class website, there are some educational websites the children can explore, under ‘My Links’.

I hope that helps a bit.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our weekly word work quiz. I did mark the quizzes today, but as I’m keeping the communication bags over the break, the quizzes won’t be sent home until we return. After our word work quiz, we gathered at the carpet for calendar, morning message, and shared reading. During shared reading, we sang our St. Patrick’s Day poems and then focused on asking ‘good questions’ before reading, during reading, as well as after reading. It was then time for two short St. Patrick’s Day read alouds, one was a fiction book and one was a non-fiction text. Just before morning recess we had some buddy reading time.

After morning recess, the children had snack and Social Studies with Miss. Tanner.

After lunch, we had Math where we reviewed the names and properties of various 3D solids. We then watched a short video clip on Pebble Go – prisms.

We then did a large group activity titled “Who Am I?” In this game, each student had a shape taped onto to their back. The goal for the activity was for each student to try and determine what 3D solid was on their back. To do this, they ask to ask their classmates questions which could be answered with a yes or no response (e.g., Do I roll? Are all my faces the same shape? Do I have 8 vertices?). Students travelled around the classroom asking their peers questions, until they thought they had determined their shape. Once they thought they figured their shape out, they sat back at the carpet. We then did the ‘big reveal!’ After our large group activity, the children worked on an independent activity sheet.

After last recess, the children had snack. We then continued with the 3D shape art activity we began yesterday. We look forward to displaying these in the hallway after March Break. To end the day, we had a desk clean out.

Have a wonderful March Break!

Allison

News for Thursday, March 12^th...

We began our morning with planner writing, calendar, and morning message. For shared reading, we read/sang our two St. Patrick’s Day poems and then we focused on the traditions and celebrations of St. Patrick’s Day. For read aloud, we read two short fiction stories about St. Patrick’s Day and then the children then had some independent reading time. After independent reading, we gathered back at the carpet to watch a video clip about the history of St. Patrick’s Day and how it is celebrated.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where we read the fairytale, “The Frog Prince.” After listening to the story, we completed our fairytale elements checklist – noting which elements were present in this version of the story. We then turned our focus to word work, where we are focusing on digraphs once again this week. We watched a video clip about the digraphs: th, sh, and wh. The children then practiced our words of the week, using a spelling/math activity.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with our riddle sharing, using the 3D shape riddles the children created yesterday in math class. They’ve brought home their riddle to share with you tonight...see if you can guess which 3D solid they are describing. After our large group activity, the children worked on two independent tasks focusing on 3D shapes. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had Art where we began working on a 3D shape art activity. We will continue working on this activity tomorrow.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Wednesday, March 11^th...

March Break is just around the corner...only 2 more days!

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by calendar and our morning message. In shared reading, we read through our poems (and sang them as they are both set to tunes this week) and then we continued our focus on the rules for adding ‘ing’ to words. For read aloud, we read a St. Patrick’s Day story and then watched a second powerpoint presentation about St. Patrick’s Day. We then had some independent reading time.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where we reread the story of ‘Rumplestiltskin’. We then worked together to complete our graphic organizer about this fairytale, noting the opening of the story, the setting, characters (good/evil), the problem, the three main events, the solution, the ending, as well as other fairytale elements such as magic, things happening in 3’s/7’s). We then watched a short video clip about this fairytale, followed by completing a quick write activity.

After lunch, we had Math where we began our time by reviewing the names and properties of many of the 3D solids. We then watched two informational video clips on Pebble go about 3D shapes, specifically the cone and cube today.

Our main focus in math today was creating 3D shape riddles. I began by modelling various 3D riddles to the class and having them guess which shape I was talking about (e.g., I have 2 faces and 0 vertices. I am the same shape as a can of soup. What 3D shape am I?). The children then worked independently to create their own 3D shape riddle – we will share these tomorrow with the whole class. As the students finished their riddle, they worked on an independent activity sheet matching 3D shape names to everyday objects.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Baxendale. To end our day, we completed a diagnostic assessment about telling time to the quarter-hour. Time will be our next math unit after 3D shapes and by having the children complete this baseline assessment, it will help inform and guide my teaching – knowing what they already know/remember from Grade 1 – to where we need to get to for Gr. 2 telling time skills.

Have a great evening!

Allison

News for Tuesday, March 10^th...

Notes:

1. Picture: Everyone is asked to bring in a picture of themselves that your child can send to his/her penpal in our next letter...please send a picture that the penpal can keep.

We began our morning with planner writing, calendar, and morning message. For shared reading, we sang our two St. Patrick’s Day poems and then we focused on adding ‘ing’ to words. We talked about when the final consonant should be doubled (e.g., run- running, skip – skipping), as well as when we take off the final e before and ing (e.g., come – coming, skate – skating). We then read a St. Patrick’s Day story, followed by watching a powerpoint presentation about St. Patrick’s Day. We then had some independent reading time, followed by updating our goal charts in our classroom with what we are currently working on.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing. Today, we read the fairytale ‘Rumplestiltskin’. After reading the story, we completed our fairytale elements checklist, noting the fairytale elements present in this version of the story. We then did a quick write activity.

After lunch, we had Math where we began by reviewing the names of the various 3D solids, as well as their properties (number of faces, edges, vertices, and curved surfaces). The children then continued to work away in their small groups creating the anchor charts on a specific 3D shape that they started yesterday. We will be hanging these up on our math wall in our classroom to use a reference throughout our 3D shapes unit. As each group finished, they began working on an independent activity about 3D shapes. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had a little bit of catch-up time to finish the math independent activity and then we spent some time talking about St. Patrick's Day and watching an informational video about such.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Monday, March 9^th...

I hope everyone had a great weekend! Temperatures are definitely on the rise this week...yay!

Notes:

1. Math Quiz – Please look over, sign, and return your child’s 2-digit math quiz. Overall, I was very, very pleased with how they did....way to go, Gr. 2’s!
2. Word ring testing took place today.

We began our morning with planner writing, calendar, and our ‘Mistake Monday’ morning message. For shared reading this week, we will be learning lots about St. Patrick’s Day. However, just a note that homework duotangs will not be sent home over the March Break, as I believe it truly should be a break – so no homework this Friday. After shared reading, we read a St. Patrick’s Day story, followed by some independent reading time. For word work, we are continuing to focus on digraphs this week, but this week we will concentrate on ‘th’ and ‘wh’. We went over our new words of the week and then wrote them in our planners. We then turned our focus to Science. After the March Break, the children will be completing an animal research project, on an animal of their choice. Today we discussed the science research project that we will be starting after March Break, on an animal of their own choice. Today, I introduced the research project by talking about the importance of signs when we visit places like a zoo – what do the signs tell us, what information is on them about the animal, etc... We talked about what we would want to find out about the animal each of us is going to research (e.g., diet, habitat, life cycle, interesting facts, where it lives in the world, animal classification group, etc...). We talked about the selection process and the educational website we would be using to do our research. I went over the program so that when the children worked on the chromebooks in the afternoon, they would be familiar with the set-up.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where we are focusing on fairytales. We reviewed the elements common to fairytales and then reread the story of ‘Hansel and Gretel’. After rereading the story, we completed a graphic organizer as a class noting the title, setting, characters (good and evil), the problem, the three main events, the solution, the closing, and finally any other elements (e.g., magic, things that happened in 3’s or 7’s).

After lunch, we had Math where today we began our new unit: 3D Geometry. I began today’s math lesson by showing the children a bag, but not revealing what was inside – only telling them that what was inside would be our focus for our next math unit. I had the students make some initial predictions and then everyone had a chance to reach inside the bag (without looking) to see if this could help them with their predictions. After determining that there were shapes in the bag, we revealed what was in the bag and worked together to name each geometric solid, as well as how we could describe (we talked about terms such as edges, faces, vertices, curved surfaces, and even an apex!). We also linked the shapes to everyday objects. I emphasized that while 2D shapes have matching numbers of sides/vertices, this does not apply to 3D solids.

The students were then put in small groups where each group’s job was to create an anchor chart – 1 group per 3D solid that the whole class could reference throughout our unit, as we would display these on our math wall in our classroom. Each group was given an example of their solid to use as a reference and then they wrote down on scrap paper the name of the solid, number of edges, number of vertices, number of faces, and number of curved surfaces – they then needed to check in with me to ensure they were correct before creating the good copy on a large paper. Each anchor chart needed to include:

1. Picture of the 3D solid (students cut out and glued on a picture of their 3D solid)
2. Name of 3D solid
3. Number of Edges
4. Number of Vertices
5. Number of Faces
6. Number of Curved Surfaces
7. Everyday examples

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Baxendale. To end our day, we had Science where the children worked on the chromebooks to look through the array of animal choices. They had to narrow down their choices to 3. I will then select the final choice for each person, so that we have a variety of animals represented. They will find out their final selection after March Break.

Have a wonderful evening! Enjoy the beautiful weather!

Allison

News for Thursday, March 5^th....

Notes:

1. PD Day tomorrow – there will be no school for students tomorrow as it is a PD Day. Teachers will be at school.
2. Homework duotangs have been sent home today and are due back to school on Monday.
3. Word ring testing will take place on Monday.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our weekly word work quiz. The quizzes have now been marked and sent home in your child’s communication bag. After our quiz, we gathered at the carpet for our calendar, morning message, and shared reading routines. During shared reading, we read our poem about March Break and then we had some volunteers share their plans for March Break with the class. We also went over this week’s homework activity. For read aloud, we read a winter story and then the children had some buddy reading time. We also read two short butterfly stories that Franklin brought in to share with us.

After morning recess, the children had snack and then Social Studies with Miss. Tanner.

After lunch, we had math where we continued to work away on the second section of the math quiz, which focused on problem solving. On Monday, we will begin a new math unit.

After last recess, we had snack followed by Science where we read a butterfly story and then we finished working on our butterfly life cycle wheels. At the end of the day, if all work was finished, the children enjoyed a little activity time.

Have a great weekend!

Allison

News for Wednesday, March 4^th....

It’s definitely starting to feel like spring outside! While the weather is a bit warmer, sending your child with splash pants is still a good idea as our yard is very, very wet. A spare change of socks in your child’s backpack is also a good idea.

Notes:

1. Tomorrow is another Hat Day at Ryerson!
2. Word Work Quiz tomorrow

We began our morning with planner writing, calendar, and our morning message. For shared reading, we read through our poem “March Break” and we had a few more volunteers share their March Break plans with everyone. We also focused on long and short vowel sounds today. For read aloud, we read a Robert Munsch story and then we took some time to take a look back at all of the Blue Spruce books we’ve been reading over the last little while. The children revisited their Blue Spruce bookmarks and then chose their favourite overall book, noting it with a star. As a class, we then did a tally to see which book was the class favourite....which ended up being a three way tie this year!

After our Blue Spruce reveal, we had some independent reading time. Just before morning recess, we had our last round for this set of literacy centres.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by language. Today, we began our language time by reading the fairytale “Hansel and Gretel.” After listening to the story, we discussed what common fairytale elements were present in this version of the story. We did this by completing our fairytale checklist. It was then time to move our desks for March....they are always excited to have a new seating plan. Just before lunch, we did a quick write – it has been awhile since we have had a chance to do one, but I was quite pleased with how well they did today. We also had quite a few volunteers offer to share their writing with the class.

After lunch, we had Math where we completed the first part of our 2-digit addition/subtraction/problem solving math quiz. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Baxendale. To end our day, we had Science where we continued our focus on the life cycle of the butterfly. Today, we read a fiction book about the butterfly’s life cycle, watched a video clip about such, and then worked on our butterfly life cycle wheel.

Have a great evening!

Allison

News for Tuesday, March 3^rd...

Notes:

1. Math quiz tomorrow (focus: 2-digit addition, 2-digit subtraction, and problem solving)

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by calendar and morning message. For shared reading, we read through our poem about March Break and then we had a few more volunteers share their plans for March Break. We also reviewed digraphs and found the digraphs in the poem. We talked about who might have written the poem....was it an adult or a child? It was interesting listening to their justifications for such. For read aloud, we read our last Blue Spruce book today, which was titled “Sleep Sheep” by Kerry Lyn Sparrow. Here is a synopsis:

“There are lots of things Duncan likes about bedtime — the stories, the pajamas, the bubblegum-flavored toothpaste ... The only thing he doesn't like is going to sleep. And he'll do anything he can to avoid it. Until one day, Duncan's mom has had enough of his stalling. Try counting sheep, she tells him. So, he does. At first, it's kind of fun. As he counts, each sheep appears, wearing its number like a race car, and leaps over the bed. But then comes Sheep #68, who hesitates. He needs a drink of water before he can jump. Then he has to go to the bathroom. Then he wants to put on running shoes. Will Sheep #68 ever do what he's supposed to?”

After the story, the children rated today’s book on their Blue Spruce bookmark. They then circled their favourite book on the second side of the bookmark (which had books 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10). Tomorrow they will pick their favourite book overall. After our read aloud, we had some independent reading time. During independent reading, I am reassessing the students sight word recognition skills, to see the transference from their word ring. I am so pleased with the progress I am seeing! After independent reading, we had literacy centres.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where we reread the story of “Snow White” and then we completed a graphic organizer as a class about this story. The graphic organizer is one that the children will use independently once we begin to write our own fairytales. So, by using it for each of the 6 fairytales we will read together, they will be very familiar with the format by the time it is their turn to work independently. In the graphic organizer, we note the title of the story, the opening (e.g., once upon a time), the setting, characters (outlining the good characters and the evil characters), the problem, the 3 main events, the solution to the problem, the closing (e.g., happily ever after), and finally any other fairytale components (e.g., magic, something happening in 3’s or 7’s). After completing the graphic organizer together, we watched a short video clip of ‘Snow White’ and then compared the version we watched to the book we read.

After lunch, we had Math where today we revisited the terms sum and difference – what operation does each mean? The children then worked on two problem solving questions, followed by a review sheet for our quiz tomorrow. Overall, they did awesome and I feel most are quite ready for the quiz tomorrow. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Health with Miss. Tanner. To end our day, we had library book exchange.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Monday, March 2^nd...

Welcome to the month of March! Only 2 weeks to go until March Break!

Notes:

1. Word Ring testing took place today.
2. Math Quiz on 2-digit addition, subtraction, and problem solving on Wednesday.
3. Library Book Exchange tomorrow. Please ensure your child has returned his/her books.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by calendar where we went over all of the special things taking place in March. We also talked about whether we thought March came in like a lion or a lamb. It was then time for our ‘Mistake Monday’ morning message. Our shared reading poem this week is all about March Break. Today, we read through our poem and then we had some volunteers share their plans for March Break. Everyone will have a chance to share, if they wish, at some point throughout the week. For read aloud today, we read our 9^th Blue Spruce book. Today’s book was “Mustafa” by Marie-Louise Gay. Here is a synopsis about today’s story:

“Mustafa and his family travelled a long way to reach their new home. Some nights Mustafa dreams about the country he used to live in, and he wakes up not knowing where he is. Then his mother takes him out to the balcony to see the moon — the same moon as in their old country. In the park, Mustafa sees ants and caterpillars and bees — they are the same, too. He encounters a “girl-with-a-cat,” who says something in a language that he can’t understand. He watches an old lady feeding birds and other children playing, but he is always looking in from the outside and he feels that he is invisible. But one day, the girl-with-the-cat beckons to him, and Mustafa begins to become part of his new world.”

After listening to the story, the children gave the book a rating on their Blue Spruce bookmark. Tomorrow, we will read our final Blue Spruce selection. Once the children completed their bookmark, they had some independent reading time. After independent reading, we had word work where we went over this week’s words of the week (focus is on digraphs this week) and the children wrote the words in their planners. We will have our word work quiz on Thursday, due to the PD Day on Friday this week. Just before morning recess, we reviewed our literacy centre stations, as we will be starting those again tomorrow.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where we began our next form of writing: Fairytales. We began by talking about ‘what do we know about fairytales’. The children were able to generate some of the common elements for fairytales. Together, we created an anchor chart about ten common elements in fairytales (e.g., begin once upon a time, involve royalty, end with happily ever after, things often happen in 3’s or 7’s, there’s a problem to solve, someone gets a reward, there are good characters and evil characters, takes place long ago or far away, etc...). Over the next little while, we will be reading and examining many fairytales and looking for the above features. We will record our findings on a comparison chart. Today, we began by reading the story, “Snow White.” After listening to the story, together we completed the column for Snow White on our fairytales comparison chart.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with some problems to solve. After working through the problem solving process, our focus today was on adding and subtracting together. We discussed strategies (e.g., circling the operation sign so we are sure to know whether to add or subtract; doing all of the adding questions first, followed by the subtraction questions, etc...). After our large group work, the children worked on an independent activity. We will have a quiz on 2-digit adding, subtracting, and problem solving on Wednesday. We will complete part of the quiz on Wednesday and then finish up the quiz on Thursday. Just before last recess, we had snack.

Those that order popcorn had it delivered today.

After last recess, the children had gym with Miss. Baxendale. To end our day, we had science where today we talked about the life cycle of a butterfly. We read a non-fiction book about such and then worked together to complete a large puzzle illustrating the life cycle of a butterly. We also watched a video clip about the butterfly life cycle. Tomorrow, we will complete our life cycle wheel.

Have a great evening!

Allison

News for Friday, February 28^th...

Well, normally today would be the last day of February, but since it’s a leap year ~ we have one more day to go! I wonder...will March come in like a lion or a lamb on Sunday?

It was great to see so many hats today for 'hat day!'

Notes:

1. Word ring testing will take place on Monday.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our weekly word work quiz. The quizzes have been marked and sent home in your child’s communication bag. After the quiz, we gathered at the carpet for calendar, morning message, and shared reading. During shared reading, we read our poem about winter and we went over this weekend’s homework task. We then listened to Ajit’s “Student of the Week” presentation, followed by our Blue Spruce Read Aloud – selection #8 - “A Plan for Pops” by Heather Smith. Here is a synopsis of today’s story:

“Lou spends every Saturday with Grandad and Pops. They walk to the library hand in hand, like a chain of paper dolls. Grandad reads books about science and design; Pops listens to rock and roll, and Lou bounces from lap to lap. But everything changes one Saturday. Pops has a fall. That night there is terrible news: Pops will need to use a wheelchair, not just for now, but for always. Unable to cope with his new circumstances, he becomes withdrawn and shuts himself in his room. Hearing Grandad trying to cheer up Pops inspires Lou to make a plan. Using skills learned from Grandad, and with a little help from their neighbours, Lou comes up with a plan for Pops.”

After listening to the story, the children rated this book on their Blue Spruce bookmark...we only have two more selections to go, which will read on Monday and Tuesday. After our read aloud, the children had some buddy reading time. Just before morning recess we had snack.

After morning recess, we had a visit from “Let’s Talk Science”. Today, the focus of the activity was on animal classification. One activity the children participated in had them discover how birds use their beaks and that not all beaks are the same. A second activity had each group create their own insect, using a variety of features. Finally, we talked about wetlands and why certain animals can live there.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with a group problem solving question. We are looking for key words to determine if the question requires adding or subtracting. Mrs. Reid even came in to see all of our hard work this afternoon! After problem solving, we continued our focus on 2-digit subtraction, with and without regrouping. On Monday, we will work on activities that have both adding and subtracting on one page...which can be a bit tricky, but we will talk about strategies for completing such.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we finished our snack and then had some catch-up time, which included a much needed desk clean out!

Have a great weekend!

Allison

News for Thursday, February 27^th...

Notes:

1. Tomorrow is our word work quiz on long u words.
2. Ryerson Spirit Day tomorrow: Hat Day!

We began our morning with planner writing, calendar, and morning message. For shared reading, we read through our poem about winter and we worked on a sequencing activity. It was then time for our 7^th Blue Spruce book. Today’s book was “Me, Toma, and the Concrete Garden” by Andrew Larsen and Anne Villeneuve. Here is a brief synopsis of the book:

“Vincent is staying with his aunt Mimi for the summer while his mom recuperates from surgery. Mimi's drab city neighborhood, complete with an empty dirt lot across the street, doesn't seem too promising. But then Vincent meets Toma, a boy who lives nearby, and things start looking up. Mimi has a mysterious box of dirt balls in her apartment. When she asks Vincent to get rid of them, the fun Vincent and Toma have throwing them into the lot becomes the start of a budding friendship. Then one day, they notice new shoots sprouting all over the lot. Maybe those balls weren't just made of dirt after all!”

After listening to the story, the children rated the book on their ‘Blue Spruce’ bookmark and then they had some independent reading time. We then turned our focus to science where we focused on the life cycle of a frog. We read a non-fiction book about frogs and then completed a quick sequencing activity about a frog’s life cycle.

After morning recess, the children had snack followed by Social Studies with Miss. Tanner. They also had Dental Screening at this time.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with a group problem solving. I’m so, so, so proud with how well the children are doing in this tricky math unit! While some students can use a standard algorithm, it is also important for them to be able to show their work, in order to demonstrate full understanding of the concept. Today, we continued to work on 2-digit subtraction, with and without regrouping. Next week, we will do some activities where addition and subtraction questions are on one page.

After last recess, we had snack followed by Science where we continued to work on the life cycle of a frog. We read a fiction story about frogs and then we watched a video clip about the life cycle of a frog. As a follow-up the children completed a frog life cycle wheel.

Have a great evening!

Allison

News for Wednesday, February 26th

Notes:

1. Animal Science Quiz – today, your child has brought home his/her science quiz on animal classification. Overall, the students did awesome! I was so proud and happy as I marked them all...way to go, Gr. 2’s! Please look over the quiz with your child, sign, and return.

We began our morning with planner writing, calendar, and morning message. For shared reading, we read through our poem “Winter” - it . now definitely seems like we've returned to winter like weather for a bit! Our focus today was on. It was then time for a read aloud. Today, we read our 6^th Blue Spruce book: “Emma’s Gems” by Anne Renaud and Leanne Franson. Here is a brief synopsis of today’s book:

“Emma loves her grandfather, and the moments she shares with him are always filled with beautiful discoveries. That's because Grandpa Phil is so wise. He even knows how to change ordinary stones into precious gems. By using these stones to carry out three acts of kindness every day, Grandpa Phil demonstrates to his granddaughter the importance of helping people, animals, and the environment.”

After listening to the story, the children rated today’s book on their Blue Spruce bookmark and then they had some independent reading time. After independent reading, we had science where we are focusing on life cycles. Today, we reviewed the life cycle of humans and then we focused on the life cycle of birds. We watched a short video clip about the life cycle of a chicken and then we read a non-fiction book about the life cycle of a bird. We also talked about the life cycle wheel we would be creating at the end of the day to show either the life cycle of a chicken or a duck.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where today we worked on the good copies of our penpal letters, as well as addressing our envelopes to our penpals.

After lunch, we had Math where today we worked on 2-digit subtraction where regrouping (borrowing) was required...a very tricky concept. While some students are using a standard algorithm, it is important for them to show their work using base ten materials or representations (pictures) so that they truly understand the steps. Today, we did lots of hands-on practice using base ten materials and our place value mats. We did questions where regrouping (borrowing) was required, but also questions that they didn’t have to regroup/borrow. Just like addition, practice makes progress.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had Science where the children then worked on completing a life cycle wheel for either a chicken or a duck - their choice. They coloured and sequenced the pictures, glued them onto their life cycle wheel, and then labelled each stage.

Have a great evening!

Allison

News for Tuesday, February 25^th

Happy Pancakes and Pyjamas Day! It sounds like we are in for lots of snow! Be sure to send your child dressed for outside times at recesses and lunch.

Notes:

1. March calendar sent home today.
2. Tomorrow is ‘Pink Shirt’ day at Ryerson

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by calendar and morning message. For shared reading, we read through our poem about winter and we focused on vowel sounds today – short and long. It was then time for our 5^th Blue Spruce selection. Today’s book was titled, “The Reptile Club” by Maureen Fergus - fitting in perfect to our work in Science. Here is a synopsis of today’s book:

“There are lots of clubs for Rory to join at his new school, but none seem quite right for him. So when his parents suggest he start his own club about something he loves, Rory knows exactly what it will be: a Reptile Club! He's positive that there are other kids out there who share his passion. He sets up his first meeting and then waits and waits for students to show up. Just as he is about to give up, Rory hears whispering in the hallway and hurries over to see who it is. To his astonishment, it's not his schoolmates who have arrived to attend the first meeting, but a crocodile, an anaconda and a gecko!”

After our read aloud, the children rated today’s book on a scale of 5 stars on their Blue Spruce bookmark. We are now half way through the Blue Sprue program and finished the first side of our bookmark. As such, the children chose their top choice for the first five books we’ve read. We then had some independent reading time, followed by Science where we are focusing on life cycles. Today, we began with an introductory video clip about life cycles and then we talked about life cycles and how animals go through stages to grow up, just like we do. All of these stages make up a life cycle. We then talked about the life cycle of a human (e.g., baby, toddler, child, teenager, adult). We discussed that most animals have a simple life cycle – they are born alive from their mother or they hatch from eggs and then they grow to adult size. Amphibians, however, have more stages in their life cycle, as they go through big changes – we related this to a frog (egg, tadpole, froglet, frog). The children then worked on completing an activity sheet titled “Animals Grow Up” where they had to match pictures of the baby to its adult version.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where the children were happy to receive the letters from their penpals. The children had a chance to read, as well as share, the letter from their penpal (they have brought their penpal’s letter home today to keep). We then reviewed the format for letter writing, as well as brainstormed ideas of what we could write back to our penpals. The children then set to work on their rough copies. As they finished their rough copy, they conferenced with me. Tomorrow, we will work on our good copies.

After lunch, we had Math where today the children were introduced to two-digit subtraction – today, all of our questions did not involve regrouping/borrowing). We began with a large group problem solving task that involved a two-digit subtraction question and then we talked about strategies for subtraction. We used our base ten materials to help us solve a variety of questions together, before working on an independent activity.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Baxendale. To end our day, we read aloud a story about pancakes and enjoyed some yummy pancakes for Shrove Tuesday! Thank you so much to Franklin’s mom, Sadie’s mom, and Edwin’s dad for being awesome cooks and helping to prep all of our yummy pancakes! Thank you also to Aarav’s mom who donated syrup and some wipes...which were much needed.

Have a great evening!

Allison

News for Monday, February 24^th...

I hope everyone had a great weekend! It was so nice to see the sun shining! While the weather was a little warmer today, it's still important for the children to continue to bring snow pants or splash pants as our yard is very icy in spots and very muddy in other spots.

Notes:

1. Pancakes and Pyjamas Day! Just a reminder tomorrow is ‘Pancakes and Pyjamas” Day in Grade 2 in honour of Shrove Tuesday. Wear your PJ’s and we will enjoy some yummy pancakes for last snack tomorrow.
2. Word Ring testing took place today.

We began our morning with planner writing, calendar, and our ‘Mistake Monday’ morning message. Our shared reading poem this week is titled “Winter”. We began our shared reading time by brainstorming things that come to our minds when we think of winter...we came up with quite the list! We also listened to and read through our new poem of the week. For read aloud, we read our 4^th Blue Spruce selection. Today’s book was titled: “The Magic Boat” by Katherine Farris and Kit Pearson. Here is a brief synopsis:

“Every summer morning, Ellie and her Nonna go to the beach. They swim and build sandcastles, and while Nonna reads, Ellie watches the other children play. One day Ellie builds up the courage to approach an older girl playing on her own in a beached rowboat. Piper has a gift, an imagination so great that she whisks Ellie off on grand adventures, going high in the air, deep below the ocean and everywhere in between in their little blue boat, their magic boat. When Piper has to leave, Ellie discovers she has her own vivid imagination.”

After listening to today’s Blue Spruce selection, everyone rated the book on their Blue Spruce bookmark and then we had some independent reading time. After independent reading, we had word work where we reviewed our words of the week (continued focus on long u sounds from last week), rewriting the words on this week’s planner page.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by our science quiz on animal classification. Everyone was here today and everyone was able to finish the quiz during this timer period, so that was awesome!

After lunch, we had math where we began with a group problem solving test. Today, we reinforced that when solving problems, we should be showing our work using pictures, numbers, and words. After our large group time, the children worked on an independent task adding two-digit numbers, with and without regrouping. Today’s questions were all presented in a vertical format. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had a bit of catch up time. Those that were finished everything, worked on Dreambox.

Have a great evening!

Allison

News for Thursday, February 20^th...

Notes:

1. Homework duotangs have been sent home tonight and are due back on Monday.
2. Word Ring testing will take place on Monday.
3. Science – Animal Classification quiz will take place on Monday.
4. Dreambox – Remember, your child can do Dreambox at home at any time (a great thing for them to be doing on days off from school) to review/reinforce math concepts.

Happy Birthday wishes go out to Franklin in our class tomorrow!

We began our morning with planner writing, calendar, and morning message. For shared reading, we read through our poem titled “Friendship” and we completed a fill in the blank activity. We also did an activity focusing on nouns. We then went over this weekend’s homework task. For read aloud, we read Book #3 from our Blue Spruce selection. Today’s book was titled “Sloth at the Zoo” by Helaine Becker. Here is a brief synopsis of today’s book:

“One day, a sloth accidentally gets delivered to the Zoom! She was supposed to be dropped off at the Zzzzzoo, a much more laid-back, slow-paced place. She had been looking forward to long, languorous naps while the sun gently warmed her belly. But at the Zoom, the zebras gallop so fast they leave their stripes in puddles. The monkeys climb so fast they forget to stop at the treetops. And the parrots fly so fast their tails draw rainbows across the sky. When the sloth tries to make friends, nobody has any time — until the sloth meets a creature who's a little more her speed, and everyone stops to notice. This is a surprising, delightful, and funny picture book about slowing down to enjoy the little things and making time for what matters.”

Just before morning recess we had Science where we worked on finishing the animal classification sorting activity we started yesterday.

After morning recess, the children had snack followed by Social Studies with Miss. Tanner.

After lunch, we had Math where we are continuing to work on 2-digit addition questions, with and without regrouping. We began with a video clip about 2-digit addition. We will continue working on addition early next week and then move onto 2-digit subtraction. Overall, most children did awesome today and have a solid understanding of 2-digit addition...super!

After last recess, we had snack followed by some catch-up time. Those who needed to finish math or science did so during this time, while others worked on Dreambox practicing their math skills. To end the day we had library since we missed it earlier in the week.

Have a great weekend!

Allison

News for Wednesday, February 19^th...

Notes:

1. Procedural Writing Assessments have been sent home (books and marking sheets) - these do not need to be returned as I have kept a copy.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by calendar and our morning message. For shared reading, we read through our poem and focused on rhyming words and syllables. Our Blue Spruce book today was titled: “That’s Not Hockey” by Andree Poulin. Here is a brief synopsis of today’s book: “Young Jacques Plante’s way of playing hockey may look different from everyone else’s. Instead of a puck, he uses a tennis ball, and his shin pads are made out of potato sacks and wooden slats. But that’s not going to stop him. He loves the game. Jacques is drafted by the Montreal Canadiens in his mid-twenties. Fans love the unstoppable goalie as he leads his team to one victory after another. But there’s a price to pay: pucks to the face result in a broken jaw, broken cheekbones, multiple stitches, and even a skull fracture. One day, Jacques has had enough. He goes on the ice wearing a fiberglass mask. The coach orders him to take it off. Finally, at a game against the Rangers, when yet another puck hits Jacques square in the face, he puts his foot down. He will not continue to play unless he’s allowed to wear a mask. Young hockey fans will enjoy this story of Jacques Plante, whose determination and love of the game brought about a revolutionary change to how it is played.”

After our read aloud, the children individually rated the book on their Blue Spruce bookmark and then we had some independent reading time. For Science we did an activity where the children completed fill in the blanks reviewing the characteristics of the different animal classes. This will also make a great study/review sheet.

After morning recess, we had writing where we had a bit of time to finish up our writing books or share them with our classmates. We then invited Ms. Walkey’s class over to share our procedural writing books with them. The children were very proud to share their work with the Gr. 2’s and 1’s in Ms. Walkey’s class. Have your child guide you through some of their books tonight, following all of their written instructions and pictures.

After lunch, we had Math where we are continuing to practice 2-digit addition questions where some involve regrouping and some do not. We began with some large group work at the carpet, using manipulatives as well as our individual whiteboards. The children then worked independently on a few questions. They are getting sooo much better and more confident with these types of questions...yay! Just before last recess we had snack. Those who order popcorn had it delivered today.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Baxendale. To end our day, we had Science (part 2 today) where the children completed a cut and paste activity sorting pictures of various animals into the appropriate animal class. We did half of the activity today and will finish up the activity tomorrow.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Tuesday, February 18th ...

I hope everyone had a wonderful Family Day weekend! I was so impressed and amazed when I walked into the classroom this morning and saw everyone’s Day 100 projects...fantastic job, Gr. 2’s!

I have marked the spelling quizzes that were completed on Friday, so your child’s quiz will be in his/her communication bag today.

Thank you for all for all of the Valentine’s Day cards and goodies...I can’t wait to look through everything tonight!

Congratulations goes out to Ahmed in our class for having perfect attendance for all 100 Days...an awesome accomplishment!

Notes:

1. Animal Classification Quiz – on Monday (Feb. 24^th). Using your little mini books to study/review would be a great idea.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by calendar, and morning message. Our shared reading poem this week is titled “Friendship” - which is always a good topic for any point in the year, but especially around Valentine’s Day. We will be focusing on the concept of syllables this week. For read aloud, we will begin ‘The Forest of Reading’ program – specifically ‘Blue Spruce’. The Blue Spruce Award™ program brings recently published Canadian children's picture books to children. Each year, 10 books are nominated. Over the next ten school days, we will read one ‘Blue Spruce’ book a day and then rate how we each enjoyed the book on our ‘Blue Spruce bookmarks’ - the scale is a set of 5 stars – with 5 stars being an amazing book! At the end, we will do a vote to see which book our class enjoyed the most. Today’s Blue Spruce selection was titled: “Giraffe and Bird Together Again” by Rebecca Bender. Here is a brief synopsis of today’s story: “Bird lives for adventure. He wants to swoop, soar, and explore. Giraffe is perfectly happy right where he is, thank you very much. He never worries when Bird flits off for a while. But one afternoon his friend fails to return. Giraffe has a bad feeling that something has happened to Bird. Giraffe dreads the wide world full of tangly forests, craggy mountains, and mysterious plains. But he doesn't hesitate. If Bird is in trouble, then Giraffe will find and rescue him.”

After the story, we had independent reading, followed by word work. This week and next week we will focus on the long u sound. We went over our focus words and then wrote them in our planners. We also listened to Amir’s “Student of the Week” presentation.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by some time to share our Day 100 projects. I really enjoyed seeing all of the projects – thank you for supporting your child with this learning task at home. After our sharing time we had Science where the children were given a page of various animals and they had to sort them into the appropriate animal class on another sheet of paper.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with a large group problem solving task that was focused on two-digit adding where regrouping was required – this was interesting! This became our focus today. Using the base ten manipulatives, we worked through a number of math problems where some required regrouping and some did not. Very, very tricky! But with practice comes progress. After our large group time, the children worked independently on a few problems. We are getting so much better - it takes time and it's hard, but I'm already seeing great progress! Yay! Just before last recess we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Social Studies with Miss. Tanner. To end our day, we were scheduled to have our library book exchange, but due to some maintenance in the library, the library is closed for 2 days. Instead, we invited Ms. Walkey’s class over to view our Day 100 projects!

Have a great evening!

Allison

News for Friday, February 14^th...

Notes:

* Math Quizzes - thank you to the families who signed and returned their child's measurement quiz today. We did have some other tests returned today, but they were not signed- feel free to sign anywhere on the first page and then return on Tuesday.

1. Homework Duotangs have been sent home today and are due back on Tuesday.
2. No School on Monday due to Family Day - have a great long weekend!
3. Library Book Exchange on Tuesday - be sure your child has returned his/her books.

Happy Valentine's Day! Unfortunately I couldn't be at school today to celebrate Valentine's Day or Day 100 with the children as I was off for bereavement. However, my supply teacher, Ms. Boyd I'm sure had a wonderful time with the kids carrying out the plans I left for her.

Today, the children began their day writing the planner message, followed by calendar and the morning message I left them. They then had their words of the week quiz. I will mark these on Tuesday and then send them home. After word work, they had Shared Reading where they read through our poem of the week titled, "Our Classroom Has a Mailbox" and then they completed a fill in the blank type activity together on the Smartboard. They then listened to a story titled "100th Day worries" in honour of our celebration of the 100th day of school today. They then had some buddy reading time. Jut before morning recess, they had snack. We needed to do early snack today due to the Day 100 activities planned for after recess.

After morning recess, the children were put into four groups. Each group would also have members from Ms. Walkey’s class, Miss Bolger’s class, and Mrs. Bere’s class in it. It’s a great opportunity for the children to work with other students in the primary division. From after recess until lunch, the children participated in four rotating centres all focused on the theme of ‘100’ in honour of Day 100 celebration. In my class, they played a math game titled “Race to 100”. In Ms. Walkey’s class they put together 100 piece puzzles. In Miss. Bolger’s class they played ‘100 Bingo’. In Mrs. Bere’s class they worked on creating 100 cents (or $1) in as many different ways as possible.

After lunch, the children had the chance to share their 100 Day projects with their classmates. I have asked Ms. Boyd to have the children leave their projects at school as I definitely want to hear them present and share them – they will present them again on Tuesday. I can’t wait! After the Day 100 sharing, the children handed out their valentines. I’m sure they will enjoy looking through their goody bags tonight! If a valentine of another child accidentally got into your child’s bag, just send it back to school on Tuesday and we will give it to that child then.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Baxendale. To end our day, the children enjoyed eating some yummy treats – thank you to all who sent in treats today. They also had some Valentine’s Day fun during our ‘party time.’

Have a wonderful long weekend! Enjoy spending time as a family on Family Day on Monday!

Allison

News for Thursday, February 13^th...

Notes:

1. Measurement Quiz – please look over the quiz with your child noting his/her successes, as well as areas of correction. Then sign and return the quiz back to school.
2. Valentines – if your child is handing out valentines tomorrow, please be sure to send them with him/her tomorrow morning.
3. Day 100 projects are due tomorrow.

We began our morning with planner writing, calendar, and morning message. We then read our shared reading poem, “Our Classroom Has a Mailbox” and focused on contractions again. We read a Valentine’s Day story and then had some independent reading time. After that, we gathered back at the carpet where we continued to focus on contractions. We watched a short video clip on contractions. Just before morning recess, we had Science where we focused on insects, reviewing characteristics of this animal class, as well as examples of such. We then watched a video clip about insects and completed our insects page in our mini books.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by Art where we created our Valentine’s Day bags/holders.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with a group problem solving task that focused on 2-digit adding, without regrouping (next week, we will work on questions that involve regrouping too). We are working on using base ten (tens and ones) to show our work and understanding, as well as a standard algorithm. Most students were much more comfortable with the task today. Just before last recess, we had lunch.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had Science where we worked on finishing the last page of our animal classification booklet. This page was a review page about all 6 animal classes.

Have a great night! It’s going to be a fun and busy day tomorrow, celebrating Day 100 and Valentine’s Day! Unfortunately, I will be away tomorrow on a bereavement day. Ms. Boyd will be in for me. The children will still present their Day 100 projects to their classmates, but they will present it again on Tuesday for me to see. The Valentine's Day celebration will also take place tomorrow.

Allison

News for Wednesday, February 12th

I hope everyone had a great weekend!

Notes:

1. Word Ring Testing – will take place tomorrow (Thursday), since we were not at school on Monday.

2. Please ensure you add our new student, Moeez, to your child’s Valentine’s Day list.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our calendar, and morning message. Our shared reading this week is titled “Our Classroom Has a Mailbox” in honour of Valentine’s Day this coming Friday. We read through our poem and then we focused on contractions, finding the contractions in the poem and then doing a contraction matching activity. It was then time for a Valentine’s Day read aloud, followed by word work. We are continuing with our ‘long o’ words this week (due to the short week last week and this week). We reviewed our words and then rewrote the words in our planner. The children also completed a long o activity sheet. Just before morning recess we had independent reading.

After morning recess, the children had Social Studies with Ms. Tanner.

After lunch we had Math where we began our new unit, 2-digit addition and subtraction, with and without regrouping. This is often the most challenging of the Grade 2 math units for many students...but with practice comes progress. Today, I posed a 2-digit addition question (that did not require regrouping) on the whiteboard and asked the children to solve the problem – as I wanted to see how they would approach such a question. Over the next little while, we will be exploring a variety of strategies to solve 2-digit addition questions (many of which are different from when you and I are were in school, but it’s important for the children understand the process, not just memorize a formula – they need to be able to explain what they are doing). We spent a good portion of our math time using base ten materials (tens and ones) to practice solving a variety of two digit questions. We then worked on our showing our ‘work’ by drawing and tens and ones to represent what we are doing with the manipulatives. After a good portion of time at the carpet, the children worked independently on an activity sheet. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, we had writing where we are trying to finish up our procedural writing unit. We are trying to get everyone finished on the book they are currently working on so that we are able to share our work with Ms. Walkey’s class soon. To end our day, we had science where we focused on ‘fish’ today. We reviewed the characteristics of fish, as well as examples of different kinds of fish. We watched a video clip about such and then worked on the fish page in our activity booklets.

Have a great evening!

Allison

News for Friday, February 7^th....

Happy Friday! I’m happy to hear that many students have been working on their Day 100 projects, as well as writing out their valentines...super!

Notes:

1. Day 100 Projects are due on Friday, Feb. 14^th....however, if your child wishes to bring in his/her project early, he/she is more than welcome to do so.
2. New student – we have a new student in our class...a little boy Moeez. Please add his name to your child’s valentines list.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem about the 100^th day of school and then we completed a fill in the blank style activity. We also went over this weekend’s homework task. We then read a Day 100 story, followed by writing where we continued to work away on our Valentine’s Day poems. As students finished their brainstorming that they started on Wednesday (generating a list of 5 red things, 5 blue things, and 5 sweet things), they then chose the one word they wanted from each list, conferenced with me to ensure spelling/grammar, and then they worked on writing the rough copy of their poem. Many students were also able to start (and finish) their good copy today too...awesome! As the children finished their poems, they worked on finishing their Valentine’s Day pastel art. The ones that are finished are now displayed on our hallway bulletin board.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by beginning our math measurement quiz. As they finished the first part of the quiz, they worked on finishing their Valentine’s writing and art activity.

After lunch, we completed the second part of the measurement quiz. I will mark these over the weekend so that they can be sent home next week (after the students who were absent today write the quiz though). Just before last recess, we had snack and we listened to Ahmed’s “Student of the Week” presentation.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had Science where we focused on amphibians today. We reviewed the characteristics, as well as some examples of amphibians and then we watched a video clip about such. The children then completed their amphibians page in their mini books.

Have a great weekend!

Allison

News for Wednesday, February 5^th...

Notes:

1. Day 100 – We will be moving our Day 100 festivities to Friday, February 14^th, due to the missed school days. Day 100 projects will now be due on this day, however if you want to send them in early, you are more than welcome to.
2. Word Work Quiz – there will not be a word work quiz this Friday, instead we will have our quiz on long o sounds next Friday (Feb. 14^th).

We began our morning with planner writing, calendar, and morning message. For shared reading, we read through our poem about the 100^th day of school and then we focused on contractions. We read two ‘Day 100’ stories during our read aloud time and then we had literacy centres. Just before morning recess, we began a February writing task. Over the next few days, we will be writing some poetry. Today, we began our writing activity, by visiting the common poem:

Roses are red.

Violets are blue.

Sugar is sweet.

And so are you.

We then found out that by changing just a few words (substituting words for roses, violets, and sugar) we can make a brand new poem. The children then began to brainstorm a list of things that are red, a list of things that are blue, and a list of things that are sweet in their writing books. Next day, we will use these lists to help us create our very own poem.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by Health with Miss. Tanner. Last term, I taught the Health Program, but this term Miss. Tanner will be teaching Health to the students. She began health with them today focusing on healthy teeth – which is perfect as the Gr. 2’s have dental screening later this month at school.

*Those students who order popcorn had it delivered today and they ate it at first snack.

After lunch, we had Math where we reviewed when to use centimetres and when to use metres. We watched a video clip comparing centimetres, metres, and kilometres. Then the children set to work on an activity where they had to decide which unit was the best choice for a given object (centimetres or metres). They also did a fun measuring task using metres...ask them about it. On Friday, we will have a quiz on measurement. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, we had snack followed by Art where we began a Valentine’s Day art activity titled ‘pastel hearts.’ For this activity, we are using pastels – very exciting (and a bit messy - but the end product always turns our great!). We will continue this activity next day.

Have a wonderful evening!

Allison

News for Monday, February 3^rd, 2020

Welcome to the month of February! Well, the groundhog predicts that there will be an early spring...yay! I definitely hope his prediction comes true!

Notes:

1. Pancakes & Pyjamas Day – I am looking for a couple parent volunteers who would be able to come in to help make pancakes for our ‘pancakes and pyjamas day’ on Shrove Tuesday (Feb. 25^th) - this will take place mid-afternoon – maybe around 2:15ish....as the children will enjoy some pancakes as a special treat around 3:00ish. We are also looking for a griddle or two to borrow for the afternoon. I will personally supply all the goodies to make the pancakes, plates, napkins, cutlery....I just need to some parents to do the cooking 😊 Please write me a note in your child’s planner or send me an email at: a.alderson@tvdsb.ca
2. Word Ring Testing – took place today, be sure to check your child’s ring for new words

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by calendar and our morning message. We had a good discussion about the groundhog’s prediction too! For shared reading, our poem this week is all about the 100^th Day of school as it’s coming up early next week. Today, we read through our poem and then we worked with a partner to see how many words we could create using the letters in the words ‘one hundred’. We made more than 20 words....awesome! We then read a 100^th day story, followed by word work where we went over this week’s words of the week and copied our new words into our planner. Just before morning recess, we moved our desks to our new spots for February, so that we can work with new classmates and friends.

After morning recess, we had independent reading followed by writing where we began with a video clip about ‘how to’ (procedural) writing. We then continued to work away on our mini books. I’m seeing lots of progress after conferencing with the students. We look forward to sharing our books with Ms. Walkey’s class on Friday. Just before lunch we had independent reading.

After lunch, we had Math where today we focused on metres. I showed the children a metre discuss and we discussed that a metre stick is another standard measure tool we can use for measuring objects. We went over that there are 100 centimetres in a metre. We also discussed the short form for metres (m.). We discussed when/why we would use metres and when/why we would use centimetres. I posed various questions and asked the children to tell me whether I should use centimetres or metres to measure the object (e.g., length of a book, height of our school, height of our classroom door, length of a pencil, width of a student desk, etc...). We then focused on the metre stick, looking around the classroom to try and identify objects that are about 1 metre long. We took some estimates and then checked our guesses – seeing if the object was about the same as a metre, longer than a metre, or shorter than a metre. We talked about how to measure with a metre stick – focusing on how to measure objects that are shorter than a metre, as well as objects that are longer than a metre. The children then worked on an independent activity. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Social Studies with Miss. Tanner. To end our day, we had library book exchange.

Have a great evening!

Allison

News for Friday, January 31^st...

Happy Friday! Here we are at the end of January! I’m keeping my fingers crossed that the groundhog doesn’t see his shadow on Sunday so that we will have an early spring!

Notes:

1. Word ring testing will take place on Monday.
2. Homework duotangs have been sent home and are due back on Monday.
3. Library is on Monday – please ensure your child returns his/her books, so he/she can sign out new ones.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our weekly word work quiz. The quizzes have now been marked and sent home with your child today. After the quiz, we gathered at the carpet for our morning message, calendar, and shared reading routines. During shared reading, we read through our poem, watched a video about some holiday fun and facts related to Groundhog Day, and then we went over this week’s homework tasks. It was then time for a Groundhog Day read aloud, followed by Science. In Science, we reviewed reptiles today, focusing on characteristics, as well as examples of reptiles. We then watched a video clip about reptiles, followed by completing our reptiles mini book page.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by listening to Hayoon’s “Student of the Week” presentation. We then had some buddy reading time, followed by writing where we continued to work away on our procedural writing mini books. We are looking forward to sharing our books with Ms. Walkey’s class next week.

After lunch, we had Math where we are continuing to focus on standard measurement. We reviewed how to use a ruler to measure using centimetres, as well as discussed what kinds of objects would be measured in centimetres. The children then worked on completing two independent activity tasks. If they finished early, they worked on the math program, “Dreambox.” Just before last recess, we had snack, as well as a desk clean out.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Baxendale. To end our day, we had a bit of catch-up time.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Allison

News for Thursday, January 30^th...

Notes:

1. Jersey Day! Tomorrow is a Ryerson Spirit Day – Jersey Day! The children are encouraged to wear a sports jersey (e.g., hockey, soccer, baseball, basketball) or even their Ryerson spirit wear!
2. Social Studies Work – Miss. Tanner has sent home the Social Studies work your child has completed during Term One. These sheets can now stay at home.
3. Word Work Quiz – Just a reminder that tomorrow is our word work quiz on long ‘i’ words.
4. Math paper rulers – these can now stay at home, as we have now moved onto standard measurement.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem, “The Second of February” and we completed a fill in the blank style activity. Today, we also did a little Groundhog Day activity. We then read a Groundhog Day story, followed by literacy centres. The children are really enjoying literacy centres. Literacy centres are fun, hands-on activities that promote reading and writing skills, but they also work on group cooperation and collaboration skills. After literacy centres, we continued with our Groundhog Day craftivity, working on finishing up our rough copies, conferencing, doing our good copies, and then putting our whole craftivity together – as the children finished, we hung them up in the hallway to display...just in time for Groundhog Day on Sunday!

After morning recess, we had snack followed by independent reading. After our reading time, we turned our focus to writing where those who hadn’t finished their Groundhog Day activity worked on finishing that up, while other students who were done continued to work on their procedural writing mini books. I also conferenced with some students during this time about the procedural writing books that they have finished, so they are aware of next steps moving forward.

After lunch, we had Math where today we focussed on standard measurement. We began with an activity called ‘Centimetre Hunt’. We looked at a ruler and talked about how the distance between the two marks represents a centimetre. I then asked the children to place his/her finger on the ruler to demonstrate the width of one of their fingertips is about 1 cm. We continued to explore our rulers, discussing how to measure with a ruler (going over the importance of the location of 0). We also discussed the shortform of centimetres (cm.). We watched a short video clip about standard measurement and then the children set to work on an independent activity measuring objects, using centimtres. Just before last recess we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had Science where our focus was revisiting the animal classification group: Birds. We reviewed the various characteristics of birds, as well as some examples of kinds of birds. We watched a video clip titled “Feather Friends” and then the children completed the follow up page in their animal classification mini book about birds.

Have a great evening!

Allison

News for Wednesday, January 29^th...

Notes:

1. Measuring Shoes Math Homework Sheet – Your child has brought home a ‘Measuring Shoes’ homework sheet tonight, along with the ruler he/she created in class. Please help them complete the activity sheet and then return it back to school.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem about Groundhog Day: “The Second of February”. We then focused on finding all of the contractions in our poem. We then read a Groundhog Day story, followed by working on our own groundhog burrows...we have some very creative students in here, so I’m sure many groundhogs would love to live in these burrows! There’s everything from slides to elevators to pools!

After morning recess, we had snack followed by Social Studies with Miss. Tanner.

After lunch, we had Math where today we used our paper rulers to help us measure a variety of classroom objects. We talked about measurement words such as height, length, and width. We also reviewed how to measure objects that were shorter than the ruler, as well as longer than the ruler.

After last recess, we had snack followed by independent reading. After our reading time, we had writing where we worked on a descriptive writing piece today about our burrows. As the children finished drawing/creating their burrows, they then worked on telling us about their burrows. We talked about the importance of using adjectives (juicy words) to really help the reader visualize the burrows in their mind, without even seeing it.

Have a great evening!

Allison

News for Tuesday, January 28^th...

Notes:

1. February Calendar – I have sent home our classroom calendar for the month of February. Be sure to post in a visible spot at home.
2. Day 100 – I have sent home a note about Day 100 today. Please be sure to read over.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “The Second of February” and we focused on opposites today. We also viewed a slideshow about Groundhog Day. It was then time for a Groundhog Day read aloud, followed by literacy centres. We then began talking about a Groundhog Day craftivity we will be working on– last week the children created a groundhog during art....today, we discussed how they will be creating burrows for their groundhog. They are asked to use their imagination to create an ‘ideal’ groundhog burrow. For inspiration, we read a book that had some very detailed burrows.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where today we reviewed the format for letter writing. We watched a video clip about writing letters, which was a great review. The children then continued to work on their penpal letters. Those students who hadn’t finished their rough copy yesterday, worked on that. those that had finished, ensured they conferenced with me, and then worked on their good copy. We also worked on our envelopes, as well as colouring/writing a little valentine to our penpals.

After lunch, we had Math where today’s activity was titled “If the Shoe Fits!” I began by explaining to the class that my friend bought a pair of shoes that I really like and she said I could borrow them anytime I want. Yesterday, I wondered if my friend’s shoes would really fit me, so I called her to ask if her shoes were the same length as my shoes. To measure the length of a shoe, my friend connected interlocking cubes in a row. Then she placed her shoe beside the row of cubes and she counted the cubes that matched the length of her shoe. She said that her shoe was 13 cubes long. I asked the kids: ‘How can we find out if my friend’s shoes are the same length as my shoe?’ I Invited the children to explain how they might determine whether the shoes have the same length.

I then showed the children an interlocking cube (2cmx2cmx2cm) and a shoe. I asked them to use cubes as a unit to estimate the length of my shoe. I connected several cubes in a row and demonstrated how to align one end of the shew with an end of the row of cubes. Together we counted the cubes that matched the length of the shoe. We were then able to compare the length of the shoe with estimates, and discussecd whether my friend’s shoe and my shoe were the same length.

We discussed how we will be doing measurement activities both in our classroom and at their houses. These activities involve using interlocking cubes to measure length. However, the cubes must stay in the classroom and not go home. I asked, ‘What measurement tool could we make that would allow us to measure both at home and at school?’ I showed the children a paper ruler, that I had made ahead of time. I demonstrated that each coloured section was the same size as the face on an interlocking cube. I explained that I made the ruler by gluing squares of construction paper onto a strip of paper. The children then worked on constructing their own paper rulers, by gluing coloured paper squares onto a strip of tagboard. We discussed the importance of gluing the squares together, without gaps and without overlapping.

After they finished creating their own ruler, we discussed how the paper ruler was similar to using the cubes? How could they prove that each square is the same size as the face of an interlocking cube? How their ruler was different than the ruler made with the cubes? How could they use the ruler to measure length?

The children then sat in a circle with their legs extended towards the centre. I asked if they needed to borrow someone else’s shoes...whose would fit you? I explained that they will use their paper rulers to measure the length of their shoes. We reviewed how they need to align an end of the shoe with the end of the ruler and then count the number of units (squares) that correspond to the length of the shoe. They then completed a measuring sheet activity where they had to do some estimating, as well as measuring of various shoes in our classroom, finding one that was longer than their shoe, shorter than their shoe, and about the same as their shoe. Tomorrow they will bring home a similar sheet to measure shoes in their family – they will also bring home the rulers they have created tomorrow.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end the day, we had some catch-up time where the children finished working on their penpal letters/envelopes/valentines, their mammals page from yesterday in our new science mini book, etc...

Have a great evening!

Allison

News for Monday, January 27^th...

I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend! It’s hard to believe that this coming weekend will be February!

Notes:

1. Graphing Quiz – please look over the graphing quiz with your child, celebrating what he/she did well, as well as looking over areas of correction. Then please sign and return the quiz back to school.
2. Word ring testing did not take place today as my volunteer was ill. Keep practicing your words – testing will resume next week.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our ‘Mistake Monday’ morning message. We completed calendar and then turned our focus to shared reading. Our shared reading poem this week focuses on Groundhog Day as Groundhog Day will be this coming Sunday (February 2^nd). Today, we read through our poem and talked about what ‘happens’ if the groundhog does see his shadow, as well as what happens if he doesn’t. We then read a Groundhog Day story – we will be reading lots of books about Groundhog Day this week! After, we had some independent reading time. For word work, we will be continuing our focus on long ‘i’ words this week since last week was a short week. Today, we read over our words again and rewrote them on this week’s planner page. Just before morning recess, I introduced our new literacy centres for the week. This week, the children will participate in book club (guided reading with me), chromebooks (focusing on literacy based activities), buddy reading, art (where they will follow a procedural text to create a card of their choice), and games (“Roll, Say, and Keep).

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing. Today, the children received a letter back from their penpal....they get soooo excited when they receive ‘mail!’ The children had a chance to read the letter their penpal wrote to them and then share the letter with some of their peers. We then brainstormed ideas of what we could write back to our penpals – to help us do such, we watched a little video clip about writing letters. We also reviewed the form/components of letter writing. The children then set to work on writing the rough draft of their letter. As they finish their rough draft, they conferenced with me.

After lunch, we had Math where today the children created their own ‘rulers’ by connecting 20 cubes. “Before students use standard rulers to measure length, they should have experience in using rulers that they construct from non-standard unit. Such experiences help students to focus on the linear units represented by a ruler.” (Guide to Effective Instruction in Mathematics) After everyone had a chance to create their own ruler, they were given the task of measuring objects in the classroom, being sure to include objects that were shorter than, longer than, as well as the same length as their ruler. They recorded the name of the object, as well as the length (e.g., pencil – 8 cubes long). Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Baxendale. To end our day, we had Science. Today, we continued our work on animal classification, beginning a new mini-book. We once again started with mammals. We watched an e-text about mammals and reviewed the characteristics of mammals, as well as brainstormed a variety of mammals. The children then worked on the mammals page in their mini book in which they had to use a t-chart to create a list of mammals, as well as list of animals that are not mammals.

Have a great evening!

Allison

News for Thursday, January 23rd

Notes:

1. PD Day – No school for students tomorrow as it is a Board PD Day. Teachers will be at school focusing on assessment.
2. Homework duotangs have been sent home today and are due back on Monday.
3. Word ring testing will take place on Monday.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “Snowman, Snowman” and we focused on the concept of rhyme. We also read our poem in a round. I then explained this week’s homework task. It was then time for a winter read aloud. Today’s selection was titled, “All You Need for a Snowman.” We then divided up into our literacy centre groups. Today was the final rotation for this set of literacy centres. Next week the centre activities will change. Just before morning recess we had word work where we focused on the long ‘i’ sound. We watched a quick video clip about long ‘i’ and then put this learning into practice.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by buddy reading. After practicing our reading skills, we turned our focus to writing where we continued to work away on our procedural writing books. As students finish their second book, I am marking such with a rubric and then I conference one-on-one with the students about what they did well, as well as next steps before they begin their third book, on a topic of their choice.

After lunch, we had Math where we are working on measurement. Our first activity was titled “Amazing Paths” - here the children were asked to look at two different mazes and estimate which one they thought had the shortest path. They then measured to check their guesses, using a non-standard measuring tool (e.g., small cubes, linkits, paper clips, large cubes, etc...). They also worked on a follow up task that focused on non-standard measurement. We will spend a few more days on non-standard measurement and then move onto standard measurement where we will use rulers (centimetres) and metre sticks (metres) to measure a variety of objects. Just before last recess we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had Science we focused on the animal classification group of insects. We brainstormed what we thought we knew about insects, watched a video about such, and then co-created our anchor chart on the characteristics of insects. The children then worked independently in their mini-books completing the page on insects, as well as ensuring all other pages were finished in this first mini book.

Have a wonderful weekend,

Allison

News for Tuesday, January 21^st...

Notes:

1. Word Work – due to the short week, we will not have a word work quiz this week. Instead, our quiz on long ‘i’ words will be next Friday (January 31^st).

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “Snowman, Snowman” and then we focused on punctuation, as well as completing some word work activities. It was then time for a read aloud: “The Smiley Snowman” followed by literacy centres. After literacy centres, we had some independent reading time.

After morning recess, the children had snack, followed by Social Studies with Miss. Tanner.

After lunch, we began our next math unit: Measurement (non-standard and standard units). To begin, we sat around the edge of the carpet looking at 2 pieces of yarn...one piece of yarn had been placed in a coiled position (it measured 40 cm) and the other piece of yarn was placed in a straight line (its length was 30 cm). The children were told that the pieces of yarn, represented snakes. There were asked to look at the ‘snakes’ and estimate which one was longer, while explaining their thinking. We talked about how we could actually find out. We had many students volunteer a variety of strategies for doing such. We discussed how both pieces of string needed to be straight and they must have the same starting point when measuring, to ensure fairness. We talked about how we could use non-standard units (e.g., popsicle sticks, cubes, linkits, paperclips, etc...) to measure and compare the snakes. We discussed the importance of placing the objects end to end, without gaps or without overlapping.

I then showed the children 3 pictures of snakes and explained that these pictures represented snakes in a zoo. A zookeeper was given instructions on how to feed the snakes – feeding the longest one first and the shortest one last...the problem was the zookeeper didn’t know which snake was which! The children were each asked to estimate which snake was the longest and which was the shortest, explaining their estimation strategies.

I then showed the children a piece of string (2 metres long) - and explained that the zookeeper used the string to compare the lengths of the snakes. The children were then divided into groups of 3 and asked to discuss how the zookeeper might have measured and compared the snakes. Each group was provided with a string (that they could cut) and were asked to imagine that they were the zookeepers and to use the string to order the snakes for the longest to the shortest. They had to check their work, using non-standard units of their choice (e.g., popsicle sticks, small cubes, large cubes, paper clips). Each group used a different non-standard unit...which provided some great discussion after (e.g., why was Snake A 8 cubes long but 14 paper clips long). We discussed the importance of ensuring fairness in measuring by choosing the same measuring tool to measure the objects we are comparing, as well as starting at the same starting point and not leaving gaps/overlapping our objects. They did an awesome job measuring and working in small groups. As a follow up, the children did an independent measuring activity.

After last recess, the children had snack followed by some time to finish their math independent activity, as well as the fish page from yesterday in our animal classification booklet. Once most students were caught up on their independent work, we read a Groundhog Day story and began working on a craft about such.

Those who order popcorn had it delivered today.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Monday, January 20^th...

I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend! We sure got lots of snow! Steve and I enjoyed taking part in Londonlicious this weekend, dining at ‘The Black Trumpet’ with friends...it was super yummy!

Notes:

1. JK Registration for next year is now open! Please tell friends, neighbours, etc...who have a child who will starting JK in September to register as soon as possible. The number of registrations we receive by early February directly impacts the number of Kindergarten classes/teachers we are assigned for September, so registering as soon as possible is highly encouraged.
2. Word Ring Testing – took place today, be sure to check your child’s ring for new words.

We began our morning with planner writing, our ‘Mistake Monday’ morning message, and calendar. Our shared reading poem this week is titled “Snowman, Snowman.” We began by doing a ‘think/pair/share’ activity making predictions on what we thought our poem would be about. We then read through our new poem together and we continued our focus on compound words. We found all of the compound words in our poem and we also did a rebus activity. It was then time for a winter story titled “Snowman All Year”, followed by some independent reading time. For word work we went over this week’s words of the week – this week we are focusing on the long “i’ sound. We read through our new list of word, finding out how the long “i” sound was spelled each time, and then wrote these words in our planners. Just before recess we had phonics, where we sang our song about short and long vowels and then we brainstormed a variety of short ‘i’ and long ‘i’ words.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where we are continuing to work away on our procedural writing mini books. Those that have finished their second book, conferenced with me using the rubric I used to assess such, so that they would know where they did a great job, as well as next steps, before beginning their third book.

After lunch, we had Math where we completed our assessment for graphing, specifically the bar graph section. I will mark these soon. Just before last recess we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Baxendale. To end our day, we had Science where we reviewed the animal classes we have studied thus far (mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians). Our focus today was on fish. We brainstormed what we thought we knew about fish and then we watched a short video clip about fish. After the video, we co-created our anchor chart about fish, listing characteristics of this group. The children then worked on completing their page about fish in their animal classification mini book.

Have a great evening!

Allison

News for Friday, January 17^th...

Notes:

1. Word ring testing – will be on Monday (January 20^th).
2. Bar graph quiz – on Monday we will finish off our quiz on graphing, completing the bar graph section.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our weekly word work quiz. The quizzes have now been marked and sent home with your child in his/her communication bag. After our quiz, we gathered at the carpet for morning message, calendar, and shared reading. During shared reading, we read through our poem and continued our focus on compound words. We did a fill in the blank type activity, watched a short video clip about compound words, and we played a compound word game. We also went over this week’s homework task. It was then time to listen to Edwin’s “Student of the Week” presentation, followed by a winter read aloud. Just before morning recess, we had some catch-up time, working on finishing our ‘amphibians’ page in our science book from yesterday.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by some buddy reading time. It was then time for writing where we continued to work away on our procedural writing mini books.

After lunch, we had Math where today was our last ‘formal day’ on graphing. Today, the children generated a survey question that they then asked to their peers. They used this data to create a bar graph, as well as interpret the information. Today’s graph will be used as part of our assessment for our unit on graphing. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Social Studies with Miss. Tanner. To end our day, we had library. Each child is encouraged to sign out at least 1 book...many sign out three which is great! the children have the choice of keeping their library books in their desks or taking them home for a bit.

Have a wonderful weekend! I hear we are in for a lot of snow tonight!

Allison

News for Thursday, January 16^th...

Notes:

1. Word Work Quiz – just a reminder that tomorrow will be our weekly word work quiz.
2. Library – tomorrow we have library, please ensure your child has returned his/her books so that he/she can sign out new ones to enjoy.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem about ‘Snowflakes’ and then we continued our focus on compound words by playing a compound words game together. It was then time for a winter story followed by literacy centres – during the ‘book club’ portion of literacy centres the children are reading about a procedural text (how to make various kinds of cards) to tie into our learning in writing. Next week they will put this learning into action as one of our literacy centres will become card making, following the steps and procedures listed in the text. Just before morning recess, we had a bit of catch-up time to finish our science work on reptiles from yesterday afternoon.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by independent reading and then writing where today I talked to the children about the rubric that will be used to assess their writing for procedural writing. The first procedural writing book that they create will not be assessed as the children have had a lot of support and guidance with this one, but the second will be assessed using such criteria. Today, many students worked on finishing their first procedural writing mini book and some were even ready to start their second. Once most of the children have completed two books each, then we will visit Ms. Walkey’s class to share our writing with her Grade 1’s and 2’s.

After lunch, we had Math where we are continuing are learning on bar graphs. We are really working on ensuring our bar graphs have titles, as well as a label for each axis. Today, we completed a large group bar graph together and then the children worked independently to survey their classmates on a question of their choice – they then used this information to create a bar graph and explain their findings. They also completed one side of a follow up activity sheet where they had to interpret the data. Just before last recess we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Baxendale. To end our day we had Science where we reviewed the animal classes we have learned about thus far (mammals, birds, and reptiles). Today’s focus was on amphibians. We brainstormed what we knew about amphibians and then we listened to an e-text about such. After hearing some more facts about amphibians, we worked together to co-create an anchor chart about amphibians. The children then worked on completing the mini book page about amphibians in their animal classification booklet. Those students who finished such, looked through magazines to cut out and glue pictures of amphibians onto our anchor chart. Our anchor charts are looking very colourful on the bulletin board in our classroom.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Wednesday, January 15^th...

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading we read through our poem about Snowflakes and then we continued our focus on compound words. It never fails the week I choose do a poem about Snowflakes, the weather is pretty mild...oh well! I’ll take the mild weather any day! After shared reading we read a winter story and then we reviewed the difference between long and short vowels, sang our vowels song, and then the children worked on an activity sheet about long e. Just before morning recess, we had literacy centres.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by independent reading and then writing where today we really focused on the ‘steps’ for procedural writing as most of the children had finished the title page, as well as materials page for their first mini book. When writing steps, we are working on putting only 1 step per page, numbering our steps, using words and pictures, as well as starting each of our step instructions with a verb (e.g., Draw, Write, etc...).

After lunch, we had Math in which we are focusing on bar graphs. We reviewed the set up for bar graphs by referring to our anchor charts. We did a large group activity together on the SmartBoard and then they completed an independent activity where they had to answer specific questions using a given bar graph, as well as complete a bar graph when given the tally information. Just before last recess we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day we had Science where we reviewed the animal classes we have learned about thus far (mammals, birds) and then we turned our focus to today’s group: Reptiles. We brainstormed what we thought we knew about reptiles and then we listened to an e-text abut reptiles. After hearing some more facts, we co-created an anchor chart together about reptiles, followed by working on the reptiles page in our animal classification mini book. In the mini book the children had to list 3 (or more) facts about reptiles, as well as draw and label two examples of reptiles.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Tuesday, January 14^th...

Notes:

1. Writing Pieces – your child has brought home 1 or 2 writing pieces today that have been marked. Please take the time to look over the writing rubric with your child, noting what your child did well, as well as areas of next steps. These do not need to be returned as I have kept a copy.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “Snowflakes” and continued our focus on compound words. We found the compound words in our poem (noting what two words made up each compound word) and we also did some other compound word activities. For read aloud, we read a winter story and then had some independent reading time. After independent reading, we had writing where we had some volunteers share examples of procedural writing text brought from home...it’s great for the children to see the real-life application of the work we are doing in class, so thank you to the families who helped their child find an example of procedural writing at home to share. We had a variety of recipes shared, as well as instructions for how to play the game ‘Monopoly Jr’, and instructions for how to put together a treadmill. Super! If you haven’t had a chance to do so, no worries – anytime this week would be great.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by Social Studies with Miss. Tanner.

After lunch, we had Math where we began by listening to a short clip from ‘The Sound of Music’ - specifically we listened to the song “My Favourite Things.” We discussed some of the ‘favourite things’ mentioned in the song and then brainstormed a list of favourite topics that we could survey our classmates about (e.g., favourite food, favourite animal, favourite ice cream flavour, favourite holiday, favourite book, favourite fruit, favourite fairytale, favourite dessert, favourite tv show, etc...). We then reviewed the set-up of a bar graph, noting the features of such. The children then worked, either independently or in pairs, to gather information from their classmates about their favourite_____ They then used this data to create a bar graph and then interpret the information. After such, they completed a quick follow up activity interpreting given information on a bar graph.

After last recess, we had snack followed by Art where we worked on an activity titled “Winter Window Watchers.” Before the break, the children used their fingers to create fingerprints on a pre-cut piece of paper. Today, they used their dry fingerprints to turn them into people faces by adding winter hats, earmuffs, eyes, noses, mouths, etc...we then framed the white paper with black strips to make them look like windows. They look quite cute! We will hang these on our hallway bulletin board tomorrow.

Have a great evening!

Allison

News for Monday, January 13^th...

I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend, despite the very rainy weather!

Notes:

1. Procedural Writing – the children have been asked to find a piece of procedural writing to bring in to share with the class. Some examples could include: A recipe, instructions of how to play a board game, instructions of how to put a toy together, etc....Please have your child be able to explain his/her selection, noting the elements of procedural writing (e.g., it has a list of materials/tools we would need to do the activity, it has steps, etc...).
2. Word Ring Testing – took place today, so be sure to continue to review your child’s words with him/her.

We began our morning with planner writing, our ‘Mistake Monday’ morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, our poem this week is titled “Snowflakes”....perfect for the weather we are currently having. Today, we read through the poem and we focused on punctuation and compound words. It was then time for our read aloud – one of my most favourite times of the day! Our read alouds this week and next week will focus on snow! After our story, we had some independent reading time. We are really working on building on our independent reading stamina, trying to read a little bit longer each and every day. Following independent reading, we had word work where we reviewed our focus of the week (long e sounds), and then went over our words and wrote them in our planners. I also introduced the children to a new song about short and long vowels, and then we brainstormed various short and long vowel e words.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where we reviewed the purpose and components of procedural writing. We talked about how everyone is encouraged to find an example of procedural writing at home and bring it in to share with the class tomorrow, if possible....if not, anytime this week would be great! We then started to work on our first “How to Draw” mini book, working on our title page and materials page. Tomorrow we will start working on the 'steps.' We will be sharing some of our books, when finished, with Ms. Walkey’s Gr. 1/ 2 class so that we can put our books into action!

After lunch, we had Math where we are focusing on bar graphs this week. Our section on bar graphs won’t be too long as we have done a lot of work on graphing – and it usually doesn’t take long for the children to note the differences between bar graphs and pictographs. The quiz the children worked on Friday will be sent home once we finish our work on bar graphs as it will all be compiled together for one unit on ‘Graphing.’ Today, we looked at some examples of bar graphs and noted how a bar graph is the same as a pictograph and a concrete graph, as well as how it is different than such. We looked at our anchor chart for bar graphs, noting that steps 1, 2, and 4 are exactly the same as for pictographs – only step 3 changes – creating the actual graph. We noted the features of bar graphs – labelling each axis, a title, straight bars – with spaces in between, etc....We then watched a short video clip about bar graphs and then the children completed a follow up activity. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day we had Science where our focus today was on birds. We listened to an e-text about birds and then co-created an anchor chart about such – noting the common characteristics of birds (e.g., they have wings, they have feathers, they have a beak, most fly, they lay eggs, etc...). After creating our anchor chart, the children worked on their mini-book page about birds in their animal classification book, where they had to write at least 3 characteristics about birds, as well as draw at least 2 examples of birds.

Have a great evening!

Allison

News for Friday, January 10^th...

Happy Friday! Wow...this week just flew by!

Notes:

1. Word Ring Testing – will resume on Monday (January 13^th).
2. Homework duotangs have been sent home tonight and are due back on Monday.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our weekly word work quiz. The quizzes have been marked and sent home with your child today. After our quiz, we gathered at the carpet for morning message, calendar, and shared reading. During shared reading, we read through our poem “January - Happy New Year!” and we talked about what we have learned about the celebration and traditions of New Year’s. We then went over this week’s homework task. For read aloud, we read a New Year’s story and then had some buddy reading time. We then listened to Beren’s “Student of the Week” presentation. Just before morning recess, we had a bit of time work on our science – finishing up our title pages in our animal classification mini-books, as well as our page about mammals. Those students who had finished such, worked on cutting out pictures of mammals to glue onto our anchor chart.

After morning recess (even though it was a bit misty, we were able to get outside for a bit of fresh air), we had snack followed by writing where we reviewed the purpose of procedural writing, as well as the components. We took some time to further explore a variety of procedural writing texts and then the children created a list of five things they think they could teach others had to do (at least 3 of which had to be how to draw...ideas). They recorded their ideas on a sheet and we will refer to this sheet throughout our mini unit on procedural writing. We will start our first mini book on Monday.

After lunch (we were able to get outside for lunch recess too today -yay!), we had Math where we had our quiz on pictographs. Just before last recess we had snack.

After last recess (which was outdoors too - the rain was pretty cooperative today), the children had Gym with Miss Baxendale. To end our day, we had some catch-up time – time to finish any incomplete work, clean out our desks, and if all those jobs were done – time to enjoy some activity time on a Friday.

Have a wonderful weekend! It will be interesting to see how much rain we get over the next couple of days as I hear we are in for lots!

Allison

News for Thursday, January 9^th...

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem: “January - Happy New Year!” and we discussed New Year’s traditions that some of us share, as well as a little bit about the history of New Year’s. It was then time for a New Year’s read aloud, followed by some independent reading time. After independent reading, we gathered at the carpet to update our ‘goal boards’, which outline what we are working on in language, math, and science. It was then time for our first rotation of literacy centres...they were quite excited! The children worked very well in their small groups today, with each group focusing on a differing reading/writing activity.

After morning recess, we had snack (those who order popcorn had it today for morning snack) followed by writing. We began our writing time with some more time to look at a variety of procedural writing books from our school library. We then talked about “What We Have Noticed About Procedural Writing” - recording our ideas in chart form. The children did a great job at self-discovering many of the elements that are common to most procedural writing texts. We discussed that procedural writing is a type of informational writing that gives a sequence or method for the reader to follow.

• It has an introduction page – to introduce the reader to the topic in the book
• It has a materials page/section - usually illustrating and listing the tools and materials needed for carrying out the ‘how to’ activity
• It has step by step instructions – with words and pictures to show each step; the steps use sequencing words.

We then looked at an anchor chart for procedural writing that notes these features. When learning about procedural writing, it’s best for the children to act out or actually do what they are teaching their readers to do (e.g., draw a flower, tie a pair of shoes, etc...). So today, we used a procedural mini-book that one of my former students created. We looked at the title page to see exactly what we would be doing (drawing a flower), we gathered the materials and tools needed, and then we followed the step by step instructions to draw a flower. When finished, we talked about what this student did really well in their mini-book, as well as areas of next steps. The children were then asked to think about some ‘how to’ ideas that they would like to teach others how to do. Two of their choices needed to be ‘how to draw’ ideas. They will record five of their ideas on a writing sheet tomorrow – this is a sheet that they will refer back to throughout our procedural writing mini unit.

After lunch, we had Math where we continued to focus on creating a pictograph from given information. We worked together to create a large group example, following the steps in our anchor chart. Then the children worked independently to do such on an activity sheet where they were given a picture of a variety of dogs – they had to come up with a way to sort/organize their data, create a tally chart, design an pictograph to show the information, and then explain their findings. They also completed a little mini activity answering given questions. Tomorrow we will have a mini-quiz on pictographs and then next week we will continue to focus on graphing, but focusing in on bar graphs.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had science where we reviewed the 6 classes of animals we will be studying over the next little while (mammals, birds, fish, insects, reptiles, and amphibians). Today, our focus was on animals. We brainstormed what we thought we knew about mammals and then we watched an e-text about such. After listening to the e-text, we created an anchor chart noting characteristics of mammals and then completed the mammals page in our mini book. Those students who finished a bit early, worked on finishing up their title page from yesterday or they searched through classroom magazines to find pictures of mammals to glue onto our anchor chart.

Have a great evening!

Allison

News for Wednesday, January 8^th...

Notes:

1. Date to add to our class calendar – The Ryerson Spirit Committee just announced that Friday, January 31^st will be “Jersey Day” at Ryerson! Please add this special date to our class calendar. The children are encouraged to wear a jersey that day – hockey, soccer, basketball, etc...

Today we welcomed a new student to our classroom, Amir! We are now back to 20 students (10 boys and 10 girls).

Thank you to the many families who looked over, signed, and returned the math quiz that was sent home yesterday.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “January - Happy New Year!” and we focused on making connections (text to text, text to self, and text to world). It was then time for a read aloud – today's New Year’s story was titled: “The Night Before New Year’s!” - many students were definitely able to make a connection to this book as it was closely related to the story ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas’. After our story we had some independent reading time. After independent reading we gathered back at the carpet where we took some time to talk about Literacy Centres. Literacy Centres are small group activities that focus on reading and writing skills, in a fun, hands-on way. We will start with 5 centres that the children will rotate through over the next week or so, then the centres will change. Today, I went over each of the centre activities so that we will be ready to start our first rotation tomorrow. Our first group of centres will be:

1. Book Club – this is where the students will read with me, focusing on a text at the guided reading level of their group.
2. Buddy Reading – the children will have a chance to ‘buddy read’ with members of their small group, using ‘never before seen’ texts in our classroom...it’s always nice to enjoy new books!
3. Chromebooks – at this centre the children will use a chromebook to engage in a language based game.
4. Games – the language game the children will play is ‘Sight Word Bingo.’
5. Word Work – the children will focus on making as many words as they can, using the letters from the words “Second Grade”. They will have letter tiles to help them.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing, where the children worked on finishing the recount writing they started yesterday. As they finished their writing piece, they had some time to explore a variety of procedural writing texts. Just before lunch we took some time to talk about, as well as put on a chart: “What We Notice About Procedural Writing.” By having the children look through various books, they are beginning to note common features/elements of this form of writing.

After lunch, we had Math where our focus today was on creating a pictograph from given information. We have been working a lot on creating pictographs using a survey questions, but today the data (information) was already given to us. As a large group, we looked at a pile of cubes – this was our data. We talked about how we could sort/organize the data (e.g., by colour) - and then create a tally chart and pictograph representing such. After our large group activity, the children were each given a handful of pattern blocks and were asked to sort/organize the data and represent such using a tally chart and pictograph. Some students sorted the pattern blocks by colour vs. some students sorted by shape. The children also completed a follow up activity. We will likely have a quiz on pictographs on either Friday or Monday, as we have been working on pictographs for awhile. We will then begin bargraphs. Just before last recess we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Baxendale. To end our day, we had Science where today we began our next science unit: Growth and Changes in Animals. To begin, the children worked in their table to groups. Each group was given an envelope with a variety of pictures inside. The groups were asked to sort the animals in some way....we had a variety of ways represented. We then gathered at the carpet and talked about animal classification, seeing if we could sort the animals in this way (e.g., mammals, birds, fish, insects, reptiles, amphibians). Once sorted, we began to discuss similar and different characteristics of the groups. We watched an e-text titled “What Are Animals?” Just before the end of the day we began working on an animal classification mini book, working on the title page.

Have a great evening!

Allison

News for Tuesday, January 7^th...

Notes:

1. Math Quiz – Today your child has brought home his/her math quiz that was completed before the holiday break. This quiz focused on addition and subtraction facts to 18, as well as problem solving. Please look over the quiz with your child, sign, and then return the quiz back to school. All quizzes will be sent home later in the school year for you to keep.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our morning message and calendar routines. For shared reading, we read through our poem “January - Happy New Year!” and discussed what we thought the author’s message was. We then read a New Year’s read aloud titled “Squirrel’s New Year's Resolution, followed by some independent reading time. After independent reading, we turned our focus to writing where today we used our graphic organizers to help us create a written draft about our holidays. I modelled this process by writing about my holiday break, reviewing how to use the graphic organizer to begin my writing and then working on adding additional details. The children then set to work working independently about their holiday break. The children got a good start to their recount piece today and we will continue with this task tomorrow.

After morning recess, the children had snack followed by Social Studies with Miss. Tanner.

After lunch, we had Math where we are continuing to focus on surveys and pictographs. We completed a large group pictograph together and then the children generated their own survey questions and surveyed their peers to gather the data they needed. They then used the data to create a pictograph, as well as interpret the results. Today’s pictograph will be used as part of their final assessment for our graphing unit as we have been working on pictographs for awhile (this will get attached to their graphing quiz later on). They also completed a follow up activity page about pictographs. Just before last recess we had snack.

After last recess, we continued to work on our New Year’s craftivity. Today, the children wrote about a New Year’s resolution for school. After writing their resolution in their writing books, they conferenced with me, and then wrote their good copy. When the writing was finished, they continued the art portion of this activity creating their face and a party hat – complete with noise maker! We will display these in the hallway tomorrow.

Have a great evening!

Allison

News for Monday, January 6^th...

Happy New Year and welcome back to school! I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday break! We had a great first day back with the children quickly settling back into routine.

Notes:

1. January class calendar –has been sent home today.
2. Word ring testing – will resume next Monday (January 13^th), as I kept all communication bags/word rings over the holiday break.
3. Math Quiz (Adding, Subtracting, Problem Solving) - will be sent home tomorrow as I had two students who needed to write/finish up the quiz today.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our ‘Mistake Monday’ morning message. For calendar, we went over the special dates in January and then we turned our focus to shared reading. The title of our poem this week is “January - Happy New Year!” Before reading the poem, we brainstormed possible words we thought could be in the poem, activating our prior knowledge about January and New Year’s. I then read the poem aloud to the children and we read through the poem together. We talked about what a resolution is, as well as generated various examples of resolutions people often make in their lives, either at home or at school/work. Our read alouds will also focus on New Year’s this week. Today’s title was “Goodbye Old Year, Hello New Year.” It was then time for independent reading. Everyone exchanged their independent reading books before the holiday break, so that we were all set for today’s independent reading time. After independent reading, we gathered at the carpet for word work where we went over this week’s words of the week, discussed the focus – we will now be working hard on long vowels over the next few weeks, and then wrote the words in our planners. Just before morning recess, we had some time to complete the final few days of the December online advent calendar.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where we turned our focus back to recounts today. We reviewed the purpose of a recount, as well as our graphic organizer - “the five finger planner”. I then modelled completing the graphic organizer talking about my holiday break. After I completed my graphic organizer with the class, the children worked independently on their own graphic organizer writing about their two weeks away from school. As students finished, they had some time to begin exploring some books that are on our next form of writing: Procedural Writing. The children will be given lots of time this week to look at these books, noting the features of procedural writing.

After lunch, we had math where we are continuing our focus on graphing. Today, we reviewed the differences between a concrete graph and a pictograph. We then reviewed why people conduct surveys. I then asked a survey question to the class and we worked through the steps of completing the survey, a tally chart, a pictograph, and interpreting the information together. The children then worked in pairs, or independently, on generating their own survey question and following the steps on our anchor chart to gather the information and show it in pictograph form (as well as interpreting the information). The children also worked on a quick activity interpreting given information.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Baxendale. To end our day, we had snack followed by starting a New Year’s craftivity – an activity that combines writing and art.

Have a wonderful evening!

Allison

News for Friday, December 20^th...

Happy last day! I hope everyone has a fun, safe, and happy two-week holiday break! We wish Lesley from our class all the best as today is her last day at Ryerson as she will be heading back to China at the end of December. We have thoroughly enjoyed having you in our class Lesley...we will all miss you! Safe travels!

Notes:

1. Communication Bags and Planners– I have kept the communication bags and the planners at school for the break. No homework over the holidays...the children should enjoy a well-deserved holiday break!
2. January Class Calendar – this will be sent home on our first day back at school (Jan. 6^th)
3. Math Quizzes – these will be sent home during the first week back at school. I marked them all last night and overall, the children did a super job! Way to go, Gr. 2’s!

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by heading to the gym for a Ryerson carol sing and spirit assembly. During the assembly we sang some Christmas carols, recognized some of our fall sports teams (e.g., volleyball), as well as the performances of the choirs and orchestra. Mrs. Reid also did the ‘Remarkable Raven Draw’ and then we enjoyed some ‘Grinch Games!’ Each child also received a candy cane from the Grinch for helping to make his heart grow over this past month. The assembly finished just in time for recess.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by a little class party where we enjoyed a couple of festive holiday treats (thank you to everyone who provided yummy treats for the class to enjoy today) and the children had some activity time.

After lunch, we listened to Franklin’s “Student of the Week” presentation and then enjoyed some more yummy treats, as well as watched a holiday video.

After last recess, the children had Social Studies with Miss. Tanner. To end our day, we read a story and completed our online advent calendar.

Have a wonderful holiday break! Thank you for the many beautifully written holiday cards, as well as the thoughtful gifts – I feel truly blessed to work in such a great community and with an absolutely amazing class – thank you for sharing your children with me each and every day!

Happy Holidays! See you back at school on Monday, January 6^th, 2020!

Allison

News for Thursday, December 19^th...

Only 1 day to go!

Notes:

1. Tomorrow is the last day of classes before the holiday break!
2. Tomorrow is ‘Elf Day’ at Ryerson – time to wear those festive socks, tops, hats, and accessories all at the same time...how festive can you be?

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by calendar. We then delved right into our math quiz on addition, subtraction, and problem solving.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by finishing up our math quiz. We also cleaned out our desks during this time and exchanged our independent reading books for January. We’re all set for when we come back from the holiday break!

After lunch, we read a holiday story, completed a few of our online advent calendar activities, had some independent reading time, as well as ate our afternoon snack.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Baxendale. To end our day, we did some cleaning/organizing, as well as played a science card game, matching pictures to solids, liquids, or gases.

Have a wonderful evening!

Allison

News for Wednesday, December 18th...

Happy Birthday wishes go out to Liam today!

Well, it’s starting to look a little more like Christmas outside now with the arrival of some snow.

Notes:

1. Tomorrow is ‘Festive Top/Sweater Day’ at Ryerson!
2. Tomorrow we will be having our math quiz on adding, subtracting, and problem solving.
3. Please return any library books tomorrow.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by Math. In Math today, the children worked on adding and subtracting, where the questions were interspersed. We talked about different strategies to complete such (e.g., answering all of the adding ones first, circling the operation sign, etc...). They also did an activity where they were given the questions, but the operation sign for each question was missing, so they had to decide if the question was adding or subtracting, based on the numbers given. We worked on Math until it was time for an early snack. Due to the timing of the Mary Poppins play today, our eating schedule changed a bit. We had our early snack, had a bathroom break, put our pocket snacks in our pockets, and then got ready to head out to the bus to head to the Grand Theatre.

At the Grand Theatre we enjoyed watching the play, “Mary Poppins.” Thank you very much to our volunteers: Sadie’s dad, Aarav’s mom, and Hayoon’s mom for helping us out today. The children were a very attentive audience and they seemed to really enjoy the play...I know I did!

When we came back to school we had another snack/lunch followed by Music. To end the day, we did calendar, finished up our math from the morning, and had some independent reading time. We also completed our online advent calendar for today and had a bit of buddy reading time.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Tuesday, December 17^th...

Notes:

1. Tomorrow is our Mary Poppins field trip! Thank you to those families who sent in a pocket snack for their child today for the trip tomorrow. If you forgot, please send one in tomorrow morning (see the pink note that was sent home yesterday). Parent Volunteers are asked to meet outside of our classroom at 10:05am, as the buses will be departing at 10:15am tomorrow.
2. Tomorrow is Festive Hat Day at Ryerson!

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. We then read a holiday story, followed by some independent reading time. For art, we completed the 5^th and final part of our primary and secondary colours fish art. Today’s step had the children use their black sharpie marker to outline all of their fish, as well as add details. We will hang these up in the hallway in January. After art, we completed our online advent calendar activity for today. We also started our math during this time, as the assembly was during our normal block of math time, so we thought we’d get a head start in order to have enough time to finish all of our work.

After morning recess, the children had snack followed by Social Studies with Miss. Tanner.

After lunch, we had math where we began with a large group problem solving question. We then reviewed the different strategies we can use when subtracting. For independent work, the children completed a review page on subtraction. Tomorrow, we will review adding and subtracting (with questions interspersed on the page, so the children will have to make note of the sign) and then on Thursday we will have our quiz on adding, subtracting, and problem solving. Our math period was a little shorter during this block today so that we could attend Ryerson’s second annual carol singing assembly in the gym.

After last recess, the children had snack followed by Math – Graphing, where today we focused on conducting surveys. We talked about why people conduct surveys and then we worked on completing one together as a large group, following through on all of the steps on our anchor chart. The children then had a choice to work independent or in partners to generate a survey question, collect their data, display their data using a pictograph, and finally interpret their data.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Monday, December 16^th...

I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend! It’s hard to believe that this is our last week of school!

Notes:

1. Please read the ‘pocket snack’ note that was sent home with your child today (on pink paper).
2. Tomorrow is ‘Festive Accessories’ day at Ryerson...think reindeer headbands, Christmas ties, light-up necklaces, etc...be creative!
3. Word ring testing took place today, so be sure to check your child’s ring for new words.

We began our morning with planner writing, our ‘Mistake Monday’ morning message, and calendar. We went over all of the special events and activities that will be taking place this week! We did not have shared reading today, as I will not be sending the homework duotangs home for the holidays, as it truly should be a time for a ‘holiday break.’ Instead, we read a Christmas story, had some independent reading time, and then worked on Step 4 of our ‘primary and secondary colours fish art’ - part 4 had the children painting the ocean background. Only 1 more step to go! Just before morning recess, we completed our online advent calendar activities for Saturday, Sunday, and today.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by Math where we began with a large group math problem solving question. We then worked on the subtraction strategies of ‘using doubles’ and ‘counting up’. After our large group time, the children worked independently at their desks applying such strategies.

After lunch, we headed to the Gym for our first Ryerson carol sing of the year. It’s always such a nice festive time! When we came back we had math – graphing where discussed the importance of ensuring we look at the ‘key’ in a pictograph to ensure we always know how much each symbol represents. It was then time for last snack.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had Science where the children participated in a “Matter Scoot” - here, they scooted around the room, looking at various pictures and had to decide if the picture was a solid, liquid, or a gas.

Have a great evening!

Allison

News for Friday, December 13^th...

Happy Friday everyone!

Notes:

1. Next week the “5 Days of Ryerson” begins, with each day being a special festive spirit day! Monday will be “Festive Sock Day!” so have your child wear any Christmas type of socks, or even red and green socks – a red on one foot and a green on the other – be creative!
2. Word ring testing will take place on Monday.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our weekly word work quiz. The quizzes have now been marked and sent home with your child today. We will not have word work next week as it is such a busy, festive week, but will return to our word work study in January. After the quiz, we gathered at the carpet for morning message, calendar, and shared reading. During shared reading, we read through our poem “Christmas is Coming” and we completed a fill-in-the-blank style activity together on the SmartBoard, figuring out the missing words in our poem. We also went over this week’s homework task. During shared reading, we watched a short video clip about how Christmas is celebrated. It was then time for a holiday read aloud, followed by some buddy reading time. Just before morning recess, we listened to Baran’s “Student of the Week” presentation.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where today the children worked on their persuasive writing piece, “Hot or Cold? The Ideal Vacation!” As they finished, they worked on Dreambox on the Chromebooks.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with a group problem solving question. We then focused on the subtraction strategy of using a number line. After our large group work, the children worked on an independent activity at their desks. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Baxendale. To end our day, we had some catch up time and activity time.

Have a great weekend! It’s hard to believe that we only have 1 week to go!

Allison

News for Thursday, December 12^th...

Another chilly day outside! Sending your child with snowpants is a great idea, even though it’s not that snowy, as it’s very chilly on the yard at recess.

Notes:

1. Your child has brought home a special holiday gift today for you! He/she may wish to place it under your tree or give it to you right away...totally up to them! They worked very hard on their creations, so we all hope you like your special holiday gift.
2. Word Work Quiz – will take place tomorrow.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “Christmas is Coming” and we watched a powerpoint about different ways people celebrate Christmas. It was then time for a Christmas read aloud, followed by some independent reading time. After independent reading, we had Science where the children began to share their “Matter” baggies. We had some very creative ideas for solids, liquids, and gases. Awesome job, Gr. 2’s!

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where today we began a persuasive writing piece titled “Hot or Cold?” To begin, we read the book “Mrs. Claus Takes a Vacation.” After reading the story, the children had to think about their ideal vacation – would it be in a cold, snowy place or a warm, tropical place? They then had to complete a persuasive writing graphic organizer about such. Those who finished working on their graphic organizer, had some time to go on Dreambox on the chromebooks. During this block of learning we also completed our online advent calendar.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with a large group problem solving question. We then turned our focus to subtraction today, focusing on the strategies of zero facts and counting back. We did some large group work at the carpet and then the children worked independently at their desks. Overall, they did quite well with switching from addition to subtraction. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we read a Christmas story and then worked on some pictographs.

Have a great evening!

Allison

News for Wednesday, December 11^th...

Brrrr! Quite the change in the temperature outside today!

Notes:

1. States of Matter Baggie Homework activity due tomorrow.
2. Ryerson’s Winter Holiday Concert tonight – Primary Choir members are asked to be at the school between 6:00-6:15pm as the concert begins at 6:30pm.

Due to the holiday concert, our schedule was a little all over the place today in order to accommodate for the Primary Choir’s practice in the morning, as well as the assembly in the afternoon.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by finishing the last step in our ‘Grinch’ art – this last step had the children use their black sharpie marker to put the finishing touches on the Grinch – now that the paint had a chance to dry overnight. I have hung these up in the hallway with our “Be the ‘I’ in the KIND” messages – be sure to check them out if you’re coming to the concert tonight or if you happen to be in the school at some point over the next week or so. It was then time for the Primary Choir to be called down to the gym for a practice for this afternoon’s and tonight’s performance. During this time, the few children we had left in the class worked on finishing up various tasks, as well as cleaning out their desks.

After morning recess, the choir had to head back to the gym for some more practice. Those not in choir, had snack and a bit of activity time. When the choir members returned, we had Math where we did a review of addition. Tomorrow we will begin subtraction. We will have a quiz on addition, subtraction, and problem solving near the end of next week.

After lunch, we headed down to the gym to see the dress rehearsal of Ryerson’s annual holiday winter concert. Congratulations to all of our musical students! The concert lasted until recess.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Baxendale. To end our day, we had a little bit more math time, this time focusing on pictographs, as well as completed our online advent calendar.

Have a great night! Tonight, Steve and I have the contractors coming over to our house for the final walkthrough – as the renovations on our two main level bathrooms are finally complete – this has been quite the process, but the final product was well worth the wait.

I’m looking forward to seeing all of the ‘States of Matter’ baggies tomorrow!

Allison

News for Tuesday, December 10^th...

Notes:

1. Tomorrow is Ryerson’s annual winter holiday concert! There will be a dress rehearsal in the afternoon, as well as an evening performance. We all wish good luck to the many members in our class who are part of the Primary Choir.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “Christmas is Coming” and we counted how many days left until Christmas. We also found all of the rhyming words in the poem. It was then time for a Christmas read aloud, followed by some independent reading time. After independent reading we had Math – Graphing. Thank you to the many families who sent in a stuffed animal with their child today, as we used these stuffed animals as our ‘data’ to create a concrete graph, followed by a pictograph. To begin, we took a look at all of the stuffed animals and discussed their different attributes (e.g., size, shape, colour, kind) and talked about how we could sort them. We decided on sorting them by size. We then created a concrete graph using our stuffed animals, lining each of the stuffies up in the appropriate column (small, medium, or big). We added a title, as well as a label for each axis on our graph and then we discussed what we found out. After creating a concrete graph together, we discussed how the graph could be changed from a concrete graph to a pictograph by using a symbol to represent each stuffy. We then worked through creating a pictograph together. As a follow up, the children completed a pictograph activity where they were given the pictograph and had to interpret the information.

After morning recess, the children had snack followed by Social Studies with Miss. Tanner.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with a large group problem solving question. We then focused on our final addition strategy: Number Lines. We did some large group work at the carpet using number lines and related such to the number lines on our desk. We also watched a quick math video that reviewed many of the strategies we have been working on. The children then worked on an independent activity. Tomorrow will be a review of single-digit addition and then we will move onto subtraction. Just before last recess, we had snack. Those who order popcorn had it delivered today.

After last recess, we had Art. We began by reading the story of ‘The Grinch’ - which then led us into today’s art activity. Using a step-by-step approach, the children completed a drawing of ‘The Grinch’ - after their drawing was complete, they worked away at painting their Grinch. The Grinch art will be displayed in the hallway with our ‘kindness’ messages tomorrow.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Monday, December 9^th...

I hope everyone had a lovely weekend! It was indoor recess kind of day at Ryerson today – rain, rain, and more rain!

Notes:

1. Stuffed Animal – each child is asked to bring in a stuffed animal for a math activity will be doing tomorrow.
2. Word ring testing took place today so be sure to check your child’s ring for new words.

We began our morning with planner writing, our ‘Mistake Monday’ morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, our poem this week is titled “Christmas is Coming” - hard to believe it’s only a couple weeks away! We read through our poem today and volunteers had a chance to share why they are excited for the holiday season. For read aloud we read a Christmas story. I have so many holiday books and I absolutely love reading them to the children – the look of holiday awe in their eyes is just priceless! We then had some independent reading time, followed by word work where we went over this week’s words of the week and wrote them in our planners. Just before morning recess, we completed our online advent activities for Saturday, Sunday, and today.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where we worked on a couple of writing tasks. First, we worked on a holiday card for our penpals, in which we included a special treat for them! We had one student away today, so once that child returns and completes his card, I will deliver our letters and cards to St. George’s Public School. Second, we worked on a ‘Grinch’ writing activity completing the following writing prompt: I can be the “I” in KIND”. The children had to state something they can do to be kind during this holiday season...hopefully the Grinch will read our messages and it will help his heart grow. This writing activity will go along with a Grinch art activity that we will complete tomorrow afternoon.

After lunch, we had Math where today’s addition strategy focus was ‘turn around facts’. We did some large group work at the carpet and then the children worked independently at their desks implementing this strategy into their daily math work. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Baxendale. To end our day, we had Math – along with working on addition and subtraction during our regular math period each day, we will be starting a new unit on graphing. We will complete some of this unit before the holiday break and then continue on with it when we return in January. To begin our unit, the children were grouped into pairs, with each pair being given a graphing grid, as well as a baggie of mixed plastic coins (e.g., quarters, nickels, etc..) in varying amounts. The children were asked to sort the coins onto their grid to show the different values. We then discussed the results. We talked about which coin had the greatest number of coins and how we could tell them from just quickly looking at the grid. We talked about the importance of using a common starting line for all groups. The children took a few minutes to note how their classmates sorted their coins (e.g., using rows, columns, or in other ways). We discussed why the grid was helpful to space the coins.

We talked about that when you put things into rows or columns you can compare the number in each group – and that you’ve just created a graph. We discussed what would be a good title for the graph we just created, as well as what other labels were needed (e.g., a label for each axis).

The children were then asked to go and get their lunchbags from the hallway and bring them to the edge of the carpet. We talked about the different attributes that the lunchbags have and that we could use some of these attributes (e.g., size, shape, colour, type of fastener) to build a concrete graph together. We worked together to create a concrete graph, based on the attribute:

Everyone had a chance to put their lunchpail in the appropriate column. We discussed what the title of our graph should be, what labels we needed, and what the graph told us about our class. We discussed that we aren’t always able to build a concrete graph with real objects – sometimes we need to make a permanent record of our information – so we began our introduction to pictographs, working together to create a pictograph of the information we just displayed in our concrete graph.

Have a wonderful evening!

Allison

News for Friday, December 6^th...

Happy Friday! Can you believe that we only have 2 weeks to go before the holiday break! Time is flying!

Notes:

1. Red homework duotangs have been sent home today and are due back on Monday.
2. Word ring testing will take place on Monday.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our weekly word work quiz. The quizzes have now been marked and sent home in your child’s communication bag. We then gathered at the carpet for morning message, calendar, and shared reading. During shared reading, we read through our poem about Hanukkah, sang the Dreidel song, and watched a short video clip about Hanukkah. We also went over this week’s homework task. It was then time for some buddy reading time. After buddy reading, we completed today’s online advent calendar activity.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by Art where today we worked on Step 3 of our ‘Primary and Secondary Colours Fish” activity. In Part 3, the children worked on painting the 3 little fish on their art page. Each little fish was to be a different secondary colour – one green, one purple, and one orange...but instead of giving the children these particular colours of paint to work with, they had to create the secondary colours by mixing the primary colours. Each child was given their own mixing tray to use. As students finished, they worked on a science word search activity about liquids.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with a large group problem solving question. Our addition strategy focus today was ‘doubles plus 1.’ We did some large group work together at the carpet using this strategy and then the children set to work on their independent work using this strategy. They also did a ‘doubles plus 1’ math scoot activity to get them up and moving. Just before last recess we had snack. Next week, we will continue with addition and also begin subtraction.

After last recess, the children had Social Studies with Miss. Tanner. To end our day, we had library book exchange.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Allison

News for Thursday, December 5^th...

Notes:

1. Science Homework: Your child has brought home a ‘States of Matter’ baggie homework activity. Please read the note attached to the baggie for an explanation of this activity. All baggies are to be returned/presented on Thursday, December 12^th.
2. Library – tomorrow (Friday) is our library day this week. Please ensure your child has returned his/her book(s), so that he/she can sign out new ones to enjoy.
3. Word Work Quiz – just a reminder that tomorrow is our weekly word work quiz.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by morning message and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “Hanukkah” and then watched another powerpoint presentation about Hanukkah. We also completed a group word search about Hanukkah and watched a short video clip about such. For read aloud, we read “The Hanukkah Guest” and then we had some independent reading time. We also completed our online advent calendar too, which is always lots of fun! It was then time for writing where we worked on our penpal letters. Many students finished their rough copies yesterday and were ready to start their good copies this morning, others worked on finishing up their rough copies, while others conferenced with me.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by a Christmas story. We then continued to work away on our penpal letters, as well as a holiday card for each of our penpals.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with a large group problem solving task. The children have become much better at showing their work, rather than just simply stating the answer. Today we continued to work with our ‘doubles’ facts, as well as the strategy of ‘friendly numbers.’ Ask your child about friendly numbers. I taught the children a version of the game ‘Snakes and Ladders’ that focused on doubles facts. During this time, the children also worked on some independent math putting their knowledge of addition strategies to work.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Baxendale. To end the day, we had snack followed by a bit of Science where I explained the “States of Matter Baggie Homework Activity”. The rest of the day, was spent working away on our penpal letters and cards and/or on Dreambox. Have a great evening!

Allison

News for Wednesday, December 4^th...

Notes:

1. Media Literacy – rubrics for the gum package your child designed have been sent home today. These do not need to be returned as I have kept a copy. Yesterday, your child had the chance to share their package design with the class, if he/she wished.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. We then read through our shared reading poem, sang our Dreidel song, and watched a video clip about Hanukkah. We then read a Hanukkah story, followed by some independent reading time. We also completed our online advent calendar. It was then time for writing where we received a letter back from our penpals....the children were very excited! The children took some time to read the letter their penpal sent them, as well as share their letter with some classmates. We then gathered to talk about writing back to our penpals and what kinds of things we could talk about (e.g., upcoming plans for the holidays). The children then set to work beginning to work on the rough copy of their penpal letter.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by Math where we reviewed the strategies we have learned thus far (adding zero, counting on/up, tens facts) and then we turned our focus today’s strategy: Doubles. We did some large group work at the carpet practicing our doubles facts and then I taught the children a math game that focussed on doubles. After playing the partner game, the children completed an independent task.

After lunch, we welcomed the London Children’s Museum into our classroom today to lead us through the Gr. 2 Science Program: Liquid Laboratory. During this hands-on program, the children completed a variety of experiments focusing on solids, liquids, and gases. Thank you very much to Sadie’s mom, Franklin’s mom, Aarav’s mom, and Kinan’s nana for helping us out today...we really appreciated it.

After last recess the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had snack followed by some time to finish up our rough copies of our penpal letters.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Tuesday, December 3^rd...

Happy Birthday wishes go out to Lesley today!

Notes:

1. Tomorrow the London Children’s Museum will be visiting our class. Please have your child wear old clothes as we will be participating in a variety of science experiments focusing on solids, liquids, and gases.

The Grinch was up to his ol’ tricks again! Ask your child what he did in the library today!

We began our morning with our planner message, morning message, and calendar routines. For shared reading, we read through our poem “Hanukkah” and watched a powerpoint video about Hanukkah. We also sang the Dreidel song and then read a story about Hanukkah for our read aloud time, followed by completed the December 3^rd activity on our online advent calendar. We then had some independent reading time, followed by Science where the children completed a cut and paste activity sorting various words into the categories of solid, liquid, and gas.

After morning recess, the children had snack followed by Social Studies with Miss. Tanner.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with a large group problem solving question. We are really stressing the importance of answering the question, using pictures, numbers, and words...and showing more than one way (strategy) to solve the problem too. We then continued our focus on the strategy of ‘tens facts/rainbow facts’ today. I began by teaching the children a card game called “Make Ten.” As students finished their independent work, they played the ‘Make Ten’ card game with a partner....a fun way to reinforce number facts to ten.

After last recess, we had snack followed by a read aloud about colour: “Mouse Paint.” We then completed an array of activities. Some students worked on finishing off their math, others played a math card game while others worked on completing Part 2 of our ‘fish art activity.” Part 2 had the children paint each of the large fish on their paper that they drew last week, a primary colour – so they painted one fish red, one fish yellow, and one fish blue. Part 3 comes next! We talked about the importance of stroke direction when painting. Throughout the last part of the afternoon everyone had a chance to complete their painting for Part 2.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Monday, December 2^nd...

Welcome to the month of December!

I hope everyone had a great weekend and a festive start to the month of December! That was quite the freezing rain we had yesterday!

Notes:

1. 2D Geometry Tests – these have been sent home today. Please take a bit of time to look over the quiz with your child, sign, and then return the quiz back to school. All quizzes will be sent home later in the school year for you to keep. Please remember that quizzes are only one form of assessment used to generate your child’s final mark on a report card.
2. Word Ring testing – took place today. Please continue to review all of the words on your child’s ring.
3. Science Activity on Wednesday Afternoon – thank you so much to Sadie’s mom, Franklin’s mom, and Aarav’s mom for volunteering your time with us for upcoming session...it is much appreciated.

The Grinch has returned to Ryerson today! He even wrote a message on our planner board today!

We began our morning with planner writing, our ‘Mistake Monday’ morning message, and calendar. During calendar, we went over all of the special events and activities for this month. Our shared reading this week is titled “Hanukkah.” As part of the Gr. 2 Social Studies Program (taught this year by Miss. Tanner), the children are introduced to holidays and celebrations from various parts of the world, various cultures, etc... To tie into the learning in Social Studies, we will be learning about Hanukkah this week during our Shared Reading time. Today we read through our poem together and talked about some of the symbols of Hanukkah. We also sang the dreidel song. After shared reading, we read a Hanukkah story and then had some independent reading time. After independent reading, we gathered at the carpet for word work, where we went over this week’s words of the week, discussed the focus, and then wrote them in our planners. As our last part of the morning, we also started exploring an online advent calendar that we will complete each day as part of our seasonal festivities!

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where we continued to work away on our persuasive writing piece, “The Best Pet!” Today, the children worked on using their completed graphic organizer to create a written draft. As they finished their writing piece, they began creating an art piece to showcase their pet of choice. We will display these in the hallway soon! They look so cute!

After lunch, we had Math where we began with a group problem solving task. We reviewed the importance of answering problem solving questions by using pictures, numbers, and words....showing our work. We then reviewed our addition strategies we focused on during Friday’s math class: Adding Zero and Counting On. Our Strategy focus today was ‘Using my Tens Facts/Rainbow Facts’. We began with a large group lesson how using these strategies working on facts to ten and then the children worked on a couple of independent tasks. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we finished up our snack and then had some catch-up time to finish our math from today, as well as our writing task. We also moved our desks around to our new seating plan for December. I love giving the children the opportunity to work with a variety of class members throughout the school year. To end our day, we watched a little video that the Grinch sent to all the students at Ryerson...needless to say, they are quite excited about the return of the Grinch!

Have a great evening!

Allison

News for Friday, November 29^th...

Happy Friday! What a comfy way to end the week with Pyjama Day today!

Notes:

1. Word ring testing will take place on Monday.
2. Volunteer Note – please read the note in your child’s communication bag. If you are able to help us out from 12:30pm-2:10pm this coming Wednesday (Dec.4^th), please send me an email at a.alderson@tvdsb.ca
3. December book orders are due on Monday (Dec. 2^nd).

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our weekly word work quiz. The quizzes have now been marked and sent home with your child. After spelling, we continued working away on the last couple of pages of our 2D geometry math quiz. This took us until our early snack time. I will mark the quizzes over the weekend so that they are ready to send home next week. We did have time to squeeze in calendar, as well as go over our weekly homework – the children may need a little assistance with the ‘solids and liquids’ scavenger hunt page. We ate first snack before recess today as after recess our special guests from “Let’s Talk Science” would be visiting us.

After morning recess, we had a visit from “Let’s Talk Science” where we participated in the Gr. 2 Program - “Matter Matters!” Here the children explored the characteristics and properties of various solids and liquids (which ones dissolved, which poured slowly/fast, what we use various solids and liquids for, etc...). Our activities took us right up until lunch.

After lunch, we had Math where today, we began our introduction to Addition and Subtraction Strategies, as well as problem solving. Our focus today was on the addition strategies of adding zero and counting on. We did some large group work at the carpet employing these strategies and then the children completed a partner game using counting on. As students finished the partner work task, the completed some independent work practicing the strategies of adding zero and counting on. Just before last recess we had snack, listened to a story, and listened to Aria's "Student of the Week" presentation.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Baxendale. To end the day, we did one final math activity and then had some catch up time. For those that were finished all of their ‘jobs’, they enjoyed some activity time.

Have a wonderful weekend! Lots of festive events happening in London tonight with the ‘Lighting of the Lights’ in Victoria Park, as well as the Holiday Train downtown.

Allison

News for Thursday, November 28th...

Happy Birthday wishes go out to Edwin today!

Notes:

1. Pyjama Day – just a reminder that tomorrow (Friday) is a Ryerson Spirit Day – PJ Day! What a comfy way to end the week!
2. Weekly word work quiz will be tomorrow.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “The Bubble” and found all of the rhyming words in the poem – we also took note of the placement and pattern of such. Our read aloud today was titled, “Gumballs – A Mr. And Mrs. Green Adventure.” We then had some independent reading time followed by the start of a new art activity focusing on primary and secondary colours. This activity has 5 parts. Today, we completed Part 1 – in which they were asked to trace 3 small fish and 3 large fish onto their page (there were 2 tracers per child – a small oval and a large oval). After tracing the ovals, the children turned each oval into a fish by adding tails, fins, etc....Next art day, we will complete Part 2 of the activity.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where we read a story called “The Best Pet!” The children then worked to complete a persuasive writing graphic organizer about a pet they would like to have. As they finished their graphic organizer, they continued working on their “Solids” wordsearch from Science yesterday. Some students who finished everything, went on Dreambox or played a Gr. 2 activity game.

After lunch, the children completed a math quiz on 2D shapes. We completed ½ of the quiz today and will complete the second part tomorrow. Thyen, I will mark these over the weekend and send them home next week at some point.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had Science where the children completed a cut and paste activity sorting pictures of objects under the headings: Solids, Liquids, and Gases. As they finished this task, they worked on completing a liquids word search activity. Tomorrow, we have “Let’s Talk Science” coming in to visit our class in the morning leading the children in a program titled “Matter Matters!”

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Wednesday, November 27^th...

What a rainy day outside! Quite the temperature change too as we progressed through the day. Lots of indoor recesses today!

Notes:

1. December Class Calendar – has been sent home today. I can’t believe Sunday will be December 1^st! Please post the calendar in a visible spot at home.
2. 2D Geometry Quiz – will take place tomorrow. Spelling of the shapes will not count.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem ‘The Bubble’ and we reviewed some facts we have learned about bubble gum and chewing gum, as well as watched a quick video about how bubble gum is made. It was then time for a read aloud...today’s selection was appropriately titled “Gum.” After the story we had some independent reading time, followed by some time to share the shape work we created yesterday during math. Now that we have had a chance to share with each other, our work will be displayed on our hallway bulletin board.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where today we completed a quick write...Quick Write #20 . We then had Art where we are continuing to explore the element of colour. We began by listening to the book, “Mixed” and then the children worked to create the 3 secondary colours using paint. Today’s activity is drying on our drying rack and will be sent home tomorrow.

After lunch, we had Math where we reviewed the names and properties of various 2D shapes. We also reviewed the pattern that can be noting when looking at sides and vertices for 2D shapes (for each 2D shape, the number of sides is always the same as the number of vertices – e.g., a square has 4 sides, 4 vertices; a hexagon has 6 sides, 6 vertices, etc...). Today’s large group focus was on pattern block designs. The children also had a chance to explore pattern block designs as part of our rotating math centres. To begin, the children each chose 10 pattern bocks and placed them on the floor in front of themselves. They were then asked to show what they could do with the blocks (e.g., stack, sort, make a design, create a picture, etc...). I then showed the children a simple picture I created in which each block represented a different object (e.g., a hexagon – sun, a square – house, a triangle – tree), as well as a second picture in which pattern blocks were combined to create an object ((e.g., using triangles, rhombuses, and squares to create a lamp). We discussed the differences between the 2 pictures. The children were then asked to use their pattern blocks to create a picture of an object. They were encouraged to fit the pattern blocks together to form their picture. After our large group work on pattern blocks, we completed a review activity on 2D shapes called ‘Shape Scoot’ - where the children scooted around the room answering 24 questions on 2D shape names and properties of 2D shapes. We will have our quiz on 2D Geometry tomorrow. Just before last recess we had snack. Those who order popcorn had it delivered today.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Baxendale. To end our day, we had Science where we read a mini book about solids and liquid. We also played a game on abcy.ca about solids, liquids, and gases. Then in our science journals, we went back to the pages where we described, as well as listed examples of solids, liquids, and gases – and today the children were asked to draw a picture of a jar (or object) with molecules inside to represent molecules in a solid form, a liquid form, as well as a gaseous form. As students finished, they completed a science word search on solids.

Have a great evening!

Allison

News for Tuesday, November 26^th...

Notes:

1. December Book Orders – have been sent home today. Orders are due back to me (with cheques payable to Scholastic Canada Ltd.) by December 2^nd. If you wish to order books as holiday gift for your child and would like to keep it a surprise, please just send me a note. I will happily call you when your order arrives vs. sending home the order with your child.
2. Persuasive Writing Rubrics – for our task “Spoon” have been sent home today. These do not need to be returned as I have kept a copy.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading today, we read through our poem, ‘The Bubble’ and talked about some facts we have learned about gum (e.g., differences between chewing gum and bubble gum, when bubblegum was invented, who invented it, why it was mostly pink for many years, etc...). For read aloud, we read the story “Franklin and the Bubble Gum” and then we had some independent reading time. It was then time for writing, where we read the story, “The Day the Crayons Quit”. The children then worked on turning their graphic organizer into a written draft. They were encouraged to take the time to add a bit more detail to their written draft. As students finished the writing component, they completed the craftivity piece to go with it. Everyone got a good start during this writing period, but we also continued our writing later in the day.

After morning recess, the children had snack followed by Social Studies with Miss. Tanner.

After lunch, we had Math where we read a story, “The Shape of Things.” After reading the story, the children were encouraged to choose one paper shape each to use as the basis of a scene/picture. The children glued down their shape onto a larger piece of background paper and then were encouraged to add detail to the shape and background to turn the shape into a scene. For example, they could glue down a small circle and turn that circle into one of the wheels on a car; they could glue down a square and make that the bottom of a house. After drawing the details needed to turn their shape into a picture. They completed the following writing prompt:

A _____ is just a _____

Until you add _______

Then it’s much, much more!

After last recess, we had snack followed by writing, where we continued to work on our persuasive writing piece, “Please Don’t Quit!”. As students finished their writing, they moved onto Media Literacy, where they continued to work on their self-created gum packages. If students were finished all jobs, they had some time to go on Dreambox or have some activity time.

Have a great evening!

Allison

News for Monday, November 25^th...

I hope everyone had a great weekend! It sounds like we’re in for a few days of milder weather...yay!

Notes:

1. Word Ring testing took place today, so be sure to check your child’s ring for new words.
2. Pyjama Day – This coming Friday (Nov. 29^th) will be a Ryerson Spirit Day...Pyjama Day! The children are encouraged to wear their PJ’s that day and they may bring in a stuffy too if they wish. A comfy way to end the week!

We began our morning with planner writing, our ‘Mistake Monday’ morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, our poem this week is titled “The Bubble” to tie into our work in Media Literacy. today, we listened to our poem, as well as read through our poem. Our read aloud today was titled “Trouble Gum!” We then had some independent reading time, followed by word work where we went over this week’s words of the week, discussed the focus (consonant blends with r), and then wrote the words in our planner. Just before morning recess, we had Media Literacy, where the children continued to work away on their gum packages. We had a few students finish their gum packages today and many others are close. We will continue with this task tomorrow.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing. To begin our writing time, I handed everyone out a person dictionary. The children will be encouraged to use their dictionary to help them spell words they are unsure of. They enjoyed looking through their dictionaries today! For those that were at Ryerson last year, it is the same dictionary – as they will carry this dictionary through with them to each new grade. After some dictionary time, we began our next persuasive writing task by reading the book, ‘The Day the Crayons Quit.’ We read the story and then the children were asked to choose one colour they felt was most important and explain why it should not quit. Today, the children worked on completing their graphic organizers independently.

After lunch, we had Math where we reviewed the names and properties of various 2D shapes. We watched a short video clip about quadrilaterals on the Smartboard. The children then worked in pairs to play a game called “Shape Snap.” After partner work, the children worked with their table group to complete the last 2 rotations of our 2D shape math centres. On Thursday, we will have a quiz for 2D Geometry. Just before last recess we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Baxendale. To end our day, we had Science where we talked about atoms/molecules in solids, liquids, and gases. We explored a website that showed us the temperature changing and then it would show how the atoms/molecules act in each state. The children then completed an independent activity where they used cheerios to represent the molecules. They glued cheerios to a paper that had an object drawn for a solid, a liquid, and a gas – within each object, they had to show the correct representation of how the molecules would look.

Have a great evening!

Allison

News for Friday, November 22^nd...

Happy Friday!

Notes:

1. Homework duotangs have been sent home and are due back on Monday.
2. Word Ring testing will take place on Monday morning.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our weekly word work quiz. I have now marked the quizzes and sent them home in your child’s communication bag. After our word work quiz, we gathered at the carpet for morning message, calendar, and shared reading. During shared reading, we read through our poem “Our Anti-Bullying Pledge” and then we practiced ‘The Pledge to End Bullying.” We then read an anti-bullying story titled: “Howard B. Wigglebottom Learns About Bullies.” Just before morning recess, we turned our focus to Media Literacy where we reviewed our learning goal and success criteria for creating our own gum packages. The children then reviewed the planning sheets they created yesterday and then set to work on designing/creating their own gum package, using a given sheet of paper that they could shape/cut in away for their product.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where we reread the story “Spoon”. The children reviewed the graphic organizers they completed yesterday and then worked on a written draft. After writing, they exchanged their independent reading books and enjoyed some buddy reading time.

After lunch, we headed to Mrs. Reid’s office to recite the pledge to her where she listened and then signed our certificates. We even got to say 'The Pledge' over the announcements so the whole school could hear us! I have also signed each child’s certificate and these have been sent home in your child’s communication bag. When we got back to class we had Math where we began with a game titled “Shape Concentration.” I first modelled the game as a whole group and then the children worked in pairs to play this memory game, focussing on 2D shapes. After our small group activity, the children completed their round of math centres. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Social Studies with Miss. Tanner. To end our day, we had library book exchange.

Have a wonderful weekend! We’re off to Steve’s work Christmas Party tomorrow night – tis the season for such festivities!

Allison

News for Thursday, November 21^st...

A mild day in November! Thankfully the rain held off so that we could get outside for all recesses today.

Notes:

1. Dreambox Instructions – I have sent home an instruction page if your child would like to try Dreambox at home. Just let me know if you have any questions.
2. Library – tomorrow is our library book exchange day, so please ensure your child has returned his/her books, so that he/she can sign out new ones.
3. Word Work quiz tomorrow.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we practiced reciting ‘The Pledge to End Bullying” as well as reading ‘Our Anti-Bullying Pledge’ poem. We took some time to find the various blends in the poem as well. For shared reading, we read a story titled, “The Juice Box Bully” and then we had some independent reading time. For Media Literacy, we reviewed our learning goal, as well as success criteria related to creating a gum package. Today, the children worked on a planning sheet that had them outline the name of their gum, who their target audience was (kids, adults, or both), the flavour and colour of their gum, their slogan/message, the colour of their package, pictures they would like to include, as well as how many pieces. After they completed their planning page, they then conferenced with me.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where today I introduced the children to the rubric we will be using to assess persuasive writing pieces. I then read the book, “Spoon” to the class which would serve as the springboard to our writing today. After listening to the story, the children had to decide if they were a utensil, would they want to be a fork, spoon, knife, or a pair of chopsticks. After making their choice, they began to work on a graphic organizer stating their opinion (which utensil they would want to be), 3 reasons/examples to support their opinion, writing a counter opinion, and finally restating their opinion. As students finished their graphic organizer, they conferenced with me.

After lunch, we had math where we reviewed the names and properties of various 2D shapes. The children then sat around the edge of the carpet, with each child having a geoboard and an elastic. Everyone was asked to create a shape on their geoboard with two specifications: The shape could only have straight sides and the elastic could not cross over itself. As the children created their shape, they put their geoboard in the centre of the carpet. We talked about how all of the shapes created were polygons (a shape that has 3 or more straight sides). I then selected all the geoboards that had 3 sides and put them into a pile. I asked the children to examine these specific polygons and to determine what these shapes had in common. We talked about how all of the polygons there had 3 sides and vertices, even though they took on a slightly different form. We then did the same task looking at geoboards that had four sides and vertices – we talked about how all of these specific shapes could also be called quadrilaterals. We repeated the process with the shapes that had 5 sides, 6 sides, etc.... After our large group lesson, the children completed their second rotation of our 2D shape math centres. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Baxendale. To end our day, we had Science where we talked about what matter is and gave examples of matter – trying to generate examples for solids, liquids, and gases. In our science journals, we listed the 3 states of matter, put a definition of each state, as well as listed a couple of examples for each state. As students finished, they continued to work on their ‘Matter’ title page in their science journals.

Have a wonderful night!

Allison

News for Wednesday, November 20^th...

Can you believe that a month today will be the day before the 2 week Winter Break! Wow!

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we practiced ‘The Pledge to End Bullying” and signed our names to a certificate that we will read to Mrs. Reid on Friday. We also practiced our poem “My Anti-Bullying Pledge.” For read aloud, we read the story, “You’re Mean, Lily Jean” and then we had some independent reading time. For Media Literacy, we took a look at a variety of gum packages, noting the advertising techniques/gimmicks various companies use to sell their product. We looked at a couple package examples on the SmartBoard too, noting the product name, who we thought the target consumer was (kids, adults, both), the flavour/colour of the gum, the message/slogan, colour/pictures on the package, and how many pieces. Tomorrow, the children will begin designing their own gum package, applying the advertising techniques we have been discussing in class.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by reading the last chapter of “Freckle Juice.” They enjoyed this quick little chapter book. We then turned our focus to writing, where we reread the story, “Hey Little Ant” and those who had conferenced with me yesterday began to work on their written draft. These are now displayed in the hallway, along with the ‘ants’ we created yesterday. Can you predict how many children said the boy should squish the ant and how many children said the boy should save the ant? As students finished up their writing task, they spent some time on Dreambox. I will be sending home a letter tomorrow that will explain the steps for using this program at home, if you so wish.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with a large group activity sorting polygons. I then began to explain our 2D shapes math centre activities that we will be rotating through over the next few days.

Centre 1: Pattern Blocks with templates

Centre 2: X’s and O’s with 2D shapes

Centre 3: Geoboards

Centre 4: Pizza Parlour (a game that involves using 2D shape pattern blocks)

Centre 5: 2D Shape Bingo.

Today, the children completed their first centre rotation, in their table groups. After completing their first activity, the children did an independent follow up activity. Just before last recess we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had Art where we are beginning to explore the element of colour. The children were all given a colour wheel sheet, along with a blob of yellow playdough, red playdough, and blue playdough (the primary colours). Taking a piece from each ‘blob’, the children placed a small amount of playdough onto each of the sections: red, yellow, and blue. We then began to create the secondary colours (orange, green, and purple) by combining the primary colours. So for example, to create green, the children were asked to take a little bit of yellow playdough and a little bit of blue playdough and begin mixing them together – they loved seeing the new colour revealed right before their eyes!

Have a great evening!

Allison

News for Tuesday, November 19^th...

Definitely some milder weather in the air this week.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our morning message, and calendar routines. For shared reading, we practiced ‘The Pledge to End Bullying” and we also practiced our shared reading poem “My Anti-Bullying Pledge.” We also talked about what it means to be an ‘up-stander.’ For our read aloud, our story was titled “Willow Finds a Way” which focuses our anti-bullying theme. It was then time for independent reading, followed by a special writing activity.

After morning recess, the children had snack followed by Social Studies with Miss. Tanner.

After lunch, we had Math where we started with an activity titled “What Shape Could I Be?” In this activity, I placed a 2D shape on the SmartBoard , covered it with a slide – where only a small part of the shape was revealed – based on what was revealed, the children were asked to try and identify the shape. They recorded their predictions and then we had some volunteers share their predictions and their rationale for choosing such predictions. I then revealed a little more of each shape and the children were asked to either keep their initial prediction, if they still thought it was right, or change their prediction accordingly. we had other volunteers share their predictions and rationale. Finally, I revealed the entire shape and the children drew and wrote the name for the actual shape in the final box of the line. We did this activity for a variety of different shapes. As is our planner message today, the children would like to try the activity with you at home.

Our second large group math activity today was using the geoboards to create a variety of given shapes. The children were asked to create the largest (triangle, square, rectangle) possible); the smallest (triangle, rectangle, square) possible; to make a shape that looked like a kite, a house, etc...; to make a shape with (3, 4, 5, 6) sides/vertices.

After last recess, we had snack followed by writing where we began a new persuasive writing task titled “Squish or Save?” To begin this task, I read the book “Hey, Little Ant”. As a follow up the children had to decide whether the boy in the story should squish the ant or save the ant. They had to complete a graphic organizer for this persuasive piece, stating their opinion (I think the boy should....), followed by 3 reasons/examples to support their opinion, state a counter opinion (But, some people might say....), and finally restate their opinion (Still, I think the boy should....). After they completed their graphic organizer, they conferenced with me and then began to work on an ant art activity that will be displayed with our final writing piece for this activity.

Have a great evening!

Allison

News for Monday, November 18^th...

I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend! Steve and I put up most of our holiday décor this weekend, so it looks very festive in our house. Thank you to the many families who came to Parent/Teacher interviews on Thursday evening/Friday morning. It was so nice to have some time to sit and chat with you about your child’s progress.

Notes:

1. Math and Science quizzes have been sent home today. Please look over the quizzes with your child, sign the quizzes, and then return them both. All quizzes will later be sent home for you to keep.
2. Word Ring testing took place today. Be sure to review your child’s ring for new words.
3. Class Picture – everyone has received a copy of our class picture today...yay! Those students who had a retake done, that picture package was also sent home today.

We began our morning with planner writing, our ‘Mistake Monday’ morning message, and calendar. Our Shared Reading focus this week is on anti-bullying as this week many students, staff, as well as community members will take ‘The Pledge to End Bullying.” We will be practicing the pledge throughout the week and then reciting the pledge to Mrs. Reid at the end of the week. Today during shared reading, we talked about what bullying is, as well as the different kinds of bullying. We then read through our poem “Our Anti-Bullying Pledge” as well as practiced the official pledge to end bullying. It was then time for a read aloud titled “No Bullies Allowed” followed by some independent reading time. Over the last couple of weeks I’ve worked one-on-one, to reassess sight word skills and I am now working with students, one-on-one, to reassess their overall reading level. After independent reading, we gathered at the carpet for word work, where we discussed this week’s focus (blends with /r/) and then we wrote the words down in our planners.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by Writing where we reviewed the purpose and components of persuasive writing. We had some volunteers share their persuasive writing pieces for “The Best Place to Eat” that they completed on Friday. We definitely had an array of restaurant choices represented in our classroom! For today’s persuasive writing task, we continued with a scaffolded task (tomorrow we will begin one that is more independent), about ‘The Best Holiday!’ To begin with, we generated a list of holidays on the whiteboard that the children could use for idea. They then set to work on writing about their favourite holiday while trying to persuade myself and others that it should be our favourite holiday too!

After lunch, we had Math where we began by reviewing the names and properties of various 2D shapes. We then completed a task titled “All Alike” where the children were put into groups of 3 and given a bag of assorted shapes. To begin, one group member selected a shape from the collection. Then another group member had to select a second shape that was like the first shape in some way (e.g., both could have the same number of sides) and then state the rule he/she chose. The children repeated the task in their small groups, taking turns selecting different shapes and different sorting rules. After our small group activity, the children completed an independent task. Just before last recess, we had snack. We also had a little bit of time for Media Literacy where we have been looking at cereal boxes and the advertising techniques/gimmicks companies use...today, we started looking at the packaging of gum. Today, we brainstormed different names/brands of gum people buy and why we like to buy it. We then investigated a little about the history of bubblegum and found out some interesting facts!

After last recess, the children had Music. To end our day, we did a printing activity. It’s top secret, but you’ll find out about in a few weeks time.

Have a great evening!

Allison

News for Thursday, November 14^th...

Notes:

1. Parent/Teacher Interviews – Thank you to the many families who have signed up to come in tonight or tomorrow morning to discuss your child’s Progress Report. We have 15 of the 20 families coming in, which is awesome! I look forward to chatting with all of you.
2. Homework duotangs have been sent home today and are due back on Monday.
3. Word Ring testing will take place on Monday.
4. Tomorrow (Friday) is a PD Day, no school for students.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our weekly word work quiz. The quizzes have been marked and sent home in your child’s communication bag today. After the quiz, we gathered at the carpet for our morning message, calendar, and shared reading routines. During shared reading, we read through our poem “Clouds” and we also sang our song about consonant blends. We also completed a sequencing activity about the poem. Finally, we went over this week’s homework task. After shared reading, we listened to Haein’s “Student of the Week” presentation, followed by listening to Chapter 3 of our ‘Freckle Juice’ novel. It was then time for a little buddy reading, followed by Media Literacy where we reviewed the many advertising techniques/gimmicks companies use to sell their products. We reinforced this by continuing to look at a variety of cereal boxes that the children have brought in. Thank you again for sending such in as it’s very important for the children to see the real life application of the things we are talking about in class.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing. We reviewed the purpose of persuasive writing, as well as the components, by referencing our graphic organizer. To jumpstart our activity today, we read a story titled “Froggy Eats Out” as today’s task was all about persuading others what the best place to eat is. I modelled the task by choosing one of my favourite restaurants, The Keg – listing three reasons/examples why I think it is such a great restaurant. The children then completed an independent activity choosing a restaurant of their choice. Many students 'bumped up' their work today by adding examples to support their reasons.

After lunch, we had Math where we reviewed the names and properties of many 2D shapes. The children then worked in pairs to play a shape game titled “Match Me!” After the partner activity, the children worked on an independent task. Just before recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Music/Gym (Drum Fit) with Miss. Baxendale and Mrs. Snow. To end the day, we had Science where the children worked in table groups on a task. Each table group was given an envelope of pictures and was asked to sort the pictures according to a rule of their choice. We then asked all groups to sort the pictures according to the 3 states of matter: Solids, Liquids, and Gases. After the sorting activity, we read a non-fiction book about solids, liquids, and gases.

Have a great evening!

Allison

News for Wednesday, November 13^th...

Notes:

1. Writing recounts have been sent home. I have conferenced with all of the children one-on-one about their recount, but I would love it if you could also take a few minutes at home to go over what they did well, as well as next steps. The writing recounts do not need to be returned as I have kept a copy. If your child did not bring home a recount today, that means he/she has not finished such in class.

2. Word Work quiz will be tomorrow, as Friday is a PD Day.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “Clouds” and we reviewed the various blends in the poem. We also learned a song today about consonant blends. For read aloud, we read Chapter 2 of “Freckle Juice” and then we had some independent reading time. After independent reading, we had Media Literacy where we reviewed the kinds of gimmicks/advertising techniques advertisers use to sell their products (e.g., colour/size of text, name of product is catchy, picture, character, catchy phrase/slogan, incentive/prize/game, etc...). We then looked at some of the cereal boxes that the children brought in noting what particular advertising techniques were used on each one, as well as who the target audience probably is. We got through quite a few cereal boxes today and will continue with this activity tomorrow.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing we reviewed the purpose of persuasive writing. We then completed a scaffolded task titled “A Great Place to Shop” - I modelled a sample of a place I like to shop...Lululemon, stating my opinion, giving 3 examples (first, also, finally), stating a counter opinion (but some people might say), and finally restating my opinion. The children were then asked if they had all the money in the world and they could only shop at one store what would it be and why? They then had persuade/convince others that they should spend their money at this store too. They then worked on the scaffolded task: ________ is a great place to shop!

After lunch, we had Math where we completed the second part of our Place Value Math Quiz. I’ve been marking away each night and both the science quiz and math quiz will be ready to be sent home early next week for you to look at, review with your child, sign, and return. Just before last recess, we had snack. Those who order popcorn had that delivered to them today.

After last recess, the children had Music/Gym (Drum Fit) with Mrs. Snow and Miss. Baxendale. To end our day, we worked with the Chromebooks. Today, I introduced “Dreambox” - for those who were at Ryerson last year they should be familiar with such, but we have many students who are new to the school, so we did a little review of how the program is set up, as well as how to log on. After exploring such together, the children worked on their own Chromebook (thank you to those families who have sent in headphones) re-exploring Dreambox. Dreambox is a great program to reinforce a variety of math concepts. It is individualized to your child’s level and adjusts the games/activities accordingly as he/she proceeds through various aspects of the program. A letter will go home in a little bit that will give instructions for home use if your child wishes to also work on Dreambox at home.

Have a great evening!

Allison

News for Tuesday, November 12^th....

What a winter wonderland outside this morning! Thank you for sending your child dressed to enjoy outside recesses and lunch each day, with winter boots, a winter coat, a hat, mittens, etc...

Notes:

1. Mary Poppins field trip forms and the online payment are due by tomorrow.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “Clouds” and then we focused on finding all of the blends in the poem. We also did a blends activity together on the SmartBoard. For read aloud, we started reading our first chapter book of the year, “Freckle Juice” by Judy Blume...definitely a book that has been around for a number of years, but one that is still enjoyed so greatly today. We read the first chapter and then we had some independent reading time. During independent reading time, I am touching base with a number of students, one-on-one, to retest their sight word vocabulary. It has been great to see such big improvements already! After independent reading, we had Media Literacy, where we reviewed the many forms of media, as well as target audience (kids, adults, or both). We looked at some forms of media and decided who the intended audience was (kids, adults, or both), as well as supporting our answers with reasons. We then started to examine cereal boxes online – focusing on target audience, as well as the gimmicks/advertising techniques companies use to sell their products. Tomorrow, we will look at some of the cereal boxes the children have brought in to see who the target audience is, as well as what advertising techniques are being used to try and see the product.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where today I introduced the children to our next form of writing: Persuasive Writing. To begin with, I acted out two different scenarios of a child trying to persuade their parents to get them a computer. We talked about what the child was trying to do, how was she/he trying to persuade his/her parents to get a computer? What reasons or examples did they use in each scenario? We talked about which scenario, of the two, would be more effective and why? What powerful words did the child use to make their argument toward their parents? We then spent some time talking about persuasive writing, looking at our new graphic organizer (OREO – Opinion, Reasons, Examples, Opinion restated). We then read the book “I Wanna Iguana” and worked together to complete a graphic organizer about this book. After our work with persuasive writing, the children completed a quick write. During this time, I also talked with individual students about their last recount, noting strengths and next steps. These will be sent home tomorrow to review with your child.

After lunch, we had Math where we completed Part 1 of our Place Value Quiz. We will complete Part 2 tomorrow. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Music/Gym (Drum Fit) with Mrs. Snow and Miss. Baxendale. To end our day, we started our next math unit. To begin our new unit, I passed around a ‘feely bag’ - the children had to predict what was inside the bag. We talked about what senses they could use. I then passed around the bag and everyone had a chance to feel inside the bag and think of a prediction of what was inside the bag. After everyone had a turn, we shared our predictions.....inside were 2D Shapes! I asked for one volunteer to reach in and feel a shape, without looking they were asked to name the shape and explain how he/she was able to identify the shape by touch alone (e.g., “I think it’s a triangle because it has 3 sides.”). After several students had an opportunity to identify various shapes in the bag, we emptied the contents of the bag – asking the children to describe the shapes...

• What is the name of this shape? How do you know?
• How many sides does it have?
• How many vertices does it have?
• Are any of the shapes alike? How are they alike?
• Are any of the shapes different? How are they different?

We then discussed math terminology: sides, vertices/vertex, curved, straight.

Have a great evening!

Allison

News for Monday, November 11^th...

I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend! Thank you to the many families who sent back progress report goal sheets, report card envelopes, empty cereal boxes, empty shoe boxes, and science journals...lots happening in Grade Two!

Notes:

1. Word Ring – Testing took place today, so be sure to check your child’s ring for new words.
2. Math Quiz – There will be a Place Value math quiz tomorrow.
3. Mary Poppins – Last day for forms/online payments to be made is Wednesday (Nov. 13^th). If your child is not attending, please send me a note to indicate such.
4. Progress Report Interviews – if you have not already done so, but would like to sign up for an interview time to discuss your child’s report card with me, please go to the link that was sent home on the pink slip on Friday.

Our morning routine was a little all over the place today to accommodate for the practice of the Remembrance Day service which involved many members from our class for the Primary Choir, as well as our two wreath layers: Franklin and Hayoon. During the morning, we completed our planner writing, followed by our ‘Mistake Monday’ morning message. We then completed our calendar followed by word work where we are focusing on consonant blends this week – the children wrote the words into their planners. Just before morning recess, we had snack due to the assembly right after recess.

Those who brought money for the book fair, visited the bookfair today during morning recess. The book fair is open all week.

After morning recess, it was time for Ryerson’s Remembrance Day service in the gym. The service was a lovely tribute in honour of Remembrance Day and the audience was very respectful and attentive.

After the service, the children had a little bit of time for Social Studies with Ms. Tanner where the children continued to work away on their family trees.

After lunch, we had our Science Quiz on ‘Air and Water in the Environment.’ As students finished their science quiz, they did some independent reading at their desks or the carpet. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Music/Gym (Drum Fit) with Mrs. Snow and Miss. Baxendale. To end our day, we finished some of our morning routines that we didn’t get to...beginning with shared reading. Today, I did not give the children the title of our shared reading poem, but rather just the text. Based on the given text, they were asked to make a prediction on what the poem was about. After some discussion, they found out our poem this week is about clouds and we will be focusing on consonant blends, both during shared reading and in our word work this week. After shared reading, we had a read aloud about peace/Remembrance Day and then we had Media Literacy where we reviewed the many different forms of media and we began to talk about ‘target audience’ - kids, adults, or both kids and adults.

Have a great evening!

Allison

News for Friday, November 8^th...

Happy Friday! What a winter wonderland outside this morning! I can’t believe how much snow fell last night! Definitely time for all of the children to be wearing snowpants, winter boots, hats, mittens, etc...to school each day. It is also a good idea for your child to keep a spare pair of mittens and a spare pair of socks in either his/her cubby or his/her backpack; as these items often get very wet out at recess and it’s always nice to have a dry pair to change into.

Notes:

1. Progress Reports – Your child’s Progress Report has been sent home today. Please take the time to read through all of the comments I have written thoroughly, celebrating what your child has achieved thus far this year, as well as noting areas of next steps. With your child, have him/her come up with one or two goals he/she would like to work on for the remainder of Term 1. Have your child record his/her goal(s) on the bottom portion of the report card and return that on Monday, along with the signed report card envelope.
2. Upcoming Parent/Teacher Interviews: Next Thursday evening (Nov. 14^th) from 4:00-7:00pm, as well as next Friday morning (Nov. 15^th) are set aside for Parent/Teacher interviews to discuss Progress Report. An electronic sign up will happen for these times, which is indicated on the pink form sent from the office today. In addition, I have a few extra times that will not show up electronically and if you would like to sign up for the times below send me an email (first come, first serve) at a.alderson@tvdsb.ca or send me a note in your child’s planner- and I will confirm with you....all other times will be through the electronic sign up which I believe will be sent from the office on Friday sometime. Ideally, I like to meet with all families as it’s a nice chance to chat about your child’s progress and how we can work on next steps.

Additional times:

Friday, November 15th 8:00-8:15am, 8:15-8:30am, 8:30-8:45am, and 8:45-9:00am.

4. Empty Cereal Box: If possible, your child is asked to bring in an empty cereal box that we can use as part of our Media Literacy studies. Please send in this week or early next week.

5. Empty Shoe Box: If possible, your child is asked to bring in an empty shoebox, so that he/she can carry home his/her clay creation once it’s ready. Thank you to those families who have already sent in such.

6. Science Quiz – Just a reminder that Monday will be our science quiz on ‘Air and Water in the Environment’ - please return your child’s science journal on this day as well.

7. Word Ring – testing will take place on Monday morning.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our weekly word work quiz. I have marked the quizzes and sent them home in your child’s communication bag. We then gathered at the carpet for our morning message, calendar, and shared reading routines. During shared reading, we read through our poem “Poppy” and sang our song about piece. We also completed a sequencing activity together. We then went over this weekend’s homework task. For read aloud, we read a story about peace/Remembrance Day and then we listened to Addie’s “Student of the Week” presentation. It was then time to practice our water cycle play, followed by a little bit of buddy reading time.

After morning recess, we had snack followed and then we continued to work away on our health posters, outlining healthy habits. During this block of learning, we also completed a greater than/less than/equal to sheet that we just didn’t get to yesterday, and we also made poppies to go on our Remembrance Day wreath.

After lunch, we performed our water cycle play for Ms. Walkey’s class. The children have brought home their scripts, which they can now keep at home – they do not need to come back to school. After our performance we had Math where we began with our Mystery Number Game followed by working through some problem solving type questions together, emphasizing the importance of showing our work using pictures, numbers, and words. The children then worked on an independent problem solving question. We will have our math quiz on place value concepts on Tuesday (Nov. 12^th). Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Music/Gym (Drum Fit) with Miss. Baxendale and Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we listened to a read aloud related to Health: “Dr. Ted” and then the children worked in pairs to play a math memory game, focusing on place value concepts.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Allison

News for Thursday, November 7^th...

Well, it definitely looked a little like winter out this morning outside!

Notes:

1. Upcoming Parent/Teacher Interviews: Next Thursday evening (Nov. 14^th) from 4:00-7:00pm, as well as next Friday morning (Nov. 15^th) are set aside for Parent/Teacher interviews to discuss Progress Report. An electronic sign up will happen for these times, which will be sent from the office. In addition, I have a few extra times that will not show up electronically and if you would like to sign up for the times below send me an email (first come, first serve) at a.alderson@tvdsb.ca or send me a note in your child’s planner- and I will confirm with you....all other times will be through the electronic sign up which I believe will be sent from the office on Friday sometime.

Additional times:

Thursday, November 14^th 3:45-4:00pm

Friday, November 15th 8:00-8:15am, 8:15-8:30am, 8:30-8:45am, and 8:45-9:00am.

1. Empty Cereal Box: If possible, your child is asked to bring in an empty cereal box that we can use as part of our Media Literacy studies. Please send in this week or early next week.
2. Word Work Quiz – our weekly word work quiz will be tomorrow...I can’t believe tomorrow will already be Friday!
3. Drama Play Lines –be sure to take a little bit of time tonight to go over your child’s lines with him/her, as we will be performing our play tomorrow afternoon for Ms. Walkey’s class.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our visit with Christine from 2Hands Clay. We spent a large portion of the morning working with clay to create something special....but, shhh....we can’t say what – you will find out in a few weeks time. They did a great job! We finished the activity with just a little bit of time left before lunch – this served as a good catch up time. Everyone was able to finish their penpal letters, so I will drop off the letters at St. George’s school tonight.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with our mystery number game, followed by a place value game. We then continued our work on greater than, less than, and equal to. Just before last recess we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Social Studies with Miss. Tanner. To end our day, we had library book exchange.

Have a great evening! I hear even more snow is on the way!

Allison

News for Wednesday, November 6^th...

Notes:

1. Blue Note – please read the blue note attached to your child’s science journal that was sent home today. Please take a little bit of time each night to help your child review for the upcoming science quiz on Monday, November 11^th. If your child was absent on a particular day, or if you would like more detail about a certain science experiment, please scroll back through our blog. Please return your child’s science journal back to school on Monday, as we will continue to use our journal for our next science unit.
2. Clay Day! - just a reminder that tomorrow morning 2Hands Clay will be visiting our classroom. Please ensure your child arrives at school on time. Please encourage your child to wear old clothes tomorrow as clay can be messy.
3. Library Day – tomorrow afternoon is our library day. Please ensure your child has returned his/her books, so that he/she can sign out new ones to enjoy.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem, “Poppy” and we sang our song about peace. We then focused on ‘op’ words, finding all of the words in our poem that contained ‘op’ - we also completed a word activity together about the word family ‘op’. It was then time for a read aloud that centered around the idea of peace and Remembrance Day. We had some independent reading time followed by practicing for our play about the water cycle. Just before morning recess, we had our class picture taken, as well as individual retakes for those who needed that.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where we reviewed the format of a letter and then the children worked on creating the good copy of the letter back to their penpals (the good copies will get sent to our penpals and our rough copies will get glued into our writing books). As students finished up their letter, they addressed an envelope to their penpal and decorated it, before putting the letter to their penpal inside. We had more than half of the class finish today and many others are quite close, so hopefully everyone will be finished tomorrow as I’d like to drop them all off at St. George’s by Friday of this week.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with our mystery number game. We then played a place value game titled “I have...who has?” For our large group lesson today, we focused on comparing numbers – specifically learning about the greater than, less than, and equal to signs. We have been using this vocabulary during our mystery number games each day, but today we took a closer look at the symbols. We looked at some ‘alligator’ posters – which I’m sure many of you are familiar with when you were taught greater than/less than, and then we did some large group work together where we compared number. We played a game on abcay.com that had us comparing numbers – the link is listed below as well as in our ‘my links’ section of our classroom website. After our large group time, the children worked on an independent activity. Just before last recess, we had snack.

https://www.abcya.com/games/comparing_number_values

After last recess, the children had Music/Gym with Mrs. Snow and Miss. Baxendale. To end our day, we had science where we reviewed the many different ways we can conserve water. The children then set to work with the one water wise tip they chose to create a poster about. We will hang the posters on our hallway bulletin board as the children finish them.

Have a great evening! The children were quite excited to see some flurries in the air this afternoon!

Allison

News for Tuesday, November 5^th...

Notes:

1. Tomorrow is photo re-take day, as well as class picture day! Be sure your child brings his/her smile to school tomorrow morning 😊
2. Shoe box: Each child is asked to bring in an empty shoebox for an upcoming activity. Please send in anytime this week. A smaller shoebox is preferable. Please print your child’s name on the bottom of the shoebox.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem titled “Poppy” and then we sang our song about peace. We read a story about peace and then we had a discussion about “Peace begins with me.” We talked about how even though we are only in Grade 2, there are many ways to show peace in our world. We did a think/pair/share activity about such and then the children each completed the sentence starter: “Peace begins with me. I can...” in their writing books. They then conferenced with me before starting their good copy, which we will hang in the hallway. We also had independent reading during this block of learning, as well as practiced our water cycle play.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where today I told the class that they will be writing to a penpal this year! Penpal writing is a meaningful way to practice the form of letter writing. Our penpals are a Gr. 2 class from St. George’s Public School...just down the street. Today, we read our first penpal letters, that our penpals wrote to each of us. We then talked about the format of a letter – what are the main parts (date; greeting – Dear _____,; body; closing; signature). We then brainstormed how we should start our first letter, as well as what types of things we should include. The children then began to work on a rough copy of a letter back to their penpal. After finishing their rough copy, they conferenced with me. Tomorrow we will work on our good copies. We will continue our penpal exchange throughout the year and hopefully in June, we will have the opportunity to meet our penpals in person!

After lunch, we had Math where we began with our Mystery Number Game. We then started an activity titled “Place Value Initials.” Here, the children had time to work with a variety of base ten materials and practiced creating the first letter of their name using such materials. Everyone was encouraged to find a couple of different ways to create their initial using tens/ones. Once students had practiced with the manipulatives, they were given paper copies of base ten materials and were asked to colour and cut out tens and ones to glue into the shape of their first initial. After they had done such, they began working on a follow up frame filling in the blanks:

The first letter of my name is ____

I used ___ tens and ___ones.

___ tens are worth ____.

____ ones are worth ____.

The first letter of my name is worth:

___+_____=_____

After last recess, the children had Music/Gym with Miss. Baxendale and Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had Science where today we started our last topic in our “Air and Water in the Environment” unit: Water Conservation. We had a discussion about what water conservation is, relating it back to one of the questions they had in their homework duotangs this past week (one way they could save water) and then we watched a video clip demonstrating many ways to be water wise. After the video, the children brainstormed a number of ways to conserve water and recorded some of these ways in their science journals. Tomorrow, they will be asked to choose one ‘water wise’ tip that they will turn into a poster. Next Monday (November 11^th), the children will be having a science quiz on Air and Water in the Environment. Tomorrow, they will bring home their science journals with a note so that they can ‘study’ for the upcoming quiz. Science journals will need to be returned on the day of the quiz as we will continue to use them for our next science unit: Matter and Materials.

Have a great evening! It’s definitely an adjustment getting used to how early it gets dark out now.

Allison

News for Monday, November 4^th...

I hope everyone had a great weekend and remembered to set their clocks back!

Notes:

1. Number Words Quiz – I have sent home your child’s number word quiz. Included is also your child’s diagnostic assessment (what he/she knew before our mini unit on number words) - please look at both the diagnostic and summative columns on the marking sheet. The summative column is what your child did this past Friday, demonstrating his/her learning. Overall, most students showed amazing growth! Way to go, Gr. 2’s! This packet does not need to be returned as I have kept a copy.
2. November Book Orders are due tomorrow.
3. Word Ring testing – took place today.
4. Social Studies – Family Tree Sheet from Miss. Tanner. Miss Tanner has sent home a sheet tonight, in your child’s communication bag, requesting some information in order for the children to create a family tree at school.

We began our morning with planner writing, our ‘Mistake Monday’ morning message, and calendar. For shared reading this week, our poem is titled “Poppy, Poppy” in honour of Remembrance Day on November 11^th. Today, we read through our poem and we also learned a song about peace. For read aloud, we read a story about Remembrance Day titled “A Poppy is to Remember” and then we had some independent reading time. After independent reading, we had word work where our focus this week is on reviewing short vowel sounds.

After morning recess, the children had snack followed by Social Studies with Miss. Tanner. Thank you to the many families who returned the sheet Miss. Tanner had asked everyone to complete.

After lunch, we had Writing, where we reviewed the success criteria for writing a recount. The children then reviewed their graphic organizers (Five Finger Planners) and then set to work writing a recount. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Gym/Music where Mrs. Snow and Miss. Baxendale are combining classes for the next couple of weeks so that everyone can participate in a “Drum Fit” - ask your child about it.

To end our day, we had Math where we began with our Mystery Number Game. The children then worked on an independent place value activity where they were given a picture of a set number of tens and ones. Using a cut/paste sheet, they had to find two possible number sentences that would work for each picture...there were six pictures in total. These are drying over night (since it was a cut and paste activity) and then they will be sent home tomorrow.

Have a great evening! I may see some of you tonight at the School Council Meeting.

Allison

News for Friday, November 1^st...

Sorry for the later post....I originally posted this Friday afterschool, but when I checked this morning I see that it didn't save...not sure why.

Welcome to the month of November! I hope everyone had a happy, fun, and safe Halloween night last night, despite the not so great weather.

Notes:

1. Word Work Quiz/Math Number Words Quiz: I will mark these over the weekend and send them home with your child on Monday.
2. Word ring testing will take place on Monday. Be sure to review your child’s words with him/her, as well as ensure your child has his/her ring with them on Monday.
3. November Book Orders are due by Tuesday (November 5^th).
4. Homework dutoangs have been sent home today and are due back on Monday. For the second side of the homework sheet, your child needs to choose one day, Saturday or Sunday, to record his/her water usage for the entire day.
5. Science Water Cycle Wheel – your child has brought home the water cycle wheel he/she created. Please have him/her tell you about the water cycle process, using this aid.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our word work/math number words quiz. After the quiz, we completed our morning message and calendar routines. During calendar, we went over all of the special events/days happening for this month. For shared reading, we read through our poem “I Love Halloween” and we also went over this week’s homework task. It was then time for a read aloud followed by listening to Liam’s “Student of the Week” presentation. The children then exchanged their weekly independent reading books and then had some buddy reading time.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing, where the children began working on their graphic organizer (“Five Finger Planner”) about their Halloween night. After they completed their graphic organizer, they conferenced with me. As a whole group, we then talked about the success criteria for writing a recount:

• We need to include a title
• We need to write an introduction that answers who, where, and when
• We need to use the words: First, Next, Then, After that, and Finally
• We need to include two details for each of our main sentences
• We need to include a personal comment
• Or work should include proper use of capitals, punctuation, and should be neat
• Our work should flow (make sense)

After our writing time, we had Health where we reviewed the many different ways to stay healthy. We also reviewed our success criteria for our “Be Healthy!” posters. After reviewing such, the children continued to work away on their posters.

After lunch, we headed to the gym for a Ryerson assembly. The assembly was to recognize the cross country runners and team, as well as Ryerson’s soccer team. The assembly finished just in time for last recess.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had snack and Math where we continued to work away on place value concepts.

Have a wonderful weekend! Remember to set your clocks back this weekend!

Allison

News for Thursday, October 31^st...

Happy Halloween! I hope everyone has a happy, fun, and safe Halloween night! Please remember, if you are sending in treats in your child’s lunch tomorrow/next week, everything needs to be nut free.

Reminder:

Spelling Quiz: Tomorrow is our spelling quiz on the number words one through twenty.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our morning message and calendar routines. For shared reading, we read through our poem “I love Halloween” and we continued our focus on adjectives. We read a third book about adjectives from our school library and then we talked about how changing just the adjectives in our poem can totally change the entire meaning of the poem. We then read a Halloween story followed by some independent reading time. It was then time to practice our play, “The Water Cycle” - we are hoping to perform it at the end of next week for Ms. Walkey’s class...so keep practicing for a few more nights at home. When working on your child’s lines at home, really encourage him/her to project his/her voice, use expression, speak at a good pace, and if possible – use gestures/actions to convey the meaning of the text.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by participating in some Halloween activity centres with the other Gr. 1 and 2 students. The students rotated through four different activity stations, each in a different classroom. The children were put into groups with students from Ms. Walkey’s class, Miss Bolger’s class, and Mrs. Bere’s class. In our class, the children played a game called ‘Pumpkin Bump’ which is an adding game. In Ms. Walkey’s class they participated in a movement type activity. In Miss. Bolger’s class they worked on their estimating skills, and in Mrs. Bere’s class they did a listening Bingo game. The children had a great time working with different peers and engaging in some fun Halloween activities.

After lunch, it was time to change into costumes and get ready for Ryerson’s annual costume parade! Unfortunately the weather wasn't very cooperative, but we made the best of it! Thank you to all the families who came out to see everyone today! It was wonderful to see so many different costumes! After the parade, the children enjoyed some activity time in the classroom.

After last recess, we enjoyed some special snacks and we also moved our desks around for our new November seating plan. To end the day, we watched a little Halloween video.

Have a wonderful Halloween night! Hopefully the weather will cooperate!

Allison

News for Wednesday, October 30^th...

Only 1 more day until Halloween! The children are getting very excited! Let’s cross our fingers that the rain will hold off during key times tomorrow.

Steve and I are off to see “Rock the Rink” tonight at Budweiser Gardens....can’t wait to see Tessa and Scott skate!

Notes:

1. Halloween Reminders: To celebrate Halloween, it is also ‘black and orange day’ tomorrow at Ryerson! Your child is encouraged to wear black and/or orange tomorrow morning. After lunch, he/she can change into his/her costume either at home (if he/she goes home for lunch) or at school after lunch recess.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “I Love Halloween” and we continued our focus on adjectives. We read another book about adjectives from our school library, we refound the adjectives in the poem, and then we looked at two more pictures and tried to generate as many adjectives as we could about each picture. It was then time for 2 seasonal read alouds, one about pumpkins and one about Halloween. After that, we had some independent reading time followed by practicing our water cycle play. Next week will be our last week of practice and then we will perform our play for the other Gr. 2’s. Just before morning recess, we had Media Literacy, where we reviewed different forms of media (e.g., newspapers, magazines, music, posters, advertisements, tv shows, commercials, comics, signs, etc...) and then we focused on the concept of target audience – who was the media intended for – kids, adults, or both – as well as why...what techniques are used to gear something to a specific audience....we only had a chance to start this today, but will continue talking about such during our next media literacy lesson.

We were able to get outside for morning recess, but then it just started to pour!

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing, where we completed a quick write and had some sharing time. It was then time for Health, where we reviewed the differences between prescription and non-prescription medicines. We also reviewed the rules for taking medicine safely. We continued on with our read aloud about medicine and then we began to talk about health alternatives to medicine. We talked about things they could do to stay healthier other than taking medicine – we began this with a ‘think/pair/share’ activity and the children came up with lots of ideas. Some examples included: Getting lots of fresh air, exercising, eating healthy foods, brushing your teeth, getting lots of sleep, washing our hands, following safety rules, using our cough pocket and sneeze pocket, visiting the doctor and dentist regularly, etc...We also talked about healthy leisure activities (e.g., sports, hobbies, summer camps, gardening, going to the library). The children will be creating a poster about healthy habits.

Primary Choir had practice today at lunch.

After an indoor lunch hour, we had Math where we began with our mystery number game. The children then worked in table groups to find four different ways to represent the number 41, using base ten materials....they are doing a great job finding the many ways a number can be represented. We then gathered back at the carpet for a couple of SmartBoard activities where we had to find specific numbers on the hundreds chart, using given clues. We also had to guess some hidden numbers on the hundreds chart. After our large group time, the children worked on an independent activity. Just before last recess we had snack.

After an indoor last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had science where we began with a read aloud about water and then we continued to work away on our water cycle wheels.

Have a great evening!

Allison

News for Tuesday, October 29^th...

Yesterday turned out to be such a beautiful day outside, it was such a great night for a walk outside in the evening.

Notes:

1. November Class Calendar – has been sent home today. Please be sure to post somewhere visible at home so that your child comes to school prepared for all of our activities.
2. Book Orders: November book orders were sent home yesterday and are due back next Tuesday (November 5^th). If you would like to order any items as a special holiday gift, please just let me know and I will put them aside and call/write you a note when they arrive vs. Sending the items home with your child. I do not have an online account, so please make cheques payable to Scholastic Canada Ltd.
3. Halloween Parade: The JK-3 Costume Parade will take place this year in the afternoon of October 31^st. The parade will begin at 1:00pm starting with the Gr. 3’s and working our way down to the JK/SK’s. It is a bit of a modified route this year (weather pending too of course). The students will begin the route outside the back Kindergarten doors and come down Waterloo St. They will then turn onto Victoria Street and stop for the annual pictures of each class on the front steps of the school. After a class has their picture taken, they will then go through the front doors of the school to tour down the Junior/Intermediate halls. The children are not to wear their costumes to school in the morning – instead – they can either change at lunch if they go home, or after lunch before the parade begins as there will be 15 minutes for a changing time. I have spoken to the office about masks as some of the students were asking...Mrs. Reid suggested make-up vs. masks, if possible, as masks can limit visibility when walking on our parade route.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “I Love Halloween” and then we focused on adjectives. We talked about how adjectives are “juicy” words – they are describing words that describe the noun(s) in a sentence. They make writing more interesting and easier for readers to visualize what writers are writing about. We read a book about adjectives and then we found all of the adjectives in our poem. We also looked at two pictures and tried to generate as many adjectives as we could for each of the pictures. It was then time for a Halloween read aloud, followed by some independent reading. After independent reading, we began exploring Media Literacy. Today, we talked about ‘what is media’ and identified different forms of media (e.g., newspapers, radio, posters, books, magazines, signs, etc...).

*We did not practice our play today as many forgot their scripts, please remind your child to bring his/her script each day. We are hoping to practice for 1 more full week and then perform for the other Gr. 2 students in Ms. Walkey’s class and Mrs. Hardy’s class....hopefully the week of November 11^th.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where we completed our 17^th (of 24) quick writes. We then had Health where we reviewed the differences between prescription and non-prescription medicines, as well as safety rules for taking medicine. We continued with our reading “Adventures in Star Park” that focuses on safe medicine handling as well as marched a video clip that talked about how medicine is not candy. The children then completed an activity sheet where they had to answer three questions about medicine, as well as complete a word search activity.

After lunch, we had Math where the children enjoyed sharing their “My Twenty Dots” booklets with another partner today. They have brought home their books to share with you – these can now be kept at home. We then played our ‘Mystery Number Game’ with a volunteer choosing the number today and answering the questions from the class. We are really working on using math vocabulary during this game (e.g., greater than, less than, odd number, even number, etc...). For our next large group activity the children worked at the carpet, using their own individual place value mat, to create a variety of given numbers, using base ten materials. We also had select volunteers show how to create these numbers on the Smartboard using virtual manipulatives. We talked about standard form vs. Expanded form (e.g., 37 vs. 30 + 7 = 37). After our large group activity, the children worked on an independent task.

Just before last recess, we had snack. Those students who order popcorn had it delivered today.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Baxendale. To end our day, we had Science where we reviewed the parts of the water cycle, really working on using science vocabulary. We sang our water cycle song, as well as watched a video clip about the water cycle. The children then began working on a ‘water cycle wheel’ as a way to consolidate their learning on this topic. Once finished, they will bring home their wheels to share with you at home.

Have a great evening!

Allison

News for Monday, October 28^th...

I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend!

Notes:

1. Mary Poppins: A field trip form has been sent home today for a Gr. 2-6 field trip to see Mary Poppins at the Grand Theatre. Please return the permission form and make the online payment by November 13^th.
2. Book Orders: November book orders have been sent home today and are due back next Tuesday (November 5^th).
3. Halloween Parade: The JK-3 Costume Parade will take place this year in the afternoon of October 31^st. The parade will begin at 1:00pm starting with the Gr. 3’s and working our way down to the JK/SK’s. It is a bit of a modified route this year (weather pending too of course). The students will begin the route outside the back Kindergarten doors and come down Waterloo St. They will then turn onto Victoria Street and stop for the annual pictures of each class on the front steps of the school. After a class has their picture taken, they will then go through the front doors of the school to tour down the Junior/Intermediate halls. The children are not to wear their costumes to school in the morning – instead – they can either change at lunch if they go home, or after lunch before the parade begins as there will be 15 minutes for a changing time.
4. Word Ring Testing – took place today, be sure to review the words each night with your child.
5. Social Studies – Miss. Tanner has sent home a little information sheet about herself for all families, as she will be teaching the Gr. 2 Social Studies this year. She has also sent home a little homework activity – she is asking that the sheet be returned by next Monday (Nov. 3^rd) at the latest – anytime before then would be great as I will collect them for her.

We began our morning with planner writing, our ‘Mistake Monday’ morning message, and calendar. For shared reading this week our poem is titled “I Love Halloween” in honour of Halloween on Thursday. We began by doing a ‘think/pair/share’ activity about our favourite part of Halloween and then we read through our new poem. It was then time for a read aloud about Halloween – we will be enjoying lots of Halloween stories this week. After our story, we practiced our water cycle play and then we had word work where this week the children will be working on all number words from one through twenty. We also had a little bit of independent reading time.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by Social Studies with Miss. Tanner.

After lunch, we had Math where began our time with sharing our “My Twenty Dots” books with each other. The children enjoyed seeing each others creative ideas. We then turned our focus to place where the children were encouraged to make the number 35 in one way, using base ten materials. They were then encouraged to try and make 35 another way. We talked about how there are 4 ways to make 35 and they were encouraged to see if they could find the remaining two ways. After taking that up, the children were asked to pick a number (49, 70, or 28) and represent it with base ten materials. After our large and small group time, the children worked on an independent task.

After last recess, we had snack followed by a quick write and then Art. In art today, we worked on creating paper-strip jack-o-lanterns...they are going to look very festive in the hallway tomorrow!

Have a great evening!

Allison

News for Thursday, October 24^th....

It was great to see lots of ‘crazy hair’ today for Crazy Hair Day at Ryerson!

Notes:

1. Homework duotangs have been sent home tonight and are due back on Monday.
2. Sight word ring testing will take place on Monday. Be sure to review your words.
3. Tomorrow (Friday, October 25^th) is a PD Day for students. While there will be no school for students, teachers will be at school participating in Professional Development.
4. Writing Recount Rubrics have been sent home today – these do not need to be returned as I have kept a copy. I have conferenced with each child individually at school about their writing, but it would be lovely if you could also go over the rubric with them again, celebrating what they did well, as well as talking about next steps.
5. Drama Scripts – be sure to take some time this weekend to practice your part in the play.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “Pumpkins” and we completed a fill in the blank activity. We also went over this week’s homework activity. It was then time to listen to Lesley’s “Student of the Week” presentation, followed by a read aloud about pumpkins. We then practiced our water cycle play. Thank you for taking the time to practice a little bit each evening with your child. We then headed off for our last Kindergarten visit; this time to Mrs. Marques’ room where the children enjoyed sharing their writing with the Kindergarten students, especially those who had siblings in that class.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by our weekly word work quiz. The quizzes have been marked and sent home in your child’s communication bag. We then turned our focus to math where our number talk today was about a game called our “Mystery Number!” In this game, I (or a volunteer) picks a secret number on a hundreds chart (recording the chosen number on a piece of paper). The children then have to ask various questions to help them guess the secret number. Questions have to be able to be answered with a ‘yes’ or a ‘no’. We talked about the importance of good questions that will help the class to determine the number (less specific questions like “is the number greater than 50?” – this way if the number is greater than 50 we can cross out all the numbers less than 50....vs. Just asking is your number 53?). This is a great game to help orally using our math language (e.g., greater than/less than; even numbers/odd numbers; numbers in the ones column/tens column; single digit number/double digit number, etc...). We played the game, recording the number of guesses until the mystery number is revealed.

After our game we began we worked with place value materials (rods – sticks of ten and units – ones) to see how many ways we could make the number 23. The children were provided with a place value math (that denotes the tens column and the ones column) and it was great to see a variety of ways represented. We talked about how we could represent tens and ones on paper (tens – draw a rod and write a T inside and for ones draw a unit – small square – and write an o inside). We then practiced creating a variety of other numbers on our mats and drawing the matching number on the Smartboard. We will be working on reading, ordering, comparing, and representing larger numbers (numbers to 100) over the next couple of weeks. After our large group activity the children worked on an independent task.

After lunch, we welcomed two science students from Western University. During the summer, I signed up to be part of the “Let’s Talk Science” program and today was our first visit. The volunteers led the children through an activity titled “Water at Work” dovetailing perfectly with our current science unit. The children participated in a variety of hands-on experiments using water.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Baxendale. To end our day, we had snack and then the students reflected on our “Let’s Talk Science” visit in their science journals and then they had some catch-up time/activity time.

Allison

News for Wednesday, October 23rd...

Notes:

1. Ryerson Spirit Day: Tomorrow is a Ryerson Spirit Day....crazy hair day!
2. 2Hands Clay form and $ - Just a reminder that the yellow permission form, as well as the online payment are due tomorrow (October 24^th).
3. Drama Scripts – Your child has brought home his/her water cycle script. Please help him/her work on learning his/her lines focusing on when it is his/her turn, fluency, and expression. Please ensure the script gets returned to school each day as we will be practicing each day at school.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem about pumpkins and then we found all of the rhyming words in the poem. We also put the poem ‘back together’ after reading a version of the poem that had all the lines mixed up...they love reading the silly versions of our poems! It was then time for a read aloud about pumpkins, followed by drama where we practiced our play as a large group. Thank you for taking a little bit of time each night, over the next couple of weeks, to practice your child’s lines with him/her; working on volume (voice projection), fluency, expression, and even the use of gestures. After drama, we had some independent reading time. We then did our last Kindergarten visit – today, it was to Mrs. Marques’ room to read the little books we wrote earlier on this year...unfortunately, though when we got there, Mrs. Marques needed to switch the day, so we are planning on going back tomorrow. The children enjoyed the visits, especially those with siblings in Kindergarten.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by Math where we worked in a large group focusing on ways to represent numbers – today's focus was specifically on using ‘ten frames’. We did a variety of activities on the SmartBoard while also having our own ten frames to work with (we actually used multiple ten frames to create larger numbers as in Gr. 2 we focus on numbers to 100). The students then worked in pairs completing a ten frame activity. Finally, the students had some independent practice working with ten frames and number bonds.

After lunch, we had Art where we continued working on our ‘sleepy hollow forest’ scenes – now that the paint from yesterday had a chance to dry. We will display these on the bulletin board in our hallway tomorrow. Also during this block of learning we visited the library to see some Gr. 6 projects. We had snack when we returned – those who ordered popcorn had it delivered today. For Health, we reviewed the differences between prescription and non-prescription medicines, as well as safety rules to ensure the safe use of medicines. The children then completed an activity where they were given a variety of pictures and had to determine which ones were prescription and which ones were non-prescription.

After last recess, the children had Social Studies. Today, the children met Ms. Tanner who will be their Social Studies teacher for the rest of the year.

To end our day, we had library book exchange.

Have a great night! Just a reminder that tomorrow is our weekly word work quiz, as Friday is a PD Day for students this week.

Allison

News for Tuesday, October 22nd...

Another mild start to the day...yay! It also turned out to be a beautiful day for the cross country finals at Fanshawe today - go Ryerson!

Notes:

1. 2Hands Clay form and $ - Just a reminder that the yellow permission form, as well as the online payment are due on Thursday of this week (October 24^th).
2. Drama Scripts – Your child has brought home his/her water cycle script. Please help him/her work on learning his/her lines focusing on when it is his/her turn, fluency, and expression. Please ensure the script gets returned to school each day as we will be practicing each day at school.
3. Library – tomorrow is our library book exchange day, so please ensure your child has brought back his/her books so that he/she can sign out new ones.
4. Water Cycle Song – the children have brought home their water cycle song to keep – be sure to have them sing it for you!

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem about pumpkins and then we had to fix a version of the poem that had purposeful mistakes in it – so we put on our good editing hats and fixed the mistakes all up! For read aloud we read a pumpkin story and then we practiced our water cycle play for drama. Your child has brought home his/her script tonight for some extra practice at home. He/she will bring home his/her script each night for some additional practice where you can work on helping your child know when it is his/her turn, phrasing/fluency, expression, and even adding gestures to express what he/she is saying. Just before morning recess, we headed to Ms. Raupp’s class to read the books we had made during our writing time. When we were done we had a little bit of time to do some independent reading in our classroom.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by Art where we are incorporating some science into our artwork...air! Today the children worked on creating a sleepy hollow forest, creating an eerie sensation with artwork reminiscent of the dark and twisted trees in Sleepy Hollow. On lilac coloured paper, the children dripped some thinned, black paint and then blew through a drinking straw to turn the drops of paint into the shapes of gnarly trees. Once the paint part is dry then we will add some pumpkins and jack-o-lanterns to our forests.

After Art, we had Health where we are focusing on the safe use of all medicines. We reviewed the differences between prescription and non-prescription medicines and talked about what they know about how to take medicine safely. We discussed some important safety rules:

1. Take medicine only from an adult you trust – we reviewed who is a trusted adult.
2. Take only the amount of medicine your doctor or grown up says to take.
3. Never share medication if it is prescription medication.

After our large group learning, the children worked on an independent fill in the blank activity focusing on using medicine safely.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with a math story titled “Math Counts – Numbers.” The book illustrates the point that numbers are all around us and are a big part of our everyday lives...it provided many examples of such. We then went on a number hunt, where each student was given a clipboard and a blank sheet of paper. They began by hunting around our room for numbers and recording such on their sheet of paper (e.g., our calendar, our room number, our number lines, the date on the whiteboard, bulletin board border, number bugs, etc...). We then ventured out into the hallways of the school looking for other examples of numbers. We found lots! After our number hunt, we spent some time discussing locations of where numbers are often found and why numbers are used there. We also played a group came using number words called “I have...who has?” Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Gym. To end our day, we had science where we focused on the last stage of the water cycle: Collection. We added collection to our anchor chart about the water cycle on our bulletin board and then we sang our water cycle song...they know it well! We then talked about the collection part of the water cycle and discuss different places water collects (e.g., oceans, rivers, seas, streams, lakes, creates puddles, etc...). In their science journals they recorded some places where water collects and then we read a story about water.

Have a great evening!

Allison

News for Monday, October 21^st...

I hope everyone enjoyed the beautiful weather this weekend! I loved it! I felt quite happy being able to wear a summer dress and sandals to work today!

Notes:

1. Word ring testing took place today, so be sure to check your child’s ring for new words. Remember to mix up the order of the words (feel free to take them right off the ring to mix them up and then place them back on in a different order). Be sure to also review the ‘old’ words on the ring too.

We began our morning with planner writing, our ‘Mistake Monday’ morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, I introduced our new poem of the week which is all about pumpkins. Today, we looked at a variety of pumpkin carvings on the SmartBoard and then read through our new poem. It was then time for a read aloud about pumpkins, followed by word work where we went over our new words of the week. The focus this week for word work is on the numbers eleven through twenty. The children wrote these number words in their planners. During independent reading today, we visited Mrs. Squire’s JK/SK class to read to them. We brought along our books that we had been working on in writing to share with the class. My class was quite excited and proud to share their writing with the kindergarten students, especially those that had siblings in that class. Tomorrow and Wednesday we will be visiting Mrs. Marques’ class, as well as Ms. Raupp’s class.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where we began with a quick write. As the children were working on their quick write, I conferenced with some students about the recount they completed last week about their Thanksgiving weekend. Conferencing is an important time as it acknowledges what the children did well and it also is a time where I provide them next steps to work on. The recounts will be sent home later this week, as I’m just waiting for a few more students to finish.

After writing, we had Drama where I introduced the children to a play we will be working on titled: “The Water Cycle: A Reader’s Theatre.” I chose this play as it dovetails nicely with our learning in science. Each of the children in the class has a part and we will be performing it, once we know it well, to the other Grade 2 students in Ms. Walkey’s and Mrs. Hardy’s classes. Later this week, the children will bring home their script to practice at home (just please ensure it is returned to school each day as we will be practicing the play each day at school too).

We also began a new health unit today on Prescription and Non-Prescription medications. We talked about the word medicine and what it is and that over the new few weeks we would talking about medicine and making healthy choices. Today, we talked about that when taken properly, medicines can help people – but that it’s important to know some rules about how to stay safe around medicine, because when taken incorrectly they can cause great harm. I then introduced the children to the difference between prescription and non-prescription medicines. We talked about how prescription medicine is ordered by a dr, can only be used by one person – cannot be shared – we looked at a prescription label – noting the components (name of the person who the medicine is for, name of the dr, instructions for proper use, etc...). Whereas non-prescription medicine can be bought at most grocery stores, department stores, etc...people can share this medicine – it is not prescribed for one person.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with a a read aloud “7 Ate 9.” For our independent work today, the children worked on reading and writing the number words to twenty. As they finished their independent work, they worked with a partner on a memory card game that focused on using the number words eleven through twenty. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Music. To end our day we had Science where we reviewed the parts of the water cycle. Today our focus was on the 3^rd stage: Precipitation. We talked about what precipitation is and what are the possible forms of precipitation (e.g., rain, snow, sleet, hail). We watched a precipitation video clip and learned about song about precipitation today. We then completed an experiment to show precipitation. Each pair of children were given a plastic cup, almost full of water. On top we sprayed shaving cream to represent clouds. I then squirted several drops of food colouring on top of the shaving cream. As the ‘cloud’ became heavy, the food colouring ‘rained’ into the cup. They thought this was pretty cool. The children recorded their observations of today’s experiment in their science journals.

Have a great evening!

Allison

News for Friday, October 18^th

Happy Friday! Happy Birthday wishes go out to Kinan in our class today!

Notes:

1. Word ring testing will take place on Monday.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our weekly word work quiz. The quizzes have now been marked and sent home with your child in his/her communication bag. We then gathered at the carpet for our morning message, calendar, and shared reading routines. For shared reading, we read through our poem and we completed a ‘missing words’ activity. We also went over this week’s homework task. It was then time for our “Student of the Week” presentation which was presented by Aarav today. For read aloud, we read a story about bats, “Stellaluna” and then we had some buddy reading time. During the final part of our first block, some students worked on finishing up some tasks, while others worked on a number word search, focusing on numbers one through ten.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by Social Studies with Miss. M. During this block of learning we also had our third fall fire drill. Schools are required to complete three practice fire drills in the fall and three in the spring.

After lunch, we had Math where I displayed the numerals 0-20 on the whiteboard. Below each number I had printed the corresponding number words. I asked the children to look at all of the numbers and number words to see if they could notice any patterns or what they noticed about the spelling of each of the words (e.g., which of the numbers greater than ten end with ‘teen’). I had them look for which numbers they could see smaller numbers in (e.g., in sixteen, you can also see six). We discussed who the teen numbers start with a ‘1’ and we really emphasized fifteen (as many students want to print fiveteen). We read through all of the number words flashcard style and then completed a number words activity on the SmartBoard, focusing on numbers to twenty. As a follow up the children completed an activity focusing on writing the numeral, a dot representation of that number, as well as the number word for all of the numbers 11 through 20. Just before last recess we had snack. During this block of learning we also had a school practice for a tornado drill...the children did great!

After last recess, we had Science where we reviewed the stages of the water cycle. We added today’s focus, condensation, to our anchor chart, and then we sang our water cycle song. We reviewed what happens during evaporation and then we talked about condensation. We then did an experiment today showing condensation. We filled plastic cups with hot water and then took another cup and placed it on top of the other cup upside down. On the top cup, we set an ice cube (to represent the cool air). We then watched as condensation began to form at the top of the upside down cup, just like a cloud! The children recorded the experiment and their observations in their science journals.

To end our day we had Art where we talked about what texture is and then we brainstormed a number of texture words. We read a non-fiction book about texture too. We also got back to our ‘Texture Bugs’ art activity where the children were given five different materials (one to glue onto each of their texture bugs): A cottonball, sandpaper, tinfoil, sand, and a sponge - and then they had to use a texture word to describe it. These will go up in our hallway probably after Halloween as next week we will be starting some Halloween crafts that we will want to display in time for the season.

Have a great weekend! Sunday is supposed to beautiful and much warmer...yay!

Allison

News for Thursday, October 17^th...

Notes:

1. A permission form/information sheet has been sent home today(on yellow paper) about our upcoming art activity with “2 Hands Clay.” Please return the form, as well as make the online payment for this activity by October 24^th.

We began our morning by taking attendance and then heading right to the Children’s Safety Village. At the Safety Village, we participated in the Grade Two program. The program is divided into two parts: Fire Safety and EMS. This field trip was a great addition to our work on safety in the home, school, and community that we have been focusing on in the classroom. In the fire section of the field trip, the children reviewed fire safety rules, the importance of having working smoke detectors, as well as how to exit your home safely if there ever was a fire. In the EMS portion of the program, the children reviewed the importance of 911, as well as identifying situations that warrant calling 911 vs. situations that did not. They were also introduced to some of the equipment that paramedics use. Thank you very much to our volunteers today for helping us out! Thank you to Franklin’s mom (who even volunteered to dress up in all the firefighter gear...awesome!), Edwin’s mom, Hayoon’s mom, and Kinan’s nana for coming with us today. The children have brought home a fire safety booklet, as well as an activity page as a follow up that they can work on at home at their leisure.

We arrived back at school just in time for lunch. The first pizza lunch of the school year.

After lunch, we did our planner writing, as well as completed our calendar and our shared reading routines. For shared reading, we read through our poem about bats and then we looked for all of the two syllable words in the poem....we found out that this poem had mostly one syllable words! For read aloud, we read a story about bats. We then had some catch-up time where some students worked away on their math ‘dot’ booklets (practicing their number words), others worked on finishing their recounts, and if they were finished all of those activities they played a math game, focusing on number words.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. After music, we had snack and then continued with our catch-up time, as it was much needed.

Have a great evening! Remember, tomorrow is our weekly word work quiz.

Allison

News for Wednesday, October 16^th...

Notes:

1. Patterning Math Quizzes – have been sent home today. The test does look lengthy, but it’s partly because the font/spacing for the multiple choice section is quite large. Also, the test was completed in two sections – half on one day and half on another. It is important to note, questions are weighted differently. Please take the time to look over the quiz with your child, making any necessary corrections – as we learn from our mistakes, then sign, and return the quiz back to school. All quizzes will be sent home later in the term for you to keep. Just a reminder that quizzes are only one form of assessment used to determine your child’s final mark in a subject/strand.
2. Safety Village Field Trip – our first field trip of the year is tomorrow morning. Please ensure your child dresses for the weather as part of the program may be outside. Please ensure your child uses the washroom before coming to school in the morning, as well as eats a good breakfast as we will not have time for morning snack tomorrow. We will be back at school for lunch. Volunteers are asked to be at the school right for 9:00am as we will be leaving right after attendance.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “Bats” and then we talked about Halloween. After shared reading, we read a fiction story about Bats, followed by having some independent reading time. After independent reading, we had word work where we practiced spelling our number words to ten, using an activity called “Scrabble Spelling” - today, we completed this activity all together, as it was a new word work activity for us. It was a great way to combine practicing our words of the week, while also doing some basic addition in math.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where we revisited the recount graphic organizers we completed yesterday. We then talked about how to turn our graphic organizer into a written draft...I modelled such using the graphic organizer I completed yesterday. I also went over the rubric I would be using to assess this piece of writing with the children so they know exactly what I am looking for and then they can self-assess their work against such. The children then set to work on completing their own written draft. They worked so hard during our writing period today. As students finished, they self-assessed to ensure they had a title, introduction, events, and a personal comment. Many students finished today and some will need a little bit more time tomorrow. I will be marking these over the weekend and then I will send a copy home for you to see.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with rereading the read aloud we read yesterday “My Ten Black Dots” and going over the task we started yesterday – creating our own number books. The children then set to work on working independently on their books. We have some very creative students who can turn dots into many neat things! Just before last recess we had snack. We had a couple of students who have completely finished their dot book and the others should finish tomorrow.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Baxendale. To end our day, we had Science where we reviewed the four main parts of the water cycle (evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and collection). I also introduced the children to a song about the water cycle today. We watched a little video clip about the water cycle and then we started an experiment about the first stage of the water cycle: Evaporation. In this investigation, the children have to predict how long they think it will take for a ½ cup of water to evaporate. We measured a half cup of water and put it in a plastic glass, marking ½ cup with a marker line. We placed this cup in the sunniest part of our room. Over the next little while we watch the water evaporate, seeing how long it takes. The children worked in their science journal, drawing a picture of the cup of water now (dating it) and then making a prediction about how many days they think it will take for the water to evaporate. When the water does evaporate, we will come back to this page in our science journal and draw what happened.

Have a great evening!

Allison

News for Tuesday, October 15^th...

I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving weekend! It sure was nice to see the sun shining all weekend!

Notes:

1. Word ring testing took place today, so be sure to check your child’s ring for new words.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. Our shared reading poem this week is titled ‘Bats’ in honour of the season, as well as this poem focuses on the spelling of the number words to ten, which is one of the things we are working on in Math, so it’s always nice when we can interweave our subject areas. Today, we read through the poem, noting all of the number words. We also found all of the rhyming words in the poem. For read aloud, we read a story about bats and then we worked on a little math task. Each grade was asked to prepare an activity/assessment for our upcoming PD that focuses on Math...so they worked away at that today. As they finished their math task they had some independent reading time.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by word work, where we went over this week’s words of the week, which focuses on spelling all of the number words to ten...next week, we will focus on numbers to twenty. We then turned our focus to writing. Today, we focused on completing a graphic organizer (‘five finger planner’) about our Thanksgiving weekend. We reviewed the purpose of a recount, as well as the parts of a recount. I then modelled completing a five finger planner, writing about my Thanksgiving weekend. After that, the children worked on creating their own five finger planner about their Thanksgiving weekend. Tomorrow, they will turn their graphic organizer into a written draft. I will also introduce them to the rubric we will be using for assessment for recount writing tasks, so that they can check their work against given success criteria.

After lunch, we had Math where we are focusing on number words to ten for the next few days. We began with a number talk and then I read the math book “My Ten Black Dots.” As a follow up, the children are going to create their own ‘dots’ booklet. Some students will be focusing on numbers one-ten, while others will focus on number words eleven-twenty, based on the diagnostic assessment I completed earlier with them on spelling number words to twenty. On each page of the ‘dots’ booklet, the children will practice representing the numeral, writing the number word, and using dots to create a picture of that number (e.g., for the numeral 2, they would spell the word two and then draw a picture using two dots- adding background features too – for example they could turn the two dots into two eyes on a person). Today, we started working on the book and tomorrow we will continue doing such. Just before last recess we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day today we had Science we focused on the properties of water, specifically that water flows and water is a liquid). While the children were at Music I put out five containers, each of a different shape/size. When the children returned, I asked them to write their name on a sticky note, and to place the sticky note beside the container they thought held the most water. We had various volunteers offer to explain why they selected their choice. While the children were at Music I filled each of the containers with exactly two cups of water (using a different colour of food colouring for each container). We talked about how we could check to see which container actually held more water. After finding out that they all held the same amount (which they thought was pretty cool!), we talked about how water can be a liquid (as well as a solid and a gas). When it is in its liquid form, water takes the shape of its container – it flows and moves when it is not contained. The children then wrote about the experiment in their science journals. We ended our day with a read aloud about water.

Have a great evening!

Allison

News for Friday, October 11th...

Notes:

1. Homework duotangs have been sent home today with your child. Duotangs are due back to school on Tuesday.

2. Sight word ring testing will take place on Tuesday. Be sure to review your words.

3. Word work quizzes will be sent home on Monday as I will pick them up at Ryerson later today and mark them over the weekend.

4. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving weekend! Enjoy the time with family and friends.

I was away today, mentoring a new teacher. While I definitely miss being away from my class, I also enjoy the opportunity to help new teachers and visit other buildings.

The children spent their day today with Mr. Siegel, who carried out the plans I prepared and left for him.

In the morning, the children completed their planner, morning message, calendar, and shared reading routines. They had their word work quiz (which I will mark over the weekend and return on Tuesday). They then read a Thanksgiving story, followed by having some buddy reading time. To finish the first block of learning, the children worked on a short vowel activity where they had to 'read the room' finding examples of each of the short vowel sounds. They were encouraged to find at least four words for each vowel to record on their sheet.

After morning recess, the children had snack followed by Science where Mr. Siegel introduced the children to the water cycle. They completed an experiment and discussed each of the four phases of the water cycle (evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and collection). After the experiment, the children worked on a follow up activity that illustrated the stages of the water cycle. This will be glued into their science journals.

After lunch it was time for Math where the children began with a number talk. They then delved into our next mini unit: Reading and Writing number words twenty. The children worked through a flashcard style activity and then played a memory game, in pairs, using number words (focusing on zero through eleven today). They then worked on an independent activity focusing on the number words zero through ten. Just before last recess they had snack.

After recess, the children had Gym with Misss. Baxendale. I actually popped into their gym class with the teacher I'm mentoring so we could observe Miss. Baxendale for a bit as the teacher I am working with teaches primary gym. I very much enjoyed seeing the children in the Gym. There was also a school fire drill at this time and the children did so well.

To end the day, the children had a bit of catch up time and did a desk clean out.

Have a great long weekend! Happy Thanksgiving!

Allison

News for Thursday, October 10^th...

Well, you know Fall weather is truly approaching when the heat has been turned on at Ryerson!

Notes:

1. Just a reminder that I will be away tomorrow as I am mentoring a new teacher. Mr. Siegel will be in for me and carrying out the plans I have left him for the day. I will still do an update (although a bit briefer) on the blog tomorrow night though.

2. Social Studies: Miss M. has given each child a ‘Then and Now’ interview sheet. She is asking the children to interview a family member and return the completed sheet by next Friday (Oct. 18^th).

We began our morning with planner writing, morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “Five Little Turkeys” and the I went over this week’s homework task since I won’t be at school to explain it tomorrow. For read aloud, we read a Thanksgiving story and then we had some independent reading time. It was then time to finish our ‘scoot’ short vowels activity that we began last week. Today the children ‘scooted’ around the room to figure out the missing vowels for question cards 13-24. The sheets have been sent home with your child tonight. Just before morning recess we had snack as immediately after recess we had an assembly.

After morning recess, the children attended the “Buster the Bus” presentation in the Gym. This program is for students in Gr. JK-3 to teach/reinforce bus safety. This was a great addition to our health unit on safety in the home, school, and community. After the assembly, the children had a little bit of time for Social Studies with Miss. M.

After lunch, we had Math where we continued on with our Math Quiz.

After last recess, we had Science where our focus today was on sources of water. We looked at a map of the world and talked about what kinds of water we could see (e.g., oceans, rivers, etc..). We also brainstormed other forms of water (e.g., seas, lakes, ponds, streams, waterfalls, etc...). We discussed how some sources of water are natural (e.g., oceans, lakes, springs) and some are human made (e.g., wells, water towers). We discussed where does the water in the lakes, rivers, puddles, etc...come from. Many children said rain – which we then discussed further – is rain the only kind of water that falls into the lakes, rivers, etc...(e.g., snow, sleet). In our science journals, we recorded different sources of water and that we read a story about water.

To end the day we worked in our "Buster the Bus" safety booklets and then read a Thanksgiving story.

Enjoy the beautiful weather!

Allison

News for Wednesday, October 9^th...

Notes:

Planners: Yay! Our planners have finally arrived! Please be sure to read and sign the planner message each night, as well as remind your child to return his/her planner to school each day.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “Five Little Turkeys” and then we did a partner activity where the children had to generate as many ‘un’ words as they could. We then read a Thanksgiving story followed by some independent reading time. After independent reading, we continued to work away on our “I Love Safety” brochures for Health. Many students finished today...super! As students finished, they turned their focus to word work where they practiced this week’s words of the week using ‘rainbow roll.’

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where we continued to work on turning our graphic organizer into a written draft. Yesterday, we wrote our title, as well as our introduction onto our written draft and today we focused on the sequence of events – which is the bulk of the writing. I modelled how to write the sequence of events, using our graphic organizer as a guide. For each of the fingers (First, Next, Then, After that, and Finally), the children copy the sentence they have written on their graphic organizer (with any changes I’ve made from our conferencing time) and then they have to add two more details for each of those main sentences. On our graphic organizer, each finger has two dots underneath their main sentence. Each dot reminds the children to add one more detail sentence to support their main sentence. As they write their details, they check off the dots. Today they worked away at this, as well as writing their personal comments. I was very proud of how hard they all worked during our writing time today.

After lunch, we had Math where we began Part 1 of our patterning quiz. Tomorrow we will continue with Part 2. Just before last recess we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Baxendale. To end our day, we had Art where we created some 3D turkeys. The children will bring these home tomorrow night – a little festive piece to put on the dinner table this weekend.

Have a great evening!

Allison

News for Tuesday, October 8^th...

What a beautiful sunny day! A perfect day for the Cross Country meet!

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “Five Little Turkeys” working on reading with expression to convey the intended meaning of the text. We also found all of the rhyming words in the poem. We then read a Thanksgiving story, followed by having some independent reading time. We then had writing where we did a quick write. Our school superintendent, as well as the principal came in during this time and they enjoyed hearing some of our students share their quick writes.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where we focused on recounts. Today, our main focus was on creating an introduction – linking the who, when, and where into a sentence that flows and makes sentence. We did a lot of modelling and practicing with this by choosing a ‘who’ a ‘when’ and a ‘where’ out of a hat and then trying to link them into a sentence. For example, who – my friends, when – on the weekend, where in Port Stanley.....On the weekend, my friends and I went to Port Stanley). After practicing and practicing at the carpet, the children worked on creating their own introduction for their written draft. As they finished their introduction, they conferenced with me and then they turned their focus to Health where we continued to work away on our “I Love Safety Brochures.” Yesterday, many of the children finished their titles (Home, School, and Community) and today they began printing their safety rules/tips, as well as drawing/colouring an illustration to match each safety rule/tip. They are looking great and some students are almost finished. Super!

After lunch, we had Math where we began with a number talk followed by our continued work on patterns. We also had a couple more volunteer share some patterns. The children continued to work with growing and shrinking patterns today. Tomorrow, is our quiz on patterning. Just before last recess we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Social Studies. To end the day we had library book exchange.

Have a great evening! Enjoy the beautiful sunshine!

Allison

News for Monday, October 7^th...

I hope everyone had a great weekend! The weather was beautiful yesterday – nice to have some warmer temperatures again! This week’s forecast is looking pretty good too!

Notes:

1. Word Ring Testing – will not take place this week. Our next testing date will be Tuesday, October 15^th (since Monday is Thanksgiving and school is closed). Keep practicing your words.

2. Patterning Quiz – we will have a quiz on patterning on Wednesday of this week. I will actually break the quiz up into two sections, half during Wednesday’s math period and half during Thursday’s math period.

3. Field Trip Reminder – just a reminder that our field trip forms for our trip to the Safety Village and cash online payments for this trip are due by October 9^th. Thank you to the families who have already completed such.

4. Library Book Exchange - tomorrow is our library book exchange day, so please remind your child to return his/her books (if he/she hasn't done so already) so that he/she can sign out new ones to enjoy.

We began our morning with planner writing, our ‘Mistake Monday’ morning message, and calendar. Our shared reading poem this week is titled “Five Little Turkeys” as this coming weekend is Thanksgiving! It’s hard to believe that Thanksgiving is almost upon us! Before looking at our poem, I had the children brainstorm what came to their mind when they heard the word 'Thanksgiving' - we had some great visual images! I then read the poem to the children and then they read the poem with me. For read aloud we read a Thanksgiving story – we will be reading lots of Thanksgiving books this week! It was then time for independent reading, followed by word work where we went over this week’s words of the week. This week we are focusing on the short u sound. We read through our words and then copied them onto our papers – these have been sent home for you to review throughout the week with your child. The words are also posted under ‘word work’ on our classroom website. After word work, it was time for Health where we began working on our “I Love Safety” brochures.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where we reviewed the purpose a recount, followed by the components of a recount. I then modelled a recount about my weekend, using the graphic organizer ‘the five finger planner’ and then the children began working on their own recount graphic organizer. We have an anchor chart on display in our classroom that the children can also reference during their writing time. After they completed their graphic organizer, they conferenced with me. Tomorrow, we will begin turning our graphic organizer into a written draft. After conferencing with me, the children continued to work on finishing colouring their ‘texture bugs.’ Some students also began cutting out their texture bugs.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with the sharing of some patterns and we also read a book about patterning. We then turned our focus to growing and shrinking number patterns, where the children had to continue a pattern based on a given rule (e.g., +3, add 3 to each number; -2, subtract 3 from each number). There were a variety of both growing and shrinking number patterns for the children to work through. On Wednesday and Thursday of this week we will have a quiz on patterns. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Baxendale. To end our day we had Science where our focus today was on the uses of water. On the SmartBoard I had a picture of inside a house and a picture of inside of a school. The children were asked to find examples of how we use water (e.g., in an aquarium for fish, drinking fountain, inside a kettle to make tea/coffee, at the water table in a Kindergarten room, in a bucket to clean the floor, etc...). After working through the large group activity, the children were asked to record at least 5 ways we use water in our lives, in their science journal. As part of our homework duotang activity this weekend, the children will be asked to find examples of how they use water at their homes, specifically in different room locations.

Have a great night! It’s a long school one for me as we have our monthly staff meeting until 5:00 and then I have School Council tonight at 7:00pm.

Allison

News for Friday, October 4^th...

Notes:

1. Please read the important letter from the Thames Valley District School Board, sent home with your child today.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our weekly word work quiz. The quizzes have now been marked and sent home with your child in his/her communication bag today. After our quiz, we gathered at the carpet for our morning message, calendar, and shared reading routines. During shared reading, we read through our poem of the week, “When the Leaves are on the Ground” and then we completed a fill in the blank style activity on the Smartboard, filling in missing words from the poem. We also participated in some Fall multiple choice type questions. To end our shared reading time, we went over this weekend’s homework task. It was then time to listen to Ajit’s “Student of the Week” presentation, followed by a read aloud about safety (street safety – crossing the street safely), and then some buddy reading time. Just before morning recess, we exchanged our independent reading books for next week.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by a quick write during our writing time. We then turned our focus to Health where we read a read aloud about safety in the community and then I explained our summative task for the topic of safety. The children will each be creating a safety brochure, outlining one safety tip for the home, one for school, and one for community. They will record their tips on the brochure, as well as add a picture for each. Today they wrote a rough copy of each of their safety tips and then they conferenced with me. Next week, we will begin working on the brochure. We also continued to work on our ‘texture bug’ colouring during this block of learning.

After lunch we had Math where we had some more volunteers share their patterns with the class. It was then time for a read aloud about patterns, followed by a large group activity on counting by 10’s starting at various intervals. Today, we used link (under my links - hundreds chart - 10 more/10 less) to help us with the concept of 10 more or 10 less. Overall, they found this concept much easier than counting by 2's or 5's. After our large group time, the children worked on an independent activity that focused on counting by 10’s, forwards and backwards. Just before last recess we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had a desk clean-out, catch-up time, and some activity time.

Have a great weekend!

Allison

News for Thursday, October 2^nd...

Notes:

1. October Book Orders – are due tomorrow.
2. Word Work quiz tomorrow.
3. Hot Lunch – order forms have been sent home today. Participation in ‘hot lunch’ is totally optional.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “When the Leaves are on the Ground” and then we focused on being good editors as we read a similar poem but one that had ‘purposeful’ mistakes in it – the children had to find the mistakes, explain why each was a mistake, and then fix it. We also did a Fall activity on the SmartBoard focusing on antonyms (opposites). It was then time for a read aloud which focused on community safety (stranger safety) and then we had some independent reading time. After that, we headed to the library for a diagnostic assessment on number words. In Gr. 2 we will be working on reading and writing (spelling correctly) the number words to twenty. Today, I wanted to find out our baseline – where everyone was starting from. After we finish our patterning unit in math, number words will be next unit. We did our assessment in the library as our classroom has all of the number words displayed as a reference. In the morning we completed Part 1 of the assessment (numbers 1 through 10) and in the afternoon we did Part 2 (numbers 11-20).

After morning recess, the children had snack followed by Social Studies.

After lunch, it was time for Math where we began with many volunteers sharing the patterns they brought in today! It was great to see so many patterns - from patterns on a door to patterns on a cat's tail to patterns on napkins, headbands, kleenex boxes, blankets, birthday cards, bookmarks, and even patterns created with things from home fantastic! Today, we continued our focus on number patterns. We read a book about patterns and then the children continued on an independent activity focusing on counting by 2’s and 5’s starting at various starting points – this is tricky. Many are using the hundreds chart (I have given everyone their own copy) as a math tool, as well as cubes to remember where they are starting to count from and then moving the cube a specific number of spaces (e.g., 2 spaces if counting by 2’s).

After last recess, we had snack followed by Science where we are now finished our unit on Air. The other part to this first unit is on ‘water’ and that’s what we began today. Today we talked about ‘what is water?’ Each table group was given a container full of water. The students were encouraged to use their five senses (sight, smell, touch, hearing, and for taste – they were reminded to use their water bottle – not the ‘communal’ water) to describe water in their science journals. We also read a great book about water showing the many places water is in the world, as well as in our lives.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Wednesday, October 2^nd...

Wow! That was quite the rainfall last night! Unfortunately with that, cooler temperatures have arrived.

Notes:

1. Patterns: The children have all been asked to find an example of a pattern at their house they could share with the class. They can bring in the actual object or a picture of such. Examples could include a pattern on a blanket, a picture of a kitchen floor, a wallpaper sample, etc...be creative. We are excited to see that patterns really are everywhere! There is no set date to bring in the pattern – anytime this week or early next week would be great! When the children bring in their pattern, they are asked to show the pattern to the class and explain why it’s a pattern.
2. Popcorn - those students who ordered popcorn had their first delivery today at last snack.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, calendar, and shared reading routines. For shared reading today, we read through our poem “When the Leaves are on the Ground” and then we completed a cloze activity where some of the words were covered up and the children had to determine the word that belonged in each blank. For read aloud today, we read a book about playground safety to tie into our health discussions on safety in the home, school, and community. It was then time for independent reading, followed by a phonics activity focusing on short vowels. We reviewed the names of all of the vowels and sang our short vowel song. The children then participated in Part 1of a short vowel ‘scoot’ activity. Scoots allow children to get up and moving as activity cards are placed around the room. The activity cards for this activity all displayed a picture, spelling part of the word underneath (with the vowel missing). The children had to determine which vowel belonged in the blanks to spell each of the words correctly. The children completed 12 questions today and we will complete the final 12 questions on another day.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where we began with Quick Write #12. We then turned our focus back to recounts, reviewing the parts of a recount, as well as our graphic organizer (‘The Five Finger Planner’). Today, I modelled again how to use a five finger planner by writing a recount about my evening. Tomorrow, the children will begin working on their own five finger planner about an event of their choice (e.g., a family trip). After writing, we had Health where we reviewed safety rules for the home and for school. We continued our focus with school safety, completing an activity where the children had to sort various safety rules as to whether they were safety rules for inside the school or outside of the school (e.g., bus safety, playground safety). Tomorrow we will begin our focus on community safety. Just before lunch we had work work where we reviewed our words of the week with a ‘rainbow roll’ activity.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with a number talk, using multiple choice questions as our format. They’re getting much better with these. We then read a patterning book and then we continued of patterns on a hundreds chart. To begin, I displayed a hundreds chart on the SmartBoard with only the numbers 1-10 written across the top and the numbers 1-91 (only the first column) written down the left hand side. The children were then challenged to locate different number positions on the chart, using the reference numbers they see int eh first row and first column (noting the patterns to help them). As students located each number, they explained how they knew the location of such. Here are a couple of other hundreds chart online activities the children can ‘play’ at home to further reinforce what we are doing in the classroom (I will also list them under ‘my links.’

http://www.softschools.com/math/hundreds_chart/missing_numbers_game/

https://www.to14.com/game.php?id=4d486a5e6f9d0

After our large group time, the children worked on an independent activity locating different numbers on a hundreds chart. They also had a bit of catch up time to finish the counting by 2’s and 5’s activity yesterday. They are finding it very different to count by 2’s and 5’s when starting at various starting points (not always at 2 or 5) - for example count by 2’s starting at 82, count by 2’s starting at 15, etc...

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had Science where we continued to work on finishing up our ‘reducing air pollution’ posters. These will be displayed in our hallway tomorrow.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Tuesday, October 1^st...

Welcome to the month of October! With the temperature outside today it definitely feels more like mid-summer though, lol!

Notes:

1. Safety Village Trip – field trip forms for our first field trip of the year have been sent home today. In mid-October, we will be visiting the Children’s Safety Village to participate in the Gr. 2 Program (which unfortunately does not involve driving the little cars, like in Grade 1 – as I know that is a definite highlight in Grade 1). Please return the form, as well as make the online payment by October 9^th.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “When the Leaves are on the Ground” and then we focused on rhyming words. For our read aloud today, we read a Fall story, followed by some independent reading time. We then had phonics, where we worked on a short o crossword puzzle....many of the children were able to complete this independently today, which was great! As students finished their crossword, they worked on colouring some ‘texture bugs’ which will become part of an art activity next week. Just before morning recess, we moved our desks. Each month I like to move where the children sit and who they sit with as it’s important to learn to work with a variety of class members.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where we began with a quick write (we’re on number 11). We then turned our focus to our first formal type of writing: Recounts. We reviewed the purpose of a recount (to retell events and experiences), as well as the parts of a recount (title; introduction – that introduces who, when, and were; sequence of events – using the key words: First, Next, Then, After that, and Finally; Personal Comment – how did you feel about the event or experience). I showed the children the graphic organizer we will be using to help us organize and plan our writing when working with recounts – it is a ‘five finger planner.’ Basically, it is a traced hand outline – in the palm of our hand is where we plan our introduction – jotting down who, when, and where in point form. Each finger (including the thumb) represents one of the key words for the sequence of events (First, Next, Then, After that, and Finally), and we write our personal comment just outside the tracing of the hand. A graphic organizer helps us plan and organize our thoughts – it is not the place for detail just yet – that will come when we use the graphic organizer to help us create the written draft. I modelled how to use the graphic organizer by writing about my weekend. Tomorrow the children will begin using their own graphic organizer.

After writing, we had Health where we reviewed a variety of safety rules in the home and then we focused on safety rules at school – we also spent a fair bit of time talking about school bus safety – as many of our students ride the bus, but even if not – we all take the bus for school field trips. We read a story about bus safety and we also played an online game where we had to identify and explain safe and unsafe situations.

After lunch, we had math where we began with a number talk. We have been working with multiple choice type questions as this is a skill that has to be taught and as adults, we easily can take knowing how to answer such type questions for granted. We’ve been focusing on multiple choice type questions related to patterning skills and concepts. After our number talk, we read a patterning book and then we turned our focus to patterns on a hundreds chart. Using a displayed hundreds chart, we counted aloud to 100, pointing to each numeral. We then counted by 10’s - talking about what patterns we saw (e.g., all the numbers that are counted are in the last row of the chart; they all end in 0; the numeral in the tens column increases by 1 with each new number). We then repeated this process with counting by 5’s and 2’s. We talked about horizontal patterns, vertical patterns, as well as diagonal patterns they noticed on the hundreds chart. We then looked at a hundreds chart where numbers were missing and the children had to identify what number should go there, as well as explain how they knew.

After our large group work, the children worked in pairs – with each pair getting a hundreds chart and ten cubes. One partner had to close their eyes while the other partner covered 10 spaces on the hundreds chart with cubes. The first partner then opened their eyes and had to identify what the covered numbers were – students could check their answers by removing each of the cubes.

I will post a couple of games from abcya.com that we used related to patterns on the hundreds chart - these can be found under "my links".

As the children finished up their small group work, they worked independently on a counting by 2’s and 5’s skip counting page. In Gr. 2, the goal is being able to count by 1’s, 2’s, 5’s, 10’s, and 25’s to 200.

After last recess, the children had Gym. To end our day, we had Science where we continued our focus on air pollution. We began by reading a book titled “Our Earth – Clean Energy”. The children then revisited the list they created yesterday about ways to reduce air pollution. They then chose one that they would like to create a poster about. After making their choice, they conferenced with me to check for spelling and grammar. We then began designing our posters – talking about the importance of size/ placement of text, the picture, etc...

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Monday, September 30^th...

I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend! Can you believe that tomorrow will be October?!? September flew by!

Thank you to the many families who came out to “Meet the Teacher” night on Thursday. We had a fantastic turnout and it was wonderful to touch base with each of you. I am so excited to be working with your child this year – I have an awesome class!

Notes:

1. October Class Calendar – has been sent home today. Please post in a visible spot at home.
2. Word Ring Testing – took place today. Please be sure to look at the new words on the ring, as well as review the ‘old’ words each night. We had a few students forget their ‘rings’ today – please ensure your child always has their ring on testing day.

We began our morning with planner writing, our ‘Mistake Monday’ morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, our poem this week is titled “When the Leaves are on the Ground.” The children listened as I read through the poem and then we read through the poem together. We also did an activity that focused on rhyming words. We then read a story about fire drills as today was a planned fire drill – our first of the year – for practice. After the story, we had some independent reading time. Then the fire bell rang...the children did an awesome job with our first fire drill, exiting the school in a quiet, orderly manner. For word work, we gathered at the carpet and went over this week’s words of the week, discussed the focus (short o words), and wrote them on our papers.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by a quick write. We then began a focus on our first formal type of writing: Recounts. I displayed an example of a recount, from a big book where the children were all able to easily see and read the text. We read the title and I told them that this text is a recount – it is an article some children wrote for a school newsletter. It was written by 2 children after a police officer visited their class to talk about road safety (perfect tie into our discussions about safety in Health). I then read the text to the children and we talked about the purpose of a recount – the children then reread the text with me and were asked to recall the events in the sequence in which they happened. We then disected the parts of a recount:

Title

Orientation/Introduction (who, when, where)

Sequence of Events (first, next, then, after that, and finally)

Personal Comment

We looked closely at each part of the text – noting its features. We will be working with recounts over the next few weeks.

After writing, we began a prelude activity to our math activity this afternoon. I read aloud the story, “Where the Wild Things Are.” We talked about what were some of the interesting features of the Wild Things (e.g., eyes, teeth, claws, horns, feet, wings, arms). The children then created their own ‘Wild Thing’ using as many of the different features listed that they wanted – and in different amounts (e.g., 3 eyes, 5 horns, 4 feet, etc...). The children drew their Wild Thing and recorded the number of each feature on their sheet. We then used this sheet as our springboard to our math patterning activity in the afternoon.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with a number talk. We also read a book about patterning and then we took a look at the very creative ‘Wild Things’ the children created in the morning. I used a volunteer’s as an example – noting that this Wild Thing had 3 horns. We discussed how many horns would 8 Wild Things have then? Using a t-chart (as well as pictures, numbers, and words), the children helped me organize my work to get the correct answer. The children then worked independently to choose two features from their Wild Thing and show their work to answer ho

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had Science where we continued our discussion about air pollution. We watched a short video clip (4 minutes) about air pollution and then we reviewed causes of air pollution, as well as ways we can help reduce air pollution- the children recorded some of their ideas in their science journals. After writing a number of ways, the children were each encouraged to choose one way to reduce air pollution that they would like to create a poster about. They then conferenced with me about such – next day, we will begin working on our posters.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Thursday, September 26^th....

Another great week in Gr. 2! Happy Birthday wishes go out to Beren this Sunday!

Notes:

1. PD Day tomorrow – Just a reminder that there is no school for students tomorrow. Teachers will be participating in Professional Development at the school.
2. Word Ring – word ring testing will take place on Monday (Sept. 30^th).
3. October Book Orders were sent home today. Any orders are due back by October 4th. Please make cheques out to Scholastic Canada. If you wish your order to be a gift, please just send me a note.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our weekly word work quiz. The quizzes have now been marked and sent home in your child’s communication bag. After our word work quiz, we gathered at the carpet for our morning message, calendar, and shared reading routines. Today during shared reading, we read through our poem “Autumn Days” and we then focused on how the author does a wonderful job of describing Fall/Autumn using his/her 5 senses (touch, taste, smell, sight, and hearing). We talked about that when authors write so clearly it really allows the readers to visualize what is happening in the poem, story, etc... We then did an activity where we spun a spinner on the SmartBoard and it landed on one of the 5 senses. We then talked about what the author described for that sense, as well as other ways to experience that sense in Autumn - which tied in perfectly to the Fall poems we wrote last week. After shared reading, we listened to Aman’s “Student of the Week” presentation, followed by a Fall read aloud. We then had some buddy reading time. Before morning recess, we spent a bit of time talking about the Terry Fox run and who each of them is running for (as each student is given a sticker that says “Terry ran for me. I am running for...” As students complete each running lap, a Gr. 7 or 8 helper will put a tally stick on their sticker so that at the end of the run, they know how many laps they were able to run.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by a catch up period. During this time, some students worked away on their mini books, others finished up some math or phonics work. We also did a desk clean out during this time and exchanged our independent reading books. We took some time to further our discussions about Terry Fox and looked at a book about him.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with a number talk followed by reading a book about patterns. We have a variety of patterning books in the classroom that the children can explore. We then continued our focus on chart patterns, organizing our work using a t-chart – using pictures, numbers, and words. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, it was time for Ryerson’s Terry Fox Run – this happened to take place during our gym time today. After the run, we came back in and did a bit of organizing for ‘Meet the Teacher’ tonight. On your child’s desk will be his/her writing book, as well as his/her science journal – please feel free to peruse (but do not take them home, as we use them daily at school). There will be one special treat for you to take tonight though on your child’s desk 😊 Please feel free to look around our classroom, as well as in the hallway on our bulletin boards to see what your child has been doing during the first few weeks of school.

I look forward to seeing all those who can ‘Meet the Teacher’ night tonight from 5:00-6:00pm.

Allison

News for Wednesday, September 25^th...

Notes:

1. Pictures: Individual pictures, that were taken on September 16^th , have been sent home today.
2. “Meet the Teacher Night” is tomorrow from 5:00-6:00pm. Please remember that this is a ‘meet and greet’ - a chance to say hello in person and see your child’s classroom, as there is only an hour for all parents/students to touch base with me....that works out to about 3 minutes per family...quick, I know. If you would like to specifically talk about your child’s progress, we can definitely set up another time...I’m more than happy too. There will also be the formal interview day in early November too, after Progress Reports go home, to chat about your child’s progress.

3. Weekly Word Work Quiz: As this week is a short week for students, due to the PD Day on Friday, our weekly word work quiz will be tomorrow.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “Autumn Days” and we focused on the forms of punctuation used in the poem. We found all of the commas and talked about the purpose of a comma and how our reading changes when there is a comma (taking a very brief pause). We also found all of the periods and talked about our how our voice should sound when we see a period has been used (our voice should go down to show that a thought is complete). After shared reading, we read a fall story and then had independent reading time. I have now finished reading with everyone individually in our class, so next week the children will begin to choose books from their reading level basket for their independent book bags at school (I encourage the children to choose 3 books from their independent reading level and 2 books from any other basket in our class – their choice). The children then practiced our words of the week using ‘ghost writing’ and then they worked on finishing up a short vowel activity.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by Social Studies where the children are talking about various Fall traditions.

After lunch we had Math where we began by reading a math story, “How Many Feet in the Bed?” by Diane Johnston Hamm. We used this story to help us show a growing pattern, using a t-chart. We created two headings:

# of People in the Bed and # of Feet

Together we completed the t-chart and we also showed our work using pictures and words (in addition to the numbers in the t-chart). We then worked together to solve another problem...If there was one dog in the bed....how many paws would there be if we had 8 dogs in the bed. We worked through solving the problem together – setting up and labelling our t-chart, drawing our pictures, and describing our pattern using words. After our large group time, the children began an independent activity focusing on chart patterns.

After last recess, we were so happy that it was finally windy as that meant we could finish our weather vane experiment and bring them home. Since it had been awhile we reviewed what a weather vane is, how it is used, etc...We also read a book about the wind. We then finished putting putting the last part of our weather vanes together. We then headed outside to see our weather vanes in action! After observing what direction the wind was coming from, the children wrote about their weather vanes in their science journals. It was a perfect day to get outside and do this! They have brought home their weather vanes today to show you how they work!

After science we had writing where the children continued to work away at their mini books. They’re doing a great job on these! Many students even finished their mini book today.

Have a great night! I’m looking forward to seeing everyone who can attend “Meet the Teacher” tomorrow night.

Allison

News for Tuesday, September 24^th...

Another beautiful summer like day! Today, we welcomed a new Gr. 2 student to our class, Ahmed! This brings our current total to 20.

Notes:

1. Terry Fox Run – Ryerson's Terry Fox Run will take place this Thursday (September 26^th) from 2:20-3:00pm. The children are encouraged to have outdoor running shoes that day, as well as bring a water bottle to school (labelled with their name). All donations this year are through cash online. Parents/families are welcome to attend the run, but are reminded to sign in at the office first.

1. Word Rings – Word ring testing took place today. Be sure to check your child’s ring for new words. Also, be sure to review all of the words on the ring each week, mixing up the order. Our next testing date will be Monday, September 30^th.

1. Class Big Book – our big book is ready to go and starting today will go home with each child for a night. After that, we will add it to our classroom library, as it is always a popular book for people to choose during buddy reading time. Enjoy spending some time looking at the book with your child, learning a little bit more about each of his/her classmates, as well as myself. Please remind your child to handle the book with care, turning the pages carefully, as well as to return the book the following day. Happy reading!

Thank you to the many families who sent back the sorting math quizzes today, as well as making the necessary corrections. Quizzes are just one form of assessment used to determine your child’s grade in a particular strand/subject. Their daily classwork, classroom observation during large group/small group/and independent activities, etc...are also used as part of determining a child’s overall achievement level.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. Can you believe that a week today will be October 1^st?!? For shared reading, we read through our poem “Autumn Days” and then we focused on syllables, trying to find all of the 2 syllable words in the poem. Many students ‘clap’ to figure out how many syllables a word has. While this works for some students, others can find it confusing as you can draw out/elongate a word (e.g., instead of ‘frog’ being one syllable – they will break it apart and clap ‘fr - og’). So another strategy I use is having the children place their hand under their jaw – and each time they feel their jaw go down, that indicates one syllable. Ask your child to demonstrate this for you. After shared reading, we read a Fall story and then had some independent reading time. Just before morning recess, we had phonics where we reviewed the vowels and the short vowel sound each vowel can make. We sang our short vowel song and then the children worked on a word search where they had to find a variety of short vowel words and then sort them into a table for short a words, short e words, short I words, short o words, and short u words). They were also encouraged to try and add 3 more words of their own to each column).

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where today we focused on the inside of our mini books. They did a great job on their cover pages yesterday. We started by looking at a variety of mentor texts noting how authors set up each page. I then modelled how to write one sentence of text per page (half sheet) - where to write the text, size of print, etc...). After the text has been written, we also talked about the importance of a clear illustration, highlighting the ‘tricky’ word on the page. After our shared writing time at the carpet, the children set to work on beginning to write and illustrate the pages for their own book (using their rough copy in their writing books as a guide).

After writing we had Health where we continued to focus on safety in the home. I showed the children where to access our health safety games – I've now provided direct links to the games under ‘My Links’ on our class website. Later this week we will move onto school safety – which will include bus safety (we will also be having a bus safety presentation in early October at the school). It’s been great to hear some of the children are doing the games at home as well – a great reinforcer to what we are doing in the classroom.

After lunch, we had math where we began with a number talk. We then continued with our theme of pizza by reading “Curious George and the Pizza.” We used this book as a springboard to introduce the topic of growing and shrinking patterns. We started with the question if 1 pizza has 4 slices, how many slices of pizza would you have if we had 6 pizzas? We used a t-chart to help us set up our growing pattern and talked about what we noticed was happening to the numbers on the left side of the t-chart and what was happening to the numbers on the right side of the t-chart. We also talked about the importance of showing our work using numbers (t-chart), pictures, and words. After our large group time, the children tried their own growing pattern, with the following prompt, “If one stool has 3 legs, how many legs would be on 9 stools?” Just before last recess we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Baxendale. To end our day we had Science where our focus today was on air pollution. We talked about what air pollution is and what causes air pollution. We also watched two short video clips about such. We then wrote down causes of air pollution in our science journals. Hopefully the wind will return soon so we can try out our weather vanes.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Monday, September 23^rd...

Welcome to the first official day of Fall! It was definitely a wonderful weather weekend – it felt like mid-summer outside...I loved it!

Notes:

1. Math Quiz – Your child’s math quiz, on the topic of sorting, has been sent today. Please take the time to look over the quiz with your child (please feel free to have your child make any corrections right on the quiz, or even just orally talk about such – it's important to do this, as this is how we learn from our mistakes). Once you have looked over the quiz, please sign and return. All quizzes will be sent home later in the term for you to keep.

2. Big Book – Our class big book is almost ready to be sent home. I enjoyed looking at all of the pages that were sent in, as I started to put the book together over the weekend. We will start sending the book home tomorrow (I was just waiting for a couple more pages to be handed in today). Please enjoy reading the book with your child, getting to know all of his/her classmates, and then return the book the following day. Please remember to treat the book with care.

3. Word ring testing – this will take place tomorrow. Please review all the words on the ring with your child, mixing up the order.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, our poem this week is also about Fall – since today is the first official day of Fall. Our poem this week is titled, “Autumn Days”. We read through our poem and talked about some of the key words. We also looked for the rhyming words in the poem. After our shared reading, we read a Fall story and then had some independent reading time. We then gathered at the carpet for Word Work – where we went over this week’s words of the week, discussing the focus, and then wrote the words on our word work sheet – this sheet has been sent home with your child today and all of the words are also written in the word work section of our website. Just before morning recess, we had Health where we are continuing to talk about safety risks and safety rules in the home. Today, we engaged in the online game below...here’s the link in case your child wants to explore further at home. Discuss/review some safety rules you have at your house with your child.

www.switchedonkids.org.uk/electrical-safety-in-your-home

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing. This week during our writing time we are turning our focus back to our mini books. To begin our time today, we took a look at various mentor texts noting the features of the cover page (e.g., position and size of title, author’s name, illustrator’s name, picture) and talked about what they noticed. The children began to then work on their own cover pages for their own mini books. We also reviewed the features of patterned texts and we also reread a pattern text together. We then did some shared writing where the children helped to compose the text while I acted as the scribe and wrote each of the sentences they created on the whiteboa5rd. As a follow-up, they created 5 sentences for their own mini book, based on their story, in their writing book. As they finished, they conferenced with me to chat about ideas, grammar, and spelling. Tomorrow, we will begin working on the inside pages of our book.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with a Number Talk, followed by a read aloud “The Princess and the Pizza” - since our math today focused on the theme of pizza. After reading the story, the children worked in small groups (groups of 2 or 3) - with each group getting a large pizza box with a variety of pizza topping pictures inside. Working together, the children had to create three different pizza patters on strips of brown paper (e.g., the crust!) and label the pattern rule, as well as circle the pattern core (e.g., AB, ABC, AAB, ABB). Once they finished their pizza crusts, they worked on an independent pizza activity, labelling the pattern, as well as circling the pattern core. Just before last recess, we had snacki.

After last recess, the children had Social Studies. To end our day, we headed to the library for book exchange. The students are encouraged to sign out one or two books each visit. Our next library day will be marked on our October calendar – which will be sent home next Monday. Some students choose to keep their books at school to read during independent reading time, while others bring theirs home...it’s up to them. When your child is finished with his/her books, just place them in his/her communication bag, and we will return them to the library in advance of our next visit.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Friday, September 20^th...

Happy Friday! I hope everyone has enjoyed lots of outside activities this week as the weather has been absolutely gorgeous!

Notes:

1. Word work quizzes have been marked and sent home with your child.
2. Library book exchange will be Monday next week, so please ensure your child has brought back his/her books, so he/she can sign out new ones.
3. Homework duotangs have been sent home today and are due back on Monday.
4. Word ring testing will take place on Tuesday next week.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our weekly word work quiz. We then gathered at the carpet for morning message, followed by calendar, and shared reading. We also went over this week’s homework task. We then listened to Kinan’s “Student of the Week” presentation, followed by a Fall read aloud. We worked together to complete a crossword puzzle focusing on the vowel sound short e (to tie into our spelling this week). It was then time for some buddy reading. We also exchanged our independent reading books during this time.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where we completed our 9^th quick write (there are 24 in total). We then had Health where we reviewed what a safety risk is, as well as different safety risks in the home, school, and community. We read a Berenstain Bears safety book titled “Safe and Sound” and then played an interactive game on the SmartBoard that focused on the safety risks in our home. I've listed the websites below as many of the children wanted to do the activity again at home...fantastic!

www.sensoryworld.org/kitchen_safety.html

www.sensoryworld.org/bathroom_safety.html

After lunch, we had Math where we began our next math unit: Patterning (I will be marking the sorting quizzes over the weekend and then will be sent home at some point next week). I began our new unit by making patterns using the children in the class (e.g., lining up boy, girl, boy, girl). We talked about who would go next and how they knew. We then made a different pattern (e.g., a student facing forward, a student facing forward, a student facing backwards; a student facing forwards, a student facing forwards, a student facing backwards). We talked about who would go next and why. We discussed what a pattern is (something that repeats over and over, and repeats at least 3 times). We continued to make different patterns using ourselves, as well as some movement patterns (e.g., clap, tap, clap, tap). We talked about the pattern core, as well as how we can label patterns using alphabet letters (e.g., AB, ABC, AAB, ABB). The children then chose, from a variety of materials in the class, objects to create and show a pattern. They had a great time with this, creating many different patterns. After our small group time, the children worked on an independent activity where they had to label the pattern rule, as well as circle the pattern core.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss Baxendale. To end our day, the children did a desk clean out, finished any incomplete work, and then had some activity time.

Have a wonderful weekend! Steve and I are off to see the “Downton Abbey” movie this weekend – I love that show, so I can’t wait!

Allison

News for Thursday, September 19^th...

Notes:

1. Word work quiz tomorrow (focus – short e vowel sound words)
2. Please ensure all library books have been brought back by tomorrow as we will visit the library on Monday afternoon.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. We then read a Fall story, followed by some independent reading time. For shared reading, we read through our Fall poem, “A Sense of Fall” and then we had some other volunteers share their own Fall poems with the class. The children then worked independently to create a ‘good copy’ of their own Fall poem (using the rough copy we conferenced about yesterday). Be sure to take a look in our hallway as these are now displayed on our bulletin board. As students finished their written poem, they worked with a partner on their weekly word work words, quizzing each other using our individual whiteboards.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by our math quiz on sorting. I like to give the quizzes in the morning, when possible, as this allows extra time in the afternoon if anyone didn’t finish in the morning (but everyone finished well before lunch today...super!). Plus, by doing it in the morning the children aren’t “thinking or worrying about it” all day. I like to do quizzes at this grade level as it helps to reduce the fear/anxiety/etc...that is often associated with the word “quiz/test/etc...” - it just becomes part of our routine.

After lunch, we had writing where we worked on a quick write, followed by Health. During health we reviewed what a safety risk is and then we brainstormed various safety risks in the home, school, and community. The students then worked in pairs, choosing a ‘safety risk’ out of a hat – they then had to talk about the card and prepare two responses to it (what are the potential safety risks – what could happen? What safety rules should apply?). We talked about 911 and read a book about such. Just before last recess we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had Science where we began creating our own weather vane. We read a book about the wind and learned that wind reports tell us the direction the wind is coming from. We watched a quick video clip about why people use weather vanes and then began talking about the process of how we can create our own. We labelled a paper plate with the four directions (North, East, South, and West) and we create the spinning part of our weather vane using a straw and some cardstock. Tomorrow we will try out our weather vanes...hopefully there will be a breeze tomorrow – if not, we will wait until next week sometime.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Wednesday, September 18th...

Another absolutely beautiful day outside!

Notes:

1. Planners: The office says planners will still be another couple weeks to arrive. Apparently there was an issue at the printers, affecting many schools in our board. So until then, we will continue with our ‘paper planners.’
2. Math Quiz – we will have a math quiz on the topic of sorting tomorrow. On Friday, we will begin our next topic in math: Patterning.
3. Library – please ensure all library books have been returned by Friday as we will be heading back to the library on Monday of next week. We’ve had to wait a little longer than usual to head back to the library as the library has been closed for a few days. In October, library days will be noted on our class calendar.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. We then read a Fall story, followed by independent reading. For shared reading, we read through our poem “A Sense of Fall” and then we revisited the graphic organizers we completed yesterday on our Fall walk. Our goal today was to have everyone create their own poem about fall, using their 5 senses, based on the information they gathered yesterday on our walk. To model this process, we completed a shared writing piece where I showed the children the template and how to choose items from their graphic organizers to complete the sentences. The children then completed a rough copy of their poem in their writing books, followed by conferencing with me. Tomorrow, we will create our good copies and hang them on our hallway bulletin board.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by Social Studies.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with a number talk. It is wonderful to observe so many of the children explain their strategies orally aloud with the class with regards to how they are solving various math questions...awesome! After our number talk, we continued our focus on Carroll Diagrams. Tomorrow, we will have a quiz on sorting that will involve Venn Diagrams, as well as Carroll Diagrams. As students finished math, they had a bit of time to practice word work, using ‘rainbow roll.’ Those sheets have been sent home tonight for those who finished. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, we had writing where we worked on a quick write. We then turned our focus to science where we finished reading a non fiction book about air. We also reviewed different ways we use/need air in our lives. We then we did an experiment with paper rockets which had us observe air pressure in action. After trying our experiment out, we wrote about it in our science journals. Ask your child about our experiment today! They’ve brought it home to show you!

Have a great evening!

News for Tuesday, September 17^th...

Reminders:

1. “All About Me” big book pages are due tomorrow.
2. If you haven’t done so already, please send in a black sharpie marker with your child for art, as well as a set of headphones to use with our Chromebooks.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “A Sense of Fall” and then reviewed the graphic organizer that focused on each of the 5 senses – this graphic organizer will be used to help us gather ideas and organize our thoughts to write our own poem about Fall. We then headed outside with pencils, paper, and clipboards in hand to note signs of Fall – using our senses, we listened, looked around, smelled, and felt. We recorded our thoughts on our graphic organizers. It was the most lovely day for a walk. When we finished our walk out in the school yard, we came in and it was recess time...that part of the morning flew by - we enjoyed our walk we couldn't believe how quickly the time went by.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by Math. We began our math time with a number talk, followed by our continued work on sorting, focusing on Carroll Diagrams. We did a large group activity sorting objects onto a Carroll Diagram and then the children had to sort buttons onto a Carroll Diagram by the following attributes: Big, small, 2 holes, 4 holes, 0 holes. They did an awesome job with this and most are feeling comfortable sorting by 2 attributes. We will have a sorting quiz on Thursday of this week.

After lunch, I read with some students one-on-one to determine their independent reading level while another teacher worked with the children for a little bit. We began the afternoon with a Fall read aloud, followed by some independent reading time - since we didn't have time for such this morning because of our walk. Then it was time for writing where the children worked on a quick write and then they turned their focus to health where today we began a unit on ‘Personal Safety and Injury Prevention.’ We talked about what a safety risk and read a story about safety at home. Just before last recess, they had snack.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day we had science where we reviewed some of the characteristics of air (air takes up space, air is invisible, what moving air is called). We then read a story by David Suzuki titled “If You Could See the Air.” The children then worked independently in their science journals to list as many ways as they could about how we use air in our lives.

Have a great evening,

Allison

News for Monday, September 16^th...

I hope everyone had a great weekend! It’s hard to believe that a week today will mark the official start to the season of Fall! I’m hoping summer temperatures will still stick around for awhile!

Notes:

1. Word ring testing: Word ring testing took place today. Please be sure to review the new words put on the ring. Also, keep practicing the ‘old’ words too. Remember to mix up the order. If one of your child’s ‘old’ words doesn’t have a stamp on it (on the back of the card), that means he/she was not able to read it automatically, like a true sight word (vs. having to sound it out). Our next word ring testing date will take place next Tuesday (Sept. 24^th).

We began our morning with planner writing, our ‘Mistake Monday’ morning message, and calendar. We then turned our focus to shared reading. This week our shared reading text is titled, “A sense of Fall” as the official start to Fall begins next week. Before showing the children our new shared reading piece, I told them that it was a poem and asked them to brainstorm what they knew about poetry. I then told them the poem was about Fall and we brainstormed words/phrases we think of when we hear the word fall. We then read through our new poem and I also talked about a graphic organizer that we will be completing tomorrow as we will be writing our own Fall poems this week. After shared reading, we read a story about ‘picture day’ since today was picture day at Ryerson. We then had some independent reading time, followed by word work where we read through this week’s words of the week, discussed the focus (short e words), and then wrote down our words. Your child has brought home his/her new word list today (the words are also posted on our class website). Please review the words with your child throughout the week. Overall, most students did amazing on last week’s word work quiz! Fantastic! Just before morning recess, we did a quick language activity reviewing short vowel a words.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where we began our writing time with a quick write. It was then time for our individual pictures. Class pictures ended up not being taken today. Lifetouch (the photography company) is thinking they will do the class pictures on the photo retake day which is on Nov. 6^th...I will keep you posted.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with a number talk and then we turned our focus to sorting by 2 attributes. We read a story about sorting and then completed an online activity sorting various objects onto a Carroll Diagram. The children then completed an independent activity. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Baxendale. To end our day we had Science where our focus today was on the concept that air is invisible. We talked about whether or not we can see air, can we feel air, etc....We discussed how air is invisible, but we can see the movement of air which is called wind. Air that’s on the move = wind. We then did an experiment that focused on air exerting pressure (air pushes on things). We went out to the school yard field, where there’s plenty of room to run, and each student was given a sheet of white paper. I asked the children to think about what they thought would happen to a piece of paper if they put it against their stomach while walking forward without holding the paper in place. We then tried it – noting that the paper fell to the ground. We talked about why this could have happened. We then discussed what they thought would happen to a piece of paper if they put it against their stomachs and ran in a straight line without holding the paper in place. We then gave this a try. We discussed why the paper stayed in place – the force holding the paper in place when we ran was ‘air’ - that even though air is invisible, it still exerts pressure. When we ran, the air pushed against us, working to hold the piece of paper against our bodies. While walking, the paper did not stay in place because the air was not pushing very hard against our bodies. We then came inside and wrote down our observations in our science journals.

Have a wonderful evening!

Allison

News for Friday, September 13^th...

Happy Friday! I can’t believe how quickly this week has flown by! Happy Birthday wishes go out to Sadie in our class today!

Notes:

1. Picture Day: Monday is Picture Day at Ryerson! Be sure your child brings his/her smile to school on Monday morning.
2. Word Ring Testing: Word ring testing will start this Monday. Please ensure your child has his/her word ring in his/her communication bag and be sure to review the words this weekend, mixing up the order of the words.

3. Homework Duotangs: Your child has brought home his/her homework duotang today. These are concepts we have been working on at school, so your child should be able to do his/her homework fairly independently. Homework duotangs are due back at school on Monday morning.

We began our morning with planner writing (on a new page – we are still waiting for the school planners to arrive), followed by our first word work quiz of the year. I have marked the quizzes and your child has brought his/her quiz home with him/her to keep. Please review the quiz with your child. The quiz does not need to come back to school. After our word work quiz, we gathered at the carpet for morning message, followed by calendar and shared reading. During shared reading, we read through our poem of the week, “School Again!” followed by completing a fill in the blank style activity with missing words from the poem. We also went over this weekend’s homework task. We then listened to Carson’s “Student of the Week” presentation. Great job being our first presenter, Carson! It was then time for a back to school read aloud, followed by some buddy reading time, where the children can choose to read independently or with one or two peers in the class.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where we worked on our fourth quick write of the year. We then turned our focus to the Science experiment we just didn’t have enough time to complete yesterday. We continued to talk about the concept that air takes up space. Today, we completed the ‘paper towel experiment.’ We began by reviewing if air is a solid, liquid, or a gas. Can we see air? Does air take up space? The children then went to their table groups where int eh middle of each table was a large container of water. They then had to crumple up a paper towel and stuff it into a plastic cup (or smaller type container), ensuring the towel stayed at the bottom of the cup. They then turned the cup upside down (open end down into the water first and plunged it completely under the water – ensuring they didn’t tilt the cup). They had to hold the cup under water for ten seconds. They then removed the cup from the mater and took the paper towel out of the cup. They then observed whether the paper towel was wet or dry. After each group completed the experiment, we talked about how the air trapped in the cup prevented water from entering the cup. The water could not push the air out and because of this there was no way for the air to escape. if there was a hole in the cup at the top, the air could escape which would allow the water to reach the paper towel. The children the drew/wrote about today’s experiment in their science journals. Many of the children are very excited to show you this experiment at home, so please ask them to do so.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with a number talk, followed by our continued focus on sorting. Most children are now feeling quite confident sorting by 2 attributes on a Venn Diagram. Today, I introduced another sorting tool: A Carrroll Diagram. We did some large group sorting and then the children worked on an independent activity. This was a bit tricky for some today, but with practice we will get there. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had some catch up time and a little bit of activity time. We also did a desk cleanout – as for some it was necessary already.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Allison

News for Thursday, September 12^th...

A wet, dreary start to the day, but we were able to get outside for all recesses (with the exception of the last five minutes of morning recess today).

Notes:

1. Tomorrow will be our first word work quiz of the year. Please review the words of the week with your child tonight. Remember to mix up the order.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar routines. For shared reading, we read through our poem “School Again!” and then we talked about nouns. We talked about how a noun can be a person, place, or thing. We generated a variety of examples for each subcategory and then we went on the hunt for nouns in our shared reading text. After shared reading, we read a back to school story, followed by some independent reading time. Our reading mini lesson today focused on where readers read. The children brainstormed various places they read, as well as other places they've seen people read (e.g., in bed, on the porch, in school, on an airplane, in the bookstore, at the checkout line, in the car, on the couch, etc...). We then read the book, “The Best Place to Read” and added a few other places to our list. Just before morning recess, we had phonics where we are focusing on short vowel sounds. We sang our short vowel song and then worked together to complete a crossword puzzle that focused on short a words, which is our focus in word work this week.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by a quick write. During our second part of writing, we began our focus of writing our own mini book. I read a simple pattern type story and then we talked about how we are going to create our own pattern type book. The children had a chance to explore a variety of simple pattern books and then we discussed what they noticed about the features of these texts (e.g., colourful pictures, repeating pattern of text, only a few words of text per page, pictures match the tricky word in the sentence, etc...). Eventually, we hope to read the books we create to a Kindergarten or Gr. 1 class. Our focus for our books today was generating ideas. We discussed possible ideas and I showed the children some of the books the children in my class created last year. They then wrote the title of a book they would like to write in their writing books and then they conferenced with me for spelling/grammar.

After lunch we had Math where we began with a number talk. We then turned our focus back to using Venn Diagrams where the children worked with a large Venn diagram, in pairs, and then using a variety of objects (e.g, buttons, rubber sorting toys, plastic shapes, pom poms, plastic teddy bears, etc...), they had to create their own sorting rule and sort the objects accordingly. This was a little more challenging as the activity was very open ended and instead of just following a given rule, the children had to generate their own rule. We then did a ‘gallery walk’ where everyone was able to look at each group’s sorting rule. For independent work, the children worked on two independent activities, using Venn Diagrams.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Ms. Baxendale. To end our day we had a little bit of catch up time to finish our math, as well as some snack time. We also started to talk a little bit about the science experiment we were going to do today, but due to math taking a little longer, we are going to do the experiment tomorrow. But, we did have time to label our science journals with the title so that we are set to go for tomorrow and we started to read a non-fiction book about air. Have a great evening!

Allison

News for Wednesday, September 11^th...

Definitely a warm day outside today, but I love it as I’m a summer person! I’m not quite ready for fall weather.

Notes:

1. “Meet the Teacher” night will take place on Thursday, September 26^th from 5:00-6:00pm. I hope to see you there. Meet the Teacher is a wonderful opportunity for you to see your child’s classroom and learning environment, as well as a chance to chat with me in person.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar routines. For shared reading, we read through our poem “School Again!” and focused on we focused on the suffix ‘ing.’ We looked for ‘ing’ words in the poem and then in partners, the children used small whiteboards to generate as many ‘ing’ words as they could. As a group they came up with 26 words...super! It was then time for a back to school read aloud followed by some independent reading time. After independent reading, we had word work, where the children had a chance to practice their words of the week, using small whiteboards, with a partner. The enjoyed sharing in the role of ‘teacher’ and giving a quiz/marking the words with a partner. They did a great job mixing up the order of the words too.

After morning recess, the children had snack followed by Social Studies with Mrs. Heyland.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with a number talk followed by our work with sorting and specifically Venn Diagrams today. We reviewed what a Venn diagram is, as well as the parts of a Venn diagram (what goes in each circle, what goes in the middle, what goes on the outside). We did a large group example sorting various objects by 2 attributes (colour and shape). We then did some more sorting practice using a Venn diagram on the Smartboard. The children then worked at their desks on an independent activity.

After last recess, we had snack followed by Science where today our focus was on the question: “Does air take up space?” We talked about how there are 3 states of matter: Solid, liquid, and gas – and then we discussed which one they thought air would be. We discussed how air is a gaseous substance – it has no shape and gases are typically invisible. The children were asked if they thought air took up space and to explain their reasoning. Each child was then given a balloon (deflated). We looked at the deflated balloon and talked about what we saw – we then drew a picture (and labelled) the flat balloon in our science journals, along with the title “Balloon Experiment.” We then began to blow up our balloons part of the way. We then discussed what was in the balloon (air) and they then had to describe what the balloon looked like now. Finally, we blew the balloon all the way up until it was full. I then asked “Is there more air in the balloon n ow than there was before? ? How do you know?” We talked about how the balloon looks different than in the beginning because we blew it up with air and the air took up space. We then drew a picture of a balloon full of air in our science journals. After our work with balloons, we reflected on our activity, we talked about that because air is a state of matter that means it has mass and it takes up space. We brainstormed other examples that demonstrate that air stakes up space and we listed some in our science journals (e.g., air in bike tires, air in car tires, pool floaties, beachballs, basketballs, bubbles, your body/lungs). The children have brought home their balloons tonight.

At the end of the day we had Phonics where we sang our short vowel song and completed a fill in the blank style sheet where the children had to write the missing vowel.

Have a great evening!

Allison

News for Tuesday, September 10^th...

Notes:

1. Please read the blue note that was sent home with your child today re: headphones for classroom use and a black sharpie marker for art use. Thank you to the families that have already sent in such.

2. September Book Orders are due tomorrow, if you would like to order.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “School Again!” and we focused on finding the rhyming words in the poem. We also looked for short a words in our poem to tie into our word work focus this week. We then practiced our words of the week using a ‘ghost writing’ technique – here the children write their spelling words use white crayon or pencil crayon. They then colour over top of the word and the word is revealed! A fun way to practice our words of the week. They enjoyed this activity. We then read a back to school story, followed by a reading mini lesson on why reading is important – they came up with some great ideas!

After morning recess, we had snack followed by a quick write. We then had some phonics time. During our phonics time, I am using the data I assessed over the weekend from the spelling assessment we completed last week. Over the next little bit we are going to focus on short vowel sounds (which also ties into our words of the week). Today, we looked at a picture of a little girl who has having a dream and inside her dream bubble were the letters “aeiou” - we talked about why these letters are special, what sounds they can make, and that in the English language every word needs to have at least one vowel (and sometimes that may be “y”). We sang a song about short vowels, did a large group short vowel activity where the children had to identify the vowel in each word and identify its sound, and then worked on an independent short vowel activity.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with a math talk followed by our introduction to Venn Diagrams. To begin, I placed two large hula hoops on the carpet. One hula hoop was labelled “has a sister” and the other hula hoop was labelled “has a brother.” I asked one student to stand in the circle ‘has a sister’ - that I knew only had sisters and I asked another student to stand in the other hula hoop as I knew this student only had brothers. I then asked a student who had both brothers and sisters where they would stand? This was our introduction to Venn Diagrams – that sometimes our sorting circles can intersect and where they intersect this means they have the attributes of both groups (so for this example, people standing in the middle would have both brothers and sisters. We also talked where people would stand if they didn’t have any brothers or sisters (outside of the sorting circles). We had various volunteers identify where they would go. We continued with some large group examples on the SmartBoard, looking at some Venn Diagrams and identifying the sorting rule. To end our math time, the children worked on an independent activity sorting objects by 2 attributes, using a Venn Diagram.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Ms. Baxendale. To end our day today we began our first Science unit of the year: “Air and Water in the Environment.” We will be starting with Air. To begin, I had the children brainstorm what they thought they knew about Air-writing their responses on a post it note and then displaying their note on our group chart. We also looked at a couple of ‘air’ slides on the SmartBoard and the children created their ‘air’ title pages in their science journals. Tomorrow, we will do our first experiment about air.

Have a great evening! Steve and I are off to our wedding photographers tonight as our wedding photo gallery is ready for viewing– yay!

Allison

News for Monday, September 9^th...

I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend!

Notes:

1. Word List: Tonight your child has brought home a list of ten words. Normally, our words of the week will be printed in our planners each week, but until these arrive, we are making do with paper. Please read the ‘word work’ section of our website for more information about the word work program. Please help your child to work with these words over the week. At school, we will also be doing a variety of word work activities to practice.

1. Word Rings: Please read the pink note about word rings. Our first testing day will take place next Monday (Sept. 16^th).

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our morning message. On Monday, our morning message is called “Mistake Monday.” In the message I will include purposeful mistakes and the children will get to be editors. Here, they will try and find my mistakes and correct them. After morning message we had calendar, followed by Shared Reading. Each week, we will work with a new piece of shared reading text. This week, our poem is titled “School Again” and is all about starting a new school year. Today, we talked about the feelings people may have when starting a new school year and we also tried to identify how the author was feeling based on the text written. Following shared reading, we had a read aloud where we read a back to school story. It was then time for independent reading. Last week, the children picked out books for the independent reading book time and today they read for ten minutes independently while I read one-on-one with a student. Just before morning recess, we had word work. Here, we read through our words of the week, talked about the focus (all the words have a short ‘a’ sound), and then wrote the words on our papers – these papers can stay at home for practice...the words can also be found on our website under word work.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where we had our first ‘quick write’ of the year. During quick writes we are really focusing on generating ideas and getting our ideas down on paper. To help with generating ideas, I provided the children a picture prompt. At the carpet, we did a think/pair/share about the picture. Orally talking about the picture helps to provide the children with some ideas of what to write about when they get to their desks to work independently. After the children had a chance to write independently, we had some volunteers share their writing with the class. It’s amazing how many different ideas can come from the same picture prompt...awesome!

After writing, we talked about ‘peacemakers’ and ‘peacebreakers.’ We began our discussion by reading the book, “Rulers of the Playground.” We then brainstormed ideas of what makes a peacemaker and what makes a peacebreaker. We had volunteers write various ideas down on sentence strips which we will post in our classroom as a reference, as we all want to work hard to be peacemakers this year. Ask your child about peacemakers and peacebreakers.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with a story “Smelly Socks” by Robert Munsch and then used the socks the children brought in today to help us practice our sorting skills. The children generated a variety of ways we could sort the socks – I.e., sorting the socks by colour, sorting the socks by size, sorting the socks by design, etc....We then did some large group work on the Smartboard where we had to identify which attribute was being changed in a given picture (e.g., size, shape, colour, number of dots, etc...). The children then worked on an independent activity where they were given a page of a variety of teddy bears and they had to generate their own sorting rule, cut out and glue the bears to the appropriate circle, and then label how they sorted – what attribute did they sort by?

After last recess, the children had snack followed by Social Studies with Mrs. Heyland. To end our day, we visited the library for our first book exchange.

Have a great evening!

Allison

News for Friday, September 6^th...

Happy Friday! How quickly the first week has gone by! I hope your child has had a great first week of school...I know I have!

Notes:

Three important notes have been sent home with your child today...

1. Sock Note – your child is asked to bring in a sock to school on Monday for Math (the sock will be returned to you). Please read white note for more information.
2. Big Book page – please read the purple note. I’m looking forward to seeing everyone’s page. I’ve even started working on mine, so you can get to know a little bit more about me. The note is attached to the large piece of paper to be use for this activity. Feel free to do the page horizontally or vertically...your choice.
3. School Council information – please read blue note. This note was only sent home with the youngest and only child at the school.

We began our morning with planner writing (on our temporary planner page), followed by our morning message and calendar routines. We then read a back to school story, followed by the second (and final) part of our spelling assessment. I’m looking forward to going through the students work over the weekend. We then gathered at the carpet to talk about independent reading. During the first few weeks of school, I will be reading with each child one-on-one to determine his/her independent reading level. For those students who were here last year, I have some information to work with from last year’s teachers, however it’s important to do a brand new assessment in September to see if your child has maintained his/her reading level over the summer. While I am reading one-on-one with children, the other children in the class will be doing independent reading. Today, we talked about how we can become better readers – practice makes progress. We created a chart of what readers should do during independent reading time, as well as why reading is important. We also read a book, “Reading Makes You Feel Good” by Todd Parr.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by talking about our “Student of the Week” routine. The “Student of the Week” program will begin next week. When it is your child’s turn to be the ‘Student of the Week’ this will be noted on the monthly calendar. Also, the Friday before it is your child’s week, more information will be sent home. We then turned our focus to Math where we completed our second number talk and then turned our focus to sorting. We began by reading the story, “Grandma’s Buttons.” The children then worked in small groups at the carpet with some real buttons and were asked to sort them and explain their sorting rule. We referenced our anchor chart about attributes we can sort by (e.g., colour, shape, size) and some other groups even added another attribute – how many holes a button has...fantastic! We then did a large group sorting activity using virtual buttons on the SmartBoard. After our large group time, the children worked independently. They were given a sheet that had a variety of buttons, as well as a sheet with 2 sorting circles. They then had to create their own sorting rule. Most students did a great job with this.

After lunch, we had our first Ryerson Assembly of the school year. The children were very attentive audience members. During the assembly, Mrs. Reid (our new principal) reviewed many of the expectations, rules, and procedures for in the classroom and on the school yard here at Ryerson. When we came back from recess, we started our portfolio sheet about our first week in Gr. 2 and then had snack.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Baxendale. To end our day, the children finished their portfolio sheet and then had some activity time.

Have a wonderful weekend! I am so looking forward to seeing all of your children again on Monday!

Allison

News for Thursday, September 5^th...

Notes:

1. Planners – Please read the green note sent home with your child tonight. Cross your fingers that our new planners arrive shortly. Until then, please read and sign (and return each day) the peach colour piece of paper which will serve as a planner page in the interim.

1. Picture Day – Information forms about picture day have been sent home with your child today. Picture Day will take place on Monday, September 16^th - this will include individual, as well as class photos.

1. Chickadee Magazine - A little sheet about Chip/Chickadee/Owl magazine has been sent home with your child today. Please do not feel obliged to order this in any way. Simply by checking yes or no, signing, and returning the form we receive free resources (e.g., stickers, a class subscription). Who doesn’t love free stuff, right 😊

We began our morning with planner writing (on our interim planner papers), morning message, and calendar. We then turned our focus to writing. To springboard our writing time today, we read the story, “How I Spent My Summer Vacation.” After listening to the story, the children did their first writing entry of this school year in their writing books. We talked about the format of the page – where the date goes, where we write, etc...and then they set to work. After some writing time, we had a few volunteers share their writing with the class. After writing, we continued to work away on our “Math About Me” activity from yesterday. They look fantastic – we have many them already displayed on our math wall in our class.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by a spelling words assessment. We completed part 1 of the assessment today and will finish part 2 tomorrow. This assessment helps me to get a clearer picture of your child’s understanding of spelling patterns, vowels sounds, etc...By having this information, this will help guide my teaching to the level they are working at, as well as what they are working towards.

After lunch, we had Math where we finished read the story, “The Boy Who Loved Math” and then we had our first number talk. A number talk is primarily a mental math activity where students use and share their strategies for solving math problems. This is a time to where the children work towards strengthening their accuracy, efficiency, and flexibility with solving math problems. They learn to clarify their thinking as well as learn other strategies to solve the same problem, from their classmates’ thinking. After our number talk, we turned our focus to our first math unit of the year: Sorting (which is part of the Data Management and Probability strand in the Ontario Math Curriculum). Today, we did some hands-on sorting using ourselves (e.g., students wearing short sleeves vs. Students wearing long sleeves, students wearing shoes with laces vs. Students wearing velcro, etc...). We had the opportunity to sort ourselves in a variety of ways and identify the sorting rules. We also talked about how we can sort things (by category/attribute - eg., size, colour, shape, number of edges, etc...). After our large group time, we worked in small groups where each group was given a collection of objects to sort. The group had to come up with their own sorting rule. Most groups sorted by colour. A couple of groups also discovered that you could also sort by type, shape, and size. After our small group work, we began creating a sorting anchor chart listing attributes (as well as examples) that we can sort by (e.g., colour - orange, purple, yellow, etc...; size - big, medium, small, etc...; shape - circle, triangle, square, etc...). We will hang this chart up in our class for reference.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we completed a getting to know you activity titled “Who?” where the children had to ask their classmates various questions to get to know them better and record their names on a sheet (e.g., who went to the beach this summer, who has lost a tooth, who has brown eyes, who has a dog, etc...). As students finished this activity, they had a little catch up time and then some free time.

Have a great evening! Enjoy the beautiful weather!

Allison

News for Wednesday, September 4^th....

Notes:

1. Our September Classroom Calendar has been sent home. Please post this in a visible spot at home (e.g., on the fridge) so that your child comes prepared for our activities each day.
2. September Book Orders have been sent home today and are due back by September 11^th, if you wish to order. I do not have an online account for such, so please just send in your child’s order, along with a cheque made payable to Scholastic Canada. If any of your items are a gift or special treat for your child, please just let me know and I will call you/write you a note when the item(s) arrive, rather than send such home with your child.

We began our morning with planner writing (thank you for taking the time to sign our planner message each night), followed by our morning message and calendar routines. Our focus for the first block of our learning today was on goal setting. We began by listening to the story: “Roberto the Insect Architect.” We then had a discussion about what a goal is, why we set goals, examples of goals, etc...We tried to hone this in specially related to setting a school goal for each of ourselves. After some brainstorming at the carpet, the children completed a printing activity about one or two goals they would like to work on this year. We have displayed these, along with some pictures, on our “Don’t Monkey Around, We’re Serious About Learning” bulletin board in on our classroom.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by Social Studies. Social Studies will be taught by Ms. Heyland this year.

After lunch, we read a back to school story, “A Fine, Fine School” and then worked on a getting to know you activity. The children had to copy five sentence starters and then fill in the missing information: My name is....I am in Gr. __...I like.... I can....and I wish....After completing the writing portion of this activity, the children worked on an art activity where they had to try and draw, as best as they could, a replica of a picture I took of them yesterday on the first day of school. We will display these in our hallway shortly.

After last recess, we had snack followed by Math where we talked about how math is all around us and that we use math every day, without even realizing it sometimes. We talked about if they thought numbers are important to us and if so, why. We then began to read a story, “The Boy Who Loved Math” and then watched a short video clip: “Math is Everywhere!” We will finish the story tomorrow. The children then began working on a math sheet that focused on personal numbers – numbers that are important to them (e.g., their age, birthday, number of people in their family, etc...). We will be displaying these on our math wall in our classroom when they are finished.

Have a wonderful evening!

Allison

Tuesday, September 3rd...

Welcome to Gr. 2!

I hope everyone has had a wonderful summer holiday, creating happy memories with family and friends.

Welcome to the 2019-2020 school year at Ryerson and thank you for taking the time to find, and read, our classroom website. I will update the ‘Classroom News’ section of our website each night, so please be sure to take a few minutes each evening to read all about your child’s day. By doing so, this will help to engage your child in meaningful conversations about his/her day, rather than the typical, “What did you do at school today?” “Nothing!” - in fact nothing could be further from the truth – you will see and read about the many things we are learning about each and every day in Grade 2. Grade 2 is such a fun and exciting year! I love it! I truly believe that your child’s education is a partnership between home and school and together we will work to support your child in his/her learning this year.

Communication Bag: Tonight, your child has brought home a large ziploc bag. This is his/her communication bag. Please return the bag each night, even if it is empty. This is a place where daily work will be sent home, information from the office will be sent home, field trip forms, etc...it is also a place where you can place notes for me.

Planners: Your child has brought home his/her planner tonight. Each day, the children will write in their planners at school. Please read the planners each night and initial/sign each entry. You can also place notes for me in the planner.

Forms, forms, and more forms: In your child’s communication bag, he/she has brought home many forms tonight. Some forms are from the office and some are from me. Please read over the forms and return the ones that need to be returned by the end of this week, if possible. If you have any questions, just ask.

Welcome Brochure: Please take a few minutes to read the yellow welcome brochure in your child’s communication bag as it will explain many parts of our day to day program.

September Calendar: Our classroom calendar will be sent home tomorrow. There was just too much paper in the bags already today.

Now onto today’s learning and activities....normally the blog won’t be as long as it is today, but it takes a bit to explain all of our routines, etc...

We began our day by gathering all of the students in our class. The children had a chance to find their cubby in the hallway (where they can keep their indoor shoes, as well as it’s a great place for hats and mitts in the winter) and their hook for their jackets and backpacks. They found their desks in the classroom and then we gathered at the carpet for our morning message and calendar routines. I read a story called “Jack’s Worry” - which is a great first day of school read aloud about a little boy who is worried – we talked about what makes us worry, anxious, nervous, etc...and how these are very normal feelings, especially when we try something new – like starting a new grade, new teacher, having a new teacher, meeting new friends, etc...some of the children shared their feelings about the first day of school. The children then began to work on a self-portrait activity which we look forward to displaying on our hallway bulletin board soon! Just before mornng recess, we wrote our first planner message, and then reviewed where the washroom are for our hallway, the drinking fountains, as well as where we line up after recess.

After morning recess, we had snack. Each day, this will be our snack time where the children are encouraged to eat a healthy and nutritious snack to tide them over until lunch time. Please remember, no nuts and/or nut products. After snack, we read the story “I Like Me” and the children began to work on an “All About Me” pennant banner where they listed facts about the themselves (e.g., My favourite colour is... I am __ years old, My birthday is....). We will display these around our classroom. We also took some first day of school pictures and the children drew, out of a hat, a classroom celebration that he/she will be responsible for bringing in treats for the class to enjoy. Our class will have 5 main parties/celebrations this year – these can be found under the ‘classroom celebrations’ tab on our website and I will post your child’s name under the holiday they chose, tomorrow. I will also remind which children are on snack on each monthly calendar – our first celebration will be our fall celebration which will happen on October 31^st.

After lunch, we read a back to school story and then we took some pictures outside that we will be using for a writing activity tomorrow. We also did some other getting to know you types of activities. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we talked about a few more routines (e.g., stacking our chairs at the end of the day, leaving our desktops tidy, etc...) and we reviewed what was in our communication bags tonight and where to hand in our communication bags each morning. We played a game titled “You/Me” - each child had a chance to pick a card out of a bag (without looking), so cards were labelled with the word ‘you’ and some cards were labelled with the word ‘me.’ If they chose a card that said ‘me’ - they had to tell something about themselves, if they chose a card that said ‘you’ - I had to tell them something about me – this was a great little activity for us to get to know each other a little better. After our game, the children enjoyed some well deserved activity.

I hope your child had a wonderful first day! I know I did! I’m looking forward to working with your child this year, as well as you – the parents.

See you tomorrow,

Allison

News for Saturday, August 17th…

I hope everyone is having a wonderful summer, enjoying spending time with family and friends! The summer has gone by quickly as it has been a busy one for me. I got married on July 21st and then we spent a couple of weeks in Europe on our honeymoon. We had a wonderful time! It's hard to believe that school is only a couple of weeks away! I'm looking forward to meeting my new class!

If you are out shopping for "Back to School" supplies, below is a list of suggested items that may be helpful for your child to have. Please label all items with your child's name or initials.

• headphones to use with our classroom Chromebooks (please place in a labelled baggy)
• gluestick
• bottle of white glue
• pencil crayons (pre-sharpened)
• markers
• eraser
• pencils
• scissors
• a ruler with centimetre markings
• a black Sharpie marker for art activities
• two boxes of Kleenex (for classroom use throughout the year)
• a pair of indoor running shoes (for gym and classroom use)
• a water bottle (for classroom use)
• a doodle notebook for when finished lunch/work early

See you on Tuesday, September 3rd!

Ms. Alderson

News for Thursday, June 27^th…

Well, here we are…the last day of school! It’s hard to believe that ten months ago your child began their Grade 2 year at Ryerson. Time has certainly flown by! The last day of school is always a bittersweet one….it’s always exciting and happy because summer holidays are now beginning, but it is also a time of a little sadness too as a school year comes to an end. I have enjoyed watching your child grow, both academically and socially. Thank you for letting me be a part of your child’s life. Each of the students in my class holds a special place in my heart. Thank you families for your ongoing support…you have been amazing! Thank you for the lovely cards, well wishes for my wedding, and year-end presents...your kindness and generosity mean a lot. I hope everyone has a safe, fun, and happy summer holiday! Enjoy spending lots of time together as a family. I look forward to seeing everyone back at Ryerson on the first day of school in September!

We began our morning with Ryerson’s annual year-end assembly. During the assembly we said goodbye to some teachers who will be leaving Ryerson to move onto other schools, as well as a special good-bye to Mrs. Cianci who will be leaving to become principal at Louise Arbour French Immersion Public School. The assembly also recognized some students awards. Congratulations to Salma and Abby who were the citizenship award winners from our class.

After the assembly, it was time for morning recess. After recess, we came in and had snack followed by planner writing and then outside gym with Miss. Baxendale.

After lunch, we had our 'class party' - enjoying some yummy treats - thank you to all of the families who sent in special snack today. We also watched a video while we ate our special snacks.

After last recess, we continued with some more yummy treats and our movie. To end the day, the children had gym with Miss. Jiwani.

Have a fantastic summer! Stay safe and have fun!

Love,

Allison

News for Wednesday, June 26^th…

A toasty, warm day at Ryerson today! This evening is Ryerson’s Gr. 8 Graduation. Students from this class are part of my first class here at Ryerson, as I had a Gr. 1/2 class that year. I’m looking forward to the ceremony tonight and seeing everyone all dressed up.

Notes:

1. Report Cards – Tonight your child has brought home his/her year-end report card. Please take the time to read through the report card thoroughly, celebrating your child’s growth and successes, as well as noting areas for continued extra support and practice. Please take some time this evening to sit down with your child and have him/her write a goal (or two) that he/she would like to work for the coming school year. Please return the completed portion of the goal sheet back to school with your child tomorrow as this will be attached to the copy that is kept at school in your child’s Ontario School Record file.

2. London Public Library – information from our visit today with the London Public Library has been sent home with your child. The London Public Library offers a fun summer reading program to keep children reading throughout the summer holidays.

3. Headphones – if your child brought in headphones to use with our Chromebooks this year, the headphones have been sent home tonight.

On the announcements today, the winners of Ryerson’s June draw were announced. Congratulations to Charlotte from our class who won a free 3 topping medium pizza from Dominoes.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. We then had Math where we focused on multiplying by 5’s. Many of the children found multiplying by 5’s quite easy because if you can quickly skip count by 5’s, you can multiply by 5’s. They did a great job on our final day of multiplication today. Just before morning recess, we had snack.

After morning recess we headed to the library to listen to two presenters from the London Public Library (Central Branch). The librarians told us all about their summer reading program and information has been sent home with your child today about this program. It was great to hear that some of the students from this class have already signed up…wonderful!

After lunch, we finished our last chapter of “Charlotte’s Web.” I don’t think I will ever tire of reading this book, it is such a wonderful story. We then had some independent reading time, followed by a ‘Making Words’ activity.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had snack and did a little year end cleaning.

Have a great evening! Can you believe that tomorrow is the last day of school?!?

Allison

News for Tuesday, June 25^th…

What a beautiful June day!

Notes:

1. Dreambox Note: I have sent home a sheet of paper that explains how to access Dreambox at home, on both a computer, as well as an iPad. Your child’s login card was sent home last week in his/her planner. If you have any questions, please just ask. I have been pleased to hear that many of the children are already using Dreambox at home now. This is a great way to keep math skills ‘fresh’ over the summer holidays.

2. London Public Library: Tomorrow the London Public Library will visit us to talk about their summer reading program. This is a wonderful fun way to encourage your child to read over the summer and therefore avoid the ‘summer slide’ in reading skills and overall reading level.

We began our morning with planner writing and then we headed right to the bus for our last field trip of the year. We spent the morning at Fleetway enjoying some bowling, as well as a Dairy Queen treat…mmmm! Thank you very much to all of the parent volunteers who accompanied us: Amelle’s mom, Keira’s dad, Lilly’s dad, and Charlotte’s mom.

After lunch, we had a bonus gym class with Miss. Jiwani as we would miss our regular gym time today due to the assembly. We then did calendar and Math where we focused on multiplying by 4’s. Just before last recess we had snack.

After last recess, we headed to the gym for Ryerson’s annual ‘Airband’ assembly.

Have a great evening…only two more days to go!

Allison

News for Monday, June 24^th…

Wow! What a fabulous weather weekend! So warm and sunny – it was perfect! I can’t believe that this is our last week of school – it’s going to be a very busy and fun next four days!

Fleetway Trip: Tomorrow is our Gr. 1 and Gr. 2 field trip to Fleetway Bowling. Please be sure your child wears (or brings) socks with him/her to wear in his/her bowling shoes. Volunteers are asked to meet us at the Fleetway if possible. We will be leaving right after attendance, so we should be at Fleetway by 9:25ish.

We began our morning today with planner writing and calendar. For read aloud, we read the second last chapter of “Charlotte’s Web” – no matter how many times I read this book (and it’s been a lot!), I still tear up a bit during the end of this book. After our chapter book, we had some independent reading time followed by an activity called ‘Making Words’. Making Words is an activity in which each child is given some letters and they use these letters to make a variety of words of different lengths. The consonants are always on yellow paper and the vowels are always on green paper to re-emphasize that every word needs at least one vowel. During each Making Words activity the children make approximately 15 words, beginning with 2 letter words all the way up 8 letter words, sometimes. There is always a mystery word to be solved that contains all of the day’s letters. Making Words is a very fun and hands-on activity that reinforces many spelling and phonics rules. Ask your child about today’s mystery word!

After morning recess, we had snack followed by Math where we reviewed the ‘rules’ when multiplying by 0, 1, and 2. Today, we focused on multiplying by 3. We did so using basic math facts, as well as applying our work to problem solving type questions, using pictures, numbers, and words.

Today at lunch those students who regularly order pizza had an extra ‘free’ pizza lunch – what a nice treat during the last week of school!

After lunch we met our penpals…the children were very excited! We had a great afternoon rotating through 6 outdoor activities. The children had a fun time and we were so glad that the weather cooperated! It was nice to be able to meet the children we have been writing to all year.

After our penpals left we had last snack and then enjoyed a little video clip.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Friday, June 21^st…

Happy Friday! What a beautiful day outside today for the first official day of summer! Hopefully this is a sign of the weather to come! Today is also National Aboriginal Day. Today also marks one month until my wedding – time is flying by!

Penpal Get-together: On Monday afternoon, our Gr. 2 penpals from St. George’s Public School will be walking to our school. During the afternoon the children will participate in a variety of activities with their penpal outside in our yard. Fingers crossed that the weather will cooperate! Your child will be playing outdoor games, so it is important they bring outdoor running shoes for safety purposes (as running in flip flops is not a good idea). There are a couple of games that involve a little bit of water, so your child may wish to bring a change of clothes in their backpack…just in case. If it rains, we will do a modified version of our activities on Tuesday afternoon – unfortunately it won’t be as long though as it’s Ryerson’s annual airband assembly part way through the afternoon. A busy time of year!

Extra Pizza Lunch: On Monday, those students at Ryerson who normally get pizza lunch, will have a bonus pizza lunch this Monday (June 24^th). Please note –this is only for the students who have received pizza lunch throughout this term.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our last weekly word work quiz of the year. The quizzes have been marked and sent home in your child’s communication bag. We then gathered at the carpet for calendar and shared reading. During shared reading, we read through our poem “Summer Day” and then completed a sequencing activity. We also played a word game and went over this week’s homework activity – which will be the last for this school year. We then had some buddy reading time, followed by continuing to work on our ‘good-bye/happy summer’ cards for our penpals – which we will give them on Monday.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by Science where we continued the second part of our Simple Machines ‘scoot’ activity. The children travelled around the room, reading various clues, and trying to decipher which simple machine was being described. As they finished science they began an end of the year desk clean-out….so your child’s backpack may have a little more in it than usual. All they were asked to leave in their desks for next week was a pencil. We also peeled off our desk name tags, our cubby name tags, and the name tags where we hang our backpacks. You can definitely tell the end of the year is approaching!

After lunch, we had Math where we reviewed the rules when multiplying by 0, as well as when multiplying by 1. Our focus today was on multiplying by 2. We related this back to addition and how multiplying by 2 is really just doubling the other number. We did some large group work at the carpet. I’m also pleased to hear that students have been using Dreambox at home – fantastic – a great way to keep your math skills ‘fresh’ over the summer holidays. They are doing awesome with their multiplication facts.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we read chapter 20 of ‘Charlotte’s Web’ – we are almost finished and then we had a little bit of catch up time.

Have a wonderful weekend! I can’t believe that next week will be our last week of school!

Allison

News for Thursday, June 20^th…

It’s hard to believe, but a week today will mark the last day of school for students for this year! Wow! It was a dreary day, but at least we were able to get outside for all recesses.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “Summer Day” and then completed an activity where we had to decipher the missing words in the poem. We also played a couple of word games and read a summer story. It was then time for independent reading, followed by Math where today we worked on multiplying by 0 and multiplying by 1. Using various examples, we discussed the rule that when multiplying by 0, the answer is always 0. When multiplying by 1, the answer is always the same as the other factor. After some large group work, the children worked on an independent activity.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by continuing on with our math for a little bit, as well as worked on a printing activity until it was time for gym with Miss. Baxendale.

After lunch, we had Science where we reviewed the names of the 6 simple machines. The children then participated in a ‘scoot’ activity, going around the room and reading various clues to decipher which simple machine was being described in each question. We completed half of the scoot today and will complete the second half tomorrow. This activity is a good review of the six simple machines and a great way to get us up and moving.

After last recess, we had writing where we began working on writing a good-bye card to our penpals. We will give these to our penpals when we meet them in person on Monday afternoon…fingers crossed that the weather will cooperate as our penpals are going to walk to our school from St. George’s and we are hoping to participate in some outdoor activities. To end the day, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani.

Just a couple reminders…

1. Tomorrow is our last word work quiz of the year.

2. Keep searching for any school library books…we’re down to a few left, which is great!

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Wednesday, June 19^th…

A beautiful sunny day in June!

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading we read through our poem: “Summer Day” and then focused on the things that make summer great! We also played a couple of word games and read a summer read aloud. It was then time for independent reading followed by Traditions and Celebrations where we focused on Canada Day today. We read a non-fiction book about Canada Day, as well as watched a powerpoint presentation. We then completed our page about Canada Day in our Traditions and Celebrations duotangs. The children have brought home their Traditions and Celebrations duotangs today to keep. If there is a page that is not finished in their booklet, it means they were absent that day (either from school or at something like ESL or Speech).

After morning recess, we had snack followed by Math where we continued our focus on repeated addition/matching multiplication questions. Tomorrow, we will start with some multiplication ‘math facts’ – which they are quite pumped about! Just before lunch, we headed over to Mrs. Proulx’s/Mrs. Hardy’s class to view their animal projects.

After lunch, we headed to the Gym for Ryerson’s Talent Show/Variety Show assembly. It was a great show with a many different acts. We have a lot of talent here at Ryerson! Congratulations to Amelle who performed from our class! One of our custodians even performed! The assembly took us until the start of recess…perfect timing!

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had a little bit of sharing time for one more fairytale and Maya also brought in something to share with us about National Aboriginal Day.

Have a great night! Enjoy the beautiful weather!

Allison

News for Tuesday, June 18^th…

Memory Book: Today, I have sent home with your child a little memory book I have made of your child’s year in Grade Two. Enjoy looking through the pages. I hope this will be a treasured keepsake of your child’s year in Grade Two for him/her to look back on in the years to come.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “Summer Day” and then focused on finding the rhyming words within the poem. We also played a couple of word games and then read a summer story. We then had some independent reading time followed by Traditions and Celebrations where we focused on National Aboriginal Day which is observed this Friday (June 21^st). We read a non-fiction book about National Aboriginal Day, as well as watched a powerpoint presentation. We then completed our follow up activity page about National Aboriginal Day in our Traditions and Celebrations duotangs.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by Science where we read a book about simple machines and then completed a cut and paste activity reviewing the names, definitions, and examples of each of the 6 simple machines.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with some large group work at the carpet focusing on repeated addition/matching multiplication sentences. The children then completed some independent activities.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end our day, we had snack and a little bit of catch-up/clean –up time….as it’s that time of year to start to organize all of our materials.

Have a great evening! Tomorrow afternoon is Ryerson’s Talent Show!

Allison

News for Monday, June 17^th…

I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend and that all the Dads enjoyed the special gift their child made for them…they worked very hard on their cards and little booklets. Hopefully it will become a treasured keepsake. On Saturday, two friends of mine hosted a bridal shower for me, so that was a lot of fun! Sunday was a more difficult day in my household as it was the first Father’s Day without my Dad. An emotional day for sure.

Notes:

1. Dreambox: Today your child has brought home his/her login card for his/her school Dreambox account. Please take this card out of your child’s planner and keep it somewhere safe. Your child is now more than welcome to use Dreambox at home as this would be a wonderful way for him/her to keep up his/her math skills over the summer. To access your child’s account, they just need to go to Ryerson’s homepage and then click on ‘students’ followed by ‘dreambox’ (which will be the last item in a list) and then click on the ‘dreambox’ symbol. Your child should know how to do this very independently as they do so at school. This program is meant to be totally independent so you will not need to assist your child in any way, as the program will intuitively adapt to his/her progress and/or mistakes.

We began our morning with planner writing, our ‘Mistake Monday’ morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, our poem this week is titled “Summer Day” in honour of the quickly approaching summer holidays! We began by discussing what we love most about summer and then we read through our poem. We also played a couple of word games. For read aloud, we will be reading lots of summer stories this week. It was then time for independent reading followed by word work where we went over this week’s words of the week and wrote them in our planners. Just before morning recess, we had a few more volunteers share their fairytales with the class, as well as their haiku riddles.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where we started a new form of poetry today: Cinquain poems. We looked at a variety of cinquain poems and t4ried to denote the features of this form of poetry. This is what we discussed – the poem has 5 lines.

Line 1: Title of the poem (noun) – 1 word

Line 2: Description – 2 words

Line 3: Action – 3 words

Line 4: Feeling/Phrase – 4 words

Line 5: A synonym for the title – 1 word.

After looking at a variety of examples, the children were encouraged to create a cinquain poem on a topic of their choice.

After lunch, we had math where we are continuing to focus on repeated addition/matching multiplication sentences. We did some group work oat the carpet on the SmartBoard and then the children worked on an independent activity.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end our day, we had Science where today we spent some time reviewing the 6 simple machines. As a large group, the children sorted a variety of cards into the 6 different simple machines. I then explained a cut and paste activity where they would be listing each simple machines, its definition, as well as two examples of each simple machine.

Have a wonderful evening!

Allison

News for Friday, June 14^th…

Happy Friday! A lovely, sunny day to end the week!

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our weekly word work quiz. The quizzes have been marked and sent home in your child’s communication bag. Only one more week of word work to go! After our word work quiz, we gathered at the carpet for morning message, calendar, and shared reading. During shared reading, we read through our poem, “My Dad” and then we did a cloze (fill in the blank style) activity. We also played a word game and went over this week’s homework task. It was then time for a Father’s Day read aloud and then some buddy reading time. Just before morning recess, we had a few volunteers share their written fairytales with the class.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where we reviewed the features of Haiku poetry. The children then had an opportunity to share their haiku riddle with the class and the class had to guess what was being described. We also had Science during this time were we explored our last simple machine: The Pulley. We read a book about pulleys, watched a video clip about pulleys, and then completed an independent activity sheet.

After lunch, we had Math where we did some large group work on multiplication at the carpet and we watched a little video clip about multiplication. The children then worked independently on some tasks where they were required to show the repeated addition sentence, as well as the matching multiplication sentence for a number of questions. It was so great to see the ‘lightbulbs’ clicking today with comments from the children such as: “Now I get it! Multiplication is actually really easy!” It was awesome!

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, the children enjoyed some activity time and then we watched a video clip.

Have a wonderful weekend, despite the dreary forecast.

Allison

News for Thursday, June 13^th…

A dully and dreary day…I was definitely glad our field trip today was an indoor one as the weather wasn’t very conducive for being outside.

Can you believe that two weeks from today will be the last day of school? Where has the school year gone?!?

Our morning today was spent at the Covent Garden Market downtown participating in the Growing Chefs Program. We had a fabulous time…I think that was one of my favourite field trips! The children got to ‘shop’ at the market for all of the ingredients they would need to make the dishes we created and then they all worked in groups to make a variety of yummy foods. After all of our hard work we enjoyed a tasty lunch! Be sure to ask your child about it!Thank you very much to our volunteers today: Brady’s mom, Charlotte’s mom, Lilly’s mom, Keira’s mom, and Miles’ mom for helping out today.

During the afternoon, we had Math where we continued our introduction to multiplication. We did some large group work at the carpet and then the children worked in pairs using hands-on materials to create various repeated addition/matching multiplication math sentences.

After last recess, we had snack and had some catch up time. To end our day, the children had Health with Miss. Jiwani.

Have a great evening!

Allison

News for Wednesday, June 12^th…

Another beautiful sunny day outside!

Notes:

1. Growing Chefs field trip – Our Growing Chefs field trip is tomorrow. Volunteers are asked to be at the school for 9:00am as we will be leaving right after attendance. We will return to Ryerson around 12:50pm.

We began our morning with planner writing and calendar. For shared reading we read through our poem “My Dad” and then played a couple of word games. For read aloud we read a story about Father’s Day, as well as a story about ice cream. It was then time for some independent reading. After independent reading, we had printing where we revisited Haiku poems. We explored a website about Haikus and then the children took a look at the rough copies of the haiku riddles they wrote last week. After reading their riddle over they began to work on their good copies.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by Math where we began with a math game on the SmartBoard about fractions…many of these games can be found on our classroom website under ‘My Links.’ The children then participated in their last rotation of our fraction math centres. They also worked on finishing their independent booklet on fractions. Some students even finished the bonus sheet…fantastic! If they finished all of the above, they worked on some fraction games on a chromebook.

After lunch, we began our next Math unit: Multiplication. In Grade Two, the emphasis is on an introduction to multiplication, with the notion that multiplication is really repeated addition. Today, we began with a discussion about ‘sets’. For example, when you buy shoes, how many do you get? How many mittens are in a pair? How many tires are on a car? We did some large group work on the SmartBoard about sets, brainstorming other examples of things that come in groups of fixed numbers (e.g., tennis balls, earrings, socks, juice boxes). We then read a math story titled “What Comes in 2’s, 3’s and 4’s?” The children were then given a variety of grocery store flyers and were asked to look through such to find an example of items that come in sets or groups. They then had to choose a set/group and label such at the top of their paper (e.g., Things that come in _____’s – could be 2’s, 3’s, 12’s, etc…). They then glued on their pictures to their paper, writing the corresponding repeated addition sentence. For example, if they cut out three bikes – underneath they would write 2 wheels + 2 wheels + 2 wheels = 6 wheels. We then talked about the matching multiplication sentences (e.g., 3 x2 = 6) – ensuring that the number of groups goes first x how many in each group. Another example would be eggs. They would write ‘Things that come in 12’s’ at the top of their page and then cut a number of cartons of eggs. If they cut out four,, they would write:

12+12+12+12= 48 and 4 x 12 = 48.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had Science where we focused on the simple machine: The Screw.

Have a wonderful evening!

Allison

News for Tuesday, June 11^th…

What a beautiful, sunny day!

Notes:

1. Term 2 Work: Some assessment pieces (e.g., quizzes), as well as a few other things have been sent home today for you to now keep at home, as we are nearing the end of the year.

2. Fleetway Field Trip Forms/$ are due by tomorrow.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by calendar and shared reading. During shared reading, we read through our poem “My Dad” and then worked on finding all of the rhyming words in the poem, as well as noting the location of such. We also played a word game. For read aloud, we read a Father’s Day story, as well as one about ice cream as we just didn’t have quite enough time to finish all the ice cream stories I had last week. We then had some independent reading time followed by Traditions and Celebrations where we focused on Father’s Day. We watched a powerpoint about Father’s Day and then completed the page about Father’s Day in our Traditions and Celebrations duotangs.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by Math where the children completed their fourth rotation of our fraction centres…one day to go! They also worked on their fraction booklets independently, with some students even finishing their booklet…fantastic! We will have a catch-up math period tomorrow with our final rotation of math centres for fractions.

After lunch, we headed to the gym for the primary assembly featuring vocalist Michael Mitchell. It was wonderful to see so much red and white today in the gym, in honour of Canadian music!

After the assembly it was time for recess followed by Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end our day we presented our descriptive paragraphs and shoes to Ms. Walkey’s class. We must have some great descriptive writers in here as many of Ms. Walkey’s students were able to guess which shoe belonged to which person in our class after listening to their writing…fantastic!

Enjoy the beautiful sunshine this evening!

Allison

News for Monday, June 10^th…

I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend and enjoyed the beautiful, gorgeous weather! It’s hard to believe that we only have 3 weeks of school left!

Reminders:

1. Red and White Day – tomorrow is the Michael Mitchell concert at our school. He is encouraging everyone to wear red and white to celebrate his Canadian music.

2. Library Books – all library books are now due back to school for summer inventory. Please have your child check his/her room for any school library books and have him/her return such as soon as possible.

3. Fleetway Bowling Forms/Payments are due by this Wednesday. Thank you to those families who have already submitted such.

We began our morning with planner writing, our ‘Mistake Monday’ morning message, and calendar. For shared reading this week our poem is titled, “My Dad” in honour of Father’s Day this coming Sunday. We read through our poem together and then did a think/pair/share activity about what makes our Dads awesome. We also played a word game. For read aloud, we read a Father’s Day story and then had some independent reading time. For word work, we are continuing with the same words as last week since Friday was a PD Day and there was no time on Thursday for word work either due to the field trip and the ‘Jump Rope for Heart’ activities.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where we worked on finishing the good copies of our descriptive paragraphs about our shoes. We look forward to presenting these to Ms. Walkey’s class tomorrow afternoon. We also worked on a top secret writing activity too. Some students also had a bit of time to catch up on some other unfinished writing work.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with a video clip about fractions. The children completed their third round of our fractions centres and then worked in their independent fractions booklet. We're almost finished our booklet!

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end our day, we had Science where we reviewed the six simple machines, specifically reviewing the wedge. After our large group time, the children worked on an independent activity sheet.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Thursday, June 6^th…

Just a reminder that tomorrow is a PD Day. There will be no school for students, but teachers will be working at school.

We began our morning by heading off in our rubber boots to Fanshawe Conservation area where we participated in the Grade 2 program: Pond and Plantation. This program was divided into two parts, one where we used nets to find living things in the pond (they loved this and I’m sure the mud on their boots and clothing will prove that, lol) and the other we played a life cycle game, as well as took a walk through the plantation We also had our pocket snack between the two parts of the program. Thank you very much to our volunteers this morning: Charlotte’s mom, Brady’s mom, Lilly’s mom, and Ella’s family friend. We appreciate your time and help.

We arrived back at school in time for lunch.

After lunch, it was Jump Rope for Heart Day at Ryerson! All students in Gr. 1-6 were divided into multi-grade teams. Each team had the opportunity to visit a variety of fun stations designed to get their hearts pumping! The children had a lot of fun – ask them about some of the centres. Jump Rope for Heart finished just in time for us to do our planners and have an end of the day snack.

What a whirlwind of a day in Grade Two! Have a wonderful weekend – I hear it’s supposed to be beautiful…yay!

Allison

News for Wednesday, June 5^th…

Reminders:

1. Fanshawe Field Trip: Tomorrow morning is our field trip to Fanshawe Conservation Area. Please ensure your child uses the washroom before coming to school, as well as eats a good breakfast. This trip is an outdoor trip so please dress your child for the weather. Rain boots are a good idea as our program is “Pond and Plantation” so we will be in watery areas. Volunteers are asked to be at the school right for 9:00am as we will be leaving right after attendance.

2. Tomorrow afternoon is also “Jump Rope for Heart” and ‘Beach Day’ at Ryerson! It will be a busy day for us in Grade 2!

3. Weekly Word Work Quiz – as tomorrow is such a busy day and Friday is a PD Day for students, we will not have our weekly word work quiz this week. We will continue to work with the same words next week and have our quiz next Friday (June 14^th).

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by calendar and shared reading. For shared reading, we read through our poem “Eighteen Flavours” and then focused on adjectives today. We read a book about adjectives, as well as found the adjectives in our poem…there were a lot! For read aloud, we read a story about ice cream and then had some independent reading time. For writing, we worked on our descriptive paragraphs about our shoes, with many students working on their good copies.

After morning recess (which ended up being inside due to the rain), we had snack followed by library book exchange. Today was the last day for our class to take out books from the library as all library books are due back for inventory on Monday of next week. After library, the children had Gym with Miss. Baxendale.

After lunch, we had Math where we learned a new fraction game at the carpet – many of these games can be found under the ‘my links’ of our class website. We also watched a video clip about fractions and then participated in our second round of our fraction math centres. After our small group work, the children worked independently in their fractions booklet.

After last recess, we had Science where today we focused on the simple machine: The Wedge. We read a story about wedges, as well as watched a video clip. The children then completed a follow up activity page. To end the day, the children had Health with Miss. Jiwani.

Have a great evening! Cross your fingers for good weather for our trip tomorrow!

Allison

News for Tuesday, June 4^th…

Notes:

1. Pocket Snack: Please send in a pocket snack with your child tomorrow for our field trip on Thursday….this will save us time Thursday morning as we need to board the bus right after attendance. Please label your child’s snack with his/her name. If your child is bringing something dry (something that will make them thirsty), you may wish to include a juice box too or they can carry their own water bottle as there are no water fountains in the area we will be at). Volunteers are asked to be at the school for 9:00am on Thursday morning.

2. Please send in a small gift bag with your child by Thursday of this week.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “Eighteen Flavours” and then we focused on different forms of punctuation used in the poem. We read a story about ice cream and learned some interesting facts about how the ice cream cone was invented! We then followed with some independent reading time. After independent reading, we had writing where we began to work on our descriptive paragraphs about the shoes we created. We looked at a variety of examples and then the children worked in their writing books to begin a rough copy to describe their shoe. We are working really hard to include juicy words (adjectives).

After morning recess, we had snack followed by poetry where today we talked about haiku poetry. We discussed that haikus are a traditional form of Japanese poetry that contain 3 lines. The first and last lines have 5 syllables and the middle line has 7 syllables. The lines rarely rhyme and the topic is usually about one simple thing, as the poem is so short, often they are written about the seasons or nature. We looked at a mentor text titled “Dogku” and then the children began to work on creating their own haiku riddle. Here is an example:

Green and speckled legs

Hops on logs and lily pads

Splash in cool water

We also watched a video clip about how to write a haiku.

After lunch, we had math where we played a fraction game as a large group and then children participated in their first rotation of their math fraction centres. After our small group time, they worked independently in their fractions booklet.

After last recess, the children had Music. To end the day, we had Science where we reviewed the types of simple machines. Today our focus was on the inclined plane. We took some time to recall how in the story we read previously that Abner cleaned up his backyard and that he used a ramp to load the trash cans into the pick up truck. We discussed how a ramp makes moving heavy things easier and that ramps are an example of an inclined plane. We then brainstormed other examples of ramps (e.g., ramp outside of the Kindergarten door, the ramp outside our classroom door leading into the Kindergarten yard, the ramp down the intermediate hall, etc…). We discussed the purpose of these ramps at school. We then talked a bit about spiral ramps and I showed a cut out of such. We tried to think of other examples of spiral ramps (e.g., ramps in a parking garage, circular staircases, circular slides). We discussed why this special kind of inclined plane might be used (e.g., it takes up less space than a straight ramp). We also talked about how stairs are a special inclined plane with steps cut out into them. We then read a book about inclined planes.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Monday, June 3^rd…

Welcome to the month of June! It’s so hard to believe that we are now into the last month of school! Every year seems to go by faster and faster! This month will be full of lots of fun and exciting things, so be sure to keep the June Calendar handy.

Notes:

1. Fleetway Field Trip: Your child has brought home a permission form for our Fleetway Bowling field trip during the last week of school. Please complete the form, as well as make the payment online by June 12^th. Please also return the ‘treat’ form too.

2. June Book Orders are due by tomorrow.

3. Gift Bags – Just a reminder to send in a small gift bag with your child this week. Thank you to those families who have already done so. Specific measurements can be found on Thursday’s blog from last week.

4. Word Ring Testing – today was our last day for word ring testing this year. Your child may now keep his/her ring at home. Reviewing the ring throughout the summer would be a great way to keep these words ‘fresh’ for the start of Grade 3. Thank you so much to my volunteer Robin who came in each Monday to work with the children on their sight words…your help and time are very appreciated!

We began our morning with planner writing, our ‘Mistake Monday’ morning message, and calendar. During calendar, we went over all of the special happenings during the month of June. We then turned our focus to shared reading where I revealed the title of our poem “Eighteen Flavours,” but I did not tell the children what the poem was about. Using the context clues given, the children were asked to make predictions about what they thought the poem would be about…many quickly guessed ice cream! Yum! After confirming that our poem was about ice cream, the children were then asked to predict what words they would find in our poem (e.g., cone, toppings, etc…). We then read through our new poem together. After shared reading, we read a story about ice cream followed by some independent reading time. For word work, we went over our words of the week and wrote them in our planners. Just before morning recess, we worked on a printing activity.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by reading a bit of “Charlotte’s Web”. We then turned our focus to writing where we worked on the final component of our special printing activity. We then took some time to talk about our desk arrangement for June. For June, I always like to have the children’s input with ideas of how they would like the desks set up, as well as where they would like to sit. They came up with a few arrangements and then we took a class vote. The children then wrote their names on a slip of paper that we would use to draw seats later in the day. We also had a discussion though on that we have to be able to work in our new spots and if not, I would be moving them.

After lunch, we had Math where we will be focusing on fractions all week. Today, I introduced the children to our 5 fraction centres that they will be rotating through, starting tomorrow. Each of the centres offers a fun, hands-on approach to work with fractions. After explaining some of our fraction activities, the children worked independently in their fractions booklet.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end our day, we had snack and then finished moving our desks and doing a desk clean out.

Have a wonderful evening!

Allison

News for Friday, May 31^st…

It’s hard to believe that it’s the last day of May! Only one more month of school left to go for this school year! June is always a fun and busy time, so I’m looking forward to a great final month of school with your children! Be sure to keep our June calendar handy!

Thank you to those families who have already sent in a gift bag for our upcoming activity – please see yesterday’s blog for details.

Monday will be the last day for word ring testing this year, so please ensure your child reviews his/her words if he/she has a word ring.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our weekly word work quiz. The quizzes have been sent home and are in your child’s communication bag. We then gathered at the carpet for morning message, calendar, and shared reading. During shared reading, we read through our poem “I Wear the Most Amazing Shoes!” and then we went over this week’s homework task. Next week during writing, we will be writing our own descriptive paragraphs about our own amazing shoes! We then had some buddy reading time followed by a short school assembly to say good-bye to our custodian, Mr. Fredin, as he begins working at B. Davison High School in London on Monday.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where we continued to work away on a special printing activity.

After lunch, we had Math where we are learning all about Fractions. The children did a great job on their fraction flags yesterday, representing a whole, halves, thirds, and fourths/quarters. Today during our large group time, we worked together to create shapes using the pattern blocks and to describe parts of the shapes using fractions. For example, the children were asked to find two blocks that together would make up the same shape as a hexagon. They found out that two trapezoids make up one yellow hexagon and because each piece is equal, each piece is half of the whole. We repeated this activity using rhombuses to represent thirds of a hexagon and triangles to represent sixths of a hexagon. We also played a large group fraction game. The children then began working independently in a fractions booklet. As we are working on a booklet for fractions there will be less day to day math sheets sent home for the next week and a bit, but the booklet will be sent home once completed.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end our day, we had snack and then continued our top secret printing activity.

Have a wonderful weekend, despite the rainy forecast.

Allison

News for Thursday, May 30th...

Gift Bag: Each child is asked to bring in a small gift bag next week for an upcoming activity. The height of the gift bag should be at least 24 cm and the width of the gift bag should be at least 15 cm. Please reuse a bag you already have at home.

Another dreary day outside! Hopefully June brings more sunshine than May has.

The children spent the day with Mrs. Atcheson who carried out the plans I left her. The children began the day with planner writing, morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, they read through our poem "I Wear the Most Amazing Shoes!" and then focused on singular and plural nouns, finding examples of such in our poem. For read aloud, the children listened to a story about Eid as this was the focus today for Traditions and Celebrations. The book was titled "The Best Eid Ever!" It was then time for some independent reading.

After morning recess, the children had snack followed by Traditions and Celebrations where the focus was on Eid today. The children read two books about Eid, as well as listened to a powerpoint presentation about such. Some children in our class who celebrate Eid also had the opportunity to share their family experiences with the class. The class then worked together to complete the activity page about Eid in our Traditions and Celebrations duotangs.

After lunch, it was time for Math where today marked the introduction of our next math unit: Fractions. The children participated in some large group activities where they worked on identifying wholes, halves, thirds, and fourths/quarters in a poster. They talked about how to represent a fraction using words and numbers. As an independent activity, the children worked on creating their own fraction flags. They created four flags: One that represented a whole, one that represented halves, one represented thirds, and one represented fourths/quarters.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end the day, the childrne had snack and some catch-up time. Have a great night! See you tomorrow.

Allison

News for Wednesday, May 29^th…

June Class Calendar: The June Class Calendar has been sent home today. Be sure to post the calendar is a visible spot at home as June is going to be a very busy and fun month in Grade Two!

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “I Wear the Most Amazing Shoes” and then we reviewed the difference between a singular noun and a plural noun. We reviewed that to make most nouns plural, we just have to simply add an s (e.g., boy – boys, tiger – tigers). We then discussed when a word ends in ch, sh, s, x, or z, we make the noun plural by adding es to the end of the word (e.g., box – boxes, watch – watches). Today, we also talked about how to make words that end in the letter y plural. Nouns that end in a vowel before the y, we just simply need to add s (e.g., key – keys, toy – toys), however nouns that have a consonant before the y, we need to change the y to an i and add es to make to the word plural (e.g., lady – ladies, story- stories). After shared reading, we read some of “Charlotte’s Web” followed by some independent reading time. Just before morning recess, we worked on a printing activity.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by library book exchange and then gym.

After lunch, we had Math where we began our lesson with a couple of symmetry games. The children then worked with the miras to create symmetrical pictures

After last recess, we continued our work with a printing activity. To end the day, the children had Health with Miss. Jiwani.

Have a wonderful night!

Allison

News for Tuesday, May 28^th…

June Book Orders: June book orders have been sent home today. If you wish to place an order, please send it in with your child by Tuesday, June 4^th.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “I Wear the Most Amazing Shoes!” and then we focused on singular and plural nouns. We reviewed that a noun is a person, place, or thing and then we talked about how we can make singular nouns plural. We talked about how many times you just have to add an ‘s’ to make a word plural. We then went over words that end in ch, sh, x, ss, or zz and how with these words you need to an ‘es’. Tomorrow we will talk about how to form other plurals (e.g., words then end in y). After our shared reading, we read a chapter of “Charlotte’s Web” and then we had some independent reading time. Just before morning recess, we worked on a printing activity.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where we worked on poetry, focusing on shape poems today. We talked about what a shape poem is and looked at a variety of examples. The children then began to work on a rough copy of their own shape poem. Part way through our writing time we switched our focus back to our ‘shoes’ – where today the children began designing their own shoe to go with our shared reading poem. After we design our shoes the children will begin to work on their own descriptive writing piece to describe their shoes.

After an indoor lunch, due to the rain, we had Math. Today, we used the miras. We did some large group work at the carpet where the children placed their own mira along a given dotted line of various pictures and they looked at the reflection that was created. We talked about how when we look in a mirror at our house, we see a reflection. The size and shape of the object do not change in its reflection, but everything appears to be backward or opposite. The children worked on using their miras to draw the missing half of various pictures. They loved this! As they finished they worked on Dreambox.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had Science where we reviewed the names of the 6 simple machines. We then continued our focus on the wheel reading a non-fiction book about such and completing a follow up activity.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Monday, May 27^th…

It’s hard to believe that one month today (June 27^th) will be the last day of school! Time is flying by! It was so nice to see so many families out for Mayfair on Friday night! Thankfully the weather cooperated and everyone could enjoy some outdoor fun!

We began our morning with planner writing, our ‘Mistake Monday’ morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, each group was given a handful of words (each group had the same words) and they were asked to sort the words in some ways. All of the words given were in our shared reading poem and the children were asked to make predictions what they thought this week’s poem would be about based on the words given. After some prediction time, I revealed our new poem which is titled “I Wear the Most Amazing Shoes!” We had one group even make this prediction…wow! This piece of text will help us this week continue to work on our descriptive writing skills. We read through the poem and the children were quick to note the location of the many words that they were asked to sort. It was then time our read aloud which today focused on Ramada as that’s what we talked about during Traditions and Celebrations today” followed by independent reading. We then gathered back at the carpet for Word Work where we went over this week’s words of the week and wrote them in our planners. Just before morning recess, we started to work on another printing activity. Word ring testing also took place this morning. Next Monday will be our last day for word ring testing, so be sure to look over your words.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by Traditions and Celebrations where today we focused on Ramadan. We watched a powerpoint presenation about Ramadan and then had some of the children who observe Ramadan share their experiences with the class. We then completed the follow up activity page in our duotangs. After Traditions and Celebrations, we completed a writing activity.

After lunch, we had Math where we will be continuing to focus on symmetry for most of the week. We began our lesson by watching a video clip about symmetry and then reviewing how some shapes that are symmetrical can have a horizontal line of symmetry, a vertical line of symmetry, and/or a diagonal line of symmetry. The children then worked on an independent activity where they were given a variety of pictures and they had to sort them as to whether they were symmetrical or not. If they were symmetrical, they had to draw the line(s) of symmetry on the shape.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end our day, we had Science where today we reviewed the 6 simple machines and then focused on the wheel and axle. We read a book about the wheel and axle and then discussed how a doorknob is a great every day example of a wheel and axle. We then brainstormed other examples of wheel and axles followed by completing an independent activity.

Have a wonderful evening!

Allison

News for Friday, May 24^th…

Happy Friday! What a beautiful day for Mayfair! I hope to see many families there tonight.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our weekly word work quiz. The quizzes have been marked and sent home in your child’s communication bag tonight. We then gathered at the carpet for morning message, calendar, and shared reading. During shared reading, we read through our poem “I Love Hockey” and we went over this weekend’s homework task. It was then time for buddy reading, followed by a little bit of writing catch up time. The children either worked on finishing up poetry (ensuring they had an acrostic poem, an alliteration poem, and an I Love poem in their poetry folders) or on their fairytale.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by Math where we began by watching a two minute video clip about symmetry. We also listened to a song about symmetry. The children then worked on an activity where they had to sort a variety of pictures into symmetrical or not- symmetrical. If they said the item was symmetrical, they needed to draw the lines of symmetry for such. Today’s focus was on horizontal and vertical lines of symmetry.

After lunch, we had Science where we reviewed the 6 simple machines and then we continued our focus on levers. We read a non-fiction book about levers, as well as watched a short video clip about levers. The children then worked on an activity sheet.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end our day, we had a bit of catch-up time.

Have a wonderful weekend! Remember, word ring testing resumes on Monday.

Allison

News for Thursday, May 23^rd…

A dreary day again, but at least with a lovely warm temperature! Fingers crossed that the weather will cooperate tomorrow night for Ryerson’s annual Mayfair event.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. We then read chapter 6 of “Charlotte’s Web” followed by some independent reading time. For shared reading, we read through our poem “I Love Hockey” and then we reviewed what an adjective is, as well as read another book about adjectives. Then, the children began working on their own “I Love” poem. To start, they had to think of a topic they that they really love – it could be a sport, a season, an animal, a food, etc… they then began working on their rough copies of their poem. Just before morning recess, we practiced our “Jack and the Beanstalk” play for the last time.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where some students worked on their fairytales and others continued to work away on their poem. We then invited Ms. Walkey’s Gr. 1/2 class over to view our play. The students enjoyed showcasing their work today for their peers.

After lunch, we had Math where we began a little mini unit today on symmetry. I began by holding up a piece of construction paper for the children to see. I then had the children watch me as I carefully folded the paper in half and cut out a heart. I then opened the heart and we discussed if both sides were the same and how we could prove such. We talked about that when both sides of an object are exactly the same, the object is symmetrical. The children were then each given a piece of paper and a pair of scissors and were asked to fold the paper in half and cut out an interesting shape. We then had students share their symmetrical figures, noting the line of symmetry in each one (which is represented by drawing a dotted line). As a large group, we then did an activity sorting pictures into either symmetrical or non-symmetrical. If unsure, the children were encouraged to fold the picture in half to see if it was the same or not on both sides of the fold line. After our large group work, the children worked on an independent activity sorting pictures into symmetrical or non-symmetrical.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day we had snack and then performed our play for Mrs. Hardy’s class. The children did a great job and they can now keep their scripts at home.

Have a wonderful evening!

Allison

News for Wednesday, May 22^nd…

A dull and dreary day weatherwise, but warmer temperatures are supposed to be on the way!

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “I Love Hockey” with our focus today being on adjectives. We reviewed what an adjective is and we read a book about adjectives. We then found all of the adjectives in our poem. For read aloud, we read Chapter 5 from “Charlotte’s Web” and then we had some independent reading time. For Drama, we practiced our play “Jack and the Beanstalk” as tomorrow we will present it to a couple of classes. They are doing a wonderful job with this play! So much growth from our water cycle play back near the beginning of the year.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by library book exchange. It was then time for Outside Gym with Miss Baxendale.

After lunch, we had Math where we had our culminating day on probability. Today, we did an activity titled “Spin to Win.” In this activity, each group was given a different spinner (each spinner had the colours red and blue, but the amount of each varied on the different spinners). The children were told a toy company wanted to sell this game to children. The children were to play the game and then they had to write a letter to the toy company answering 4 questions:

1. Did you like playing the game?

2. Did you think the game was fair? Why or why not?

3. Do you think other children will enjoy playing this game? Why or why not?

4. What changes would you make to this game?

In the letter I was looking for their understanding or probability concepts and their use of math language. Tomorrow, we will move onto our next mini-unit: Symmetry. Following symmetry, we will begin fractions.

After last recess, we had Science where over the next little while we will be focusing on each of the 6 simple machines. We watched a little introduction video about these simple machines and then today, our focus was on the lever. We talked about how levers can make lifting our work easier. The children also had some time to work in partners using their own lever. To end the day, the children had Health with Miss. Jiwani.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Tuesday, May 21^st…

I hope everyone had a wonderful long weekend, enjoying time with family and friends. Today, marks two months until my wedding…time is flying by!

Growing Chefs Field Trip: Your child has brought home a permission form for our Growing Chefs field trip. Please complete the green permission form, as well as the white paper (which will be submitted to Growing Chefs) by May 29^th. Online payment is also due by this date. Thames Valley has funded some of this field trip for us, which is wonderful! As always, we will be looking for parent volunteers to assist us on this trip.

Fanshawe Conservation Area Trip Reminder: Just a reminder that permission forms and online payment are due tomorrow for our upcoming Fanshawe trip. Thank you to the families who have already submitted such.

Word Ring Testing: Word ring testing will not take place this week since Monday was a holiday. Word ring testing will resume next Monday (May 28^th). Our last date for word ring testing will be Monday, June 3^rd….so keep practicing your words.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading this week, our poem is titled “I Love Hockey” in honour of hockey playoff season. Needless to say, we have some members of our class who are quite excited about hockey playoffs! Before reading through the poem, we did a think/pair/share activity where the children had to discuss why they do or do not like hockey…we had some interesting responses, for each opinion. We then read through the poem together. For our read aloud, we continued with our next chapter (Chapter 4) of “Charlotte’s Web.” We then had some independent reading time, followed by word work where we went over this week’s words of the week and wrote them in our planner. Just before morning recess, we started working on our second poem, an alliteration poem. To help us with this, we revisited the shared reading piece we worked with a couple of weeks ago titled, “Alliteration at the Zoo.” The students then began creating their own 4 or 5 line alliteration poem in their writing books.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing. During writing, some students worked on their fairytale writing, while others continued with their alliteration poem. They did a great job with this, many students even finishing their good copy! Also during this block of learning we had Drama where we practiced our “Jack and the Beanstalk” play. We are looking forward to presenting our play to the other Gr. 2 classes on Thursday of this week, so keep practicing your part at home for a couple more days.

After lunch, we had Math where our focus was on communicating about an experiment. Together, we completed an experiment and then talked about how we can describe, in words and/or pictures, what happened in our experiment. How can we share our results? The children then worked on completing an independent experiment, as well as working on clearly communicating their results.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had Science we focused on how machines make our work easier. I read a story to the class, using picture story cards as visuals. After reading the story, I had the class identify which machines Abner used in the story (i.e., clippers, rake, wheelbarrow, wagon, wheeled bin, lawn mower, ramp, bike) and we talked about how these machines made Abner’s work easier. We then brainstormed ways that machines help us do work (e.g., they dig holes; they turn things – fans, drills, can openers; they cut things – scissors, knives; they join things together – stapler, sewing machine; they write – computer; they lift things – elevator). As a follow up, the children worked on an independent activity titled, “Making Work Easier at School” where they had to write about how machines at school help to make their work easier.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Friday, May 17^th…

The May long weekend is now upon us!

Notes:

1. Fanshawe Conservation Area field trip forms/online payments are due by Wednesday. Thank you to those families who have already submitted such.

2. Growing Chefs field trip forms will be sent home on Tuesday. Lots of field trips happening in June!

Thank you to all of the families who donated to our class raffle basket for Mayfair...our 'Cooking and Baking' basket looks amazing! We have so much stuff they might have to make two baskets! Awesome job, Gr. 2's!

We began our morning with our field trip to Museum London. Once we arrived at the Art Gallery, our class headed to the studio where the children worked with plasticine to create a scene of their choice. They did a great job using primary and secondary colours to create some wonderful art! For the second half of the field trip we went on a tour of the many art exhibits at the Museum. As many of the children also went to the Art Gallery in Grade One, it was great for them to see that the art on display is constantly changing, in addition to the multiple opportunities that are offered in the studio. Ask your child about the art they created (which they have brought home today), as well as the art they saw! It is such a great place to visit! The children were very well behavied and represented Ryerson very well! Thank you to our many volunteers today: Abby’s dad, Charlotte’s mom, Keira’s mom, Lilly’s dad, Amelle’s mom, Brady’s mom, Ella’s family friend, and Neil’s mom. It is so wonderful to have such amazing parent support!

We returned to school just in time for lunch.

After lunch, we wrote in our planners and then completed our weekly word work quiz. The quizzes have been marked and sent home in your child’s communication bag. We then gathered at the carpet for calendar and shared reading. During shared reading, we read through our poem, “Victoria Day” and we completed a Victoria Day crossword puzzle, as well as a word game. We also went over this weekend’s homework task. For read aloud, we read a chapter of “Charlotte’s Web” and then had some buddy reading time. Just before last recess we practiced our play.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end our day, we had some sharing time about our art where the children were able to share their art piece with the class, if they chose to. We also had a great discussion about some of the art pieces we saw today, writing about such in our writing books.

Have a wonderful long weekend, whatever your plans may be…hopefully the weather will cooperate!

Allison

News for Thursday, May 16^th…

So nice to see the sun shining this morning!

Art Gallery (Museum London) Field Trip: Tomorrow (Friday) is our field trip to the Art Gallery. Please have your child eat a good breakfast before coming to school as we will not be having a morning snack time tomorrow. Also, please ensure your child uses the washroom before coming to school, as well as wears old clothes as we will be participating in a studio session for part of the morning. Volunteers are asked to be at the school or 9:00am as we will be boarding the bus right after attendance. We are looking forward to a fun morning!

Mayfair Raffle Basket: Tomorrow is the last day to donate to our ‘Cooking and Baking’ raffle basket for Mayfair. Our basket is looking great!

Thank you to Aidan who added to our Mayfair basket today!

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our morning message and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem, “Victoria Day” and today we focused on nouns, reviewing what a noun is and sorting various nouns into the categories: Person, Place, or Thing. We also found the nouns in our poem and played a word game. For read aloud, we read a non-fiction text about Victoria Day and then we had some independent reading time. We then gathered back at the carpet for Traditions and Celebrations where we looked at a powerpoint presentation about Victoria Day and then completed the follow up activity page in our ‘Traditions and Celebrations’ duotangs.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where some students worked on their fairytales and others worked on acrostic poems. Just before lunch we had Drama where we practiced our play. They are doing a fabulous job and we look forward to presenting it to the other Grade Two students at the end of next week.

After lunch, we had Math where we watched a video clip about probability and then continued with our focus on spinners where the children carried out a couple of different experiments. We also had time to work on the good copies of our acrostic poems and add them to our poetry folders. Super!

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end our day, we had snack followed by finishing Drama as during our earlier drama in the day we had a fire drill practice (today we had to use our alternate exit and the children did a great job!). After Drama, we watched a short video clip and then got ready for home.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Wednesday, May 15^th…

Only 2 more days to donate to our ‘Cooking and Baking’ basket for Mayfair! All donations are due by this Friday to give time to the Mayfair committee to wrap up each class basket.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “Victoria Day” and focused on adjectives (juicy words). We looked at a variety of pictures and listed adjectives to describe each. We discussed how using adjectives bumps up our writing as it really lets the reader visualize clearly what we are talking about. For read aloud, we read chapter 2 of “Charlotte’s Web” and then we had some independent reading time. Just before morning recess, we had writing where we began to work on our first form of poetry: Acrostic poems. We looked at a variety of acrostic poems and discussed the features of such. We then worked together to create an acrostic poem. After our large group time, the children worked independently in their writing books to create their own acrostic poem on a topic of their choice.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where some students worked on their fairytale writing and others worked on poetry. We also had Drama during this block of learning. We are looking at presenting our play to a couple of other primary classes at the end of next week, so keep practicing your lines. Work on using expression, adding gestures, as well as making eye contact with the audience.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with a little video clip about probability. We played a probability game on the smartboard and then focused on using spinners for our probability work today.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had Science where we talked about how some jobs take more work than others. We worked through a few large group examples with various volunteers to illustrate this concept. The children then completed a follow up activity sheet.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Tuesday, May 14^th…

Jump Rope for Heart Envelopes have been sent home with your child today.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem, “Victoria Day” and then we focused on words that have ‘ar’ in them. We played a word scramble game, as well as another word game. For read aloud, we began one of my favourite chapter books, “Charlotte’s Web.” It was then time for independent reading, followed by Drama where today we worked really hard on using gestures to express lines in the poem, even when it’s not our speaking turn. For example, if a narrator is talking about Jack throwing the magic beans, then Jack should pretend to throw beans out of an imaginary window as that line is being said.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by library book exchange and then outside gym.

After lunch, we had Math where today our probability focus was on collecting data using a coin. We also watched a video clip about how chance is related to probability. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, we had Science where we reviewed the definition of work. We went through various examples to decide if work was being done or not and then the children worked on a follow up activity titled, “Work at my House.” To end the day, the children had Health with Miss. Jiwani.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Monday, May 13^th…

I hope all of the Moms had a wonderful Mother’s Day and enjoyed the beautiful flower your child painted for you. We hope you can hang up/display their painting somewhere special.

Notes:

1. Fanshawe Conservation Area Field Trip Form – Today, your child has brought home with him/her a field trip form (on yellow paper) for our field trip to Fanshawe Conservation Area on June 6th. Please return all forms and make the online payment by Wednesday, May 22^nd at the latest. As always, we will be looking for parent volunteers to assist us on this trip.

2. Word Ring Testing – Word ring testing took place today, so be sure to check your child’s word ring for new words. Please continue to review the ‘old’ words too.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our ‘Mistake Monday’ morning message, calendar, and shared reading routines. For shared reading today, we focused on making inferences. One by one, I revealed ten words that are in our poem this week and using their prior knowledge the children had to try and decipher what this week’s poem was about. We then read through our poem which is all about Victoria Day, in honour of Victoria Day this coming Monday. We also played a word game. We also had some independent reading time, followed by word work where we went over this week’s word of the week and wrote them in our planners. Just before morning recess, we had Drama where we practiced our parts to our play. Thank you for taking the time each night to practice your child’s script with him/her.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by Math where our focus today was on creating an experiment to solve a problem. Ask your child about today’s experiment using cubes. Just before lunch, the children had some time to explore a variety of mentor texts based on our next writing unit: Poetry. While looking through the books, either independently or with a friend, the children were asked to note what they notice about poetry writing.

After lunch, we headed down to the gym for a “Jump Rope for Heart” assembly. This assembly introduced the children to Jump Rope for Heart, which will take place at Ryerson in the afternoon of June 6^th….a busy day for us as our field trip is in the morning! The letter explaining Jump Rope for Heart, as well as the pledge envelope, will be sent home with your child tomorrow. After the assembly, we had snack and spent some time working on our fairytales.

After last recess, the children had Music. To end our day, we had Science where we began our last science unit for the year: Simple Machines. Today we discussed the concept of ‘work’ talking about ‘what is work?’ We discussed that work is done when a force is used to move something over a distance. Using a variety of task cards, we had a number of volunteers choose a card and actually do or pretend to do a task. Then the class had to decide whether ‘work’ (according to the definition) was being done. After each task, we talked about whether there was a force and if something moved. After our large group work, the children worked on an independent activity.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Friday, May 10^th…

Happy Friday! Happy Mother’s Day to all of the Moms on Sunday! We hope you will enjoy what the children have made you…they worked super hard! Enjoy your special day on Sunday!

Thank you to Keira who added to our Mayfair basket today! All Mayfair donations are due by this coming Friday (May 17^th) to allow the Mayfair committee time to organize and wrap the baskets up.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our weekly word work quiz. The quizzes have been marked and sent home in your child’s communication bag. We then gathered at the carpet for morning message, calendar, and shared reading. During shared reading, we read through our poem “Super Mom”, did a sequencing activity with the stanzas in the poem, and we also played a word game. We then went over this week’s homework task. For read aloud we read a story about butterflies to tie into our science learning and then we had some buddy reading time, followed by Drama where we practiced our play.

We also had a fire drill practice this morning too. The class did a fantastic job!

After morning recess, we had snack followed by Math. Our probability focus today was on using data to make predictions. Specifically, we were trying to determine what mystery numbers were inside a brown paper bag. We did some large group work first to introduce the lesson and then the children worked in pairs to complete their own experiment. We discussed the importance of using our data to help us make good and reasonable predictions. Ask your child about today’s experiment where they had to determine what five numbers were in the mystery bag!

After lunch, we headed to the gym for a Ryerson assembly. Congratulations to Samar and Brady who were winners in Ryerson’s “effort” draw. They each won an Indigo gift card. We had just enough time after the assembly to have our snack and read a story.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end our day, we had a little bit of catch-up time/activity time.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Allison

News for Thursday, May 9^th…

We began our morning with planner writing, morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “Super Mom!” and then continued our work with rhyming families. We also played a word game. For read aloud, we read a Mother’s Day story and then we had some independent reading time. After our reading time, we turned our focus to writing where we continued to work away on our fairytales.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by Traditions and Celebrations where we looked at the history of Mother’s Day. We read a Mother’s Day non-fiction text and also looked at a powerpoint presentation about Mother’s Day and then we completed our Mother’s Day page in our Traditions and Celebrations duotangs. Just before lunch, we had Drama working on our ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’ play. The children worked with their ‘cast’ partner to practice their lines, using expression and adding gestures.

After lunch, we had Math where we began by having volunteers share their work from yesterday using the probability terms possible and impossible. We then turned our focus to today’s lesson which was on creating data with an experiment. We used probability counters (where one side is yellow and one side is red) to complete our experiment today. Ask your child about it. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end our day, we had Science where we continued our focus on the life cycle of the butterfly. We read a story about butterflies, watched a short video clip about the butterfly cycle, and then we completed our butterfly life cycle wheel.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Wednesday, May 8^th…

So nice to see the sunshine!

Drama Scripts: Your child has brought home his/her drama script today of our play, “Jack and the Beanstalk.” Please take a few minutes each night to practice your child’s lines with him/her, encouraging the use of expression and gestures. Please return the script each day so that we can practice during our class time.

Thank you to Neil who added to our Mayfair basket today!

We began our morning with planner writing, morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “Super Mom!” and focused on finding the rhyming words in the poem. We also did some small group work on rhyming. We then played a word game. For read aloud, we read a Mother’s Day story and then had some independent reading time. We then began creating our poetry folders as we will begin to look at, as well as write different forms of poetry next week.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by Drama where we worked on our play, “Jack and the Beanstalk.” It was then time for our make-up outside gym time that we missed yesterday.

After lunch, we had Math where we began by sharing our likely/unlikely jobs that we completed yesterday. We had many students volunteer to share their responses with the class which was great! We then turned our focus to today’s lesson which focused on the probability words: Possible and impossible. We did some large group work at the carpet, sorting pictures into a t-chart labelled possible and impossible. We then spun a spinner that had sections labelled possible and impossible. Various volunteers spun the spinner and if they landed on possible they had to share with the class something that would be possible to happen at school today. If they spun impossible, they had to share something that would be impossible to happen at school today. The children then each completed a follow up activity demonstrating their knowledge of the terms possible and impossible. Tomorrow, volunteers will share their work with the class.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day we had Science where today we talked about the life cycle of a butterfly. We read a fiction story, as well as a looked at a non-fiction text. We also watched a video clip and began working on a life cycle wheel to represent a butterfly’s life cycle.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Tuesday, May 7^th…

Where has the beautiful sunshine gone? Definitely a cooler, rainier type of day today.

Storytelling Rubrics: Your child’s assessment for his/her storytelling presentation has been sent home today. These do not need to be returned as I have kept a copy.

Thank you to Ryan who added to our Mayfair basket today!

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “Super Mom”, did some word work type of activities in the poem, and we also played a word game. We read a Mother’s Day story and then had some independent reading time. During independent reading each day, I work with one or two students one-on-one, assessing their reading skills. I love this time and seeing how much they grown from each time I conference with them. Just before morning recess, we had Drama where we did a read through of the new play we are working “Jack and the Beanstalk.” The children will be bringing home their scripts tomorrow to have some additional practice at home, working on fluency and expression. Please ensure your child returns his/her script back to school each day.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by library book exchange. Last week, we were not able to exchange our books due to the book fair, so many children were quite happy to be able to sign out a new book or two today. Normally, after library we have outside gym, but it was a rainy type of day and the gym was also booked for the Gr. 5-8 Oral Communications Festival (speeches), so Miss. Baxendale will make up our missed outside gym tomorrow. So instead, we worked on our fairytale writing pieces.

After lunch, we had Math where we are focusing on probability. We began with a video about probability, followed by a thumbs up/thumbs down activity that had the children consider the likelihood of certain events. If they thought the event was likely, they put their thumbs up, if they thought the event was unlikely, they put their thumbs down. Some examples I asked the children were:

- You will walk home after school

- You will take a bus home after school

- You will play outside afterschool

- You will go to the movies afterschool

- You will read a book tonight

Then, we had a discussion about possible predictions of what they might be doing when they grow up (e.g., where might they live – city or country?). We also brainstormed possible jobs they might have when they grow up. We talked about how the likelihood of having certain jobs in the future, somewhat depends on their interests (e.g., becoming a vet is more likely for someone who has an interest in caring for animals and is less likely for someone is afraid of animals). After brainstorming a variety of jobs, as well as talking about the characteristics of certain jobs, the children completed the follow up activity page focusing on using the probability terms: Likely and unlikely.

When I grow up, it is likely that I will ________ because _________.

When I grow up, it is unlikely that I will ___________ because _________.

Tomorrow the children will share their responses with the class.

After last recess, we had Science where today we focused on the life cycle of the frog. We read a book about frogs, followed by watching a video clip about the frog life cycle. We then began to work on our frog life cycle wheels. To end the day, the children had Health with Miss. Jiwani.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Monday, May 6^th…

What a beautiful Sunday…the weather was simply gorgeous! Today, it’s just as lovely and I’m very happy to be able to wear a spring dress and sandals! Finally! Unfortunately, today’s weather doesn’t seem to be in the forecast for the rest of the week as the temperatures are supposed to be cooler and more rain is on the way. It’s a busy time in my household, as along with the wedding which is about 2 ½ months away, we also have a major renovation happening at our house as we’re completely redoing our main floor bathroom and our ensuite bathroom. The contractors are at our house as I write this beginning to rip everything out. It will be great in the long run, but it’s going to be a busy couple months.

Notes:

1. Money Math Quiz – Your child has brought home his/her money math quiz that they completed last week. Overall, I was very pleased with how they did. Yay, Gr. 2’s! Please review the quiz with your child, sign it, and return it back to school. All quizzes will be sent home for you to keep later in the school year.

2. Gift Bag – if you haven’t had a chance to send in a gift bag with your child yet, please do so by tomorrow. Please see measurements in the blog from last week.

3. Word Rings – word ring testing took place today. Be sure to review your child’s ring with him/her each night.

4. Art Gallery (Museum London) Field Trip – Yay! Everyone has now submitted their field trip form. Just a reminder that the online payment is due by this Thursday. Thank you to the families who have already submitted such.

Thank you to Oscar, Owen, and Amelle who added to our Mayfair basket today! It’s been great to see some Mayfair posters being submitted too.

We began our morning with planner writing, our ‘Mistake Monday’ morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, our poem this week is titled “Super Mom!” in honour of Mother’s Day this coming Sunday. Before reading the poem, we brainstormed various reasons why our moms are important to us…you’ll be happy to know they came up with a great list! We then read through the poem and focused on finding the contractions in the poem. We also discussed what two words made up each contraction, followed by playing a word game. For read aloud, we read a Mother’s Day story and then we had some independent reading time. Just before morning recess we had word work (copying down our new words of the week).

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with a counting circle. We then turned our focus to our next math unit: Probability. Today, we focused on probability language (e.g., certain, likely, unlikely, impossible) and relating to everyday experiences at school). We did some large group work at the carpet talking about the meaning of the words: Certain, likely, unlikely, and impossible. Then the children worked in table groups on a small group activity where they were given an envelope full of events and with their group they had to decide which events were certain to happen at school this week, which events were likely to happen at school this week, which events were unlikely to happen at school this, and which events were impossible to happen at school this week. After agreeing where each card was to go, the children glued the card under the appropriate column on a large sheet of chart paper. Throughout the week, we will revisit our charts and see how well they did on their predictions. Just before last recess, we had and then drama where we are starting to work on a new play: “Jack and the Beanstalk” to tie in with our fairytale writing. Today, the children learned their role and we read through the script as a whole class.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had Science where today we focused on the life cycle of the chicken. We read a fiction and non-fiction story about such and then talked about the four stages a chicken goes through in its life cycle. The children then completed a life cycle wheel about the chicken.

Have a wonderful evening! Enjoy the beautiful weather!

Allison

News for Friday, May 3^rd…

Happy Friday! How quickly another week has gone by!

Reminders:

1. May Book Orders are due on Monday.

2. Gift Bags – please remember to send your child to school with a gift bag (medium-large in size; at least 40 cm tall and 35 cm wide) with a few sheets of tissue paper inside on Monday. Thank you to the families who have done so already.

3. Word Ring testing will take place on Monday.

Thank you to Brady who added to our Mayfair basket today! Our basket is really starting to look great! I will definitely be buying some tickets for it!

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our weekly word work quiz. The quizzes have been marked and sent home in your child’s communication bag. We then gathered at the carpet for our final day of storytelling presentations. We have had a wonderful week of storytelling, hearing some classic stories retold, as well as some new ones. I am so proud of the children! Thank you very much for your home support with this activity. Rubrics will be sent home next week, probably early in the week as I have already marked Wednesday’s presentations and yesterday’s, now I will just need to mark the presentations from today.

After storytelling, we had writing where we worked on addressing our envelopes to put our penpal letters in. I hope to deliver our letters to St. George’s Public School on Monday night (after our staff meeting and before the parent council meeting). After students finished their envelope, they had some buddy reading time.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by starting our money math quiz. We completed the first section of the quiz in the morning and then second section after lunch.

After lunch, we continued working on our math quiz. As students finished they worked on Dreambox on the chromebooks.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end our day, we had snack and listened to Samar and Salma’s “Student of the Week” presentations. We also watched a video clip about life cycles.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Allison

News for Thursday, May 2^nd…

I definitely enjoyed the milder temperature today!

Thank you to Charlotte, Abby, and Miles who added to our Mayfair basket today!

Gift Bags: Please be sure to see the measurements from yesterday’s posts as we had a few today that were too small for what we need them for. The height needs to be at least 40cm. and the width needs to be at least 33 cm.

Tonight is Ryerson’s Spring Music Night. For members of the Primary Choir, please refer to the note Mrs. Snow and Mrs. Bere sent home last week regarding specific details of tonight’s performance.

Due to the Music Night tonight, our day was out of routine to accommodate for practice time for the Primary Choir in the morning and for the dress rehearsal performance in the afternoon.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by the primary choir heading off to do a little practicing. During this time, those children not in choir, stayed with me and had some catch up time to finish up penpal letters, math, etc…

When the choir members returned back to class, we began our storytelling presentations for the day. Thank you to all of our presenters today! We are looking forward to more storytelling presentations tomorrow. Just before morning recess, we had time for calendar and to move our desks to our new seating plan for May.

After morning recess, the choir members headed back down to the gym for rehearsal. Those not in choir, stayed with me to catch up on unfinished word, use the chromebooks, etc…When the choir members came back to class, we had

After lunch, we headed down to the gym to watch a rehearsal of the ‘Spring Music Night’. It was a wonderful performance!

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end our day, we finished our math money centres. Tomorrow, we will have our quiz on Monday.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Wednesday, May 1^st…

Welcome to the month of May! Happy Birthday wishes go out to Abby today!

Thank you to Maya and Lilly who added to our Mayfair basket today!

Gift Bags: The children are asked to bring in a medium size gift bag with a few sheets of tissue paper inside (any colour) for an upcoming activity. Please send in all gift bags by Monday, May 6^th. Gift bags should be larger than 40 cm. tall and 35 cm wide. Please just use a gift bag that you have at home already, saved from a previous gift, rather than buying a new one.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. During calendar, we went over all of the special days and events taking place this month. For shared reading, we read through our poem ‘Alliteration at the Zoo’ and then we continued our focus on root words and the suffix ‘ing’. For read aloud, we read an environmental story, followed by having some independent reading time. We then worked on the good copies of our letters to our penpals.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by our storytelling presentations. I was so proud of our 8 presenters today! Everyone had all of their stories memories….fantastic! We definitely have some budding actors in our class too! Thank you for helping your child to prepare for their presentation. Your home support is very appreciated! After our presentations, the children had some time finish working on their penpal letters.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with some large group math work adding and subtracting coins of various values. We then read a money math story, followed by some independent practice. Just before last recess, we had snack – the children enjoyed some special snack today as Abby brought in cookies to celebrate her birthday! We will be having our quiz on money on Friday of this week.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had Outside Gym as we missed one of our gym periods last week.

Have a great first night of May!

Allison

News for Tuesday, April 30^th…

The last day of April – and April definitely had its share of April showers this year…hopefully that means lots of May flowers and spring weather will be on the way soon!

Storytelling presentations begin tomorrow! Please look at the calendar to know when your child presents this week.

Thank you to Salma and Samar who donated to our Mayfair basket today.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “Alliteration at the Zoo” and focused on the suffix ‘ing’. We found the ‘ing’ words in our poem and talked about the rules when adding ing (e.g., for words that end in e – like ride – we take away the e and then add ing to make riding). For read aloud, we read an environment story and then had some independent reading time. Just before morning recess, we completed the second part to the spelling assessment we started yesterday.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by visiting the book fair. Due to the set up of the book fair, there was no library book exchange today. It was then time for Outside Gym with Miss Baxendale.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with some large group work on adding and subtracting coins to $1 in value. We also did a counting circle and then the children completed an independent activity, followed by the third rotation of our math money centres. On Friday, we will have a quiz on Monday and then next week we will start our next unit: Probability.

After last recess, the children had snack and then we had Science where we focused on life cycles. We talked about what a life cycle is and how animals go through stages to grow up (just like we do). We watched a little slide show about life cycles and then completed a life cycle activity sheet. To end the day, the children had Health with Miss. Jiwani.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Monday, April 29^th…

I hope everyone had a great weekend! While we only have today and tomorrow left of April, the temperatures sure don’t feel like we should be heading into May.

Notes:

1. Animal Projects: Your child has brought home his/her animal research project today (diorama, zoo sign, and assessment rubric). The rubrics do not need to be returned as I have kept a copy.

2. Field Trip Form: Field trip permission forms have been sent home today for our upcoming field trip to Museum London (the Art Gallery) in mid-May. Please complete the form, as well as make the online payment by May 9^th at the latest.

3. Word ring testing took place today, so be sure to check your child’s ring for new words.

Thank you to Adrienne and Ella who were the first people to donate to our Mayfair basket on “Cooking and Baking.” We enjoyed seeing the items they brought in and adding them to our box.

We began our morning with planner writing, our ‘Mistake Monday’ morning message, and calendar. For shared reading this week, we are continuing with an animal theme to tie into our learning in science. Our poem this week is titled “Alliteration at the Zoo.” Today, we read through our poem and then based on what the children read, I had them try to define the word alliteration. We then brainstormed other examples they knew about alliteration (e.g., Peter pecked a peck of pickled peppers….She sells seashells by the seashore…etc…). It was then time for a read aloud (our read aloud this week will continue focus on Earth and Nature), followed by some independent reading time. After reading, we completed a spelling assessment that was the same as one I completed with the children in September – I’m looking forward to looking their work over and seeing their growth. We completed part 1 of the assessment today (13 words) and will finish the assessment tomorrow. Just before morning recess, we had word work where we went over this week’s words of the week and wrote them in our planners.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by reading the last chapter of our chapter book “Sideways Stories from Wayside School.” We then had writing where today we looked at the letters our penpals sent back to us and we brainstormed ideas of things we could tell them (e.g., what spring sports/activities the children have started outside of school, what we are learning about in school, field trips, etc…). The children then began to work on the rough copy of the letter back to their penpal. As students finished their rough copy and then they conferenced with me. Tomorrow we will work on our good copies.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with a discussion on why is learning money important…they had some great answers! We then had a counting circle where we counted by 10’s starting at 66 and then by 25’s starting at 450 and we counted all the way to 1000! We talked about how once we know the pattern, we can start at any number and just keep counting and counting. The children then completed some independent work about money. The children also completed their second rotation of our math money centres today.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had Science where we talked about how animals meet their needs. To begin, we looked at our teeth using little mirrors. We noted if all of the teeth in our mouth are the same or are they different. We talked about why our teeth are different and how they are different. We discussed what our front teeth are for (biting), what are incisors are for, what are molar are for, etc…We then talked about a chicken – and discussed what types of food they thought a chicken would eat, how it would eat its food, what parts of its body help it to eat, etc…We repeated these questions for other animals as well, discussing how different animals use their body parts to their food.

Have a great night! Can you believe that tomorrow will be the last day of April!

Allison

News for Friday, April 26^th…

What a dreary, rainy way to end the week! I finished marking all of the animal projects last night, but because of the wet weather, I didn’t want to send the dioramas home. Hopefully, Monday will be better weather and I will send home all of the project stuff then.

Notes:

1. May Book Orders have been sent home today and are due back by May 6^th at the latest.

2. Word ring testing will take place on Monday. Be sure to practice your words.

3. Mayfair Poster Contest – the Mayfair Poster Contest is now open. The deadline to hand in posters is May 6^th. Please remind your child to include his/her name, grade, and teacher, on the back of the poster. Winners (one from each division – primary, junior, intermediate) receive a free Mayfair activity pass! Here are the guidelines from the Mayfair committee.

Posters can be handmade or computer generated on 8.5”x11” paper and the following information must be included:

· What: Mayfair

· When: Friday, May 24^th, 5:00-8:00pm

· Where: Ryerson Playground (indoors if it rains)

Additional highlights that can be included on your poster:

· Delicious food (hamburgers, veggie burgers, hotdogs)

· DJ and Outdoor Dance Party

· Rolling Video Games Trailer

· Fun Carnival Games for all ages

· Bake Sale, Ice Cream, and Jumbo Freezies

· Face Painting

· Raffle Baskets

· Word Art Craft

· Lego Centre

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our weekly word work quiz. The quizzes have been marked and sent home in your child’s communication bag. We then gathered at the carpet for our morning message, calendar, and shared reading routines. During shared reading, we read through our poem: “If a Tree Could Talk” and then revisited quotation marks – what they are and when they are used. We also did some word work activities, followed by a word game, and going over this weekend’s homework task. For read aloud, we read a non-fiction book about Earth Day and a fiction story about April Showers – perfect for today! We then had some buddy reading time.

After an indoor morning recess (due to the rain), we had snack followed by writing where we continued to work away on our fairytales. We had a very good, productive writing session today. They worked very hard on their fairytales.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with a counting circle, followed by a money story. The children then participated in their first rotation of our math money centres. After our small group time, the children worked on an independent activity. Most students are doing really well with our money unit and are getting much more confident counting coins, especially quarters.

After last recess, the children had a bit of catch up time, as well as snack. To end our day, we had Science where we revisited an activity we started a bit ago, but just didn’t have time to finish, that focused on animal needs. The children had a chance to work in their table groups to revisit the poster they created about the needs of a particular animal. After each group had a chance to add any more information they wished, we took some time to look at each group’s poster and talked about what needs were similar for all of the animals, which needs were different and why this may be.

Have a great weekend! I hear it’s supposed to be a chilly one!

Allison

News for Thursday, April 25^th…

Thank you so much to the many families who came out to our ‘Ryerson Zoo’ yesterday! We had a great turnout and the children were very excited to share their projects with all of you! Thank you very much for your ongoing (and amazing!) home support!

We began our morning today with planner writing, followed by heading down to the “Me to We” bakesale to buy some yummy treats, as well as support a great cause. When we came back to class, we completed our morning message, calendar, and read aloud routines, followed by an early morning snack due to our artist visit today.

During our visit with our guest artist, the children learned all about the works and life of Van Gogh. They then followed instructions to complete a beautiful piece of art, but what we’ve made is top secret – but you will find out in a few weeks time.

After lunch, we had Science where the children had an opportunity to present their science projects to our class so we could learn all about a variety of animals too! We did half of the class at this time and the other half after gym, just so we weren’t sitting so much. After half of our presentations, we had Math where we are working on adding money amounts to $1.00

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end our day, we finished our animal presentations. I have marked the written component, as well as the visual art piece of each child’s project, and I will try to mark the oral presentation component tonight so that I can send home their zoo signs, dioramas, and mark sheets tomorrow. We also had snack during this time.

Have a great night! I can’t believe that tomorrow will be Friday already!

Allison

News for Wednesday, April 24^th…

A lovely sunny day!

Notes:

1. Please go over, sign, and review your child’s math quiz on Time. The mark paper at the front has two sections. The section that is boxed in yellow is the one that will be used for assessment as it demonstrates your child’s learning at the completion of our unit on telling time. The other one is to see what your child knew before we started our unit. Overall, they did fantastic in this unit and definitely rose to the occasion in terms of being super picky about hand placement when drawing times! I’m very proud of you, Gr. 2’s!

2. Tomorrow an artist from ‘Art Starts’ will be visiting us in the morning to work on a special spring project with us...but we can’t say anymore as it’s top secret! Be sure your child wears old clothes.

3. Tomorrow, the “Me to We” committee at Ryerson will be hosting a Bake Sale. The children are more than welcome to bring in change to buy a goodie or two and support a great cause.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “If a Tree Could Talk” and then we focused on quotation marks. We talked about what quotation marks are, why they are used, as well as practiced putting them into use with some given sentences. We have a few students who have also begun to incorporate quotation marks into their fairytale writing…fantastic! After shared reading, we read two stories during our read aloud time, one about April and one about Earth Day. We then had some independent reading time. Just before morning recess, we continued the writing activity we began yesterday about Earth Day. As students finished their rough copy, they conferenced with me, and then began working on their good copy.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by Math where I finished explaining the remaining math centres about money that we would be starting tomorrow. We did some large group work at the carpet counting change, creating certain amounts of money in different ways, etc…After our large group time, the children worked on completing some independent practice.

After lunch, we had writing where we continued to work away on our fairytales. We also opened our ‘Ryerson Zoo’ to a few visiting classes. It was great to hear the children sharing the information they had learned about their animal with their peers.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we opened our Ryerson Zoon once again – but this time for parents and family members. Thank you to the many families who came out today to view our projects. The children were very proud to share their learning.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Tuesday, April 23^rd…

I hope everyone had a wonderful long weekend! After a couple of days of lots of rain, the weather the last two days was just lovely! It was a busy, busy weekend for us celebrating Easter, as well as Steve’s birthday! Yesterday also marked 3 months to go til our wedding! Time is flying by!

Notes:

1. May Class Calendar – the May class calendar has been sent home today. I have sent it home early so that you can check your child’s storytelling presentation date and begin to put the finishing touches on such presentations.

2. Tomorrow is our Ryerson Zoo! Please come any time after 3:05pm to check out our animal research projects.

3. As Monday was a holiday, there will be no word ring testing this week. Keep practicing those words and word ring testing will resume Monday, April 29^th.

4. Mayfair: Youngest and Only students have brought home a flyer about Mayfair (on yellow paper). Our class has been assigned “Baking and Cooking” for our raffle basket. Each student is asked to contribute one or two items, if possible, related to this theme. Today, we brainstormed a variety of items that would be great additions to our basket (e.g., rolling pin, measuring spoons, cake mixes, icing tubs, measuring cups, cookie sheets, mixing bowls, wooden spoons, muffin mixes, etc…be creative!). All Mayfair donations are due by May 17^th at the latest.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading this week we will be focusing on Earth Day with a poem titled, “If a Tree Could Talk.” Today, we brainstormed what various parts of our Earth might say to the people around. We talked about what a tree might say, what a river might say, what the air might say, what animals might say, and finally what the Earth might say….they had some great responses! After our brainstorming work we read through our entire poem. We also played a word game. For read aloud, we read one more Easter story, as well as an Earth Day story. We then had some independent reading time, followed by word work where we went over this week’s words of the work and wrote them in our planners. Just before morning recess, we began working on an Earth Day writing activity (to go with the art piece we made last week about the Earth). The children were able to choose from different writing styles. One was very open ended and the children could write a few sentences on why they love the Earth/how they can help or protect the Earth and the second option was creating an acrostic poem using the letters in the word EARTH. Students began working on their rough copies today. We will continue with this activity tomorrow.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by library book exchange and then outside gym with Miss. Baxendale.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with a counting circle counting by 25’s. This tends to be tricky for many Grade Two students, but it’s a perfect time to practice such since we are working with money and counting lots of quarters. After our counting circle, we did some large group work working with money on the SmartBoard and then the children worked on independent practice. I also began to explain some of the math money centres will be starting this week to further our hands-on practice with money. The children will rotate through six different money games and activities over the next week and a bit.

After last recess, we enjoyed a special snack that Maya brought in to celebrate her birthday yesterday. We then had some time to get ready for our Ryerson Zoo. To end the day, the children had Health with Miss. Jiwani.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Thursday, April 18^th…

The temperature was so warm when I stepped out the door this morning…I loved it! Too bad the sunshine couldn’t stay with us all day. I hope everyone has a safe and wonderful Easter weekend, spending time with family and friends. Remember there is no school tomorrow (Good Friday) or Easter Monday. School will resume on Tuesday, April 23^rd. Happy Birthday wishes go out to Maya on Monday!

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by an Easter story. We then headed out to the bus for our field trip to Silver City to see the Disney Nature film “Penguins” for Earth Day. Thank you so much to our volunteers today: Brady’s mom, Adrienne’s mom, Miles’ mom, and Amelle’s mom. As always, we appreciate your time and support. The movie was great – the kids really enjoyed it!

We arrived back at school just in time for our word work quiz, followed by lunch. I marked the quizzes during lunch so they have been sent home in your child’s communication bag.

After lunch, we had read an Easter story, followed by Math where we began with a counting circle. We then completed some money math work together on the SmartBoard, followed by an independent activity, using coins of different values. We will be working on adding coins up to a value of $1 (although we will have some challenge questions that go above this amount).

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had Shared Reading and we went over this week’s homework task. We then enjoyed a little spring celebration to start the Easter weekend. Thank you to those families who sent in special snack today…it’s always a highlight for the children.

Have a wonderful long weekend!

Allison

News for Wednesday, April 17^th…

It was definitely nice to see the sun shining, after a day of pouring rain yesterday…but as they say, “April showers bring May flowers!”

Notes:

1. Tomorrow is our field trip to Silver City to see the Disney Earth Day movie. Please ensure your child uses the washroom before coming to school, as well as eats a good breakfast, as we will not be having morning snack tomorrow. No food is to be purchased at the movies. Volunteers are asked to be at the school for 9:20ish.

2. Tomorrow is a Ryerson Spirit Day: 1980’s day!

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we sang our two Earth Day songs and we reviewed the 3 R’s. We also played a couple of word games. For read aloud, we read an Easter story, followed by some independent reading time. It was then time for Traditions and Celebrations where we read a non-fiction book about Easter and watched a powerpoint presentation about how Easter is celebrated around the world. We also completed our Easter page in our Traditions and Celebrations duotangs.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by our math quiz on Time. I will mark these over the weekend so that they are ready to hand back to you early next week. After our quiz, we finished working on our ‘Traditions and Celebrations’ page about Easter. Just before lunch, watched the trailer for the Disney Nature movie we will be seeing tomorrow. They’re quite excited!

After lunch, we had Math where we began with a ‘counting circle.’ Counting around the Circle is a routine that involves the whole class, where we practice counting by certain intervals, beginning a various starting points (e.g., counting by 10’s starting at 32, counting by 25’s starting at 125). One child starts the counting sequence and then we go around the circle with each person saying the next number in the sequence. To help those who may need a little extra support, I also use the whiteboard to record the pattern visually – as this often helps students in the beginning to not only hear the pattern, but see the pattern as the counting circle continues. To begin this routine today, we started simply counting by 1’s. After we got around the circle, I then posed the question, if we were to count all the way around the circle again, what would the last person say – this was interesting to see who could double the number we initially landed on. We will continue with our counting circle routines over the next while practicing counting by various intervals and starting at different starting points to help further our skip counting skills.

After our counting circle, we turned our focus back to money reviewing the name and value for each coin. We discussed different strategies for adding/counting coins and then we did some large group work on the SmartBoard. The children then completed an independent activity, followed by snack.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end our day, we had science where we continued to work away on our science projects. After students finished their good copy, painted their animal habitat, and created their animal out of plasticine, they then began working on ‘presenting’ their information to get ready for the ‘Ryerson Zoo!’

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Tuesday, April 16^th…

Notes:

1. Our ‘Ryerson Zoo’ will take place on Wednesday, April 24^th at 3:05pm. We hope you will be able to come and see all of our animal projects.

2. Thursday is a Ryerson Spirit Day: 1980’s Day!

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we sang our two Earth Day songs that focus on reducing, reusing, and recycling. We also played a couple of word games. For read aloud, we read an Easter story, as well as an Earth Day story, followed by having some independent reading time. For writing, we continued to work away on our fairytales. We have seven people who are now on their good copies…fantastic!

After morning recess, we had snack followed by Math where did a little review for our Telling Time quiz tomorrow. As students finished their independent math activity, they worked on creating invitations for our Ryerson Zoo….these should be ready to send home to you shortly (some have brought them home today if they were done –they are taped inside the planner). We began by brainstorming what information needs to go on an invitation (e.g., what is the event, when is it taking place, where, what time, etc…). The children then began to work on invitation to their families.

After lunch, we began our next math unit: Money, which is part of the Number Sense and Numeration strand in the Ontario Math Curriculum. To begin, we spent a large amount of time at the carpet today reviewing the names of the coins and how each of the coins are similar and different (e.g., size, colour, symbols, etc…). We used plastic coins to guide our investigation and then the children completed an activity sheet that had them name of each coin, label each coin’s value, as well as note two other pieces of information about the coin (e.g., size, colour, symbol). Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end our day, we had Science where some students finished up their good copies, some worked on painting their animal’s habitat using the shoebox they brought in, and most worked on creating their animal out of plasticene today.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Monday, April 15^th…

I hope everyone had a great weekend! It was a beautiful temperature on Saturday and then freezing on Sunday…April has definitely had its share of up and down temperatures!

Reminders:

1. Storytelling selection notes are due tomorrow (yellow piece of paper). Thank you to those families who have already submitted such.

2. Word ring testing took place today.

We began our morning with planner writing, our ‘Mistake Monday’ morning message, and calendar. For shared reading this week, we have two poems/songs all about the environment. One is titled “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle” and the other is titled “Recycle.” We read through our poems, sang the songs, brainstormed a list of items that can be recycled to help our planet, and we also played a couple of word games. For read aloud, we read an Easter story. We then had some independent reading time, followed by word work where we went over this week’s words of the week and wrote them in our planners. Just before morning recess, we began working on an art/writing craftivity for Earth Day – today, the children worked on the Art part, colouring a picture of the Earth.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by listening to Adrienne’s “Student of the Week” presentation and then writing where we continued to work away on our fairytales. We also finished up colouring our Earth pictures at this time.

After lunch, we had Math where we worked on telling time to the hour, half-hour, quarter hour (quarter past/quarter to). I also introduced the concept of telling time to five minute intervals, for those who wanted the challenge – telling time to the five minute interval is something that will be focused on in Grade 3. We did some large group work at the carpet and then the children worked on some independent activities. We also read a story about time. On Wednesday, we will have a quiz on time. Just before last recess, we had snack. We enjoyed a special birthday snack from Amelle!

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had Science where we worked on our animal projects. Some students worked away on finishing their good copies, some worked on their habitat sketches, and some were ready to start painting their animal’s habitat, using the shoebox they brought in. When students are close to getting finished, we will choose a date for our ‘Ryerson Zoo’ for family members to come and see our week (likely at the end of next week or the last week of April…I’ll keep you posted).

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Friday, April 12^th…

Happy Friday! How quickly another week has come again! Now, we head into two four day weeks with Good Friday and Easter Monday quickly upon us!

Reminders:

1. If you haven’t done so already, please hand in Silver City field trip forms/make the payment online by Monday. Thank you to those families who have done so already, we have most in. I have sent home volunteer notices for those volunteers who will be accompanying us.

2. Word ring testing will take place on Monday.

3. Storytelling selection notes are due by Tuesday.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our weekly word work quiz. The quizzes have been marked and sent home in your child’s communication bag. We then gathered at the carpet for our morning message, calendar, and shared reading routines. We also went over this week’s homework, followed by listening to our “Student of the Week” presentations. For read aloud, we read an April story and then had some buddy reading time. After reading, we continued to work away on our fairytales, conferencing with me throughout the writing process.

After morning recess, we had library book exchange and then gym with Miss. Baxendale. It was indoor gym today as the sky was looking very ominous during our gym time.

After lunch, we had Math where we worked on telling time to the quarter hour. We played a couple of games at the carpet and then the children worked on an independent activity. They are getting much more precise when drawing hands on the clocks now…yay! Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, we had Science where most students are now done their good copies. Those who weren’t quite done yet, worked on that while others began to work on a sketch of their animal’s habitat, researching the habitat on Pebble Go. As they read about their animal’s habitat, they made a sketch of such on a blank piece of paper. They will then use this sketch next week to help guide them when transforming their shoebox into their animal’s habitat. Once they have created their animal habitat, they will then work on creating a representation of their animal out of plasticene. Once all of our work is done, we will invite parents in to see our ‘Ryerson Zoo!’ To end our day, the children had Health with Miss. Jiwani.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Allison

News for Thursday, April 11^th….

Please be sure to read the ‘Upcoming Field Trips’ section on our classroom website as I’ve added a few more trips on there.

Silver City Field Trip: If possible, please hand in your child's permission form for this field trip, as well as make the payment online by tomorrow (Friday). Thank you to those families who have done so already.

We began our morning with planner writing, morning message, and calendar. We then headed to the bus to head to Masonville Mall for our field trip to the Apple Store! When we arrived at the mall, we found a great spot to have our pocket snack before beginning the program at the Apple Store. It was great to see so many fairytale costumes today! This definitely created a lot of interest at the mall!

Once our program began at the Apple Store, the children were introduced to the program imovie where they would work together with their small group to create a trailer for a fairytale movie. The children were divided into four small groups, each with an Apple facilitator (and we also brought Mr. Billingsley along to help us out today). In each group, the children worked collaboratively to create a plot for a movie that they then could act out in a movie trailer. The Apple facilitators filmed each group and after all groups were finished we were able to watch all of the trailers. They did a great job! Next week at school we will revisit these trailers talking about what each group did well, as well as next steps. We arrived back at school just in time for lunch. Thank you to Amelle’s mom, Miles’ mom, Lilly’s mom, and Charlotte’s mom for helping us out today.

After lunch, we had Math where we are continuing to work on time, reviewing time to the hour, half hour, and quarter hour (quarter past and quarter to). We then spent some time really honing in on ‘quarter to’ as it tends to be the trickiest. After our large group work at the carpet, the children worked on an independent activity.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had Shared Reading (since we weren’t able to complete all of our morning routines today before we left for our trip), followed by independent reading and some catch up time.

Have a great night! Remember, tomorrow is our weekly word work quiz.

Allison

News for Wednesday, April 10^th…

Reminders:

1. Apple Field Trip tomorrow! Please have your child wear his/her fairytale costume to school tomorrow, as there will not be time to change before we leave for our field trip. Volunteers are asked to be at the school for 9:25.

2. Country Research Project/Media Literacy Brochure: Your child has brought home his/her country research project, as well as his/her media literacy brochure tonight (tucked inside the duotang). Stapled at the front is your child’s rubric for the project, the brochure, and his/her oral presentation. These do not need to be returned back to school, as I have kept a copy. Overall, they did a great job on this project!

3. Please add to our classroom calendar: Please add our Silver City trip to our April classroom calendar (on April 18^th – morning), as well as our spring celebration that afternoon. Students who are asked to bring treats for our Easter/Spring celebration that day are: Aidan, Adrienne, Ella, and Keira.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “Easter Puzzle” and then we focused on verbs. For our read aloud we continued our chapter book: “Sideways Stories from Wayside School” and then we had writing where we continued to work on writing our own fairytales.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by printing where we worked on a task that Ms. Cianci has asked all classes to work on. As you may have noticed, the climbers that were located at the back part of the field were taken out awhile ago. Ms. Cianci has asked the children to write persuasive letter about what should go where the old playground was. So today, we reviewed the components of persuasive writing, did a think/pair/share of possible ideas we had, and then the students set to work on completing a graphic organizer for their persuasive writing work. Just before lunch, we worked on finishing up our ‘peek-a-boo’ egg art so that we can hang these in the hallway tomorrow.

After lunch, we had Math where today we focused on ‘quarter to’. Probably the trickiest one since the digital time does not really match how we say the time in words (e.g., we write 12:45, but say quarter to 1). We reviewed time to the hour, half hour, quarter past, and then spent a lot of time working on quarter to today. After our large group time, the children worked on completing an independent activity. Just before last recess, we had snack. Those who order popcorn, had it delivered today.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end our day, we had a bit of catch up time to finish math, our Easter art, and then we had Science where we continued to work on our science projects. Most students are done their rough copies and are working on their good copies.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Tuesday, April 9^th…

Another beautiful day outside today!

Reminders:

1. Shoeboxes: If your child hasn’t brought in a shoebox yet, please do so as soon as possible as we will be using these for our science project later this week.

2. Field trip form – a field trip form for a field trip to Silver City to see Disney’s Earth Day movie has been sent home. Please complete the form and do the online payment as soon as possible (hopefully by this Friday). For those wishing to volunteer, please indicate such on the sheet and then we will be doing a ‘draw’ as we are only allowed so many spaces for volunteers for this trip. I will let those people know based on the forms handed in by Friday – I hope to let you know either Friday sometime or on Monday.

3. Animal Quizzes: Your child’s animal classification quiz has been sent home today. These do not need to be returned as I have kept a copy.

4. Pocket Snack for Apple Field Trip: Please send in a pocket snack tomorrow for our Apple Field Trip on Thursday. Please put your child’s name on the snack. Collecting snack tomorrow will just make Thursday morning run a little smoother.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “Easter Puzzle” and then we focused on homonyms/homophones (e.g., sea/see, to/two/too). We brainstormed as many of these types of words as we could and then we did an activity with such. For read aloud, we read an Easter story and then it was time for independent reading. Just before morning recess, we had writing where we worked on our graphic organizers for our own fairytales. As students progress through the graphic organizer, they conference with me, and then they begin working on their rough copy. We had a few students start their rough copies today which was awesome!

After morning recess, we had snack followed by an Easter read aloud and art. Our art today was titled “Peek-a-Boo Eggs” where the children had to draw an Easter scene on a cut out egg. They look super cute and we look forward to displaying them in the hallway soon….we just need a little bit more time tomorrow to finish them up. Be sure to check out our spring tulip art in the hall that we worked on yesterday – they’re just beautiful! It’s looking very springy outside of our classroom!

After lunch we had Math where we reviewed time to the hour, half-hour, and quarter past. We did some large group activities and then the children worked independently. Overall, the students are doing well with time and have improved greatly when drawing hands on the clock as they know I’m super picky about hand placement. Tomorrow, we will move onto ‘quarter to’ – very tricky! Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end our day, we had Science where we continued working on our science projects –focusing on creating a sign with information about our animals. Many students are now finished the rough copy and have begun working on their good copy.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Monday, April 8th...

I hope everyone had a great weekend and enjoyed the warmer temperatures! Yay - spring has finally arrived I think (fingers crossed!).

Just a reminder that April Book Orders are due tomorrow.

We began our morning with planner writing, our 'Mistake Monday' morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, our poem this week is all about Easter (since Easter and Earth Day fall over the same weekend next weekend, we will focus on Easter this week and Earth Day next week). To begin, we brainstormed what came to mind when we think of the word Easter. We then listened to/read through our poem, and we did an activity where we had to spot ten differences between two Easter scenes. We had some independent reading time, followed by word work where we went over the words of the week and then copied them into our planners. For read aloud, we read a spring story that tied into our art activity for today: Drawing (then painting) tulips.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by art where we worked on following given steps to draw, then paint, some spring tulips. These are now drying on the drying rack and we look forward to displaying our spring art soon!

After lunch, those that were involved in Dance Club headed off to the Dance Festival, while the remaining members of our class invited those who were not in Dance Club from Mrs. Hardy's/Mrs. Proulx's class for part of the afternoon where we read a story, had some buddy reading time, and then worked on Dreambox. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had a bit of catch up time.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Thursday, April 4th…

Reminders:

1. No school for students tomorrow as it is a PD Day. Teachers will be participating in Professional Development.

2. Please read the Apple Trip/Fairytale Day note that was sent home today, so that you have time to think of a costume idea.

3. Word ring testing will take place on Monday. The Dance Festival also takes place on Monday, so be sure your child comes dressed in the appropriate wear.

4. Please remember to send in a shoebox with your child for our animal science project.

We began our morning with planner, followed by our weekly word work quiz. The quizzes have been marked and sent home in your child’s communication bag. We then gathered at the carpet for morning message, calendar, and shared reading. During shared reading, we sang our poem “Animals” and then we focused on contractions. We also played a couple of word games. We also went over this weekend’s homework activity, followed by heading to the library for our weekly book exchange. The children were encouraged to sign out one book about their animal as well. Most students were able to find a book about their animal, which was great!

After morning recess, we had snack followed by listening to Kate’s “Student of the Week” presentation and then some buddy reading time. We then headed outside for Outside Gym with Miss. Baxendale.

After lunch, we had Math where we reviewed time to the hour and half hour. We then focused on quarter past/quarter after. A bit trickier, but we spent a good chunk of time at the carpet going through many examples and practicing on our clocks. After our large group time, the children worked on an independent activity, working very hard on the preciseness of the minute and hour hands. The students might need a little bit of help with the last row of the math section of the homework as we've just touched on quarter to slightly - this will be more of a focus next week, but I would like them to give it a try.

After last recess, the children had Science where we continued to work on our animal research projects. To end the day, the children had Health with Miss. Jiwani.

Allison

News for Wednesday, April 3^rd…

3D Geometry Math Quizzes: Your child has brought home his/her 3D Geometry math quiz tonight. Please look over and review it with your child, sign it, and please return.

Shoebox: Each child is asked to bring in an empty shoebox for the animal science project we are working on.

Thank you to the many families who donated in the yellow daffodil envelopes today, supporting a very important cause. Be sure to check out our poster in the hallway showing our donations.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our morning message and calendar routines. For shared reading, we sang our ‘Animals’ poem/song, did some grammar work, and played a couple of word games. We read another chapter from “Sideways Stories of Weyside School” and then we had independent reading followed by writing where we began with a large group activity where we created a fairytale together. We sorted a variety of fairytale cards (into characters, setting, etc…) to help everyone generate some ideas for their own story writing. The children then began to work on their own graphic organizer for their own fairytale. We only had a little time to delve into our graphic organizers today, but we will continue working on such tomorrow.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by our science quiz on animal classification. After our quiz, we began working on our animal research projects. I gave the children back their animal selection pages so they could find out the animal they would be researching and then they set to work on their rough copy. Tomorrow at library, the children will also be encouraged to sign out a library book about their animal as an additional resource.

After lunch, we had Math where we concentrated on telling time to the hour and half hour today. We continued practicing telling and reading time by using our own individual clocks and then I showed the children another online game they could play at home on telling time…these games are listed under ‘my links’ on our website. After our large group work, the children completed an independent activity. We also briefly started talking about quarter past/after today as this will be our focus tomorrow. The children have learned, as they were drawing clocks today, that I am very picky about hand placement when drawing times such as half past…the hour hand should only point right to the hour when it is an o’clock.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had snack and then Science where we continued working on our animal research projects.

Just a reminder that tomorrow is our weekly word work quiz since Friday is a PD Day.

Allison

News for Tuesday, April 2^nd…

Storytelling Note: Please be sure to read the yellow note about ‘Storytelling’ sent home with your child today. If you have any questions, please just let me know.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we sang our poem about ‘Animals’ and then we focused on rhyming words and blends today. We also played a couple of word games. For read aloud, we read another chapter of “Sideways Stories at Weyside School” and then we got out the chromebooks and the children had an opportunity to browse through the research program “Pebble Go” to look at what animals may be of interest to them for our science research project on an animal of their choice. Today, they had lots of time to explore the website and then write down their top three choices. I will look at their choices tonight and then give everyone their assigned animal tomorrow (this way we don’t have 21 students all researching elephants, as for part of the project, the children will be presenting their research to their peers – and family members – so we want a good variety of animals at our ‘Ryerson Zoo!’).

After morning recess, we had snack followed by Science where we reviewed the animal groups, characteristics for each, as well as examples for each group. They have brought home their review sheet tonight. After science, we had some independent reading time and then we writing where we reviewed the common elements of a fairytale, looked over the rubric that I will be using to mark their own written fairytale, and then looked at a couple of examples from previous years. Tomorrow we will begin working on our own fairytales!

After lunch, we had Math where we reviewed time to the hour and then focused on today’s lesson which was time to the half hour. We began with some large group work on the SmartBoard and practicing with our individual clocks. The children then also completed a follow up activity, independently. For half past (or :30), I am very picky about the hour hand placement, the hour hand should be half way to the next number (e.g., for 2:30 or half past two, the minute hand should point directly at the 6, but the hour hand should be between the 2 and the 3). We also played a telling time game on the SmartBoard called “Bedtime Bandits” – it is listed under ‘my links’ on our classroom website. Some of the children that finished their independent work early, had the chance to play this game on a chromebook too.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end our day, we had Science where we focusing on identifying the needs of animals (e.g., air, food, water, shelter). In their table groups, each group was given a picture of animal, a large piece of chart paper, and a marker. The children were asked to discuss the different needs of their animal (e.g., the thing their animal needs in order to survive), they recorded these needs on the chart paper. After each group had some time to work, we posted our work at the front and looked at what needs were similar across all groups/what needs were different, as well as why this might be.

Have a great night! Just a reminder that tomorrow is our quiz on animal classification (groups, characteristics, and examples).

Allison

News for Monday, April 1^st!

Welcome to April! When I woke up yesterday and looked out the window, I thought it was Mother Nature’s way of an early April Fool’s joke…I couldn’t believe all the snow! I think it’s safe to say that March went out like a lion!

April Book Orders have been sent home today and are due back by April 9^th at the latest.

Word ring testing took place today, so be sure to check your child's ring for new words.

We began our morning with planner writing, our ‘Mistake Monday’ morning message, and calendar – where we went over all of the special dates for this month. For shared reading this week our poem is all about animals to tie in with our learning in Science. Our poem is actually a song, so we listened to the song and then sang along. We also talked about animal classes and then did some sound work games, as well as played a couple of word games. It was then time for another chapter in our chapter book, followed by some independent reading time. For word work, we gathered at the carpet and read through our words of the week and then copied them into our planners. Just before morning recess, we began the second part of our science activity from Friday where the children were given page two – a list of 16 more animals- and they had to cut and paste them into the correct animal classification group on their papers. We will have a quiz on animal classification on Wednesday of this week focusing on the names, characteristics, and examples for each of the 6 groups we’ve been learning about.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where we reread the story of “Cinderella” – thank you Lilly for bringing in this version to share with us. We then completed the graphic organizer for this story, followed by watching a short video clip about such. After writing, we began a math activity titled “Which Hour?” which focuses on the spacing in a clock.

After lunch, we had Math where we focused on telling time to the hour today. We used the clocks we created on Friday to practice telling time to the hour, discussing how time to the hour can be represented on both analogue and digital clocks. I’m very picky about hand placement when telling time, so we really worked hard to pay attention to this. We engaged in a variety of activities on the SmartBoard and then the children completed a follow up independent activity. We were basically starting from square one at the beginning of our lesson today, but by the end most students were very comfortable with time to the hour. Tomorrow we will move onto time to the half hour, which also should be review from Grade One, but many students were unsure of such during our diagnostic assessment. With some practice, we will get there and then move onto time to the quarter hour (quarter past and quarter to) – which is the expectation in Grade 2.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end our day, we had Science where we began talking about the animal research project we will be starting tomorrow. We also ended our day with some independent reading time.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Friday, March 29th...

Do you think March will go out like a lion or a lamb on Sunday? I'm hoping for lamb!

Happy Friday!

We began our day with planner writing, followed by our weekly word work quiz. I marked the quizzes at lunch time and they have been sent home in your child's communication bag. After word work, we gathered at the carpet for morning message, calendar, and shared reading. During shared reading, the children read through the poem, completed a sequencing activity, and played a word game. We also went over this week's homework activity. The second side of the homework focuses on animal classification which we have been working on in science. This activity should provide a good review as we will be having a quiz on animal classification mid-week, where the children will be asked to name characteristics for each group, as well as list some examples for each group. The children had some buddy reading time and throughout the morning were called to the library for various club/team photos (e.g., choir, dance club).

After morning recess, the children had snack followed by Math where we began our focus on telling time to the quarter hour. Today, we talked about how we measure time (e.g., in seconds, minutes, days, weeks, years, seasons, etc...) and what tools we use to measure such (e.g., clocks, watches, calendars). The children then began working on creating their own clock that we will use at school for practice. They did a great job with this!

After lunch, we listened to Lilly's and Owen's "Student of the Week" presentation. We then had Science where the children worked on a sorting activity where they were given 16 animals and had to sort them into the appropriate animal group. On Monday, we will cut out and glue the final 16 animals onto our sheets.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had Writing where we read our last fairytale for our elements sheet: "Cinderella". After reading the story, we completed our elements checklist and then had some catch-up time to finish science.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Allison

News for Thursday, March 28^th…

Sorry for no blog yesterday as I was not at school.

We began our morning today with planner writing – just a reminder that tomorrow is team/club photo day. Your child may want to wear his/her Ryerson shirt to show some Ryerson spirit! After planner, we had morning message, calendar, and shared reading. We read a chapter from our chapter book, “Sideways Stories from Wayside School.” We had some independent reading time and then Science where the children worked on sorting various pictures into the proper animal classification group.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by library book exchange. For gym, the children had gym in the library with Miss. Baxendale, due to the weather.

After lunch, we had Math where we worked on our 3D shape quiz. They worked very hard on these and I will mark them over the next few days.

After last recess, we had snack and some catch-up time. To end the day, the children had Health with Miss. Jiwani.

Allison

News for Tuesday, March 26^th…

Dance Club: Permission forms have been sent home with Dance Club members for the upcoming Thames Valley District School Board Dance Festival. Please return the form, as well as make the payment online.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem and then we focused a lot on blends. We found and circled the blends in the poem, did an activity sorting words that had blends at the beginning of the word or at the end of the word, played a blends game, as well as played a word game. We then had read aloud where we continued with the reading of our chapter book. We had some independent reading time, followed by a diagnostic assessment. The assessment today was on telling time – this assessment was to help to inform me on what the students already know about telling time, as this will be our next math unit, following 3D shapes. Our 3D shapes unit will likely end on Thursday of this week and then we will begin with our Time unit. In Grade 2, the children will be expected to tell time to the quarter hour, on both analogue and digital clocks. When at home, begin to reference the clock and note the time when doing certain activities as this will help to put this unit into a meaningful context.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where today we read the fairytale, “Jack and the Beanstalk.” After reading the story, we completed our elements checklist, noting which fairytale elements were present in this version of the story. We then had some catch up time, finishing up some math from yesterday, as well as our ‘fish’ pages in our minibooks and finding some fish pictures to go on our anchor chart.

After lunch, we had Math where we reviewed the names and properties of various 3D shapes. We listened to two e-texts about two more 3D shapes and then I modelled how to play another 3D shapes game based on “Slides/Snakes and Ladders.” After modelling, the children worked in small groups to play the game and then they worked independently on an activity. We will likely have a quiz on 3D shapes on Thursday of this week.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end our day, we had Science where we focused on the last animal classification group in our mini books: Insects. We began by brainstorming what we thought we knew about insects. We then listened to an e-text about insects, as well as watched a short video clip. We worked on completing the insects page in our minibooks, as well as completing our class anchor chart for reference.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Monday, March 25^th…

The last week of March! Time is just flying by!

Notes:

1. Your child has brought home a permission form that includes information about an in-school art opportunity through the program: Art Starts. Please complete the form, as well as the online payment by April 4^th. We will not need parent volunteers for this activity.

2. Word ring testing resumed today, so please check your child’s ring for new words.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading today, I didn’t tell the children the topic of our poem, instead we read through the poem together (with the title hidden) and they had to infer (use clues) to see if they could determine the title. After reading through the poem a couple of times and making some predictions, I revealed the titled of our poem this week is “Clouds”. Now knowing the title, we reread the poem and you could hear the “ah-ha’s” ~ getting all of the clues. After shared reading, we had read aloud where we continued with our chapter book, followed by some independent reading time. For word work, we gathered back at the carpet and read through this week’s words of the week, discussing the focus, and writing them in our planners. Just before morning recess, we had a little bit of catch up time to finish our amphibians mini book page, our 3D shape art, as well as sing our ‘Caribbean Amphibian’ song.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where today we re-read the story of ‘The Frog Prince’ and we completed a graphic organizer noting how the story began, the setting, the good characters, the evil characters, the problem, the 3 main events, the solution, the closing, as well as any other fairytale elements (e.g., magic, groups of 3 or 7). The children are now becoming very familiar with the set-up of our graphic organizer which should really help them when they begin to write their own fairytale early next week. We also watched a short video clip of ‘The Frog Prince’ too, comparing similarities and differences to the book. Just before lunch, we worked on Dreambox on the chromebooks.

After lunch, we had Math where we are continuing to work on 3D shapes for most of this week. We read two e-texts about two of the 3D shapes today (cone and cube). We then began playing a 3D solids game. I first modelled the game at the carpet and then the children worked in groups of 3 to play the game. After our small group time, the children worked on a follow up activity sheet where they were given riddle clues and had to determine the shape being described. Some of the riddles were tricky!

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end our day, we had Science where we reviewed the animal classes studied thus far: Mammals, Birds, Reptiles, and Amphibians. Our focus today was on Fish. To begin, we brainstormed what we thought we knew about fish. We then listened to an e-text about fish, as well as watched a video clip. We then created an anchor chart about fish, listing characteristics. After our large group time, the children worked in their mini books, on the fish page, noting characteristics of fish, as well as drawing/labelling some examples.

Have a great evening!

Allison

News for Friday, March 22^nd…

Wow! This week of school just flew by!

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our weekly word work quiz. The quizzes have been marked and sent home in your child’s communication bag. After word work, we gathered at the carpet for our morning message, calendar, and shared reading routines. During shared reading today, we read through our poem, as well as talked about rebus stories. We then read through our poem where some words had been replaced by pictures. We went over this week’s homework task and also listened to Keira and Brady’s “Student of the Week” presentations. It was then time for our read aloud, followed by some buddy reading time. Just before morning recess, we had a little bit of catch-up time to finish working on the reptiles page in our science minibooks, as well as taking the time to cut out some pictures of reptiles to glue onto our reptiles anchor chart.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by Math where we reviewed the names and properties of various 3D shapes. Today, we focused on skeletons where the children used toothpicks (to represent edges) and marshmallows (to represent vertices) to create a cube, square based pyramid, and triangle based pyramid. After creating each shape, they recorded how many edges and vertices were needed to make each shape on a recording paper. They had a lot of fun with this activity and have brought home their creations tonight. As students finished, they worked on completing their 3D shape art activity that we started yesterday.

After lunch, we headed to the gym for a Ryerson assembly. We listened to a very inspiring guest speaker, Theresa Carriere, who started the ‘One Run’ as a way to support and help those fighting against cancer.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had Science where we focused on the animal group: Amphibians. We watched an e-text about amphibians and then noted the characteristics of amphibians on an anchor chart. We then completed the mini book page about amphibians, as well as began looking for pictures in magazines of amphibians to glue onto our anchor chart. We also began learning a cute little song titled, “Caribbean Amphibian.”

Have a wonderful weekend! Remember, word ring testing takes place on Monday.

Allison

News for Thursday, March 21^st…

With the light rain outside today, it almost felt like the start of “April showers bring May flowers.” Spring has definitely arrived!

I hope everyone was able to guess their child’s 3D shape riddle last night.

Just a reminder that tomorrow is a Ryerson spirit day! Children are asked to wear their Ryerson clothes or Ryerson colours (blue and gold/yellow).

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “Goodbye my Winter Suit” and then we created our own version of the poem by changing some of the words. We also played a couple of word games and did an activity about spring flowers. For read aloud, we continued with our chapter book and then had some independent reading time. After independent reading, we had writing where we read the fairytale “The Frog Prince”. After reading the story, we worked together to complete the elements checklist page for this fairytale. Just before recess, we worked on finishing our science page about ‘birds’ in our minibooks, noting the common characteristics of birds, as well as drawing some examples. As students finished, they looked through our classroom magazines to find pictures of birds to cut out and glue onto our anchor chart about birds.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by library book exchange. It was then time for Outside Gym with Miss. Baxendale…thankfully the rain held off.

After lunch, we had Math we reviewed the names and properties of various 3D shapes. We then watched a video clip about 3D shapes, followed by completing an independent activity, reviewing the names and properties of a number of 3D shapes. Part way through math, we turned our focus to a math/art activity where worked on drawing various 3D shapes – we look forward to displaying these in the hallway soon. Most of us got a good start on the activity and we will continue with such tomorrow or early next week.

After last recess, we had Science where today we focused on reptiles. To begin, we brainstormed what we thought we knew about reptiles and then we watched an e-text about such. We then worked together to create an anchor chart about the characteristics of reptiles, followed by working on the page about reptiles in our minibooks. To end the day, the children had Health with Miss. Jiwani.

Have a great night! I can’t believe tomorrow will already be Friday!

Allison

News for Wednesday, March 20^th…

Happy first day of spring! Yay!

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “Goodbye My Winter Suit” and then we focused on rhyming words, the difference between ‘eet’ and ‘eat’, and we also played a word game. For read aloud, we continued with our chapter book, “Sideways Stories from Wayside School” and then we had some independent reading time. After independent reading, we had Science where we took some time to review the characteristics of the mammal animal classification group and then we finished that page in our mini books. As students finished, they looked through a variety of our classroom magazines to find examples of mammals that they could cut out and then glue onto our anchor chart.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where we read a different version of the fairytale ‘Rumplestiltskin’ and then we completed our graphic organizer about such. We work together to complete a graphic organizer about each fairytale we read so that when it comes time for the children to write their own fairytale, they will be very familiar with the graphic organizer to plan their own piece of writing. We also watched a short video clip about this fairytale and then compared the similarities and differences between the books and the video clip. After our writing time, the children worked on the math program, “Dreambox.”

After lunch, we had Math where we began our time with the children having an opportunity to share their 3D shape riddle with the class. As each student presented their riddle, their classmates tried to guess which 3D solid was being described. They have brought home their riddle tonight to see if you can guess which shape they wrote about too! After our large group time at the carpet, the children worked on an independent activity where they are practicing the names of the various 3D solids, as well as describing the properties of such (i.e., number of faces, edges, vertices, curved surfaces, as well as listing everyday examples).

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had snack and then turned our focus back to Science where we talked about birds. We listened to an e-text about birds and then recorded the characteristics of birds on our anchor chart. The children then completed the follow up activity page about birds in their mini book. As students finished, they looked for examples of bird pictures to cut out from our classroom magazines that we could add to our anchor chart.

Have a wonderful evening,

Allison

News for Tuesday, March 19^th…

The last official day of winter…yay! Bring on spring!

We began our morning with planner writing, morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem: “Goodbye My Winter Suit” and we focused on antonyms (opposites) today. We then read the next chapter in our new chapter book: “Sideways Stories from Wayside School” followed by having some independent reading time. After independent reading, we worked on finishing up our 3D shape anchor charts from yesterday. These are now on display in our classroom for reference during our math time.

After morning recess we had snack followed by writing where today we reviewed the elements of a fairytale and then we read the story of Rumplestiltskin. We also completed our elements checklist, noting which fairytale features were present in this particular version of the story. After Writing, we had Science where we reviewed the names of the 6 animal classes we will be focusing on during this unit (mammals, birds, fish, reptiles, amphibians, and insects). We watched a short video clip about animal classes and then completed the cover page of our ‘Classes of Animals’ mini book.

After lunch, we had Math where we began our time by reviewing the names and properties of various 3D shapes. We then watched an e-text about 3D shapes. As a follow up, I displayed all of the 3D shapes in the middle of the carpet and gave the students a riddle clue where they had to use the clue(s) to determine which shape I was describing. We did this for a variety of shapes. After our large group time, the children worked on an independent activity where they had to name various 3D shapes, as well as describe their properties (i.e., number of faces, edges, vertices, and curved surfaces). Once that was completed, the children began working on creating their own 3D shape riddle. Here, they had to write 3 clues describing a 3D shape of their choice. Tomorrow, each student will have a chance to present their riddle and their peers will have a chance to determine which shape is being described.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end our day we had snack and Science where we focused on our first animals group: Mammals. To begin, we brainstormed what we ‘thought’ we knew about animals. We then watched an e-text about mammals, as well as a short video clip. We began working together to create an anchor chart about mammals – listing common characteristics, as well as some examples. The children will then be asked to look through our variety of classroom magazines to cut out examples of mammals to glue onto our anchor chart. We also worked on the mini book page about animals in our ‘Classes of Animals’ booklet.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Monday, March 18^th…

Welcome back! I hope everyone had a great March Break and that whether you travelled far or stayed close to home, that you enjoyed time with family and friends! Steve and I enjoyed some sun and warm weather as we went on a cruise in the Caribbean last week. We had such a lovely time – the weather was perfect – between 25 and 30 degrees each day! Definitely a nice change from the chilly temperatures here….but thankfully, spring is just around the corner!

Notes:

1. Apple field trip forms and online payments are due by tomorrow. Thank you to those families who have already submitted such.

2. Please look over, sign, and return the 2-digit adding and subtracting quizzes that the children completed just before March Break. All Term 2 quizzes will be sent home for you to keep later in the school year.

3. Word ring testing did not take place today as I kept the communication bags (with the rings) over the break. Word ring testing will resume next Monday.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our ‘Mistake Monday’ morning message. We then completed our calendar routine, followed by Shared Reading. Our Shared Reading poem this week is titled, “Good-bye My Winter Suit” as spring begins this Wednesday…yay! We talked about what things we will be glad to say goodbye to about winter, as well as what things we are looking forward to about spring. We then read through our poem and then sorted the winter and spring activities within the poem. After Shared Reading, we began a new chapter book: “Sideways Stories from Wayside School” by Louis Sachar. This is always a chapter book the kids love as it’s quite humorous. Read aloud was followed by some independent reading time and then word work, where we went over this week’s words of the week and then wrote them in our planners.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by Math where we began our next math unit: Three Dimensional (3D) Geometry. The students were asked to make some predictions about this math unit, based on some clues – each child was given the chance to reach inside a bag and feel what was inside – they then had the opportunity to guess such. After they discovered there were 3D shapes inside, we talked about the difference between 2D shapes and 3D figures, as well as some common 3D shapes names and terms (e.g., edges, faces, vertices, curved surfaces). We then went through each of the shapes discussing each shape’s name, as well as its properties (number of faces, edges, vertices, and curved surfaces). The children were then put into small groups with each group given the task of creating an anchor chart about 1 shape – these anchor charts will be displayed in our class to be used as a reference point throughout our unit. On the anchor chart, the children needed to include a picture of the 3D solid (which I gave to them), the name of the shape, number of edges, number of faces, number of vertices, number of curved surfaces, and list some everyday examples of this shape. Each group got a great start on their anchor chart today.

After lunch, we had writing where we are working on fairytales. Today, we reread the story of “Hansel and Gretel” and then completed a graphic organizer about this version of the story. We then watched a video clip of such. The remainder of our writing time was spent working in our writing books writing about our March Break.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end our day, we turned our focus to Science. Over the last couple of months we have been really focusing on Social Studies, so today we turned our focus to a new unit in Science: Growth and Changes in Animals. To begin, each table group was given an envelope with a variety of animal pictures inside. The groups were asked to sort the animals in some way. After groups had an opportunity to share how they sorted their pictures, we worked as a class to sort the animal pictures into the 6 main animal classification groups (mammals, fish, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insects). Once sorted, we talked about the similar and different characteristics of each group. We then watched an e-text titled “What are Animals?”

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Friday, March 8^th…

Happy Friday! It’s hard to believe that March Break is now upon us and that when we return we only have 3 ½ months left in the school year…time flies when you’re having fun!

Notes:

1. I have kept all of the children’s planners and communication bags at school over the break. No homework! Take the week to enjoy and have fun!

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our weekly word work quiz. The quizzes have been marked, but will be sent home after the break. We then gathered at the carpet for morning message, calendar, and shared reading. During shared reading, we sang out two St. Patrick’s Day songs and then focused on how good readers are always asking questions. We talked about what questions they may have about St. Patrick’s Day. We then read a St. Patrick’s Day story, followed by Abby’s “Student of the Week” presentation. After our time at the carpet, the children had some buddy reading time.

After morning recess, we had Social Studies where we continued to work on our maps. We have some very creative maps and many students were able to finish or are very close to finishing. We then had Writing where we read the fairytale of ‘Hansel and Gretel.’ We then completed our story elements checklist, noting which elements were present in the version we read of Hansel and Gretel.

After lunch, we moved our desks to our new seating format and then did a desk cleanout. As students finished, they worked on the math program Dreambox on the computers.

After last recess, the class had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had snack and watched a video clip at the carpet.

Have a wonderful March Break! I look forward to hearing all about everyone’s break when we return back to school on Monday, March 18^th! Be sure to have a great St. Patrick’s Day!

Allison

News for Thursday, March 7^th…

Only 1 day to go! If possible, please try to return your child’s permission form for the Apple Store field trip, as well as make the online payment of $7.00 by tomorrow.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we sang our two St. Patrick’s Day songs and then we continued to focus on the rules for adding ‘ing’ to words (e.g., when to we just add ing, when do we take away the e and then add ing, when do we double the last letter before adding ing, etc…). We then read a St. Patrick’s Day story, followed by some independent reading time. After independent reading, we had those students who didn’t have a chance to present their country brochure yesterday, do so at this time. We also had some time to work on our maps.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by library book exchange and then gym with Miss. Baxendale.

After lunch, we had our math quiz on 2-digit adding and subtracting, followed by snack.

After last recess, we had Social Studies where we continued to work on our maps. To end the day, the children had Health with Miss. Jiwani.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Wednesday, March 6^th….

Thank you to the many families who have already returned the Apple Store field trip forms, as well as made the payment online. If you haven’t already done so, it would be great if you could do so before March Break.

We began our morning with planner writing, morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we sang our two St. Patrick’s Day songs and then talked about the celebration of St. Patrick’s Day. We watched a powerpoint presentation about such and then read a fiction and a non-fiction book about St. Patricks’ Day. It was then time for independent reading, followed by some more discussion about St. Patrick’s Day. We watched another powerpoint presentation, as well as a video clip about St. Patrick’s Day and then completed our follow-up activity page about St. Patrick’s Day in our Traditions and Celebrations duotangs.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by Social Studies where the children had a chance to look over the brochures they completed about their country. They then, one by one, presented the brochure of their country to their classmates. This was a great way to learn about a few different countries around the world. I have also copied everyone’s brochures so we can have a ‘master’ copy to keep in our classroom for the children to peruse at their leisure.

After lunch, we had Math where we are continuing to work on 2-digit adding and subtracting. Tomorrow, we will have a quiz on such. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had Social Studies again where our focus today was on beginning to create our own maps. The children could create a map of their choosing (e.g., about a made- up island, a treasure map, a map of the school, etc…). We went over the success criteria (e.g., their map must have a title, a key/legend, include at least 6 symbols, have a compass rose, and be coloured and completed neatly).

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Tuesday, March 5^th...

Despite a super chilly weather day, it was a fun and super busy day in Grade Two!

Notes:

1. Term 1 quizzes have been sent home today for you to keep.

2. March Book orders are due tomorrow.

We began our morning with planner writing, morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through (as well as sang) our two St. Patrick’s Day poems/songs. We then did some grammar focusing on adding ‘ing’ to words and the rules for doing such (e.g., if a word ends in e, like skate, when we add ing we take away the e – skating; if a word ends in a vowel and then a consonant, like run, we double the last consonant before adding ing –like running). We then read a St. Patrick’s Day story, followed by a Pancake Day one – in honour of Shrove Tuesday today. It was then time for a little independent reading before having early snack/a washroom break. After snack, we boarded the bus for our fourth and final skating field trip.

It has been great to see the children actively participate in the four skating sessions and watching the growth, especially for our beginner skaters. As a celebration today, at the end of our skating time, we enjoyed some hot chocolate and popcorn! Thank you to the Western Fair and their sponsors for offering such a great program. Thank you also to our many parent volunteers who came out to tie skates, help take off skates, skate on the ice, etc….your help and support is always so appreciated!

When we came back to school it was lunch recess, followed by our late lunch today due to skating. We then turned our focus to Math where today we worked on an activity that had adding and subtracting on one page. We talked about strategies for completing such (e.g., starting with all of the adding, then doing the subtracting, circling the operation sign to ensure if we are supposed to be adding or subtracting, etc…). The children did a great job and we will have a quiz on 2-digit adding and subtracting (with some problem solving type questions) on Thursday or Friday of this week.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end our day, we honoured Shrove Tuesday by reading a story, “Pancakes for Supper” and then enjoyed some yummy pancakes for last snack. Thank you to the many families who donated supplies for our event today, as well as the moms who came in to cook.

Have a wonderful evening – it was a chilly day today, but each day is supposed to get better and better this week – yay!

Allison

News for Monday, March 4^th…

Notes:

1. Permission forms for our upcoming field trip to the Apple Store have been sent home today. Please complete the orange form, the white form, as well as make the online payment. It would be great if everything could be returned/online payment completed before we leave for March Break, if possible.

2. Tomorrow is our final skating trip! Please ensure your child brings his/her skates and helmet.

3. Tomorrow is also ‘Pancakes and Pyjamas’ Day in our class!

4. Word ring testing took place today. Be sure to check your child’s ring for new words.

We began our morning with planner writing, our ‘Mistake Monday’ morning message, and calendar. For shared reading this week, our focus is all about St. Patrick’s Day. We will be completing shared reading activities in class, however the orange duotang will not go home this weekend as March Break should truly be a break, therefore – no homework. We read through and sang two St. Patrick’s Day songs as part of our shared reading this week and then we read two St. Patrick’s Day stories. It was then time for independent reading. After independent reading, we gathered back at the carpet for word work where we went over this week’s words of the week and wrote them in our planners. Just before morning recess, we turned our focus to Social Studies where most students are now finished their country research project, as well as their media literacy brochure – they will be presenting these to their peers later this week. We are now continuing with our focus on mapping skills, today revisiting cardinal directions (North, East, South, West). We completed some activities on the SmartBoard and then the children worked on an independent activity.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where we continued with our focus on the fairytale of Snow White. We reviewed the elements that make up a fairytale and then we reread the story of Snow White. After doing such, we completed a graphic organizer about the story noting the title, opening, setting – time and place, the good characters and evil characters, the problem, the 3 main events, the solution, the closing, and any other fairytale features (e.g., magic, groups of 3/7). We will be completing a graphic organizer for each of the stories we read as this will help familiarize the children well with the graphic organizer so they will be ready to use one independently when they begin to write their own fairytale. After completing the graphic organizer, we watched a short video clip about Snow White – comparing similarities and differences to the version of the story we read. Just before lunch, we finished working on our ‘directions’ activities from Social Studies earlier in the morning.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with some problem solving work at the carpet. We then continued to work with 2-digit subtraction, with and without regrouping. They are doing so well! I’m so proud of them! Tomorrow, we will move onto activities where the page has some 2 digit addition questions and subtraction questions. We will have a quiz on such later this week. Just before last recess we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end our day, we had Social Studies where we focused on mapping symbols. We engaged in some activities on the SmartBoard and then children worked with a friend interpreting some mapping symbols. Later in the week, the children will begin creating their own maps.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Friday, March 1^st….

Happy Friday and welcome to the month of March! I would say March came in like a lamb today as the sun is out and it’s not super, super cold…I just hope that doesn’t mean March will go out like a lion!

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our weekly word work quiz. The quizzes have been marked and sent home in your child’s communication bag. We then gathered at the carpet for morning message and calendar where we went over all of the special events and activities taking place this month. For shared reading, we read through our poem, completed a sequencing activity, played a couple of word games, and had anyone else who hadn’t shared their March Break plans with the class, do so. We also went over this week’s homework task…the children were provided with the option of borrowing one of our place value mats, as well as some tens and ones to help them with their homework if they so chose – please return these materials on Monday. We then listened to Maya’s “Student of the Week” presentation, followed by a read aloud where our read aloud today was ‘Snow White’ – as we just didn’t have enough time to get to such yesterday. After reading the story, we completed our fairytale elements checklist to see which items were present in this particular version of the story (e.g., did the story begin once upon a time, did it happen long ago and far away, was there royalty, did something happen in 3’s or 7’s, etc…). Just before morning recess, the children had some buddy reading time.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by Math where we began with some large group time at the carpet solving a 2-digit subtraction word problem. After working together at the carpet, the children completed an independent activity. They rocked this today….sooooo much better! I am so proud of them!

After lunch, we headed to the gym for a Ryerson Spirit Assembly! It was great to see lots of Ryerson gear and colours being sported today!

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we worked on the chromebooks on the math program, Dreambox.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Allison

News for Thursday, February 28^th…

The last day of February! Will March come in like a lion or a lamb tomorrow?

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our morning message and calendar routines. For shared reading, we read through our poem about March Break and had some more volunteers share their March Break plans with the class. We also played a couple of word games. For read aloud, we read a winter story and then had some independent reading time. We then gathered back at the carpet for Social Studies where today we focused on the similarities and differences between maps and globes. We did some large group work at the carpet about such and then the children completed an activity.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by library book exchange and then gym.

After lunch, we had Math where today we worked really hard using base ten blocks to solve two-digit subtraction questions, where some didn’t require regrouping and some did…very, very tricky! After spending a large chunk of time at the carpet, the children worked on an independent activity. This was very, very challenging for some, but with practice we will get there. Most are not doing standard algorithm, rather they are using base ten blocks to show the trading so that they understanding the process.

After last recess, we continued with math as we needed the extra time and we also had snack. To end the day, the children had Health with Miss. Jiwani.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Wednesday, February 27^th….

More snow! I’m really hoping this means that March is going to come in like a lion, but go out like a lamb!

Ryerson Spirit Day: This Friday (March 1^st) will be another Ryerson Spirit Day. The children are encouraged to wear their Ryerson clothing or Ryerson colours (blue/gold).

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “March Break” and focused on short and long vowel sounds. We played a couple of word games and had 5 more volunteers share their March Break plans with the class. For read aloud, we read a winter story followed by some independent reading time. We then continued to work on our Social Studies travel brochures.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where today we began our next form of writing: Fairytales. Over the past couple of weeks, the children have been looking at a variety of fairytale books that I signed out from our school. We took some time to brainstorm common characteristics in fairytales. Here’s what we came up with:

- Begin once upon a time

- The setting is long ago and far away

- There are some good characters and some evil characters

- Royalty

- Things happen in 3’s or 7’s

- Magic

- There’s a problem to solve

- Someone makes a plan to solve the problem

- There’s usually a reward

- End with happily ever after

Over the next couple of weeks, we will be reading a variety of fairytales as a whole class and be looking for the above characteristics. We will also be completing a graphic organizer about each of the fairytales we read so that the children will become comfortable with the format of such as the end goal is for the children to write their own fairytale.

After lunch, we had math. We began our math time today with me posing a 2-digit subtraction question (where regrouping wasn’t required) on the whiteboard and asking the children to try and solve such using their own individual whiteboards. We then discussed a variety of subtraction strategies we can use when solving 2-digit problems (e.g., base ten, standard algorithm, number line, etc…). We worked through several examples together using our place value mats and then the children worked independently on an activity. It was a tricky job for some to change the focus from addition to subtraction, but with practice we will get there. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had Social Studies where we continued to work on our brochures. Some students finished their brochure today so they worked on Dreambox on the chromebooks.

Have a great night! Can you believe tomorrow is the last day of February!

Allison

News for Tuesday, February 26^th…

Snow, snow, and more snow!

Our March classroom calendar has been sent home today, along with the March book orders (due in by March 6^th).

It was another indoor recess day again today due to all of the ice on the yard.

We began our morning with planner writing, morning message, and calendar pieces. For shared reading, we read through our poem about March Break and had a discussion on who we thought could be the author of this poem (e.g., kids, parents, teachers). We played a couple of word games and had 5 more volunteers share about their March Break plans. For read aloud, we read a winter story and then the children voted on which of the 10 Blue Spruce books was their favourite. It was then time for a snack and washroom break before heading out for skating session #3. They are doing such a great job skating! Thank you to all of our volunteers today!

Upon returning from skating, the children had a little bit of indoor recess time, followed by a late lunch. It was then time to turn our focus to Math where we continued to work on 2-digit addition, as well as some word problems. They did a fantastic job! Tomorrow, we will move onto 2-digit subtraction. Just before last recess we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end our day, we had Social Studies, where we began to work on creating a brochure for each of our countries (Media Literacy). The children will then present their brochures to the class at the end of next week so that we can learn a little bit more about each country.

Have a great night! I hear we’re in for some more snow again tomorrow!

Allison

News for Monday, February 25^th…

Wow! What a blustery, cold day outside! February certainly has been quite the weather month – thankfully, March is just around the corner!

On Friday, I spent the day working with a new Grade 2 teacher in our Board. As part of the mentoring program, we get to go and co-shadow another teacher. For this opportunity, we went to one of Thames Valley’s newest schools: Sir Arthur Currie Public School which is close to Fanshawe Park Road and Hyde Park. I had such a great day and came back with many new and exciting ideas to implement in my own class as well. Mrs. Atcheson reported the day went well here and the children did a great job on all of the activities I left them…way to go, Gr. 2’s!

Reminders:

1. Tomorrow is another skating trip! Be sure your child brings his/her skates/helmet.

2. Word ring testing took place today, so be sure to check your child’s ring for new words.

We began our morning with planner writing, our ‘Mistake Monday’ morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, our poem this week is all about March Break, as it’s only two weeks away! We read listened to our poem, as well as read through the poem together. We played a word game and had a few volunteers share their March Break plans with us. Everyone will have a chance to share at some point during the week. It was then time for read aloud. Today, we read our final blue spruce selection: ”Where Oliver Fits” written and illustrated by Cale Atkinson. Here is a synopsis of this book:

“Oliver has always dreamed about where he will fit. Will he be in the mane of a unicorn? The tentacle of a pirate squid? The helmet of an astronaut? When he finally goes in search of his perfect place, he finds that trying to fit in is a lot harder than he thought. But like any puzzle, a little trial and error leads to a solution, and Oliver figures out exactly where he belongs. Where Oliver Fits is a sweet and funny story that explores all the highs and lows of learning to be yourself and shows that fitting in isn't always the best fit.”

After listening to the story, the children gave their rating for this book and then chose their favourite out of the books on the second page of our bookmarks. Tomorrow, we will choose our favourite out of the ten books…it’s going to be a hard choice. After read aloud, we had some independent reading time, followed by word work. This week’s words are the same as last week’s words, however we just wrote them in the planner again for extra practice. Just before morning recess, we worked on writing the good copies of our penpal letters and putting them in the envelopes we addressed on Friday.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by Social Studies where today we worked on comparing our countries of research to that of Canada. The children were asked to use their books as a guide to help them find some similarities of their country to Canada, as well as some differences. As they finished this task, they continued to work on their final procedural writing mini book.

After lunch, we had Math where we continued to work on 2-digit adding questions, with and without regrouping. They are getting much more confident with this skill and even solved some word problems using this skill. Way to go, Gr. 2’s. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end our day, we had a bit of catch up time.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Thursday, February 21^st….

Sorry, I did not do a blog entry yesterday – I was home ill. My supply, Mr. Gale, said the class was amazing and they worked so hard on the activities I left. Way to go, Gr. 2’s!

Just a reminder that I am away tomorrow mentoring a new teacher, Mrs. Atcheson will be in for me.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem about Friendship and then focused on syllables. We reviewed what a syllable is and found examples of words with a certain number of syllables in our poem. For read aloud, we read our 8^th book in the Blue Spruce series. Today’s book was titled, “Tricky” by Kari Rust. Here is a brief synopsis:

“The Duke and his dog, Tricky, spend their days making trouble. They cheat, steal, and play cruel-hearted pranks on their neighbours, just for fun. But one day, somebody new comes to town and gives Tricky a treat that melts his mischievous heart — and sets him thinking about the effect his actions have on others. Inspired to change his ways, Tricky decides to set things right the only way he knows how… with tricks! Tricky’s ploy might just lead The Duke to reconsider his ways. Stylized cartoon-inspired art adds a distinctive mood and humour to this fun debut picture book about empathy, revenge, and reform.”

After read aloud, we had some independent reading time, followed by printing where we worked on doing the return envelopes to our penpals, talking about return address, as well as the sending address.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by library book exchange and then outside gym.

After lunch, we had Math. We are continuing to work with 2-digit addition questions where some need regrouping and some do not…this is very, very tricky. Any extra support and practice with your child one-on-one at home could prove beneficial. We worked together at the carpet using base ten materials to help us work through such questions and then the children worked independently on an activity sheet. They’re getting much more confident with this skill…yay, Grade 2’s!

Those who ordered popcorn, had that delivered today.

After last recess, the children had snack followed by some time to catch-up on our social studies projects so that we’re all at the same point – those that were caught up went onto Dreambox. The children ended their day with Miss. Jiwani for Health.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Tuesday, February 19^th…

I hope everyone had a wonderful Family Day weekend!

Notes:

1. Please read the green note I have sent home today about our make-up skating session on March 5^th, as well as Shrove Tuesday (Pancake Day) on March 5^th.

2. There will not be word ring testing this week as Family Day was on Monday. Word ring testing will resume next Monday (Feb. 25^th) ~ keep practicing your words.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, our poem this week is all about friendship. Today, we listened to and read through our poem. For read aloud, we turned our focus back to the Blue Spruce books this week, reading our sixth book out of ten. Today’s book we actually read earlier in the year as Neil brought in the book to share, but we reread the book today to refresh our memories. The book today was titled, “The Magician’s Secret” by Zachary Hyman (of the Toronto Maple Leafs). Here is a brief synopsis of today’s book:

“Charlie loves when Grandpa comes to babysit because he always brings his magical imagination. Grandpa was a magician who knows the most amazing tricks; he can pull a rabbit from a hat and make a coin disappear. But what Charlie loves most are his wonderful adventure stories, and they all begin with something his grandfather has saved in his Magic Story Chest. An hourglass is a reminder of how he defended the treasure in King Tut's tomb from raiders. A long white scarf inspires the story about Grandpa's dogfight with the notorious Red Baron, the great First World War fighter pilot. A coconut shell heralds the story about his encounter with a nasty Tyrannosaurus Rex. Charlie's parents, though, aren't too sure they like Grandpa's stories and warn Charlie that they're just "tall tales." What is Charlie to believe? How can his grandpa convince him that all you need to do is believe and a dream can be turned into something real?”

After listening to the story, we rated the book on our Blue Spruce bookmarks. After our read aloud, we had word work where we went over this week’s words of the week. Due to the short week this week, as well as the fact that I will be away on Friday mentoring a new teacher, our words of the week will become our words of the week for this week and next week. We read through our new words, discussed the focus, and then wrote the words in our planner. It was then time for morning snack before heading out for second skating session.

The rest of the morning was spent at the arena for our skating session. Thank you so much to all of our volunteers today….we really appreciate your time and help.

We arrived back at school for some lunch recess, and then we came inside for a late lunch followed by Math where we are continuing to work on 2-digit addition without regrouping – however, I did introduce the concept of regrouping today.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani – lots of physical activity today! To end our day, we had snack followed by a bit of catch-up time to finish math, as well as some time to work on our Social Studies research projects.

Have a great night! I hear we are in for some more freezing rain tomorrow.

Allison

News for Friday, February 15^th…

I hope everyone had a wonderful Valentine’s Day yesterday! I’m sure the children were very excited to open and share their valentine’s at home.

Reminders:

1. Monday is Family Day – no school.

2. Tuesday is our next skating trip. Be sure your child brings his/her skates/helmet if he/she owns them.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our weekly word work quiz. The quizzes have been marked and sent home in your child’s communication bag. After our quiz, we gathered at the carpet for our morning message, calendar, and shared reading routines. During shared reading, we read through our poem “Our Classroom Has a Mailbox” and then we completed a cloze (fill in the blank) activity about our poem. We also went over this week’s homework task. It was then time for Neil to share his “Student of the Week” presentation. Neil did a great job being the first student to present a family tradition to the class. Neil shared their Saturday night family tradition of cheering on their favourite hockey team for ‘Hockey Night in Canada’. Great job, Neil! For read aloud, we read a non-fiction book about Valentine’s Day and we watched a powerpoint about the history of Valentine’s Day, as well as one about how Valentine’s Day is celebrated around the world. We then worked together to complete our ‘Traditions and Celebrations’ page about Valentine’s Day in our red duotangs. Just before recess, we had a little bit of time for buddy reading.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by our measurement math quiz. I will mark the quizzes over the weekend, so that they are ready to send home for you to look at during the week next week.

Thank you to the many families who contributed to Ryerson’s ‘Teacher Appreciation Week’ luncheon today – everything was delicious and it was such a nice way to end the week.

After lunch, we began our next math unit: 2-digit addition and subtraction, with and without regrouping. In my opinion and from experience, this tends to be the trickiest Gr. 2 math unit…but as I’ve said to the children ‘practice makes progress.’ We began our new unit with me posing a 2-digit addition word problem (this one did not require regrouping) on the whiteboard. The children were asked to solve the problem any way they could – as I wanted to see what strategies they would use to do such. When you and I were in school we all learned a standard algorithm and can remember the days of ‘carrying the 1’ when regrouping was required. This is still one way (strategy) of solving such problems, but there are many others. We will be exploring such over the next little while and your children will be encouraged to use the strategy that works best for them. We will be learning strategies such as a standard algorithm, splitting the tens and ones, using an open number line, and base ten. Today, we worked together using some base ten materials to help us solve such problems. The children then began work on an independent activity sheet. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end our day, we had Social Studies where today we focused on finding out the population of Canada, as well as some interesting facts.

Have a wonderful Family Day weekend!

Allison

News for Thursday, February 14^th…

Happy Valentine’s Day! Happy Birthday wishes go out to Oscar today too!

Thank you to the many families who contributed to ‘Toonie Tuesday’) yesterday (which because of the snow day became ‘Toonie Wednesday’). Know that your toonie is going towards a very good cause, helping students and families in need within our school board.

We began our morning with our field trip to the Children’s Safety Village…thankfully the weather cooperated today! Once we arrived at the Safety Village we participated in the Grade 2 Program which has 2 components: One on Fire Safety and one on EMS Services – where the children learned all about ambulances. This trip was a great extension to the Gr. 2 Ontario Health Curriculum. Thank you very much to Amelle’s mom, Lilly’s mom, and Charlotte’s mom for volunteering with us today.

When we arrived back at school, it was time for Pizza Lunch!

After lunch, we did our planner writing, calendar, and shared reading routines. During shared reading, we read through our poem “Our Classroom Has a Mailbox”. We also read a Valentine’s Day story and then worked on finishing our Valentine’s Day pastel hearts. You will see these on our bulletin board in the hallway with our ‘love’ly poetry! It was then time to hand out our Valentine’s Day cards – very exciting!

As it was such a busy day with our field trip, etc…I have packaged up the cards for the children to look at home – they are quite excited to do so! This also helps to alleviate cards getting mixed up, etc…The children handed out their cards independently, so if by chance, your child does end up with a card for another child in their bag, just send it into school tomorrow and we will give it to that child.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we enjoyed some Valentine’s Day treats – thank you to the families who sent in the yummy treats today. We also watched a Valentine’s Day video.

Have a wonderful Valentine’s Day evening…I can’t believe that tomorrow will already be Friday! Tomorrow we will have our measurement math quiz.

Allison

News for Wednesday, February 13^th…

Wow! I couldn’t believe that we had another snow day yesterday! I was actually already at school when they had made the decision, so I grabbed a few things and then headed home for the day. It definitely turned out to be a yucky weather kind of day!

Notes:

1. Tomorrow is our field trip to the Safety Village. Please ensure your child uses the washroom before coming to school as we will be leaving right after attendance. Also, please encourage your child to eat a good breakfast as we will not have time for morning snack tomorrow. Volunteers are asked to be at the school right at 9:00am.

2. Tomorrow is a Ryerson Spirit Day: Red and Pink day in honour of Valentine’s Day!

3. I emailed the skating people yesterday and it looks like they are going to be able to make up our missed skating session from yesterday…yay! It has been rescheduled for March 5^th, 2019. Time is still the same. If you are able to volunteer with us on this date, please just write me a note in the planner.

We began with our morning with planner writing, morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “Our Classroom Has a Mailbox” and then focused on finding the contractions in the poem, as well as playing a matching game – matching the contractions to the two words that make up the contraction. We then read a Valentine’s Day story, followed by some independent reading time. After reading, we worked on our Valentine’s Day poetry – turning our rough copies into good copies so that we can hang them up in the hallway.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by our library book exchange and then outside gym. Thank you for sending your child prepared to participate in outside gym. Sending snow pants or wind pants (splash pants) is always a great idea.

After lunch, we had Math where we continued our work on measurement, specifically focusing on when to use centimetres vs. when to use metres. The children completed an activity where they had to choose the correct form of measurement and then they also did some hands on work measuring with metres, where they measured the distance from our classroom to a variety of locations in the school, using a metre stick and some team work! On Friday, we will have a quiz on measurement. Our next unit will be one of the trickiest for Grade 2: 2-digit addition and subtraction, with and without regrouping. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, we had Art where we worked on some Valentine’s Day art using pastels. These art pieces are going to look great with our Valentine’s Day poetry. We got a good start on our art today and we will continue working on them tomorrow. To end the day, the children had Health with Miss. Jiwani.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Monday, February 11^th…

I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend and that you’re ready for a super fun and busy week in Grade Two! Lots on the go this week!

Reminders:

1. Tomorrow is our second skating field trip. If your child owns his/her own skates/helmet, please have them bring them tomorrow.

2. Tomorrow is ‘Toonie Tuesday’ in Thames Valley. Each child is encouraged to bring in a toonie to support the Thames Valley Education’s Caring Fund which is an emergency fund established to support extraordinary, emergency, personal or school related needs of students brought about by financial hardships.

3. Word ring testing took place today, so be sure to check your child’s ring for new words.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, our poem this week is titled “Our Classroom Has a Mailbox” ~ a poem all about Valentine’s Day in honour of Valentine’s Day this coming Thursday. We made some predictions about what our poem would be about based on the title and then we read through our poem. For read aloud, we read a Valentine’s Day story – we will be reading a lot of Valentine’s Day books this week! We then had independent reading, followed by word work where we went over the words of the week and then wrote them in our planners. Just before morning recess, we had Social Studies where we began to discuss tourist attractions in Canada. They came up with some great ones and recorded such in their research booklets (i.e., Niagara Falls, CN Tower, Parliament Buildings in Ottawa, Calgary Stampede).

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where we began working on some Valentine’s Day poetry. We completed some large group work together and then the children began writing their own poem based on the popular “Roses are red, Violets are blue…” framework. After the children wrote their rough copies and conferenced with me, they turned their focus to Art where they worked on creating their Valentine’s Day bags to hold all of their valentines.

After lunch, we had Math where today we focused on Metres. We looked at a metre stick and talked about how a metre stick is another tool we can use for measuring objects. We talked about that there are 100 centimetres in a metre, as well as the short form for metre (m.). We then talked about why we would use metres (a metre stick) vs. centimetres (a ruler). I posed various scenarios to the children and they had to indicate whether they would use centimetres or metres to measure the object (e.g., length of a book, height of the school, width of a student desk, length of a hallway, etc…). We then looked around our classroom to try and identify objects that were about 1 metre in length - we then tested our predictions against a metre stick to check our work. We discussed how we would measure objects that are long that a metre such as our classroom carpet. After our large group work, the children worked on a partner based activity trying to find objects that were longer than, shorter than, and about the same as a metre in our classroom. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end our day we had Social Studies where we focused on researching tourist attractions in our countries of research on the chromebooks.

Have a great night! I hear we are in for some interesting weather tomorrow!

Allison

News for Friday, February 8^th…

Happy 100^th day of school! Can you believe that a month today will be the start to the March Break! The year is flying by!

Term 1 Report Cards: Term 1 Report Cards have been sent home with your child today. Please take the time to read over the comments thoroughly, celebrating your child’s successes, as well as talking to him/her about areas for improvement. It is important to note that Term 1 goes back all the way to September not just from the Progress Report. Have your child set a goal (or two) that he/she plans on working towards during Term 2. Talk about reasonable goals, as well as steps your child can take to help him/her work towards this goal. While there is no official interview day for Term 1 reports, I am more than happy to sit down with you to chat about your child’s progress. If you wish to do so, please just send me a note in your child’s planner and then we can set up a time to either chat by phone or a time we can chat in person at school. Please have your child return the report card envelope on Monday, as well as his/her goal sheet (the bottom portion of the last page of the report card).

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our weekly word work quiz. The quizzes have been marked and sent home in your child’s communication bag. We then gathered at the carpet for our morning message and calendar time. For shared reading, we read through our poem about the 100^th day of school and then we continued our focus on contractions. We went over this week’s homework task and then read a story about the 100^th day of school. It was then time for Oscar’s “Student of the Week” presentation. All students have now had a chance to be the ‘Student of the Week.’ We will be starting our second round of turns next week. When your child is ‘Student of the Week’ this time they will be asked to share about a family tradition. More information will come home on the Friday before your child is the ‘Student of the Week.’ Just before morning recess, we had some buddy reading time.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by some fun Day 100 activities. All of the Gr. 1’s and 2’s in our hallway were divided into four groups – so that the children had an opportunity to participate in activities with a variety of peers today. Each group rotated through the four classrooms participating in an activity centered around Day 100. In our class, the children worked in pairs to build a creation out of 100 pieces of Lego; in Ms. Walkey’s class, the children worked in small groups to put together 100 piece puzzles; in Miss. Bolger’s class the children played the math game ‘Race to 100.’; and in Mrs. Proulx’s/Mrs. Hardy’s class the children did a ‘100’ physical activity workout. The children had a great time with these activities from morning recess until lunch.

After lunch, the children presented their Day 100 projects to the class. Thank you for your home support with this activity. It was wonderful to see so many creative ideas! After we presented to each other, some of the other Gr. 1’s and 2’s came to our class to visit our projects and we also went to see Mrs. Hardy’s class projects too. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end our day, we had math working on the program Dreambox.

Have a wonderful weekend! Next week is a very fun and busy week in Grade 2 with two field trips (skating field trip #2 and the safety village), as well as some Valentine’s Day fun!

Allison

News for Thursday, February 7^th…

What a surprise yesterday – an “ice day!” I hope everyone enjoyed the day off of school – it’s such a rare thing for London schools to be closed for the day – I think our last time was about four years ago. So, I’m sure your children enjoyed this ‘special day’ as they don’t come along very often.

Reminders:

1. Tomorrow is our Day 100 celebration! Day 100 projects are due tomorrow.

2. Term 1 report cards will be sent home with your child tomorrow.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem about the 100^th day of school and then we focused on finding the contractions in the poem, as well as played a word game with contractions. For read aloud, we read two stories about the 100^th day of school and then we had some independent reading time. After reading, we gathered back at the carpet for Social Studies where we focused on the forms of transportation used in Canada. We brainstormed our ideas then read some information about such on Culturegrams for Kids. The children then took this information and recorded their thoughts in their country research book. Later in the day, they researched the common forms of travel used in their country of research.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where the children continued to work on their final procedural writing mini book. After writing, the children worked on the chromebooks to research the common forms of travel in their country of research. Please take a little time each night to chat with your child about what he/she is learning about his/her country of research and how it is similar, as well as different from Canada. Thank you to all of the families who have sent in pictures printed at home of their child’s country – they were very excited to show me.

After lunch, we had Math where we continued our practice of using centimetres to measure a variety of objects. The children completed a couple of activity pages, as well as played a game titled “Ants on the Move” which had them work in small groups practicing using centimetres…ask your child about it. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we used the program Dreambox on the chromebooks.

Have a great night! I can’t believe tomorrow will already be Friday! What a fast week!

Allison

News for Tuesday, February 5^th…

A mild start to the day, but I hear freezing rain is on the way tonight! Yuck!

Just a reminder, if you haven’t done so already, to please send in some colorful country pictures for your child’s project, tomorrow. Thank you to those families who have already sent in such. The pictures are always such a nice addition to the project.

We had a very condensed morning routine today due to our first skating field trip. We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, calendar, and shared reading. We then read a story all about Chinese New Year, in honour of Chinese New Year today. It was then time for our morning snack before leaving for our field trip. The children needed to be sure to eat a snack so they would have lots of energy for skating, as well as we would be having a later lunch today. After snack, we got dressed in our outer gear and headed out to the bus to head to the Western Fair Sports Complex for our first of four skating field trips.

When we arrived at the complex, the children changed into their skates and put on their helmet. When it was our turn to go onto the ice, the children were divided into 3 ability groups, so that instruction and support could be provided at their level. Thank you very much to our volunteers today – we appreciate your help putting on and taking off skates, as well as to those who helped on the ice too. We look forward to our next skating trip on Tuesday, February 12^th.

When we arrived back at the school, the children headed outside for some lunch recess time. We then came back into class for a late lunch followed by Math. For math today, we continued our focus on standard measurement and how to use a ruler to measure fairly and accurately. The children worked on a variety of measuring activities today.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had Traditions and Celebrations where we read a book about Chinese New Year, watched a powerpoint about such, and then completed our follow up activity page.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Monday, February 4^th…

Well, needless to say – I was very happy with the Groundhog’s weather prediction on Saturday morning! The last couple of days have certainly felt like spring weather too (especially compared to last week!). Let’s keep our fingers crossed that Groundhog’s prediction will come true…come on, early spring!

Reminders:

1. Tomorrow is our first skating trip…yay! If your child owns skates/helmet, please ensure they bring them with him/her in the morning. Parents who are volunteering, you are more than welcome to meet us at Western Fair or we should have room on the bus too. We will be getting on the bus to go to the Western Fair around 10:00am. We will return back to the school for 12:10ish and then children will have a later lunch.

2. Country pictures are due by Wednesday.

3. Day 100 projects are due on Friday.

Word ring testing did not take place today as my volunteer was ill. Word ring testing will resume next Monday – please keep practicing your words

We began our morning with planner writing, our ‘Mistake Monday’ morning message, and calendar. Our shared reading poem this week is all about Day 100, in honour of our Day 100 celebration this Friday! We listened to, as well as read through our poem and then the children worked in pairs to create as many words as they could using the letters in “one hundred”. We found close to 20 words we could make using those letters! We then had a surprise dental visit! The Gr. 2’s had dental screening today – more information was sent home with your child today about such. After dental screening, we gathered back at the carpet for word work, where we went over this week’s words of the week and wrote them in our planners.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by a read aloud about the 100^th day of school. We then had writing where we began to work on our final procedural writing mini book. The students were able to choose a topic of their choice for this activity. During Social Studies, our focus today was on food. During the first part of social studies today we read some information together about food that Canada is known for. We then recorded this in our country project. Later in the afternoon, the children researched what foods their country of research is well known for.

After lunch, we had math where today we began our exploration of standard units, specifically centimetres. We watched an introductory video clip about measuring with standard units and talked about why measuring with standard units (vs. non-standard units) can be helpful. We discussed standard measurement tools (e.g., ruler, metre stick, measuring tape) and then we talked about how to use a ruler accurately. The children then completed a follow up activity sheet. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end our day, the children worked on the chromebooks researching the food their country is well known for and recording such in their country research booklets.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Friday, February 1^st…

Welcome to the month of February! I am keeping my fingers crossed that the groundhog makes an ‘early spring’ prediction tomorrow! The children have all been encouraged to listen to the radio tomorrow to hear the groundhog’s prediction too!

We began our morning with a special treat! Our class was chosen to sing ‘O Canada’ over the PA system for the entire school to listen to, as well as sing along with this morning! Way to go, Gr. 2’s! You did an awesome job!

We then began our morning with planner writing, followed by our weekly word work quiz. The quizzes have been marked and sent home in your child’s communication bag today. After word work, we gathered at the carpet for our morning message followed by calendar where we went over all of the special events taking place in February – they’re pretty excited about all of our upcoming trips this month! For shared reading, we read through our poem “The Second of February” and we played a word game. We also went over this weekend’s homework task. For read aloud, we read a Groundhog Day story and then we watched a powerpoint presentation about Groundhog Day which helped us to complete our activity sheet about Groundhog Day in our Traditions and Celebrations duotangs. Just before morning recess, we had some buddy reading time.

After morning recess, we had snack and then listened to Samar’s “Student of the Week” presentation. We then had math where we continued our focus on non-standard measurement. On Monday, we will begin working with standard measurement. Today, we revisited the ‘rulers’ we made yesterday and talked about how we can use our rulers to help us measure things around our classroom. We emphasized again the importance of ensuring fairness when measuring. We also talked about how to measure things that are longer than our ruler (e.g., the length of the carpet). We reviewed how to estimate/make our best guess and then check our work by measuring with our ruler. The children then worked either independently or in pairs to estimate and then measure the length, width, and height of a variety of classroom objects.

After lunch, we worked on our country research project, with the focus today being on animals. First, we talked about animals can often be found in Canada. Then using the website, Britannica, we researched animals in Canada – recording and illustrating such in our booklets. The children then worked independently to find out what animals are in their country of research. Just before last recess we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end our day, we worked on the math program Dreambox on the Chromebooks.

Have a great weekend! Yay –some warmer temperatures are on the way!

Reminders:

1. Word ring testing will take place on Monday.

2. Day 100 Projects are due on Friday, February 8^th.

3. February book orders are due on Monday.

Allison

News for Thursday, January 31^st…

The last day of January – and a super cold one at that! You know it’s cold when all school buses in the city of London were cancelled today…brrr! Even with buses cancelled today, we had everyone but two students here, so we were able to carry on with a normal day.

Graphing Quizzes: Your child’s math quiz on the topic of graphing has been sent home today. This test was completed in three parts and then I put it altogether for marking. So yes, it looks like a lot of pages, but it was done on three different days. Please look over the quiz with your child, then please sign and return.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading we read through our poem “The Second of February” and then we completed a cloze (fill in the blank style) activity about the poem. We also played a word game. After shared reading, we read a fiction and a non-fiction story about Groundhog Day and then we had some independent reading time. After our reading time, we continued working on our Groundhog Day craftivity. Today, the children worked on finishing up their descriptive writing piece and then they set to work putting all three parts together – their groundhog, the burrow, and their writing piece. Please take a look in the hallway for our work!

After morning recess, we had snack followed by working our country research projects on the Chrombeooks. Today, the children researched what the climate (weather) is like in the country they chose to research. Please take a little time each night to chat with your child about his/her country and what they are learning about it. After Social Studies, we headed over to Ms. Walkey’s room to share our procedural writing mini books. The children paired up with a student in Ms. Walkey’s class to lead them through the steps they wrote on “How to Draw a_____” – by doing such they were able to see what they did well in their writing and what they may want to improve on for their next procedural writing mini book. We had a great time sharing with the Gr. 1’s and 2’s next door today!

After lunch, we had math where we continued our work on measurement – using non-standard units – moving gradually toward standard units. Today we completed an activity titled, “If the Shoe Fits!” To do this activity, the children created their own rulers using cut outs of red and yellow construction paper, onto a cardboard ruler shaped backing. After each student created their ruler they had to use their rulers to estimate and then measure the length of various classmates’ shoes – looking for someone that had a shoe shorter than them, one about the same size as them, and one that was longer than them. We reviewed the rules for ensuring fairness in measuring (e.g., aligning the end of the ruler with the end of the shoe). They had a great time measuring away! Just before last recess, we had snack and listened to a Groundhog Day story.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we moved our desks for February and then we shared our procedural writing books with Mrs. Hardy’s Grade Two class.

Have a great night! I hear it’s supposed to warm up a little tomorrow – then temperatures above zero on the weekend!

Allison

News for Wednesday, January 30^th…

Brrr…I hear it’s going to feel like -39 tonight! Wow! Needless to say, it was an indoor recess kind of day all day today!

Country Project Pictures: As you are aware, the children are completing an in-school project about a country of their choice, as part of the Grade 2 Social Studies program. The only part I ask them to do at home, is to sit down with you to find and print off some colourful pictures of a variety of things about their country – small to medium sized pictures work well as that way the children can choose an array of such to glue onto their title page, as well as other pages throughout their project. Picture ideas could be about tourist attractions, currency, climate, food, etc… Please send your child’s pictures in a baggy with their name by Wednesday, February 6^th. Thank you in advance for your home support.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar – can you believe that tomorrow will be the last day of January?!? For shared reading, we read through our poem “The Second of February” and then we focused on contractions and we also played a word game. For read aloud we read a story about Groundhog Day and then we had some independent reading time. After independent reading, we gathered back at the carpet to continue working on our ‘crativity.’ Today, the children used the burrows they created to write a descriptive writing piece describing their amazing burrows. They wrote their rough copies of such in their writing books and then conferenced with me. Tomorrow, we will work on our good copies and then our craftivity will be all set to put together and hang up in the hallway….just in time for Groundhog Day this weekend!

After morning recess, we had snack followed by Library Book Exchange. Many students signed out a book about their country as an additional source of information for their project. We signed out a book to everyone that we could find a country project match for – unfortunately, our library didn’t have all of the country books we needed. After library the children had Gym with Miss Baxendale.

After lunch, we had Math where we continued our focus on non-standard measurement . “Before students use standard rulers to measure length, they should have experiences in using rulers that they construct from non-standard units. Such experiences help students to focus on the linear units represented by a ruler.” (Guide to Effective Instruction in Mathematics) Today, the children created their own ‘rulers’ by connecting 20 interlocking cubes. The children were then asked to measure various objects in our classroom looking for items that were shorter than their ruler, about the same size as their ruler, as well as items that were longer than their ruler. They recorded their measurements on a separate piece of paper. They also completed another follow up activity.

After last recess, we had snack and then continued working on our country research project, this time focusing on climate and weather. Today, we talked about the climate and weather in Canada, exploring Culturegrams for Kids. Tomorrow, they will research what the climate and weather is like in the country they are studying. To end our day, the children had Health with Miss. Jiwani.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Tuesday, January 29^th…

Wow, quite the snowy conditions last night! Thankfully, a little calmer today, but still very chilly – with colder temperatures on the way!

February Book Orders: February book orders have been sent home today and are due back by February 4^th.

Library Book Exchange is tomorrow. Please ensure your child has brought back his/her books, so that he/she can sign out new ones. The children will also be encouraged tomorrow to sign out a research book about their country too.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “The Second of February” and then we focused on antonyms (opposites). We also played a word game. For read aloud, we read a Groundhog Day story with pictures that helping to inspire our own groundhog burrows. It was then time for independent reading, followed by Art. Our art today was the second part of our Groundhog Day ‘craftivity’. Today, we created some groundhogs – they look super cute!

After morning recess, we had snack followed by Math where we completed an activity titled “Amazing Paths”. Here, the children were given 2 mazes and were asked to predict which maze showed the shortest path. They then had to use a non-standard measurement tool (e.g., cubes, linkits, paperclips, toothpicks, counters) to measure each path and then determine which path was shortest. They also completed a follow up activity sheet.

After lunch, we had Social Studies where we worked on our country research projects. Today, we used atlases to help us locate our research country, record what continent and hemisphere our country was in, label the oceans of the world, and draw a compass rose on a world map. Just before last recess we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had Social Studies where the children worked on the chromebooks to research what holidays are celebrated in their country of research.

Have a great night…stay warm, it’s supposed to get super chilly!

Allison

News for Monday, January 28^th…

Brrr! It sounds like it’s going to be another cold and snowy type of week! It was another day of all indoor recesses due to the cold temperature.

February Class Calendar: I have sent home our February class calendar today. February may be the shortest month of the year, but there is lots happening in Grade 2! Be sure to post the calendar in a visible spot at home, so that your child will be prepared to partake in all of our activities. On the calendar, you will also find all of our class names to help the children if they wish to complete valentines for their classmates.

Word ring testing took place today, so be sure to check your child’s ring for new words.

We began our morning with planner writing, our ‘Mistake Monday’ morning message, and calendar. For shared reading this week our poem is titled “The Second of February” in honour of Groundhog Day. We listened to and read through our poem, talked about what Groundhog Day is, as well as played a word game. We then read a story about Groundhog Day followed by some independent reading time. After independent reading, we gathered back at the carpet for word work where we went over this week’s words of the week. We then wrote our words in our planners. After word work, we began working on a craftivity about Groundhog Day that will combine 2 art components, as well as a descriptive writing component throughout the week. Today, we read a story about groundhog burrows and then the children began to design their own ‘ideal’ groundhog burrow – if these burrows were real, there would be some pretty lucky groundhogs!

After morning recess, we had snack followed by Math where we began a new unit: Measurement – which will focus on non-standard and standard measurement. Today, the children were introduced to our new unit by some small group work where they used various non-standard measuring tools (e.g., paperclips, linkits, cubes, counters, etc…) to measure 3 ‘snakes’ – ask your child about it! We talked about the importance of fairness in measuring – making sure we start at the same starting point, our measuring tools don’t overlap or leave big spaces between, etc…

After lunch, we had a second math session today. Today, we began working with the Math program: Dreambox. The Gr. 1 and Gr. 2 classes at our school have a subscription to this program this year. This is a great program, Ontario curriculum based, that provides personalized and individualized instruction of where your child is currently at and continuing to move them forward across a variety of math strands. This program will be another avenue to the large group, small group, partner based, and individualized work in the classroom already. While the children will have access to this program to work on at home over the summer to continue their math learning, I ask that they not work on at home during the school year. Today, our instruction coach, Mr. McMurphy, introduced the children to the program and then they had some time to create their avatar and begin exploring the world of Dreambox. Please just ask if you have any questions or concerns.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end our day, we had snack and then we continued with our Social Studies research project, focusing today on the holidays and traditions that are celebrated in Canada. Tomorrow, the children will research what holidays and traditions are celebrated in the country they are researching.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Friday, January 25^th…

More snow! This has definitely been an interesting weather week with very cold temperatures, then rain, then snow! A little bit of everything!

Safety Village Field Trip: Just a reminder that all forms, as well as the online payment, are due by Tuesday. Thank you to those who have already completed such.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our weekly word work quiz. I have marked the quizzes and they have been sent home in the communication bags. After our spelling, we gathered at the carpet for morning message, calendar, and shared reading. During shared reading, we read through our poem all about snowmen, completed a cloze (fill in the blank style) activity, and played a winter game. I also went over this week’s homework task. For read aloud, we read our fifth book in the Blue Spruce series. Today’s book was titled: “I Love Sharks, Too!” written by Leanne Shirtliffe. Here is a synopsis of today’s book:

“ Stevie likes sharks. Like a LOT. In response to everything his mom asks him, Stevie has an excellent shark fact in response. "Brush your teeth, Stevie. " "Mom, Mako sharks don’t have to brush their teeth because they are covered in fluoride." From morning to bedtime—you would think this might totally wear his mom down. But guess who likes, sharks, too? The book is filled with tons of fun facts, and also information about different shark breeds.”

After listening to the story, the children rated the book on their Blue Spruce bookmark and then had some buddy reading time. Just before morning recess, we listened to Ryan’s “Student of the Week” presentation.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by the second part of our graphing quiz – this focus was on bar graphs. I will start to mark these over the weekend.

After lunch, we had Social Studies where we worked on our country research project, this time focusing on the language section. First we worked together to talk about and record what languages are spoken in Canada, as well as some common phrases. The children then worked on the chromebooks to find out what language is spoken in their country of research and record a few common phrases written in that language, as well as the English translation. After our research time, we had a little bit more Social Studies time where we reviewed the continent we live on, country we live in, province, we live in, and city we live in. We then did some activities focusing on Ontario as a follow up.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end our day, we had snack and a little bit of catch up time.

Have a great weekend!

Allison

News for Thursday, January 24^th…

Finally a little reprieve in the weather, so we were able to get outside for all recesses today…yay, fresh air!

Day 100: Day 100 is quickly approaching! We will be celebrating the 100^th day of school on Friday, February 8^th. We will engage in a variety of activities with the other Gr. 1’s and Gr. 2’s at Ryerson. The children have also been asked to prepare a Day 100 display – see the pink note that was sent home today.

Tomorrow is a Ryerson Spirit Day: Crazy hair and/or hat day!

Weekly word work quiz tomorrow.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “Snowman, Snowman” and we focused on making connections about the poem to ourselves (text to self), to the world around us (text to world), and to other books or poems (text to text). We also played a word game. It was then time for independent reading, followed by our read aloud. Today, we read book #4 of the Blue Spruce book. Our book today was titled: “I Love My Purse” by Belle DeMont. Here is a synopsis of today’s book:

“Charlie loves his bright red purse, so why does everyone else have a problem with it? Charlie loves the bright red purse that his grandmother let him have. One day, he decides to take it to school. First his father, then his friends, and even the crossing guard question him about his “strange” choice. After all, boys don’t carry purses. But Charlie isn’t deterred. Before long, his unselfconscious determination starts to affect those around him. His father puts on his favourite Hawaiian shirt to go to work, his friend Charlotte paints her face, and the crossing guard wears a pair of sparkly shoes. Thanks to Charlie, everyone around him realizes that it isn’t always necessary to conform to societal norms. It’s more important to be true to yourself. With its humorous, energetic illustrations, this book is sure to entertain young readers.”

After listening to today’s story, the children rated today’s book on their Blue Spruce bookmark. Just before morning recess, we had Social Studies where we worked on our research project. Yesterday, we focused on the flag of Canada, as well as the flag of the countries we are studying. We had a good conversation after about the similarities and differences between Canada’s flag and the flags of other countries around the world. Today’s focus was on currency (money) we use in Canada and then comparing it to the country of research. During this morning block, we reviewed how to get onto the website ‘Culturegrams for Kids’ and then we worked together to complete the ‘money’ section about Canada – noting the currency in Canada, what some of the symbols/pictures on our coins and bills are, and then drawing representations of such. Later in the afternoon the children worked independently to complete the money section about their country.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by Math. We continued our exploration of bar graphs today, reviewing the components of a bar graph, as well as answering questions about given information. Tomorrow, we will complete Part 2 of our graphing quiz. Next week, we will begin a new unit: Measurement.

After lunch, we turned our focus back to Social Studies. Using the chromebooks, the children worked independently to complete the money section about their country, taking the time to write about the currency used in their country of research, as well as draw visual representations of such.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had a social studies lesson focusing on the hemispheres, the poles, and the equator. We did some large group work on the SmartBoard, finding and labelling these terms, as well as an independent follow up activity sheet.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Wednesday, January 23^rd…

Definitely warmer in temperature, but still not a very nice weather kind of day with all of the rain.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem, “Snowman, Snowman” and then we focused on rhyming words today. We also read our poem in a round format and played a couple of word games. It was then time for independent reading, followed by our third Blue Spruce read aloud. Today’s book was titled, “Harry’s Hiccups” by Jean Little. Here is a synopsis of today’s book:

Harry tries and tries to get rid of his hiccups. He tries drinking a glass of water upside down, he tries putting an ice-cold key down his back, he gleefully tries eating a spoonful of sugar. But nothing works! In this charming picture book, written by children's literature legend Jean Little and illustrated by award-winning illustrator Joe Weissmann, Harry is afflicted with a case of the hopeless hiccups. It's not until Harry has a surprise encounter with a different sort of neighbour that it seems like Harry might finally get some relief...hiccup, hiccup...

After our read aloud and giving this book a rating on our Blue Spruce bookmarks, we turned our focus to procedural writing.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by Library Book Exchange and then Gym with Miss. Baxendale.

After lunch, we had Math where we continued our focus on bar graphs. Today, the children worked on creating a bar graph when the information is given to them. Each student was given a handful of pattern blocks – they then had to work through the process of sorting their information (e.g., by shape or colour), creating a tally chart, creating a bar graph to show their information, and then interpreting their information. As students finished this activity they completed a follow-up activity interpreting given information on two bar graphs. Just before last recess, we had snack. Those who ordered popcorn had that delivered today.

After last recess, we had Social Studies where we began working in our research booklets. Today, the children found out the country they would be learning about, based on the choices they gave me yesterday. In our books today, we worked together to complete the section on flags. I first modelled how to complete the ‘Canada’ section and then the children used atlases to complete the section on their country drawing the flag of their country. Tomorrow, we will be focusing on the money in Canada vs. the money in their country. To end the day, the children had Health with Miss. Jiwani.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Tuesday, January 22^nd…

JK Registration! It’s hard to believe that it’s that time of year already to register students who will be coming to JK in September. If your child will be turning 4 years old by the end of December 2019, please complete the registration process as soon as possible. If you log onto the Board’s website www.tvdsb.ca , then go to Parents – Kindergarten – you will see the form to complete. You then need to bring this form into the office. If you are unsure of how to complete the online portion/or do not have access to internet, please just pop into the office for a hard copy of the form. Please complete the registration process as soon as possible (no later than Feb. 8^th) as the number of students registered by Feb. 8^th directly impacts the number of teachers/classes that will be allotted to Ryerson for Septemberl. Registering your child now helps to save the potential for reorganization in September. Please tell any neighbours or friends to come in and register as soon as possible too.

Library tomorrow! Please ensure your child has returned his/her library books, so that he/she can sign out new ones.

We began our morning with planner writing, morning message, and calendar. Happy Birthday wishes go out to Callum today! For shared reading, we read through our poem “Snowman, Snowman” and then we focused on different forms of punctuation. We also played a couple of word games. It was then time for independent reading, followed by a read aloud. Today, we read our second Blue Spruce book, “The Better Tree Fort” by Jessica Scott Kerrin. Here is a brief synopsis about this book:

“Let’s build a tree fort,” Russell says to his dad when they move into a house with a big maple tree in the backyard. His dad doesn’t know much about building, but he gamely follows Russell’s plan. Several trips to the lumber store later, the tree fort is done. There is no slide, balcony or skylight like Russell imagined, but it is perfect — right up until he notices another tree fort going up three houses over.

When Russell goes over to investigate, he meets Warren, whose bigger tree fort has castle turrets and working lights. Russell is in awe until it dawns on him that it’s not worth worrying about who has the better tree fort when he has a loving dad there to build one with him. In this subtle, humorous story, Jessica Scott Kerrin explores the idea of keeping up with the Joneses — and what that means when you’re a kid with a tree fort. Qin Leng’s lighthearted watercolour illustrations show the unshakeable bond between a father and son, as well as the delightful details of two tree forts.”

After listening to the story, the children completed their rating for the book on their Blue Spruce bookmark. We then turned our focus to Art where today we completed the fifth and final step of our ‘Primary and Secondary Colour Fish’ art. Today’s step was to go around all of the fish, as well as their features (e.g., fins, tails, eyes, etc…) with a black Sharpie marker. Be sure to check out our art in the hallway.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by Social Studies where today we began our research project on another country around the world. The focus for this project is learning about another country in the world and comparing its features to that of Canada. Today, the children used the Chromebooks (and their headphones – thank you for sending such in) to explore the program Culturegrams for Kids. They had lots of time to explore a variety of countries and then list their top three choices that they would like to learn about. I will then take these request forms home tonight, choosing one for each child, so that everyone in the class is learning about a different country vs. 20 children choosing the same country. They will find out their ‘country’ tomorrow.

After lunch, we had Math. We began our math time with listening to the famous song “Our Favourite Things” from the Sound of Music. After talking about what were some of the favourite things in the song, we then brainstormed some of the favourite things of the students in our class. We talked about TV shoes, holidays, ice cream flavours, books, sports, desserts, movies, types of pizza, fruit, season, cereal, fairytale, etc… The children then worked in pairs to gather information about their classmates’ favourite things, choosing one topic. They then worked together to create a bar graph to display and then interpret such information, learning more about their classmates. We are working hard to ensure our bar graphs have a title, each axis is labelled, etc… As the children finished up their graph, they also completed a small follow up activity interpreting information from given bar graphs.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had snack followed by finishing up our math and then working n writing where students worked on their procedural writing mini-books, as well as conferenced with me.

I hear we’re in for a little warm up in the temperature tomorrow, with the possibility of even rain!

Allison

News for Monday, January 21st…

I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend, despite the very chilly temperatures…brrr! We had indoor recesses today for most of the day due to the chilly temperature.

Today marks 6 months until my wedding! Time is flying!!

Field Trip Form: A field trip form (on pink paper) was sent home with your child today for our upcoming trip to the Children’s Safety Village on February 14^th. Please complete the form, as well as make the online payment, by January 29^th.

Word ring testing took place today, so be sure to check your child’s ring for new words.

Headphones: If you haven’t sent in a set of headphones with your child yet, please try to do so by tomorrow as we will be starting to use the Chromebooks tomorrow morning.

We began our morning with planner writing, our ‘Mistake Monday’ morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, our poem this week is all about snowmen – as it’s still pretty snowy outside! Upon giving the title of our poem, the children were encouraged to make some predictions about what the poem might be about. We also found the compound words in our poem and played a word game.

For read aloud, we will be starting to read the ‘Blue Spruce’ books. Blue Spruce is part of the ‘Forest of Reading’ program. It is Canada’s largest recreational reading program that encourages a love for reading and helps celebrate Canadian books, publishers, and illustrators. There are 10 nominees in the Blue Spruce program this year. As we read each book, the children will complete their ‘Blue Spruce’ bookmark that will have the picture of each book, as well as a rating system – five starts – they will decide how many starts they wish to give the book. After we have read all 10 books, they will vote for the favourite book. Today’s book was titled “Barnaby Never Forgets” - here is a synopsis:

“Barnaby has a very good memory. He remembers to brush his teeth and feed his grasshoppers, and he always, always remembers when it’s ice-cream night. So how can someone with such a good memory forget something so important? As Barnaby soon finds out, sometimes the thing that’s slipped your mind is right under your nose (or right above it). Lovable, scatterbrained Barnaby will win the hearts of adults and kids alike in Pierre Collet-Derby’s funny and familiar tale of remembering what you’ve forgotten — and learning to laugh at yourself. Meet Barnaby, an unforgettable bunny (with a few blind spots)!”

After our read aloud time, we had some independent reading time, followed by word work where we went over this week’s words of the week and wrote them down in our planners.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where we are continuing to work on our procedural writing mini books. For those students who have finished their first mini book they conferenced with me about what they did well, as well as next steps and then they began working on a second book of their topic choosing. For those who weren’t finished their first book, they continued working on such.

After lunch we had math where today we focused on bar graphs. We reviewed concrete graphs and pictographs and then we talked more specifically about bar graphs. We looked at a picture of a bar graph and noted how it is the same as a pictograph, as well as how they are different. We watched a math video clip about bar graphs and looked at an anchor chart about bar graphs. In bar graphs, we will continue to pay particular attention to ensuring we have a title, but also leaving spaces between the bars, labelling each axis, etc… After our group time at the carpet, the children worked on completing an independent activity about bar graphs. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end our day, we had Social Studies where today I introduced the children to the country research project we will be working on. The written portion of this project will be completed at school (except we may ask for some home support of finding/printing out some pictures of your child’s country to put with their project at school – more information on this later though). Today, I showed the children one of the websites we will be using: culturegrams for kids. I showed them how to logon to the program and where to find all of the country choices –there is a plethora of choice here. Tomorrow, the children will have a chance to work on a chromebook and explore the program. They will then be asked to write down their top 3 choices of countries they wish to research. I will then narrow their list down to one, so that we have a good cross section of countries represented. They are very excited to begin their research!

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Thursday, January 17^th…

A quick short week for the children! Tomorrow is a PD Day – no school for students, but teachers will be at the school.

Reminders:

1. Headphones – thank you to those families who have already sent in headphones for their child. If you haven’t had a chance to do so already, please send in such by Tuesday.

2. Homework duotangs have been sent home and are due back on Monday.

3. Word ring testing will take place on Monday. Please keep reviewing your child’s words with him/her –both the new words, as well as the ‘old’ words.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our weekly word work quiz. I have marked the quizzes and they have been sent home in your child’s communication bag. We then gathered at the carpet for our morning message, calendar, and shared reading routines. During shared reading, we read through our poem about snowflakes and then we continued our focus on compound words. We also discussed capitals and completed a cloze (fill in the blank) style activity. We ended our shared reading time with a couple of word games, followed by going over our homework for the weekend. It was then time for a winter story followed by Art. Today, we completed Part 4 of our art activity which had the children painting the ocean background for their ‘fish’ art. Next week, we will finish the fifth and final step! As students finished their art, they had some buddy reading time.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by Part 1 of our graphing quiz. Everyone was able to complete this part of the quiz fairly quickly. I will start marking them this weekend and then we will combine this part of the quiz with the one that will follow upon completion of our study of bargraphs.

After lunch, we had writing where we continued working on our procedural writing mini books. After a block of writing, we had Social Studies where we reviewed the names of the continents and oceans, followed by what countries make up North America. We then focused in on Canada today – finding Canada on a map of North America and then talking about what province and city we live in and finding such on a map. The children then completed a follow up activity titled “Where I Live in Canada.”

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end our day, we had snack and then finished the video we didn’t get a chance to finish before the holiday break.

Have a great weekend! Stay warm – it’s supposed to get super chilly!

Allison

News for Wednesday, January 16^th…

Just a reminder that because this is a short week for students (PD Day on Friday), our weekly word work quiz will be tomorrow.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem: “Snowflakes, Snowflakes” and then we continued our focus on compound words. We also played two word games. For our read aloud, we read an art story “Colours for Zena” and then we had some independent reading time. After reading, we turned our focus to art where today we worked on completing part 3 of our art activity. Yesterday, during part 2, the children painted their three big fish using the primary colours – painting one fish red, one fish blue, and one fish yellow. Today’s task had the children painting their three little fish, using the secondary colours of orange, green, and purple…but instead of just giving the children these colours of paint, they used the primary colours to create the secondary colours. Lots of mixing happening today!

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where we continued to work away at our procedural writing mini-books. They are doing a great job on their little books!

After lunch, we had Math where we continued our focus today on pictographs. We reviewed how to graph information when that information is already given to us (vs. having to get the information by way of a survey). The children also completed a follow up activity sheet that focused on understanding and problem solving related to graphing. Just before last recess we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day we had Social Studies where we reviewed the names of the continents and oceans. We then focused on the continent which we live on: North America. We talked about what countries make up North America and we completed some large group work about such on the SmartBoard. The children then completed a follow up activity sheet.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Tuesday, January 15^th…

We began our morning with planner writing, morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “Snowflakes” and we continued our focus on compound words. We found the compound words in our poem, as well as did some compound word activities. We also played two word games. For read aloud, we read a winter story and then we had some independent reading time. After reading, we gathered back at the carpet for writing where we continued to work on our first procedural writing mini-book. Students are working at their own pace completing first a title page on a ‘How to Draw’ topic of their choice, followed by the materials page, and then completing the steps of how to draw their item.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by our library book exchange time. It was then time for outside gym with Miss. Baxendale.

After lunch, we had Math where we continued our focus on pictographs – this will be Part 1 to our graphing quiz and then we will finish up with Part B probably at the end of next week. Today, we worked on creating a pictograph when the information is given to us (vs. having to gather the information from a survey question). We completed a large group example together using a variety of given pattern blocks as our data. We worked through the steps listed in our anchor chart of listing our title (what are we graphing), creating a tally chart, creating a pictograph, and then interpreting our results. After working through some large group examples together, the children worked on an independent activity where they were given specific data and had to tally, graph, and interpret such information. They also completed a follow up activity sheet.

After last recess, we had art where we worked on completing Part 2 of our Primary and Secondary Colour fish. For Part 1, yesterday, the children drew 6 fish – 3 small and 3 large. Today, they worked on colouring the 3 big fish using the primary colours – they painted one fish blue, one fish red, and one fish yellow. We also read an art story. To end the day, the children had Health with Miss. Jiwani.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Monday, January 14^th…

I hope everyone had a great weekend, despite the chilly temperatures…brrr!

Headphones: Please read the note that was sent home with your child today.

Word ring testing took place today, so be sure to check your child’s ring for new words.

Skating permission forms are due back by Wednesday (January 16^th).

Library Book Exchange day tomorrow!

We began our morning with planner writing, our ‘Mistake Monday’ morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, our poem this week is titled ‘Snowflakes’ – in honour of all of this wintery weather! We read through our poem, did an activity focusing on punctuation, we worked with compound words, and then we played a couple of word games. For read aloud, we read a winter story titled “Snow Friends” and then we had some independent reading time. After independent reading, we gathered back at the carpet for word work where we went over this week’s words of the week and then wrote them in our planner. We then started our next art activity, which will be broken down into 5 parts. This art activity focuses on the primary and secondary colours. We completed Part 1 today, we had the children tracing 3 small ovals and 3 large ovals onto a large piece of white paper…these ovals will soon look like fish!

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where we began with some time to re-explore our procedural writing texts. We then reviewed the common features of procedural writing and we also took note of our anchor chart. Today, the children revisited their ‘ideas’ sheet of “How to” ideas and chose one that they would like to begin with. Everyone was asked to choose a “How to Draw” one for our first activity. After choosing their topic, they began working on their title/cover pages, as well as their materials list – ensuring to check the anchor chart while completing such to make sure they included all of the necessary components. They’re off to a great start!

After lunch, we had Math where we will continue to focus on pictographs all this week and then we will have a quiz on such before we turn to bargraphs next week. Today, the children were asked to independently complete a pictograph on a topic of their choice, making sure to use our anchor chart as a reference. They also completed an independent activity that focused on ‘knowledge’ as well as ‘problem solving.’ Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Music. To end our day, we had Social Studies where we continued our focus on the continents and the oceans of the world. We completed an activity on the SmartBoard, as well as an independent activity.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Friday, January 11^th…

Term 2 information for ordering for Pizza Lunch, as well as milk, have been sent home today.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our weekly word work quiz. The quizzes have been marked and sent home in your child’s communication bag. We then gathered at the carpet for morning message, followed by calendar and shared reading. During shared reading, we read our poem of the week all about New Year’s and then we went over this week’s homework task. It was then time to listen to Adrienne’s “Student of the Week” presentation, followed by some buddy reading time.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where we began with some time to re-explore our plethora of procedural writing tasks. We then reviewed the common features noted in procedural writing (introduction page – to introduce the reader to the topic in the book, materials list page, and step by step instructions). When writing ‘how to’ pieces, it is really important for the children to have opportunities to act out or actually do what they are teaching their readers to (e.g., how to draw a flower, how to tie your shoes, etc…). It’s very important for children to follow the steps in their own writing. So, to begin this process, I used one of the books one of my former student’s completed on ‘How to Draw a Flower.’ We followed Michelle’s materials list page to gather the materials we would need and then we read through her steps one at a time, following Michelle’s step by step instructions. After completing the activity, we noted what Michelle did really well in her writing, as well as next steps. The children then brainstormed ideas that they could possibly like to create ‘how to’ books about.

After lunch, we had Math where we continued our focus on pictographs and surveys. We reviewed our steps for doing such and then completed a large group example. The children then worked independently on their own survey question and turning their data into a pictograph. They are getting much more independent when completing pictographs. They also completed a follow up activity where the key had the picture representing more than one person…tricky! Just before last recess, we had snack. Those who ordered popcorn had that delivered today.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end the day, we had Social Studies where we reviewed the names of the continents and oceans. We then did some large group mapping work on the SmartBoard, followed by an independent activity focusing on the continents.

Have a wonderful weekend! Just a reminder that word ring testing will resume this Monday – be sure to review your word ring.

Allison

News for Thursday, January 10^th…

Happy Birthday wishes go out to Aidan today! He is the first person in our class to turn 8 years old this year! The children enjoyed some special snacks that Aidan brought in today to celebrate his birthday…thank you, Aidan!

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our New Year’s poem and we then we reviewed the many traditions and celebrations that take place on New Year’s. We also reviewed why New Year’s is celebrated. For read aloud, we read a winter themed story and then we had some independent reading time. After independent reading, we gathered back at the carpet to go over the steps we would be taking for today’s social studies activity – we had to break today’s activity into a few parts as it involved painting and we needed to do the painting early so it could dry in order for us to be able to move onto the second part. The first step that we worked on involved the children painting a large oval paper plate blue. The blue would eventually represent the oceans in the world, with the paper plate being our backdrop.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing. Today during writing we began with some further exploration time to look at a variety of procedural writing books. After looking at some how to draw, how to cook, how to make, etc…books, some of the children began to realize that procedural writing is all about instructions for how to do stuff….awesome! We then took a closer look at some pieces of procedural text to note some of the other features (e.g., an introduction/title page – to introduce the reader to the topic; materials list – with spaces for listing and illustrating the tolls and materials needed for carrying out the how to project; step by step template with separate boxes or lines for writing each step, as well as an illustration to show how to create each step; the importance of using sequencing words. We then looked at an anchor chart for procedural writing.

After our exploration time with procedural writing today, we turned our focus back to our social studies activity where we reviewed the names of the 7 continents (ask your child our funny saying to help us remember the names!) and we also talked about the world’s oceans. The children then began to colour a world map that we would later affix to our paper plate, to show the various continents.

After lunch, we had Math where we continued our focus on surveys and pictographs. We reviewed what a survey is and why we conduct surveys, as well as the important things to include when we create a pictograph. We completed a large group example together and then the children could then work in pairs or independently to generate their own survey question that they would like to ask their peers. After generating their question and surveying their peers, they created a pictograph to display their information and then they interpreted their results. As students finished, they completed an independent activity.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end our day, we continued our social studies mapping activity where when the children finished colouring the continents and then they cut them out and glued them to the correct location on the paper plate – some students were able to finish all of this, but others need some more time tomorrow. Those who finished brought home their maps today, the others will do so tomorrow.

Just a reminder that tomorrow is our weekly word work quiz. We have found many examples this week where ‘y’ makes the sound of e or i in words.

Have a wonderful wintery evening!

Allison

News for Wednesday, January 9^th…

Definitely a wintery start to the day today!

Skating Field Trip forms have been sent home today (on yellow paper). There will be four skating trips in total (the 4 Tuesdays in February). We will be looking for parent volunteers to help tie/put on skates, as well as take off skates. Parents are also welcome to volunteer on the ice if they have their own skates/helmets. In the past, some parents have taken the bus with us and others have just met us at the rink. Please do not go and buy skates for this activity, if you do not have them. We are able to borrow skates and helmets at the arena, please just indicate this information on your form. We are looking forward to some skating fun in February!

Our class is now back to 20 students. We had one student move during the winter holiday break, but had one new student join our class yesterday. We welcome Ella to our class!

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our New Year’s poem and then we focused on making connections. We talked about how good readers are always making connections of what they have read to other books (text to text), to things happening in their lives (text to self), or to things happening in the world around them (text to world). It was then time for a read aloud: “The Night Before New Year’s!” followed by some independent reading time. After independent reading, we gathered back at the carpet for Traditions and Celebrations where we focused on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. We read a non-fiction book about such, as well as watched a powerpoint presentation. We then completed our follow up activity page in our duotangs.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where some students worked on finishing up their New Year’s resolutions, others worked on finishing their recounts about their holiday break, some students conferenced with me, and others had some free writing time. Towards the latter part of our writing time, the children had some time to explore some mentor texts that focus on our next form of writing: Procedural Writing. While looking at such texts, they were asked to see what they noticed – what common features are there?

After lunch, we had Math where our focus today was on conducting surveys and creating pictographs. We first discussed what a survey is and why people conduct surveys. I then explained that they will be working on collecting information about their classmates on a certain topic. We brainstormed possible questions we might want to ask to find out more information about our classmates (e.g., How many people are in your family? What month is your birthday? How do you get to school? What is your favourite sport?). Once we have collected our information, we then want to show it in written form by creating pictograph. We revisited our anchor chart that outlines the four steps to creating a pictograph (1. Sort/Organize our information. 2. Create a tally chart with our choices. 3. Make the pictograph. 4. Interpret/explain our information –what did we find out). We began by creating a creating a large group example and then the children and the choice to work either in pairs or independently on a survey question of their choice. As students finished, they completed a follow up activity sheet.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had Social Studies where we began our introduction to mapping. We reviewed that the world is covered by large areas of land and water and that these large areas of land are continents. We watched a video clip about the seven continents and then reviewed a strategy to remember the names of all 7 continents. The children then worked on a puzzle about the 7 continents.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Tuesday, January 8^th…

Please be sure to read the ‘Upcoming Field Trip’ section of our website. I have added some trips and dates for Term 2 field trips. Permission forms for skating will be coming home tomorrow.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our morning message and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our “Happy New Year!” poem discussing the important ideas in the poem. We also had some sharing time about how each of us celebrated New Year’s. We then had some independent reading time followed by a New Year’s story titled, “Squirrel’s New Year’s Resolution” and we continued our discussion on what a resolution is, as well as examples of resolutions and why people make resolutions. The children were then each asked to set a New Year’s resolution related to school. They worked on completing a rough draft in their writing books about such, they then conferenced with me, and then completed their good copy which they will attach the party face we made yesterday during art. Be sure to take a look in the hallway to see our 2019 resolutions!

After morning recess, we had snack followed by library book exchange and then gym with Miss Baxendale.

After lunch, we had Math where we continued our focus on concrete graphs and pictographs. The children were very excited to bring in a stuffed animal for our large group math lesson today. We began our lesson by sitting around the edge of the carpet with our stuffed animals. The children were then asked to think of the various attributes of our stuffed animals (e.g., size, colour, kind of animal, etc…) and then to determine a way to sort our animals so that we could make a concrete graph with such. Everyone had a chance to put their stuffed animal where it should go on the graph and then together we created a title and labels for each axis for our graph. After completing the graph, we discussed what we had learned about our class through this activity. We then discussed how we could change from a concrete graph to a pictograph, using a symbol to represent each animal. Together, we worked to create a pictograph, ensuring we showed all of the same information that our concrete graph did. We also went over an anchor chart about pictographs. As a follow up, the children worked on a pictograph activity page, interpreting given information. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, we had writing where we revisited our five finger planners we completed yesterday and then worked on creating our written draft. Most students got a good start on this and we will finish them up tomorrow. I modelled this activity by completing one about my holiday first. To end our day, the children had Health with Miss Jiwani.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Monday, January 7^th, 2019!

Happy New Year and Welcome Back to School! I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday break! I hope you enjoyed the wonderful snowman that your child created for you as their holiday gift to you. They worked so hard on them, as well as on designing their own wrapping paper.

For tomorrow: The students are each asked to bring in one stuffed animal for our math activity tomorrow.

Word rings: Word ring testing will resume next Monday (January 12^th).

January class calendars have been sent home today, as well as January book orders. Book orders are due back by January 14^th.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our ‘Mistake Monday’ morning message. We then did calendar where we went over the special days and events that will take place during the month. We also finished the last few days of our online advent calendar from December. We then read a New Year’s story, followed by some independent reading time. After independent reading, we gathered back at the carpet for word work where we went over this week’s words of the week and wrote them in our planners.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where we took some time to revisit recounts. I modelled the graphic organizer of a ‘five finger planner’ about my holiday break and then the children worked independently on their graphic organizer to share about their break. Tomorrow, we will turn our graphic organizers into a written draft.

After lunch, we began our next math unit: Graphing (which is part of the Data Management and Probability strand of the provincial math curriculum). To begin, each pair of students was given a graphing grid and a baggy of plastic coins. The children were asked to sort the coins on their grid to show the different values. We then discussed which group had the greatest number of coins and how they could tell such so quickly by looking at the grid. We talked about the importance of a common starting line for all groups and we looked at the different ways certain students sorted/graphed the coins (e.g., into rows, into columns, or in other ways). We talked about why the grid was helpful to help us space the coins. We talked about when we put things into rows or columns, we can compare the number in each group and that we’ve just created a graph. We also reviewed that graphs need a title, as well as a label for each axis.

The children and I then worked on a large group activity using their lunch pails. The children were all asked to bring their lunch pails to the carpet and we discussed the different attributes the bags have (e.g., size, colour, type of fastener). We discussed that we would choose one attribute (type of fastener) and create a concrete graph based on such. Once several bags were in place, we discussed where we thought other lunch pails should go and why. We then talked about a title for our graph, as well as a label for each axis. We also discussed what the graph told us about our class (interpreting the information).

We then discussed if we wanted to show other classes in the school what our graph looked like, but we also wanted to take our lunch pails how, how could we make a permanent record of our data. The children began offering suggestions and one volunteer suggested drawing pictures and making a graph – which led us into a conversation about pictographs. For our independent work, we worked on some problem solving tasks. Just before last recess we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we began working on a New Year’s craftivity which will focus on our school goals for 2019.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Friday, December 21^st!

Happy last day of school before the holiday break, as well as happy first day of winter! It’s hard to believe that four months of school have already gone by – time goes so quickly!

Thank you so much for your kindness and generosity. I truly appreciate all of the holiday cards with such meaningful messages, as well as the holiday gifts. I am so thankful to be part of such a wonderful class, school, and community.

I have kept all planners, communication bags, etc…at school for over the break, as I truly want this to be a ‘break’ for your children. Enjoy spending lots of family time together. Be safe and have fun!

We wish Brady a ‘Happy Birthday’ on Dec. 31^st!

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. We’re now up to date with our advent calendar, but unfortunately the program does not allow you to skip ahead, so we will have to do the remaining few days of the calendar when we return in January. We then read a Christmas story followed by some math time where we continued to work with addition and subtraction questions.

After morning recess, we headed to the gym for a Ryerson spirit assembly. Congratulations to Neil, Adrienne, and Kobe who were winters of the school draw…awesome! They each received a gift card to Indigo! Also at the assembly, we enjoyed singing some Christmas carols.

After lunch, we did some much needed clean-out of our desks, our cubby buckets in the hallway, and our classroom – it’s always nice to return in January when everything is clean and ready to go! We then enjoyed some class ‘party time.’ Thank you to the families who sent in special snack today – the children enjoyed the treats!

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end our day, we finished up our treats and then watched a holiday video.

Have a wonderful two week holiday! I look forward to seeing everyone back at school on Monday, January 7^th, 2019!

Allison

News for Thursday, December 20^th…

It’s hard to believe that tomorrow will be the last day of school before the holiday break!

Today was a whirlwind of a day, with two field trips! Our morning was spent at Silver City enjoyed the holiday film, “The Grinch!” What a wonderful whole school activity to enjoy just before the holidays! Thank you to Miles’ mom and Callum’s mom who joined our class this morning.

In the afternoon, we headed to Manor Village where we sang some holiday songs to the residents and spread some holiday cheer! Thank you to Charlotte’s mom and Maya’s mom for joining us in this activity. We arrived back at school just in time for last recess.

After last recess, we had Gym followed by ending our day with math where the children worked on an activity page that combined adding and subtracting questions. We talked about strategies to help us complete such activities (e.g., circling the operation sign, doing all of the adding questions first and then moving onto the subtracting questions, etc…).

Have a great night! I’m looking forward to a wonderful day together with the children tomorrow! They are getting so excited about the upcoming holidays!

Allison

News for Wednesday, December 19^th…

Tomorrow is Festive Top/Sweater Day at Ryerson! It’s also a big field trip day in Grade Two as we will be going to see ‘The Grinch’ tomorrow morning and then caroling in the afternoon!

We began our morning with our trip to the London Children’s Museum where we had a chance to explore a variety of winter celebrations: Christmas, Hanukkah, Eid, and Diwali. The children participated in a variety of activities to consolidate their learning on these celebrations. We had our morning snack at the Museum and also enjoyed some free exploration time too! Thank you so much to all of our volunteers today: Charlotte’s mom, Brady’s mom, Keira’s dad, Lilly’s mom, Callum’s mom, Adrienne’s dad, Amelle’s mom, and Kate’s mom. It was wonderful to have so many parents for this trip as it makes for small group sizes. We arrived back at the school just in time for lunch.

After lunch, we had Math where we are continuing to work with subtraction facts. We also did our calendar routine during this part of the day too, as well as planner writing. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had a little bit of catch up time, as well as practiced some carols for our caroling event tomorrow.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Tuesday, December 18^th…

Reminders:

1. Tomorrow is our field trip to the Children’s Museum. Volunteers are asked to be at the school right for 9:00am as we will be leaving right after we quickly take attendance. We will back to the school before noon. Please ensure your child eats a good breakfast, as well as uses the washroom before coming to school.

2. The ‘Five Days of Ryerson’ continues tomorrow! Tomorrow is ‘Festive Hat’ Day!

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. We also finished catching up with our online advent calendar too. We then read a Christmas story, followed by having some independent reading time. After independent reading, we gathered back at the carpet for Traditions and Celebrations where we explored the celebration of Christmas, noting why and how Christmas is celebrated in many parts of the world.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by finishing up Traditions and celebrations. Today, we returned library books, but we didn’t sign out any new ones since it will be the two week break soon. We will resume library book exchange in the New Year. After library, we had Gym with Miss. Baxendale.

After lunch, we had Math where we continued our work on subtraction. Today, we focused on the strategy of using our addition doubles facts to help us with subtraction (e.g., if we know 10+10=20, then 20-10=10). We did some large group work at the carpet and then the children worked independently at their desks. Just before last recess, we had snack. Those who ordered popcorn had it delivered today.

After last recess, we had Writing where we started our last persuasive writing task (in the New Year we will be moving on to Procedural Writing). We began by reading the book, “Mrs. Claus Takes a Vacation.” The children were then asked to complete a persuasive piece of writing indicating whether they would prefer to spend their winter in a cold, snowy location or a warm, tropical location. They had to defend their opinion with reasons and examples. To end the day, the children had Health with Miss Jiwani.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Monday, December 17^th…

I am very glad to be back at school today, I truly missed your children’s smiling faces. Last week was a very difficult week for my family and I, but we know my Dad is looking down on us enjoying a game of golf somewhere sunny and warm. Thank you so much for your thoughtful cards and kind messages and gestures – they mean more than you know – I feel so lucky to belong to such a wonderful community. Your children were amazing last week and did a great job carrying out the plans I left for the two supply teachers. I came in Friday evening for a few hours and went through all of their work, so a ton will be coming home over the next few days.

This week is going to be an extremely busy week with three field trips and lots of other fun activities! Be sure to check the calendar each day so your child is prepared to partake in all of our activities.

Pocket Snack: Please be sure to read the pocket snack note that was sent home with your child today.

Word ring testing took place today, so be sure to check your child’s ring for new words.

There will be no word work this week. Word work will resume in the New Year.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our ‘Mistake Monday’ morning message. We then completed our calendar routine, as well as our online advent calendar - we had lots to catch up on as my supply teachers couldn’t access it last week, as it can only be accessed from my personal account. We then read a Christmas story, followed by some independent reading time.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where we read the story “The Perfect Pet”. After listening to the story, the children took the graphic organizers they completed with me just over a week ago and it turned it into a written draft. As they finished, they began to work on the art activity that goes with it. We look forward to displaying these in the hallway when finished.

After lunch, we had Math where our focus today was continuing with subtraction, which the children started last week. Our strategy today was using a number line to help us subtract. After some large group examples, the children worked independently at their desks on a task. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we participated in a Ryerson carol sing in the gym – a great festive way to start the week!

Have a great night everyone!

Allison

News for Monday, December 10th...

As you may know, my Dad passed away yesterday morning. I am so sad and trying to heal. I was very close with my Dad and I miss him so much. I will be away from school all this week. I have sent all of my school day plans to Mrs. Cianci and please know your children are in good hands this week. I look forward to seeing your children's smiling faces on Monday morning (Dec. 17th). My blog will resume at that time.

Love, Ms. A

News for Friday, December 7^th…

Happy Friday, everyone! We send out ‘Birthday Wishes’ out to Samar and Lilly this weekend! Enjoy your special day, girls!

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our weekly word work quiz. The quizzes have been marked and sent home in your child’s communication bag. We then gathered at the carpet for our morning message and calendar, where we did our traditional calendar, as well as our online advent calendar. We then turned our focus to shared reading where we read through our poem and did some word activities. We also went over this weekend’s homework task. For read aloud, we read two Hanukkah stories and then we had some buddy reading time.

After morning recess, we had snack – thank you Samar’s and Lilly’s family who sent in special snack to celebrate their birthdays. We then had writing. Today, we read the book “The Best Pet” and as a follow up the children were asked to think about if they could have any pet in the world, what kind of pet they would want. They then completed a graphic organizer about such, trying to use their persuasive skills. Next week we will complete a written draft about such, as well as cute craft to go with our writing piece. Just before lunch, we read a Hanukkah story.

After lunch, we began our time with a problem solving task, followed by reviewing the addition strategy of ‘doubles.’ We also talked about the strategy of ‘friendly numbers’ – which is quite cool! As a follow up, the children worked on trying these strategies out during independent math time. They also played a doubles math game using the format of ‘Snakes and Ladders.’ Just before last recess we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end our day, if all completed work was finished, the children enjoyed some activity time.

Have a great weekend!

Allison

News for Thursday, December 6^th…

As some of you already know, my Dad is very ill. Long nights at the hospital have been our reality over the past little while. But, your children’s smiling faces each day bring a smile to my face and it’s so nice to have that positivity right now. Tonight, we will be celebrating my Dad’s birthday in the hospital.

States of Matter homework activity: Tonight your child has brought home a baggie with a note explaining a ‘States of Matter’ homework activity as part of our Science unit on solids, liquids, and gases. All ‘filled’ baggies are to be returned on Thursday, December 13^th for sharing. I’m looking forward to seeing some creative inclusions!

Grinch Field Trip Forms: Thank you to those families who have already returned such. If you haven’t had a chance yet, please do so as soon as possible.

We began our morning with planner writing, morning message, calendar, and shared reading. For read aloud, we read a story about Hanukkah and then had some independent reading time. We then practiced our words of the work doing some ‘ghost writing.’

After morning recess, we had snack followed by art where we reviewed the primary and secondary colours. We then read a book titled “Mix it Up!” After the art story, the children worked with paint, taking each of the primary colours and mixing them together to create each of the secondary colours. These are drying and we will send them home either tomorrow or early next week.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with a problem solving task on our whiteboards. We then delved into today’s addition strategy: “Doubles.” After some large group work, the children played a game titled “Doubles Facts.” They then completed some follow up activities on using doubles when adding. Just before last recess, they had snack.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end the day, we had Science where we reviewed the 3 states of matter and then focused on what the molecules look like in each form. Using the SmartBoard, the children engaged in an activity where we could change the temperature on a thermometer and tehn see how that affects a glass of water, as well as showing how the molecules change. After our SmartBoard time, the children practiced moving like solids, liquids, and gases on the carpet. As a follow up, the children used cheerios to represent molecules to show what molecules would like in a solid, in a liquid, and in a gas. These are drying and they will be sent home tomorrow.

Just a reminder that tomorrow is our weekly word work quiz.

Allison

News for Wednesday, December 5^th…

2D Shape Math Quizzes: Your child’s math quiz has been sent home with him/her tonight. Please look over, sign, and return.

We began our morning with our field trip to Fanshawe Pioneer Village to participate in the Upper Canada Christmas Program. This program ties in nicely to the Gr. 2 Social Studies Curriculum (Heritage and Identity Strand – Changing Family and Community Traditions). In this program, the children “learn about the Christmas traditions of London’s early inhabitants, who managed to celebrate despite cold weather and scarce material goods. Through interactive activities, students will discover the cultural traditions of the Victorian era, including holiday greeting cards, the Christmas tree, the art of candle making, and the importance of celebrating with family.” The children have brought home the cracker they made, a candle they made, and a Christmas card they made. Thank you very much to our volunteers today….your time and help was much appreciated! Thank you to Charlotte’s mom, Amelle’s mom, Adrienne’s dad, Brady’s mom, Neil’s mom, Miles’ mom, Lilly’s mom, and Ryan’s mom.

In the afternoon, we began our time with planner writing and eating our lunches. They were definitely hungry! We then did calendar and shared reading. During shared reading today, we read through our poem about Hanukkah and we watched a little video about Hanukkah too. For read aloud, we read a Hanukkah story and then we turned our focus to math. Our focus today in math, was reviewing our strategies thus far: Zero facts, counting on/up, and rainbow facts/facts to ten. The children began their math time with some independent math work.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had snack followed by finishing up our math. After the children finished their independent work, they played a partner math game, focusing on ‘tens’ facts.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Tuesday, December 4^th…

Thank you so much for sending in a pocket snack for your child. It was awesome to collect them all this morning!

We have room for one more volunteer for our Grinch trip. If you would like to volunteer please send me a note tomorrow. The cost for volunteers is $8.50 to cover the cost of an adult ticket.

Field Trip Tomorrow! Tomorrow is our field trip to the Pioneer Village. Please have your child eat a good breakfast at home, as well as encouraging them to use the washroom before coming to school in the morning. Once we do attendance, we will be heading right onto the bus. Please dress your child for the weather (e.g., winter coat, a hat, mittens, boots). Volunteers are asked to be at the school for 9:00am. We’re looking forward to a great day tomorrow!

Persuasive Writing and Media Literacy Tasks: These tasks have been marked and sent home. The rubrics do not need to be signed/returned, as I have kept a copy. Please celebrate your child’s successes, as well as go over next steps with him/her. If your child did not bring these home today, they are probably not quite finished (I have 2 students left to finish the writing piece and 2 to finish their gum package).

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. The children enjoyed our online advent calendar activity today as we explored a little carnival in the town. For shared reading, we read through our poem about Hanukkah. We also read some information about Hanukkah and sang the ‘Dreidel’ song. It was then time to listen to a Hanukkah story, followed by writing where we worked on a holiday activity.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by our library book exchange time and then outside gym with Miss. Baxendale.

After lunch, we had Math where we began our time with a problem solving question. It was wonderful to see the children sowing more of their thinking on their whiteboards today, as well as clearly outlining what strategies they used to solve the problem. Many referenced our anchor chart to try and solve the problem in more than one way…fantastic! Our addition strategy we focused on today was using our “ten’s facts” or sometimes referred to as ‘rainbow facts’. We did some large group work on the SmartBoard and then the children worked on some independent activities. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, we continued with our writing activity. To end the day, the children had Health with Miss. Jiwani.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Monday, December 3^rd…

I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend! It was definitely nice to see some familiar faces at the ‘Lighting of the Lights’ in Victoria Park on Friday Night!

Pocket Snacks: Please read the pocket snack note that was sent home with your child today.

Field Trip Form: A field trip form has been sent home today for our upcoming school wide field trip to see the movie “The Grinch!” It is a different style field trip permission form, so please read it through carefully and pay the payment online. Primary classes are only able to take two volunteers, so we will do a lottery draw tomorrow, based on any returned forms of volunteers that wish to come.

Sight word ring testing took place today, so be sure to check your child’s ring for new words.

We began our morning with planner writing, our ‘Mistake Monday’ morning message, and calendar. During calendar, we went over all of the fun events taking place this month – the next three weeks will fly by I’m sure! After calendar, we had Writing where we continued our persuasive writing work based on the book, “The Day the Crayons Quit.” Today, the children took their graphic organizers and turned them into a letter that they wrote to the colour crayon they chose, trying to convince them of their importance and thus, not to quit! We emphasized the importance of adding detail to our work. When the children finished their letters, they began to work on the craft that goes with this piece of writing. Most children finished. The final products look so cute! We will hang them up in the hallway tomorrow for everyone to see!

After morning recess, we had snack followed by starting an online advent calendar that takes place in Edinburgh. We looked up where Edinburgh was on a map and then completed the activities for December 1^st, 2^nd, and 3^rd. Ask your child about it! We look forward to completing a new activity each day! I then attended a meeting with Mrs. Cianci and Miss Hoskin to talk about the progress each of the students in my class is making. Each primary grade teacher has an opportunity to do this and it is a time to celebrate successes, as well as note areas of concern. A note will come home later this week about it. While I was at the meeting, Miss Jiwani covered my class and completed shared reading, word work, and independent reading with the children. This week, our shared reading poem is all about Hanukkah as the first night of Hanukkah took place last night. Today, the children made some predictions about the poem based on given words and then they read through the poem. During word work, the children read over this week’s words, discussed the focus, and then wrote the words in their planner. Just before lunch, they had independent reading.

After lunch, we had Math where we began our math time with a problem solving task. I wrote a word problem on the board and the children were asked to solve the problem on their individual whiteboard. After students had some working time, I asked for some volunteers to share the strategy they used to solve the [problem. We talked about how we can use various strategies to show our work (e.g., pictures, words, number sentence, number line, etc…). I then introduced an anchor chart to the children that will visually serve as a reminder of the ways we can work through problem solving tasks.

It was then time to turn our focus back to addition strategies, where today we reviewed the strategies of zero facts and counting on/up. The children worked on a math game and then completed some follow up activity sheets. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we finished snack, read a story about Hanukkah, and then learned a song about solids, liquids, and gases. Have a great night!

Allison

News for Friday, November 30^th…

Happy Friday! It’s definitely hard to believe that it’s the last day of November! The ‘Holiday Train’ was wonderful last night with light snow falling from the sky, lots of festive lights from the train, great entertainment, and lots of donations for the Food Bank. Maybe I will see some of you tonight at the ‘Lighting of the Lights.’

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our weekly word work quiz. The quizzes have been marked and sent home in your child’s communication bag. We then gathered at the carpet to complete our calendar and shared reading routines. During shared reading, we also went over this weekend’s homework task. It was then time for Lilly’s “Student of the Week” presentation, followed by some buddy reading time. Just before morning recess, we exchanged our independent reading books and had a desk clean out.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by Writing where we are continuing to focus on the form of persuasive writing. Today, we read the book “The Day the Crayons Quit” and then the children completed a graphic organizer trying to persuade me which colour they feel is the most important. We will complete a cute craftivity to go with this piece of writing too, next week.

After lunch, we had Math where we started our next math unit: Addition and Subtraction Facts (to 18), as well as problem solving. We will be trying out various addition and subtraction strategies over the next few weeks and the children can find which strategy (ies) work best for them. We discussed two strategies today: Zero Facts and Counting On/Up. We did some large group work on the SmartBoard trying out these strategies. The children then worked in pairs to play a game that involved the strategy of counting on. The students then worked independently on some activity sheets. Just before last recess we had snack.

After last recess, the children had some catch-up time, as well as some activity time to end the week.

Have a great weekend! Just a reminder the pink permission forms for ‘Extendicare’ are due on Tuesday, as are the December book orders.

Allison

News for Thursday, November 29^th…

Tonight the ‘Holiday Train’ arrives in London at 8:15pm! Maybe I will see some of you there!

December Calendar: Our December Class Calendar has been sent home today. Please be sure to post it in a visible spot at home as we have lots of exciting events taking place during our three weeks here at school in December! It’s going to be a fun and busy month!

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our math quiz on 2D Geometry. Just before recess, we had snack.

After morning recess, we headed to the MakerSpace room for our visit with the Children’s Museum where we participated in the Grade 2 Program “Liquids Laboratory.” I chose this program as it ties in perfectly to what we are working in Science: Solids, Liquids, and Gases. Throughout the morning, the children participated in a variety of hands-on science activities. They had a great time mixing many different solids and liquids today…ask your child about it! We finished the program just in time for lunch.

After lunch, we did calendar, read through our shared reading poem – and also talked about how bubblegum came to be. We then had some independent reading time, followed by having some catch up time. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end our day, we had Science where we reviewed that everything around us can be described as matter. We reviewed the 3 states of matter (solid, liquid, gas) and did some work in our science journals writing about each form, as well as listing a few examples for each of the three forms.

Have a great night! Enjoy some festive cheer with the ‘Holiday’ train tonight!

Remember, tomorrow is our weekly word work quiz.

Allison

News for Wednesday, November 28^th…

Children’s Museum: Just a reminder that tomorrow morning the Children’s Museum will be visiting us here at school! We will be participating in the Gr. 2 “Liquids Laboratory” program which ties in perfectly to our science unit on solids, liquids, and gases. This program is free due to a grant I applied for and was approved…yay! Who doesn’t love free! Normally, this program would cost $8.50 per child. The children will be engaging in a variety of experiments, so please have them wear old clothes.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by heading to the gym for the “Buster the Bus” assembly. Buster is a little bus that teaches Kindergarten through Grade 3 students about bus safety. While some students do not ride the school bus to and from school each day, it is still really important for them to learn about bus safety rules for field trips. After the assembly, we did calendar and listened to a read aloud about bubblegum.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by shared reading and then writing where we read the story “Spoon” – which we read yesterday as a springboard to our persuasive writing piece we began working on. Today, the children revisited their graphic organizers and began working on their written draft, working to add more detail (examples) to each of their three reasons to support their opinion. We also went over the rubric I will be using to assess this piece of writing. As students finished their writing, they worked on completing other unfinished tasks.

After lunch, we had Math where we reviewed the names and properties of various 2D shapes. We then did some large group work at the carpet on the SmartBoard. The children then participated in their final rotation of our math centres. They have really enjoyed these! To end our math time today, the children completed a math ‘scoot’ about 2D shapes – here, they went around the room where I had scattered 24 different questions about 2D shapes. As they came across a question, they found that question number on their recording sheet and read/answered the question. Scoots are a fun way to get up and moving while working on curriculum content. Just before last recess we had snack. We will have a quiz on 2D shapes tomorrow.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had some catch up time, where we worked really hard to finish up family trees, media literacy gum packages, etc…Those who are all caught up on such tasks did a word work activity ‘ghost words’ practicing our spelling words of the week.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Tuesday, November 27^th…

I am happy to be back at school today.

December Book Orders have been sent home today and are due back by December 4^th. If your order is a gift, please just write me a note and I will let you know when the order arrives, rather than sending it home with your child.

We began our morning with planner writing. We then headed down to the gym for an assembly. Central highschool’s music department performed for us. They did an amazing job performing “Carnival of the Animals” which the children have been learning about in Music class. The jazz group also performed. When we came back to class, we had just enough time to work on a little bit of unfinished work.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by our library book exchange time. We then headed outside for outside gym. A quick morning!

After lunch, we had Math where we began by reviewing the names and properties of various 2D shapes. We then did some work with pattern blocks, creating and designing pictures – using shapes. We talked about how we can combine shapes to make various objects. We also did some large group work on the SmartBoard talking about how a group of shapes were similar and different. We then did a rotation of math centres. We will likely have a math quiz on 2D shapes on Thursday or Friday of this week. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, we had writing where we reviewed the purpose and components of persuasive writing. We then read a book titled, “Spoon” – a cute story about the utensils we eat with. After listening to the story, the children completed a graphic organizer about what type of utensil they would choose to be if they could only pick one – a fork, a spoon, a knife, or chopsticks – they then had to persuade me why their choice was the best.

To end the day, the children had Health with Miss. Jiwani.

Have a great night – lots more snow on the way.

Allison

News for Monday, November 26th...

Unfortunately, I was not able to be at school today due to a family emergency. As such, the blog is rather short. I hope to be back at school tomorrow, but at this point I am not sure. Fingers crossed!

Pink Field Trip Forms: Field trip forms were sent home today (on pink paper) for our upcoming trip to Extendicare where we will sing some carols and spread some festive cheer for the residents. There is no cost for this field trip, so only the pink field trip form needs to be signed and returned.

Children's Musuem Payments: I have almost everyone's forms, but just a reminder that the online payment is also due by tomorow for this trip.

During the morning the children completed their planner, 'Mistake Monday' morning message, and calendar routines with Miss Jiwani. They then had shared reading where our poem this week is titled, 'The Bubble' - linking in our work in Media Literacy. Our read aloud today was titled "Trouble Gum." They then had some independent reading time, followed by word work where our focus this week is on the long vowel sound e spelled ee or ea. The children read through the words and then wrote the words in their planners.

For Math, the children listened to the book "The Shape of Things" where the illustrator uses 2D shapes and turns them into objects (e.g., a circle can become a ferris wheel a square can become the bottom part of the house) by adding other details to the background. After listening to the story, the children then chose a shape and glued it onto a background paper - they then worked on adding detail to give this picture 'life' and turn the shape into much, much more!

After lunch, the children had Science where we are now working on learning more about solids, liquids, and gases. To begin, each table group was given an envelope of pictures where inside I had placed various pictures - the children had to work together to create a sorting rule - with the hopes that they would sort them into solids, liquids, and gases. After the groups had some time to work, the children went back to the carpet and sorted the pictures as a class into solids, liquids, and gases. They then completed a follow up activity and had snack.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end the day, it was a bit of catch-up time to finish any unfinished work.

Allison

News for Friday, November 23^rd…

Happy Friday! I hear we are in for a little ‘warm spell’ this weekend, bringing rain instead of snow.

Reminders:

1. The permission form, along with online payment, for our upcoming field trip to the Children’s Museum are due by Tuesday. Thank you to those families who have already submitted such.

2. Word ring testing will take place on Monday. Be sure to have your child review the words on his/her ring.

3. Homework duotangs have been sent home tonight and are due back on Monday.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our weekly word work quiz. The quizzes have been marked and sent home in your child’s communication bag. We then delved right into Ryerson’s “Country and Western” spirit day! Throughout the morning, the children participated in a variety of rotating centres, with a country and western theme, with Kindergarten-Grade 6 students. The children participated in three centres before recess, then had outdoor recess followed by snack, and then completed the final three centres, which lead us right into lunch…what a whirlwind of a morning! Some of the centre activities included: Corral Tag, Lasso Horse and Wagon Race, Cowboy Kahoot (computer activity), Country and Western Line dancing, Minute to Win it games, Wanted pictures, Hat balance, Snake scavenger, and a cowboy craft. Fun!

After lunch, we had calendar, listened to Owen’s “Student of the Week” presentation and then had shared reading where we practiced reciting our pledge against bullying. We then headed down to the office to recite our pledge to Mrs. Cianci where she signed our official “Pledge Against Bullying” certificates. The children have brought home their certificates with them tonight. We then came back to the classroom for Math where the children completed their third math centre rotation focusing on 3D shapes. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Dance with Miss Jiwani. To end our day, we had some catch up time, where the children were working on a variety of things: Finishing up family trees, media literacy gum packages, long vowel ‘a’ activities, etc…

Have a wonderful weekend!

Allison

News for Thursday, November 22^nd…

Ryerson Spirit Day: Just a reminder that tomorrow is “Country and Western” Day at Ryerson! Your child is encouraged to wear anything ‘country’ – such as jeans, a cowboy hat, cowboy boots, bandanas, plaid shirts, etc…be creative! During the morning, the Kindergarten through Gr. 6 students will be participating in a variety of rotating centres.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our two pledges against bullying and we filled out our names on our certificates so that we are ready to recite our pledges to Mrs. Cianci tomorrow afternoon and have her sign them. We also played a word game. For read aloud, we read a book about anti-bullying and then we had some independent reading time. Just before morning recess, we had Media Literacy where the children are continuing to work away at their gum packages, trying to employ a variety of advertising techniques and gimmicks.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by Writing. During writing, we reread our mentor text from yesterday, “Hey Little Ant” and then we worked on using our graphic organizers that we completed yesterday – to create a written draft on whether the boy in the story should squish or save the ant. As students finished, they worked on creating an art piece of an ant to along with our writing – be sure to check out our bulletin board display!

After lunch, we had Math where we began by reviewing the names and properties of various 2D shapes. We then played two shape games. Our large group game was titled, “What’s the Same?” Here, I had put up a variety of shapes on the carpet and one student had to choose a shape and name it. I then had a second volunteer select a different shape that was like the first shape in some way – they had to explain what was the same (e.g., one student could choose a square and then the second person a triangle and they could say they are both quadrilaterals or they both have 4 sides or they both have 4 vertices). We repeated this process a few times, noting similarities and differences between a variety of 2D shapes. After our large group game, the children worked in pairs to play “Shape Concentration/Memory” – I modelled the game first, laying out a variety of shape cards face down. The first player flips over two cards. If the cards show the same kind of shape, the player gets to keep both cards (emphasizing that the shapes did not need to be identical, only the same kind of shape – for example, 2 triangles – but one could be an equilateral and one a scalene – they don’t need to know these names in grade two, only that there are different kinds of triangles). If the cards didn’t match, the player turned them over and in the same place. Then the next player had a turn. The game finishes when all cards have been matched.

After our partner work, the children had their second rotation of math centres and then worked on finishing up the math independent activity sheet we started yesterday. Just before last recess, we had snack. Those who ordered popcorn had that today at last snack.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end our day, we had Social Studies where we continued to work on our family trees, with many students even finishing their trees…they look great! Others are getting close to being done.

Have a great night! Remember, tomorrow is our weekly word work quiz.

Allison

News for Wednesday, November 21^st…

Snow, snow, and more snow!

Place Value Quizzes: Your child has brought home his/her Place Value math quiz tonight. Please go over the quiz with your child, sign, and return the quiz. All quizzes will be sent home later in the Term for you to keep.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our two anti-bullying pledges. We also played a word game and read a story titled, “Howard B. Wigglebottom Learns About Bullies.” It was then time for some independent reading time, followed by continuing to work on our gum packages for Media Literacy.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by persuasive writing. Up to this point, we have been practicing the form of persuasive writing through various scaffolded tasks (where I’m providing many of the prompts and then the children are filling in the required information). Today, we moved to the next step where we are starting to use a graphic organizer to record our information which we will then use to turn into a written draft (similar to the process for recount writing). Our mentor text today was: “Hey Little Ant.” After listening to the story, the children had to try and persuade others, using their writing skills, if the boy in the story should squish or save the ant. After stating their opinion, they had to provide three reasons with examples to support their opinion, and then give a counter opinion, as well as restate their opinion. Today, the children worked on their graphic organizer and tomorrow they will turn the information from their graphic organizer into a written draft, working on adding additional information. As students finished their graphic organizer, they conferenced with me and then worked on creating an ‘ant’ which will be part of our bulletin board display. Just before lunch, we also visited the library for our book exchange time since we missed it yesterday.

After lunch, we had Math where we read a wonderful book about 2D shapes that Keira brought in to share with the class…even I learned the name of an interesting 2D shape…a quatrefoil! A wonderful way to start our math class today! We then reviewed the names and properties of various 2D shapes. During our large group activity, the children sat around the edge of the carpet and worked with a geoboard. The children were asked to create a shape of their choosing, but the shape could only have straight lines and their one elastic could not cross over itself. After everyone completed a shape, everyone put their geoboards in the middle of the carpet. We discussed that all of the shapes they just made are polygons – I then asked based on that information if anyone could explain what they thought a polygon might be. We clarified that a polygon is a shape that 3 or more straight sides.

I then selected all of the geoboards that had 3 sides and set those apart from the others. I asked the children to examine the polygons that I chose and to determine what those shapes had in common. We discussed that all of those polygons had 3 sides and 3 vertices, even though they make take a different form (different kinds of triangles). I then selected the geoboards that showed quadrilaterals – setting those geoboards apart from the others and asking the children to determine why those shapes were grouped together. We went over that those polygons are quadrilaterals because they have four sides and four vertices. We continued this process with shapes with five sides, six sides, etc….

I then explained the final math centre activity we would be doing and then the children worked through their first math centre on 2D shapes. Over the next few days, the children will rotate through five hands on math centres, focusing on 2D shapes.

Centre 1 – Tic Tac Know (basically tic tac toe, but with 2D Shapes)

Centre 2 – 2D Shape Bingo

Centre 3 – Geoboards

Centre 4 – Pattern Blocks

Centre 5 – Pizza Parlour – here students work to try and create whole pizzas (hexagons), using different pattern block shapes, to show that there are many ways to create a hexagon (a whole hexagon, trapezoids, triangles, rhombuses, etc…).

Just before last recess, the children started an independent math activity (that we will finish tomorrow) and then we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had Social Studies where we continued to work on our Family Trees. Many children are now finished the pictures of their family members and have begun working on gluing their pictures onto a family tree background.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Tuesday, November 20^th…

Place Value math quizzes will be sent home tomorrow, as I have two students finishing up theirs who were away last week.

This Friday is a Ryerson Spirit Day! It will be “Country’n’Western” Day at Ryerson! The children are encouraged to wear all things country! For example, jeans, plaid shirts, cowboy hats, boots, etc…

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our two pieces of text related to anti-bullying and we also played a word game. It was then time for a read aloud, followed by some independent reading time. After independent reading, we gathered back at the carpet for Media Literacy where we reviewed the success criteria for our gum packages. The children then set to work, using their planning page, to begin creating their package! They were quite excited about this!

After morning recess, we had snack. It was then supposed to be our normal library book exchange time, but the library was in use by the Gr. 5’s, so we worked on a quick math activity instead. After library, the children had Outside Gym with Miss. Baxendale. Thank you for sending your child dressed for the weather, especially for when they have outside gym.

After lunch, we did a school job helping to sort the ‘Fresh From the Farm’ food so that it was ready for pick up for parents. A great real life sorting activity! They did an awesome job with this and were proud to be great helpers! When we came back to class we worked a little more on math, where I explained some of the 2D shape centres will be starting tomorrow. They then worked on an independent activity sorting various 2D shapes, according to a given set of rules. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, we had Social Studies where the children continued to work away on their family trees. They are working hard to create a picture (with information) for each person on their family tree. We even had a couple of people finish their pictures today and start to cut them out…awesome! Some people are very close to finishing their pictures and should be done that part of our activity tomorrow. To end our day, the children had Health with Miss. Jiwani.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Monday, November 19^th…

I hope everyone had a nice weekend! Thank you to the many families who came out to Parent/Teacher interviews on Thursday night and Friday morning, despite the wintery weather. I enjoyed spending some time with all of you chatting about your child’s progress. I am very thankful to work alongside such supportive families.

Thank you for taking the time to sit down with your child to help him/her finish his/her family tree. By returning your tree today, your child was able to begin his/her good copy during our Social Studies time.

Thank you to those families who have already begun to send in permission forms for our upcoming field trip to the Children’s Museum. Please remember to also make the online payment for this trip.

Word ring testing took place today, so be sure to check your child’s ring for new words.

Also, now that the wintery weather is upon us, please send in an extra pair of mitts and socks that your child can either keep in his/her cubby at school or in his/her backpack. Little hands and feet can get very wet playing out in the snow, so it’s always nice to have a dry pair to change into, especially after lunch recess.

We began our morning with planner writing, our ‘Mistake Monday’ morning message, and calendar. Our shared reading focus this week (as well as our focus for read alouds) will be all about anti-bullying, as this week is anti-bullying week. Schools all across Thames Valley, as well as many places of work, will be taking the ‘Pledge to End Bullying’ – our class will be using ‘The Pledge’ as part of our shared reading text this week. At the end of the week, we will recite ‘The Pledge’ to Mrs. Cianci and she will then sign our Pledge certificates. Today, during shared reading, we talked about different kinds of bullying (e.g., verbal, physical). We also read through our two pieces of shared reading text. For read aloud, we read a book titled, “Bullies Never Win” and then we had some independent reading time. During word work, we reviewed our words (same words as last week, since it was such a short, busy week). We rewrote the words in our planners.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing. Today in writing, we reviewed the purpose of persuasive writing, as well as the components. We then brainstormed a variety of different holidays on our whiteboard (e.g., Christmas, birthdays, Easter, Halloween, etc…). The children then chose one holiday they thought was the best and they had to try and persuade me to think the same in their scaffolded persuasive writing piece today. We are really working on trying to add examples to support the reasons we give.

After lunch, we had Math where we are working with 2D shapes. After our number talk, we began with an activity titled “Guess My Shape!” Here, I uncovered a small piece of a shape on the SmartBoard and the children had to record a guess what shape could be hiding behind the grey screen. We had some volunteers share their thinking of why they guessed what they did and then I revealed a bit more of the mystery shape. The children were then either able to record the same guess or change their guess. Again, we had volunteers share their guesses and thinking. Finally, I revealed the shape and the children recorded the shape, as well as its name.

After our introduction activity, we spent some time working with geoboards today. To begin, the children had a little ‘experimentation’ time with the geoboards and then I gave them specific instructions of things to make on the geoboard (e.g., Make the largest triangle, square, rectangle…possible. Make a shape that looks like a house, a kite, a stop sign. Make a shape with 3/4/5/6 sides and vertices). After our large group time, the children completed an independent activity. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had Social Studies where the children began working on the good copies of their family trees. To begin, they are working on creating a hand-drawn picture of each person in their tree, noting the person’s name, as well as relationship to them, and year of birth (and death if applicable). It will take us a few days to finish the pictures. Once they do so, they will then cut out the pictures and organize the pictures onto a large family tree, from construction paper.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Thursday, November 15^th…

Field Trip Form: Tonight your child has brought home a field trip form for an upcoming Gr. 2 field trip to the Children’s Museum. We will be participating in the Gr. 2 “Traditions and Celebrations” program. Please complete the form, as well as make the online payment. As always, we will be looking for volunteers. If you are able to help us out, we would greatly appreciate it.

Reminders:

1. There is no school tomorrow for students as it is a PD Day.

2. Word ring testing will take place on Monday.

3. If you haven’t brought in an empty shoebox, please try to send one in early next week, along with a few sheets of tissue paper (if possible).

4. Edited family trees are due back on Monday so that we can begin working on our good copies in class.

Happy Birthday wishes go out to Charlotte on Saturday!

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our co-created poem on ‘Families.’ We also brainstormed as many different kinds of families as we could think of. We then went over this week’s homework task. For read aloud, we read a book about families and then we had some buddy reading time. During Media Literacy, we continued our exploration of gum packages, noting the different components, as well as reviewing advertising techniques/gimmicks companies use to sell their products. We then looked at the planning template the students would be using to create their own package, as well as the rubric I will be using to assess the final product. After our large group time, the children set to work on their planning sheet. As they finished such, they conferenced with me to correct spelling, etc…in preparation of starting their package design on Monday.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing. To begin our writing time, we reviewed the purpose, as well as the components of persuasive writing. We then had some volunteers share their writing of “I think ____ is the best place to shop!” We talked about what students did really well, as well as how we could bump up our work. For most, the next step is providing examples to support their reasons. We then read a story, “Froggy Eats Out” and began a new scaffolded persuasive writing piece titled “A Great Place to Eat” where the children chose a restaurant of choice and tried to persuade me what it is such a great place to eat. They chose some interesting restaurants and are becoming much more persuasive in their writing.

After lunch, we had Math where we reviewed the names and properties of various 2D shapes. We then did a small group activity titled “All Alike” where students were put into groups of 3 and given a baggy of assorted shapes. One group member selected a shape from the collection. They then asked another group member to select a shape that was like the first shape in some way (e.g., both have the same number of sides) and they had to state the rule he/she chose. The children repeated the task a few times, taking turns and selecting different shapes and different sorting rules. We then gathered back at the carpet as a whole class for some large group work. Just before last recess, the children completed some independent work on 2D shapes, as well as had snack.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end our day, we had Social Studies where the children completed an activity sheet listing as many different types of families as they could. As they finished their independent work, they began colouring the trunk of their tree for their ‘Family Tree.’

Have a great weekend! I look forward to chatting with the many parents who have signed up for an interview tonight/tomorrow morning.

Allison

News for Wednesday, November 14^th…

Family Tree: Tonight your child has brought home the rough copy of the family tree he/she created in class. Please help your child to edit the tree, adding in/correcting any missing information. Please return on Monday, November 19^th as we will begin working on our good copies at school that day.

Interviews: The electronic sign-up has now closed. If you haven't yet scheduled an interview, but would like to do so for tomorrow evening (Thursday) or Friday morning, please call the school office directly to set up a time.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through the acrostic poem we created titled “Families” and then brainstormed as many different types of families as we could….they did an awesome job with this coming up with 11! We read a fiction story about families during our read aloud time and then had some independent reading time. After independent reading, we gathered back at the carpet for Media Literacy where we continued our exploration on the packaging of gum, looking specifically for advertising techniques/gimmicks companies use to target a certain audience. We read through a poem about bubblegum and then completed the sorting activity we started yesterday, where we looked at various gum packages and had to decide if the target audience was adults, kids, or both – as they selected one of the target audiences, the children had to explain their thinking. We then looked at some real life examples of gum packages and took a further look for advertising techniques/gimmicks. Tomorrow we will begin working on our planning sheet for own bubblegum packages that we will create.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by Social Studies where we continued to work on our family trees. We began with a read aloud about family trees and then we reviewed the set-up of such. Yesterday, most children were able to finish the boxes for themselves, siblings, parents, and grandparents. Today, many began adding in aunts, uncles, and cousins. Your child has brought home his/her rough copy tonight. Please read the yellow note attached to your child’s family tree for specifics. Thank you in advance for your home support.

Choir also took place at lunch today where they began rehearsing for the annual ‘Winter Wonderland’ concert.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with a number talk. I then introduced the children to our next math unit, by presenting a bag with objects inside. Sitting around the edge of the carpet, the children each had a chance to reach inside the bag and feel what was in their (without looking). As they did so, they were trying to formulate a guess of what could be inside that would be a clue to our next math unit. After everyone had a chance to share, we determined that inside were 2D (two-dimensional shapes)…which is our next math unit (as part of the Geometry strand of the Ontario Math Curriculum).

After finding out that there were 2D shapes in the bag, I had a volunteer reach into the bag once again and have them choose one shape (without looking) and they had to try and identify the shape by touch alone (e.g., “I think it is a triangle because it has 3 sides). After several students had this opportunity, we emptied the bag and talked about the names of the various shapes (i.e., triangle, square, circle, rectangle, oval, pentagon, hexagon, octagon, etc…), as well as the properties of each shape (e.g., how many sides/vertices each shape has).

We then did some partner work, playing a 2D shape game called “Match Me” – ask your child about it. After our partner work, the children completed an independent activity. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end our day, we had Art where we are beginning to explore the element of colour. Today, the children were given the 3 primary colours (blue, red, and yellow) and using playdough we created the secondary colours. They loved seeing the transformation happen right before their eyes! Ask your child about it! After our hands-on activity with playdough, we read a book about primary and secondary colours titled, “Mouse Paint.”

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Tuesday, November 13^th…

A snowy start to the day!

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through the acrostic poem we created as a class together yesterday titled, “Families.” We then brainstormed as many different kinds of families as we could (e.g., single parent, nuclear, 2 moms, 2 dads, multigenerational, couple with no kids, etc…). We read two books about families during our read aloud time today. It was then time for some independent reading, followed by Media Literacy. Over the past little bit, we have been looking at the advertising techniques/gimmicks companies use when selling cereal boxes. Today, we started to look at different packaging of gum. We began with reading a poem titled, “Bubblegum” and then did some large group work on the SmartBoard about the names (kinds) of gum we like to buy and why we like to buy it. We also talked a little bit about the history of bubblegum. We discussed different brands of bubblegum and why one company would make different kinds of gum (i.e., different target audiences – and what would make them appeal to such audiences – the advertising techniques/gimmicks used). We then started a sorting activity looking at various pictures of gum and sorting them whether we thought the target audience was adults, kids, or both.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing. Today, we reviewed the purpose of persuasive writing, as well as the components of persuasive writing (state your opinion, give 3 reasons/examples to support your opinion, counter opinion, restate your opinion). We then read a story as a springboard to today’s task: “Five Little Monkeys Go Shopping.” Our writing task today was titled, ______ is a great place to shop! The children were told “If you had all the money in the world and you could shop at one store, what store would it be and why?” They then had to convince (persuade) others that they should spend their money at that store too. To begin, I modelled apiece of this writing with me writing about one of my favourite stores. We completed the piece of writing using our ‘OREO’ graphic organizer as our guide. After I modelled an example, the children set to work on a scaffolded persuasive writing activity trying to convince (persuade) me why their shop choice was the best! After our writing time, we spent a little bit of time in the library exploring the Book Fair.

During lunch recess today, students in Grades 2 and 3 were able to try out speed stacking in the MakerSpace room.

After lunch, we had Math where we continued with our second and final part to our place value quiz. Tomorrow, we will begin a new math unit. Just before last recess we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had Social Studies where we are learning about/working on our own family trees. To begin, we reviewed the purpose of a family tree and then read a story about family trees. We reviewed the set-up of a family tree (e.g., which generation goes at the bottom of the tree) and then the children continued their work on their own family tree. Tomorrow, they will be bringing home their rough copy for you to help edit before we begin working on our good copies in class next week.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Monday, November 12^th…

I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend! I hope everyone took some time to read over their child’s report card, celebrating what your child did really well, as well as talking about next steps. If you haven’t done so already, please return the goal portion of the report card, as well as the envelope, at some point this week. Just a reminder, interview sign up is done electronically through a link sent by the office/also posted on Ryerson’s home page. I look forward to chatting with you about your child’s progress.

Science Quizzes: Tonight your child has brought his/her science quiz on ‘Air and Water in the Environment.’ Please look over the quiz with your child, celebrating what he/she did really well, as well as talk about areas where he/she may need a little extra support. Please remember quizzes are only one form of assessment used to determine your child’s overall mark on a report card. Also, not all questions on a quiz are weighted equally. Please sign and then return the quiz back to school. All quizzes will be sent home later in the term for you to keep.

Word Rings: Word ring testing took place today, so be sure to check your child’s ring for new words. Be sure to practice the ‘old’ words on the ring too.

Canned Food Drive: Thank you to everyone who donated canned food/non-perishable items to Ryerson’s canned food drive. Ryerson was able to collect just under 750 items…fantastic job!

We began our morning with planner writing, our ‘Mistake Monday’ morning message, and calendar. Our shared reading focus this week is all about ‘Families’ to tie into our learning in Social Studies. Today, using the website: http://www.readwritethink.org/files/resources/interactives/acrostic/

The children worked together to create a class acrostic poem about the word families. We will be using this shared writing piece as our shared reading poem this week, as well as delving further into our exploration of families. After shared reading, we read a book about families (all of read alouds this week will also focus on the topic of families), and then we had some independent reading time. After independent reading, we gathered back at the carpet for word work where we went over this week’s words of the week. Starting today, and for the next few weeks, we will be focusing on long vowel sounds. This week, as it is a short week, our long vowel focus on /a/ will be worked on over two weeks – so no word work quiz this week. Just before morning recess, we had Media Literacy where we reviewed the advertising techniques/gimmicks companies use to sell their products.

After recess, we had snack followed by our weekly library book exchange. It was then time for outdoor gym with Miss. Baxendale.

After lunch, we had Math where we completed Part 1 of our Place Value quiz. Tomorrow we will complete Part 2. On Wednesday, we will begin our next math unit. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, we had Social Studies where we are continuing our focus on families. Today was our introduction to family trees. To begin, we talked about how families change and grow over time. We then discussed how a family can be like a tree – working together to complete a large group activity on the SmartBoard to further illustrate this comparison. We then read the story, “Me and My Family Tree” by Joan Sweeney. As we read through the story, we talked about how the children in the book described their families and how they organized the relationships in a family tree style. We discussed that a family tree helps us to better understand how the members of a family are related. We then talked about how the children will be completing their own family tree, in class, about 3 (or more) generations. The children will work at school to complete a rough copy which they will then bring home to you to edit (for spelling of family names, dates of birth, etc…) – probably Wednesday or Thursday of this week. After returning the rough copies back to school, the children will work on completing a good copy at school. Thank you in advance for your home support of this.

To end the day, the children had Health with Miss. Jiwani.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Friday, November 9^th…

Well, the children were definitely glad to see the snow falling today…me, not so much, lol!

Progress Reports: Tonight, your child has brought home his/her Progress Report. Please take the time to read through the comments thoroughly, celebrating your child’s successes, as well as noting areas of next steps. Please have your child set one or two goals that he/she would like to work on for the remainder of Term One. Have your child write his/her goal(s) on the bottom portion of the report card and return that portion, along with the envelope, on Monday morning. An electronic interview sign up will be sent from the office today re: Interviews to discuss Progress Reports. Interviews will take place on the evening of Thursday, November 15^th from 3:45-7:00pm, as well as the morning of Friday, November 16^th. I look forward to chatting with you about your child’s progress.

Shoeboxes: Thank you to those who sent one in already...wow! Anytime next week would be great if you haven't had a chance - a shoebox with a few sheets of tissue paper (any colour) would be great.

Thank you so much to everyone who donated canned goods/non-perishable food items for Ryerson’s canned food drive. Thank you to today’s contributors: Neil and Maya. Your generosity is greatly appreciated.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our weekly word work quiz. I have marked the quizzes and they have been sent home in your child’s communication bag. We then gathered at the carpet for our morning message and calendar routines. We then completed our Traditions and Celebrations page about Remembrance Day. It was then time for the primary choir members to practice for the Remembrance Day service. While half of our class was gone for that, those that were not involved in choir stayed with me and exchanged their independent reading books and also did some one-on-one assessment with me. When the choir members returned, we had snack and then got ready for outdoor recess.

After morning recess, we headed down to the gym for Ryerson’s Remembrance Day service. The choirs did a wonderful job marking this special day. The audience was also very respectful for the entire duration of the Remembrance Day service.

After the assembly, we came back to class and listened to Brady’s “Student of the Week” presentation. We also read through our shared reading poem, “Poppy” and I went over this week’s homework task. Just before lunch, we had a little bit of buddy reading time.

After lunch, we had Math where we continued our focus on Place Value. Today, the children did a fun hands-on activity where they represented various numbers using Shreddies (for hundreds), Pretzel sticks (for tens), and Cheerios (for ones). Their work is drying on our drying rack, but we will send it home on Monday. The children also did an independent activity sheet. We will have a Place Value Quiz on Monday and Tuesday during our math times next week (I’ve broken the quiz up into two parts for this unit). Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we performed our drama play “The Water Cycle” for Ms. Walkey’s Grade 1/2 students. Thank you for your home support by practicing your child’s lines with him/her over the last few weeks. They have done a great job and in addition to the drama component, it has been a wonderful way to consolidate our learning of the water cycle for Science. The children may now keep their scripts at home.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Allison

News for Thursday, November 8^th…

Shoeboxes: Each child is asked to bring in an empty shoebox for an upcoming activity. If you can put in a few sheets of tissue paper (any colour) inside, that would be greatly appreciated.

Canned Food Drive: Tomorrow is the last day for Ryerson’s canned food drive. Thank you to Adrienne, Brady, and Maya who brought in contributions yesterday. Thank you to Neil, Keira, Ryan, Oscar, and Aidan who brought in canned goods to day. Our class has been doing a great job of giving. Way to go, Grade Two’s! Every can/non-perishable item counts.

Progress Reports: Your child’s Progress Report will be sent home tomorrow. An electronic sign-up list for interviews will office be sent out tomorrow from the office. I encourage all parents to sign up to chat about their child’s progress. Interviews will take place on Thursday, November 15^th (from 3:45-7:00pm) and on Friday, November 16^th (from 9:00am-11:45am). I look forward to discussing your child’s progress with you.

We began our morning with planner writing and calendar. We then read a story about Diwali and reviewed some of the things we learned yesterday about Diwali. We also watched a powerpoint presentation about Diwali. It was then time for us to practice our play “The Water Cycle”. After Drama, we had some independent reading time. We then came back to the carpet for shared reading, where we read our poem “Poppy” and we also read a Remembrance Day story. We had a great discussion about Remembrance Day.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing. Over the last couple of months we have really been focusing on recounts. Today, we began a new form of writing: Persuasive Writing. I began by acting out a scenario of a child trying to persuade his/her parent to get him/her a computer. After reading the scenario, we talked about what the child was trying to do. How was he/she trying to persuade his/her parent to get him/her a computer? What reasons/examples did he/she give? I then acted out a second scenario. The children were asked which scenario they thought would be more effective and why. What strong words did the child use to make his/her argument powerful toward his/her parent? We then looked at a graphic organizer we will be using during our persuasive writing unit, called the OREO graphic organizer – based on an OREO cookie (O – Opinion, R – Reasons, E –Examples, O – Opinion restated). We then read the book, “I Wanna Iguana” and completed a graphic organizer about this book together.

After Writing, we turned our focus back to Social Studies where we continued to work on our family comparison Venn Diagrams. A few groups finished and most other groups are just about there.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with creating a number (36) in our table groups, showing four different ways to create the number. We then gathered back at the carpet for our Mystery Number Game. After some large group work, the children worked on completing two independent activities. Just before last recess, we had snack. Those who order popcorn, had that today.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss Jiwani. To end our day, we presented our play of ‘The Water Cycle’ to Mrs. Hardy’s Grade Two class. They enjoyed seeing our play as they have also been learning about the water cycle during their science time. Please take the time to practice your child’s lines one more time with him/her as we will be performing our play again tomorrow afternoon for Ms. Walkey’s Grade 1 or 2 class.

Have a great night! Remember tomorrow is our weekly word work quiz.

Allison

News for Wednesday, November 7^th…

Assessments: The assessments for our math (number words to twenty), as well as writing (recount about Halloween) have been sent home today. Please take some time to sit down with your child and celebrate what he/she has done well, as well as talk about next steps. These assessments do not need to be returned as I have kept a copy.

Water Cycle Play: Please take a couple of minutes tonight and tomorrow night to practice your child’s lines with him/her, working on projecting their voice, using expression, as well as gestures (where appropriate). We will be performing our little play for Mrs. Hardy’s class tomorrow afternoon and Ms. Walkey’s class on Friday afternoon.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. It was then time to head down to the MakerSpace room for our ‘2Hands Clay’ experience. The children had a great morning creating a 3D piece of art…but we can’t tell you what it is ~ it’s a surprise! You will find out later in December! The clay experience took most of the morning. We had just a little bit of time before lunch to practice our water cycle play and read a Remembrance Day story.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with some time to share our “My Ten/Twenty Dots” booklets we created a couple of weeks back. The children enjoyed sharing their books with each other. The booklets will be sent home soon. It was then time for our Mystery Number Game. They really seem to be enjoying this math game, especially having the opportunity to lead it! It’s a wonderful way to practice using math vocabulary too. After our game, we worked on some place value activities: Ordering numbers, as well as drawing and comparing various number values. Just before last recess we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss Jiwani. To end our day, we had Traditions and Celebrations where we focused on Diwali, which takes place today. I had two of my students from last year, Ishan and Diya, come to talk to our class today about Diwali and how they celebrate it in their families. We also read a book about Diwali and watched a powerpoint presentation. As a follow up, we completed the activity page in our red duotangs about Diwali.

As we were at the clay activity, those who ordered popcorn will have it tomorrow for snack.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Tuesday, November 6^th…

2Hands Clay: Just a reminder that our 2Hands Clay activity will take place tomorrow morning. Please have your child wear older clothes, so they won’t have to worry too much about ‘getting messy.’

Math (Number Words) and Writing Assessments (Halloween Recount) will be sent home tomorrow. I’m just waiting for a couple of students to finish.

Thank you to Brady who brought in some items for Ryerson’s canned food drive…super! Please feel free to send in any non-perishable items by Friday of this week.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For read aloud we read a Remembrance Day story titled: “Proud as a Peacock, Brave as a Lion” which then led us into our shared reading poem “Poppy”. After reading through our poem, we spent a lot of time talking about the phrase: “Peace begins with me.” We brainstormed many ideas that children can do to show or promote peace. The children then worked on an independent writing piece completing the phrase: “Peace begins with me. I can….” They first completed a rough copy in their writing books and then they worked on their good copies which we will display in the hallway. Just before morning recess, we had some independent reading time.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by our science quiz on ‘Air and Water in the Environment’. As students finished, they worked on finishing their peace writing activity or on their science water conservation posters. I will be marking the quizzes over the weekend.

After lunch, we had Math where we worked on a place value activity titled “How Much is Your Initial Worth?” Using place value manipulatives (tens and ones), the children took some time to create the first letter of their name. They were encouraged to try and find 2 or 3 different ways to create their letter. After some hands-on practice, they then chose one way to create their initial, recreating what they did with the manipulatives with paper cut outs of tens and ones. They glued their cutouts onto a background paper and then completed a follow up frame explaining their math. Here is the format below:

The first letter of my name is _____

I used ___tens and ____ones.

____ tens are worth ____

____ ones are worth _____

___ + ____ = ____

We look forward to displaying these in the hallway soon! Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had Social Studies where we are continuing to explore different types of families. We began with a read aloud and then the children continued to work in pairs on their Venn diagrams, comparing their family to that of another student’s family in our class.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Monday, November 5^th…

I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend and that you enjoyed the ‘extra hour’ as the clocks went back this weekend.

Science Quiz: Just a reminder that our science quiz on ‘Air and Water in the Environment’ will be tomorrow. Please review your child’s science journal with him/her and return the science journal back to school tomorrow.

Word Ring Testing took place today, so be sure to check your child’s ring for new words. Please remember to mix up the order of the words on the ring, as well as to practice the ‘old’ words too.

Ryerson’s canned food drive takes place all this week. Thank you to Neil who brought in a few items on Friday. If you’re able to donate a can or two, please know that your items will be greatly appreciated.

We began our morning with planner writing, our ‘Mistake Monday’ morning message, calendar, and shared reading. Our shared reading poem this week is about Remembrance Day as Remembrance Day will be observed this coming Sunday. We will be talking a lot about Remembrance Day and Peace this week through various shared reading, read alouds, writing, and art activities. Ryerson will observe Remembrance Day as a school this Friday after morning recess. Families are welcome to attend the service at 10:45am. After shared reading, we read a book titled “What is Peace?” and then we had some independent reading time. During this time, some students did independent reading while others finished working on their recounts about Halloween. We then gathered back at the carpet for Drama where we practiced our play about the water cycle. We are looking forward to performing it for the other Grade 2 classes on Thursday and Friday of this week, so keep practicing your lines. Just before morning recess, we had word work where we went over this week’s words of the week. Our focus this week is on reviewing short vowel sounds. We also wrote our words in our planners.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by library book exchange and then then outside gym.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with a table group activity where each group of four students was asked to create the number 52 in four different ways, using place value manipulatives. We then gathered back at the carpet for our ‘Mystery Number’ game. The children are enjoying having a chance to lead this activity. Our Math focus today centered around also showing how to represent hundreds in place value by using a ‘flat’ when using manipulatives or drawing a square with an H inside it when showing it in our math work. After some large group work on the SmartBoard, the children worked on an independent activity. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, we had Social Studies where we are learning about different kinds of families. We read a story titled, “Families, Families, Families” and then we discussed some of the different kinds of families. The children then began working on a partner activity where they will compare their family to another student’s in the class. They will be creating a Venn Diagram to show their work (e.g., number of people in their family, language spoken at home, pets, siblings, what their family likes to do together, where their family lives, etc..). We went over the expectations for this activity by also looking at some examples my students created last year. The children then set to work. We will continue this activity over the next couple of social studies classes.

The children ended their day with Miss Jiwani for Health.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Friday, November 2^nd…

Another rainy day! We’ve definitely had our fill of indoor recesses over the last little while!

Science Journals: Tonight your child has brought home his/her science journal. Please use this as a guide to review with your child for their upcoming quiz on Air and Water in the Environment on Tuesday (Nov. 6^th). Please return the science journals on Tuesday as well, as we will continue to use them for our next science unit. The science journals are fairly open ended, so if you need/want more detail about a specific experiment/activity, you can go back in the blog to the date of each science entry and my write-up should help to give you more background information, examples, etc…

Reminders:

1. Word ring testing will take place on Monday.

2. Pioneer Village field trip forms are due by Thursday.

3. Ryerson’s Canned Food Drive takes place all next week. If you’re able to donate one or two perishable items, it would be much appreciated.

4. November Book Orders are due Monday.

5. Monday is our library book exchange day, so please ensure your child has returned his/her books.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our weekly word work quiz. This week’s quiz was a little different though in that it also served as a math assessment, focusing on number words one through twenty. I will mark these over the weekend and send them home early next week.

After our word work quiz, we gathered at the carpet for our morning message, calendar, and shared reading routines. As part of shared reading, we went over this week’s homework tasks. For the science part of the homework activity, your child will need to track their water usage on either all of Saturday or all of Sunday. This will help them to create a further awareness of how much we use water in our lives each and every day. After shared reading, we listened to Keira’s “Student of the Week” presentation, followed by a read aloud and some buddy reading time. We also exchanged our independent reading books in our book bags so that we have new books to read next week during independent reading time.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where we worked on turning our graphic organizers into a written recount about our Halloween night. I first modelled turning my graphic organizer into a written draft, reviewing the components I would be looking for when I mark their writing using the rubric. The students then set to work writing independently. Many students were able to finish today and I will mark those over the weekend. Some students need a bit more time early next week. As the children finished their writing task, they worked on tidying the inside of their desks.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with some small group work. The children worked in their table groups (groups of 4) and were asked to work together to show four different ways to create the number 45 using place value materials (e.g., 4 tens and 5 ones, 45 ones, 1 ten and 35 ones, 2 tens and 35 ones, 3 tens and 15 ones). They did a great job working together and were excited to share their work. We then gathered back at the carpet for our mystery number game, where Abby chose and led the mystery number game today. We then did some large group work at the carpet focusing on place value, using the website abcya.com We played the game ‘Base Ten Bingo’ under Grade 2 Math activities. This would be a good at home activity for your child to play to reinforce their learning too. After our large group time, the children worked on an independent activity sheet and then had snack.

After last recess, the children had Music. To end our day, we had Science where the students each chose one water conservation tip and created a poster about such. We reviewed that a poster should have the information prominent (text should be visible and easy to read), a picture matching our words should be neat and coloured, and our work should be our best. We began working on our posters and will finish them up next week.

Have a great weekend!

Allison

News for Thursday, November 1^st…

Welcome to the month of November! I hope everyone had a fun and safe Halloween last night! It was nice that the rain settled and that it was still quite mild out.

Field Trip Forms: Tonight your child has brought home a field trip form for our upcoming trip to Fanshawe Pioneer Village in early December. There will be no cost for this trip as we applied for (and were approved) an Outdoor Education Grant – so both admission and busing costs have been covered…yay! You only need to sign and return the permission form. We will be looking for parent volunteers who are able to help us out that morning, as well.

Word Work Quiz: Just a reminder that our word work quiz tomorrow will be a little different. The children will be asked to spell all number words to twenty. I will mark those quizzes over the weekend and send them home early next week.

Ryerson’s Canned Food Drive: The “Me to We” committee is having a canned food drive at our school. They are collecting canned goods or other non-perishable items for those who are less fortunate in our community. If you are able to send in a canned good or two, it would be much appreciated. The canned food drive takes place until Friday, November 9^th.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. During calendar, we took some time to talk about the events and happenings in the month of November. We then turned our focus to shared reading, reading through our poem “I Love Halloween!” We continued with our focus on adjectives, talking about how when we change the adjectives it can totally change the whole meaning of the poem. The children had fun reading a couple different versions of the poem. It was then time for a seasonal read aloud followed by some independent reading time. Just before morning recess, we practiced our ‘Water Cycle’ play. Please continue to work on your child’s lines with him/her as we will be performing our play to the other Gr. 2 classes at the end of next week.

After morning recess (which was indoors due to the rain), we had snack followed by Writing where the children began to work on their graphic organizer for a recount (‘The Five Finger Planner’) about their Halloween night. We reviewed the components of the organizer and then the children set to work completing their own. As they finished, they conferenced with me. When students finished, they had some free writing time. It was great to see groups of children working together to create books, etc….

After lunch (which was indoors due to the rain), we had Math where we began with reviewing our number words to twenty by playing the “I Have….Who Has…” game. They’re pretty quick at this game now! We then played our Mystery Number game. During our game, we are really working on using math vocabulary, using words such as greater than, less than, odd number, even number, tens column, ones column, one-digit, two-digit, etc…. We then continued some large group work using place value materials, having the children create various numbers using their place value mats (using rods and units). They were also challenged to create an animal using 22 place value units. After our large group time, the children worked independently on an activity. Just before last recess (which was indoors again due to the rain), we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Gym …they definitely needed some gym time after being inside all day! To end our day, we had Science where our focus today was on water conservation. We discussed ways to conserve water, as well as why such is important. We read a book titled, “Why Should I Save Water?” as well as watched a little video clip about water conservation. The children then wrote of a few ways to conserve water in their science journals. Tomorrow, they will choose one of their water conservation tips to turn into a poster. Your child has brought home the water cycle wheel he/she created, please take the time to have your child explain the steps to you, encouraging him/her to use science vocabulary and tell you as much as they can. Tomorrow night, I will send home your child’s science journal for you to review with them for our upcoming science quiz on Air and Water in the Environment on Tuesday of next week.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Wednesday, October 31^st…

Happy Halloween! Definitely not the best weather start for the day…I couldn’t believe how much rain was coming down! Fingers crossed it will be ok for trick-or-treating tonight! Regardless of the weather though, we had some very excited Grade Two’s today!

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “I Love Halloween!” and we continued our focus on adjectives. We read another book about adjectives and then brainstormed a variety of adjectives for two given pictures (a weather scene and cotton candy). We also reviewed the adjectives in our poem. It was then time for a Halloween story, followed by some independent reading time. After independent reading, we gathered back at the carpet where we focused on recounts. We reviewed the four main components of a recount (title, introduction, sequence of events, and personal comment). I then did a shared writing piece about my weekend with the children, completing our graphic organizer, the “Five Finger Planner.” Just before morning recess, we had snack.

After morning recess (which was indoors due to the rain), the children were divided into four groups, as were the other Grade 1 and Grade 2 students in our hall. This gave all of the Grade 1 and 2 children the opportunity to work with a variety of peers in their age group. From recess until lunch, the children rotated through 4 different Halloween/Seasonal centres – one in our room, one in Ms. Walkey’s, one is Miss Bolger’s, and one in Mrs. Proulx’s/Mrs. Hardy’s class. The children had a great time mingling and engaging in some seasonal activities. In our class, they –played a math game titled “Pumpkin Bump”; in Miss Bolger’s they did an estimating activity; in Ms. Walkey’s they did some dancing; and in Mrs. Proulx’s /Mrs. Hardy’s class they did a building activity.

After lunch, it was time for Ryerson’s annual costume parade! Unfortunately, it was raining during the time of the parade, but we made the best of it and paraded through the Gr. 4-8 classrooms. We also took a group picture in the library. Thank you to all of the parents who came out. It’s always a treat for your children to see you come and watch them! When we came back we enjoyed some yummy treats! Thank you to the families who sent in special snack today.

Thankfully, it stopped raining in time for us to have a little fresh air at last recess…they definitely needed some time to run around and burn off some energy!

When they came in after recess, it was to be our regular gym time, but the Gr. 7’s and 8’s had their Halloween dance in the gym, so the children did some activities in the class with Miss Jiwani. To end our day, we enjoyed some more treats and watched “Franklin’s Halloween!”

We also changed our desks today so we're sitting in a different spot/with some new classmates for the month of November.

Have a happy and safe Halloween! Please remember, do not send in any candy with nuts in your child’s snack/lunch.

Allison

News for Tuesday, October 30^th…

Tomorrow is Halloween! As is tradition at Ryerson, Kindergarten-Grade 3 students are welcome to bring a costume to wear in the afternoon of Halloween Day (please do not send your child dressed in their costume in the morning, but instead place such in his/her backpack to change into after lunch). During the morning, the children in Grades 1 and 2 will participate in rotating activities in our hall. This will be a wonderful opportunity for them to interact with other students in Grades 1 or 2, while engaging in some seasonal fun activities. After lunch recess, the children will have about 15 minutes to change into their costume. At 1:00pm, we will participate in Ryerson’s annual Halloween parade around the block. Parents, family members, and friends are more than welcome to come and watch. Once we return, we will enjoy a Halloween/Fall celebration in our classroom. It should be a fun day! Let’s hope the weather cooperates!

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “I Love Halloween!” and our focus today was on adjectives. We talked about how adjectives are describing words (juicy words) – they help readers to visualize what we are writing and they make our writing more interesting and engaging. We read a book about adjectives and then took some time to find the adjectives within our poem. It was then time for a Halloween read aloud, followed by some independent reading time. We then practiced our Water Cycle play, as well as finished up a word search we started last week on the water cycle. We are hoping to perform our play for the other grade 2 classes late next week. Please continue to practice your child’s lines with him/her really working on voice projection and using expression.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where we turned our focus back to recounts. We reviewed the main components of a recount (title, introduction, sequence of events – first, next, then, after that, and finally; personal comment). We then examined a recount and took some time to deconstruct the text, talking about what they did well, as well as how they could bump up their work next time. After writing, we turned our focus to Science where we did a consolidation activity about the water cycle. The children worked on creating a water cycle wheel. They will be bringing these home to share with their families on Thursday as I know tomorrow night they will be focused on Halloween! This will be a great tool to use to review for our science quiz on Air and Water in the Environment on November 6^th. I will also be sending home their science journals as a way to review for the quiz later this week.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with a Number Talk activity using the number words to twenty. The activity was titled “I Have…Who Has?” Ask your child about it! We then delved into our focus over the next little while of Place Value –working with numbers to 100. Each student was given a place value mat (that differentiated between ‘tens’ and ‘ones’ – and they were asked to make the number 23, using the rods (tens) and units (ones). We then had various volunteers share how they made 23 (e.g., 2 rods and 3 units, 1 rod and 13 units, 23 units). We talked about how all ways are correct. We then repeated the activity with a different number. We discussed that when we want to represent our work on paper when we draw our tens – we need to label such with a T and when we draw our ones we need to label such with an O. The children were then asked to use 63 units (rods/units) to create an animal of their choice…this was tricky for some pairs of students. We talked about strategies to do such and we will try this part again on Thursday. After our large group work, the children worked on completing an independent follow up activity. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had Traditions and Celebrations (Social Studies) where we focused on the history and celebrations of Halloween. We read a non-fiction text about Halloween, watched a powerpoint presentation, and then completed the follow up activity page about Halloween in our red duotangs.

Have a great night! I can’t believe tomorrow will be the last day of October!

Allison

News for Monday, October 29^th…

I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend! On Friday, teachers spent the day at Ryerson focusing on Math. I learned some great math games using cards and dice that I can’t wait to try out with the class for our November number talks.

The November Calendar has been sent home, as well as the November Book Orders. If you would like any of the book orders set aside for Christmas gifts, just let me know and I will call you when the order arrives, rather than sending the purchases home with your child.

Word ring testing took place today, so be sure to check your child’s ring for new words.

There is also a little note that all primary (Gr. 1-3) teachers have sent home re: keeping toys at home.

We began our morning with planner writing, our ‘Mistake Monday’ morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, our poem this week is titled “I Love Halloween!” since Halloween takes place this coming Wednesday – let’s cross our fingers for good weather that day. During shared reading, we began with activating our prior knowledge about why we love Halloween. We did this using a think/pair/share approach. We then read through our new poem titled “I Love Halloween!” It was then time for a Halloween story, followed by some independent reading time. After reading, we gathered back at the carpet for word work. This week, we are continuing our focus on number words to twenty. I’ve pulled out the ‘trickier’ number words from the past two weeks. On Friday, we will have our summative assessment on number words, spelling all of the numbers from one through twenty. This will be instead of our regular spelling quiz this week. Just before morning recess, we practice our Water Cycle play. I’m hoping we will be ready to perform it in the next couple of weeks to the other Grade Two classes.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by our library book exchange time and then outdoor gym.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with a number talk followed our focus for today which was on using ten frames as a way to represent numbers. We did some large group activities on the SmartBoard, using the anchors of 5 and 10, as well as ten frames. In pairs, the children worked together to have each other make various numbers on multiple ten frames. They then completed a follow up activity sheet on ten-frames, as well as number bonds – which they did really well at as we practice these concepts every day during our place value talk related to how many days we’ve been in school. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, we worked on a Halloween activity, creating paper-strip jack-o-lanterns. We look forward to displaying these in the hallway. To end our day, the children had Health with Miss. Jiwani.

Have a wonderful night!

Allison

News for Thursday, October 25^th…

It was wonderful to see such amazing Ryerson spirit today with all of the jerseys in our halls! Fantastic!

Reminders:

1. Tomorrow is a PD Day. There is no school for students. Teachers will be participating in Professional Development on the topic of Math.

2. Monday will be word ring testing day. Be sure to practice your words.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our weekly word work quiz. The quizzes have been marked and sent home with your child. Next week our spelling focus will continue to be number words to twenty with an assessment next Friday (November 2^nd) on spelling all of the number words from one through twenty.

After word work, we gathered at the carpet for our morning message, calendar, and shared reading routines. For shared reading, we read through our poem and then we completed a fill in the blank style activity figuring out missing words from our poem. We also played a word game and went over this week’s homework task. It was then time for a seasonal read aloud, followed by some buddy reading time. Just before morning recess, we practiced our water cycle play. Thank you for continuing to take the time to practice your child’s lines with him/her.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by listening to Oliver’s “Student of the Week” presentation. We then put our penpal letters into the envelopes. I will deliver our letters to St. George’s Public School tomorrow. We then worked on finishing the Halloween art activity the children started yesterday. We look forward to displaying these in the hallway.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with a number talk. Our focus today was starting our work on numbers to 100. We began with a story about how we use numbers in our everyday lives We then went on a number hunt – first around our classroom and then out into the school – looking for, as well as recording places we saw numbers. Wow! We found numbers were everywhere! After, we came back and reflected on our findings – discussing locations we saw numbers and why there were used there. At home, or even when you’re out places in the community, have your child find numbers in their lives and talk about the importance of numbers. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had Science where we focused on the last stage of the water cycle – collection. We sang our song and then talked about collection – discussing places water ‘collects’ – such as oceans, lakes, rivers, seas, streams, etc… We then discussed how we are going to hang an empty bucket on the fence outside of our classroom to show ‘collection’ at work. We talked about what would be some possible uses of such water (e.g., watering plants and flowers, etc…).

Have a great night! See you tomorrow!

Allison

News for Wednesday, October 23rd...

Tomorrow is Jersey Day at Ryerson! What a great time to sport your hockey, basketball, etc...jerseys! Remember, if you wear a jersey you get a ticket to enter into a draw for two London Knight tickets!

Keep practicing 'The Water Cycle' play working on your child being more comfortable with his/her lines, as well as using expression and even gestures to convey what they are saying. It has been amazing to see that some children are also working on making eye contact with the audience and relying on the script less and less....fantastic!

I had a great day mentoring a new Grade Two teacher. I love to talk about Grade Two, so it was a wonderful day meeting a new teacher and sharing some advice and resources.

Today with Mrs. Atcheson, the children carried out many of our daily routines including planner writing, calendar, shared reading, a read aloud, and independent reading. For writing today, they focused on addressing envelopes to our penpals. They talked about what information needs to go on the envelope and then addressed an envelope to their specific penpal. Tomorrow, we will put the good copies of our letters into the envelopes and then I will get them to our penpal teacher. After morning recess, they had snack and read a Halloween story, followed by a Halloween art activity.

After lunch, the children had Social Studies where they began with a read aloud about families. As they read through the book they discussed the many different types of families (e.g., single parent, multigenerational, childless, etc...) as well as the functions of a family. As a follow up to the story they completed an activity sheet that had them fill in three prompts:

Families include...here they could list various members of a family (e.g., mom, dad, brothers, sisters, grandparents, aunts, uncles, etc...)

Families are....here they listed ways to describe a family (e.g., special, important, fun, loving

Families do ...here they listed things families can do together (e.g., celebrate holidays, eat meals, read together, worship together)

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end the day, the children completed the second part to the art activity.

Have a great night! See you tomorrow! Remember this week is a short week (due to the PD Day on Friday) so tomorrow will be our weekly word work quiz.

Allison

News for Tuesday, October 23^rd…

Just a reminder that tomorrow I will be away mentoring a new teacher at another school in Thames Valley for the day. Mrs. Atcheson will be in for me. I have already emailed my supply plans to her and I know she is looking forward to working with the children tomorrow.

Thursday: Thursday will be a Ryerson Spirit Day! It is Jersey Day! Children are encouraged to wear a jersey (e.g., hockey, soccer, basketball – or even Ryerson spirit wear/colours). Those who wear a jersey will be entered into a draw to win two London Knights tickets…exciting! I know I’ll be wearing my Leaf’s jersey!

Word ring testing took place today, so be sure to check your child’s ring for new words. They did wonderful this week during our testing…great job Grade 2’s!

Drama Scripts: Thank you so much for taking the time to practice your child’s lines with him/her….I can definitely tell they practiced…fabulous! Please continue to work on your child’s lines with him/her focusing on delivering their lines with expression.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “Pumpkins” and we put on our editing hats to fix some ‘purposeful’ mistakes in the poem. We found 10 mistakes we needed to fix. We also played a word game. It was then time for a seasonal read aloud, followed by some independent reading time. After independent reading, we had Drama where we began with the children working in three small groups (one per script scene) practicing their lines. After our small group time, we then came back together as a whole class to practice our play. Thank you in advance for taking a few minutes each night to practice your child’s lines with him/her, as well as ensuring his/her script is placed back in his/her communication bag to use at school for practice. Just before morning recess, we had Science where we looked back at the evaporation experiment we started last week where we placed water in a plastic cup and marked the water level with a marker. Throughout this past week, it has been wonderful to see the children closely observe the amount of water in the cup and I loved hearing “Ms. Alderson, you have to come see this – water evaporated!” We took some time to record our findings in our science journals.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where we continued our focus on the form of letter writing. We reviewed the five main components of a letter (date, greeting, body, closing, and signature). Those who had finished working on their rough copies of the letter to their penpals and conferenced with me yesterday, began working on their good copies today. Others worked on finishing their rough copies first. Tomorrow, we will work on addressing the envelopes to put our letters in. The children have brought home (to keep) the letters their penpals wrote them.

After lunch, we had Math where we reviewed our number words to twenty, flashcard style. The children then worked in small groups playing a memory game, using number words to twenty. After our small group time, the children worked on some independent work practicing reading and writing (spelling correctly) the number words to twenty.

After last recess, the children had snack followed by Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end the day, Miss Jiwani continued her time with the children but with a focus on Health. During this last part of the day (while the children worked with Miss Jiwani), I, along with many staff members, attended the funeral for Mrs. Rathbone.

Have a great night! I look forward to hearing a good report from Mrs. Atcheson tomorrow about their day together tomorrow. I will see everyone on Thursday.

Allison

News for Monday, October 22^nd…

I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend!

Word ring testing: Just a reminder that word ring testing will take place tomorrow.

Drama Scripts: Tonight, your child has brought home his/her drama script for our little play about the water cycle. If possible, please take a few minutes each night to go over your child’s lines with him/her, working on when it is their turn, fluency, and expression. Please keep the script in the communication bag though as we will also be working on this at school most days.

We began our morning with planner writing, our ‘Mistake Monday’ morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, our poem this week is all about pumpkins. Today, we listened to, as well as read through our poem together. We also played a word game and then read a fiction story about pumpkins. It was then time for some independent reading, followed by word work where we went over this week’s words of the week. This week, we are continuing our number focus, but working on numbers to twenty. We talked about that if we know how to spell our numbers to ten, we are able to spell many of the teen numbers by just adding ‘teen’ to the other number (e.g., fourteen, sixteen, seventeen, eighteen, nineteen). We read through our words and then wrote our words in our planners. Just before morning recess, we read through our play about the Water Cycle.

After morning recess, we had snack. After snack, we had Writing. Today was our introduction to letter writing. This year, I have paired up with a Grade 2 class at St. George’s Public School down the street and we are going to be penpals with them! Penpals are an authentic learning experience to practice the form of letter writing. Today, we talked about the purpose of letter writing and that we will be having penpals. We discussed the components of a letter (date, greeting, body, closing, and signature) and then we had a fun time reading the letters our penpals sent us! We then began working on the rough copy of our letters back to our penpals, brainstorming what we can write about, as well as thinking of one or two questions to ask our penpals. We will continue working on our letters tomorrow.

After lunch, we had Math where I displayed the numerals 0-20 on the whiteboard, with the number words written underneath. I asked the children to note if they saw any patterns or what they noticed about the spelling of the words (e.g., which of the numbers greater than ten end with ‘teen’?). We took a look for what number words we could see in the large numbers (e.g., we can seven in seventeen). We also discussed how many of the teen numbers start with a 1. We read through the numbers to twenty, flashcard style and then did a group activity on the SmartBoard. To end our math time, the children worked on an independent task. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had Science where we are continuing to work on the water cycle. We reviewed the main parts of the water cycle and today we focused specifically on the ‘precipitation’ stage. We discussed what precipitation is, as well as the different forms of precipitation and what causes the change in these forms (e.g., why does it sometimes rain and sometimes snow?). We then did an experiment where we could see ‘rain’ in action…ask your child about it! After recording their observations in their science journals, we read a story titled, “Come On, Rain!”

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Friday, October 19^th…

Happy Friday!

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our weekly word work quiz. I have marked the quizzes and they have been sent home in your child’s communication bag today. We then gathered at the carpet for morning message, calendar, and shared reading. During shared reading, we read through our poem, “Bats” and then did an activity where we had to fill in missing words from the poem. We also played a couple of word games and then went over this week’s homework tasks. For read aloud, we read a fiction story about ‘bats’ and then we listened to Abby’s “Student of the Week” presentation. Just before morning recess, we had some buddy reading time.

After morning recess, we had snack and then we headed to the library for our weekly book exchange. After library, the children headed outside for outside gym with Miss. Baxendale….a beautiful fall day for outdoor gym!

After lunch, we headed to the gym for a Ryerson Assembly. At the assembly, we honoured all of Ryerson’s cross country runners, as well as did our spirit draw for Responsible Ryerson Ravens…congratulations to Callum who won the draw for our class. Just before last recess, we had just enough time for a couple bites of our snack.

After last recess, we had snack, as well as a catchup/activity time period. To end the day, the children had Health with Miss. Jiwani.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Allison

News for Thursday, October 18^th…

Happy Birthday wishes go out to Miles today!

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “Bats” and then we focused on syllables. We also played a couple of word games. For read aloud, we read a fiction story about bats: “Bats at the Beach” followed by some independent reading time. It was then for Media Literacy. In Media Literacy today, we reviewed target audience (adults, kids, or both) and then we took a look at some of the advertising techniques/gimmicks companies use to try and sell their products. Specifically today, we looked at different kinds of cereal boxes. We looked at various pictures of kinds of cereal on the SmartBoard and discussed who the target audience was, as well as the techniques the advertisers used to try and sell their product. We then began to look at the cereal boxes the children brought into class to see what techniques were used, as well as the target audience. Thank you to the many families who sent in a cereal box – we had a great variety!

After morning recess, we had snack followed by Social Studies where we are learning about different types of families. To begin we read a book by Todd Parr titled, “The Family Book.” After listening to the story, we had a discussion about what they learned from the book about families. We then reviewed how families can be similar, how they can be different, etc…The children then worked in small groups with each group being given a ‘family conversation cube.’ Using the prompts on the cube, the children had some small group discussions about families. Some sample prompts included: How many people live in your house; What do you like best about your family; What does your family like to do for fun; What is your favourite meal, etc… After Social Studies, we worked on a quick write.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with a number talk. We then continued to work on our number booklets. Most students are finished and others are quite close. Those that haven’t finished will have a chance to do so tomorrow during our catch-up work period. Just before last recess, we had snack. We enjoyed a special snack that Miles brought in today to celebrate his birthday.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had Drama where we are beginning to work on a class play about the water cycle…a great tie in to our learning in science. Everyone in our class has a part. The children have also brought home a copy of the water cycle song we learned yesterday as they asked me to print a copy as they wanted to bring one home.

Have a great night! Just a reminder that tomorrow is our weekly word work quiz, as well as library book exchange day.

Allison

News for Wednesday, October 17^th…

Patterning Math Quizzes: Your child’s math quiz has been sent home tonight. Please look over the quiz with your child, review (feel free to make corrections right on the quiz), sign, and return. Please remember that quizzes are only one form of assessment used to determine your child’s mark for the report card. Also, it is important to note that not all questions on the quiz are weighted equally as some questions are looking at knowledge and understanding, while other questions are more thinking and application which are higher level concepts.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “Bats” and then we focused on the spelling of the number words within the poem. We also played a word game. For read aloud, we read a non-fiction book about bats, as well as a fun fiction story. It was then time for independent reading. After independent reading, we worked on a quick write. Just before morning recess, we had Media Literacy where we took some time to review what media literacy is, as well as review different forms of media (e.g., magazines, books, posters, commercials, advertisements, posters, signs, etc…). We then focused on target audience today – children versus adults. We looked at what techniques are used to gear certain products towards a certain age group. Tomorrow, we will be looking at the cereal boxes the children brought in to further our learning on target audience.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by Social Studies. While we will continue to talk about and celebrate cultural diversity throughout the school year, we also moved onto a new mini-unit in Social Studies which will focus on families. To begin our unit, the children worked in small groups to brainstorm what came to their minds when they think of the word “family” – with their group, they wrote their thoughts and ideas down on a large sheet of chart paper. After our group time, each group had a chance to present their thinking to the whole class. We also read a book titled “All Families Are Special” which introduced us to many different kinds of families.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with a number talk, followed by a math story titled, “7 Ate 9.” It was a really cute story! We then reviewed the format of the number books we are creating, as a way to practicing printing our numerals and number words. The children then continued to work on their booklets independently. We have had some very creative ideas for these books. The children are working quite hard on them and most students should be finished tomorrow during our math period. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss Jiwani. To end our day, we had Science where we reviewed the stages of the water cycle: Evaporation, Condensation, Precipitation, and Collection. We listened to a song about the water cycle that is set to the tune of “She’ll be Coming Around the Mountain.” We then revisited the experiment and work we did yesterday on evaporation before turning our focus to today’s topic: Condensation. We reviewed what condensation is and we read a story titled “The Cloud Book” by Tomie de Paola. We also tried to recreate the process of condensation by completing our own experiment using two cups, some hot water, and ice cubes. It was wonderful for the children to see condensation first hand. Many of the children made connections to breathing their hot air out on a cold day and seeing their breath, or seeing the steam on the bathroom mirror after having a shower….fantastic real life connections! Ask your child about today's experiment and many of them I'm sure will be able to sing the song!

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Tuesday, October 16^th…

Brrrr!! What a chilly morning! Time to start digging hats and mitts out for recess times.

Writing Recounts: I forgot to mention in my blog yesterday that I sent home your child’s rubric for their recount about their Thanksgiving weekend. I have conferenced with each of the children one-on-one about their writing, celebrating what they did well, as well as pointing out next steps. Please take the time to review the rubric at home with your child as well. These do not need to be returned as I have kept a copy.

Math pattering quizzes will be sent home tomorrow.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “Bats” really focusing on the spelling of the number words to ten. We also played a word game and then read a story about bats, “Nightsong” for our read aloud time. It was then time for independent reading, followed by our quick write time. Just before morning recess, we had word work where we practiced spelling our number words to ten using ‘ghost writing.’

After morning recess, we had snack followed by our start to Media Literacy. Today, we talked about what is media, pointing out different forms of media (e.g., magazines, commercials, tv shows, books, posters, signs, etc…). We then turned our focus to Social Studies where we worked on finishing up our cultural diversity booklets. We reread through the booklets as a class and then the children worked independently to complete the final page of their booklet, drawing some pictures to show their family’s culture (e.g., pictures of different foods, language, religion, traditions that are important to their family).

After lunch we had Math where we began with a number talk, which focused on telling time. We then turned our focus back to spelling number words. We began the lesson with me reading a math story titled, “My Ten Black Dots” by Donald Crews. Using this picture book as a springboard, the children began creating their own version of “My Ten Black Dots” – some children are working on numbers one-ten for this booklet, while others are working on numbers eleven through twenty. In this booklet, the children use coloured dot stickers to create a picture representing a particular number. For example, for 2 – the children would make a picture using two dots (e.g., turning the dot stickers into a picture of 2 eyes on a fox). They then write a sentence using the numeral, as well as the number word to explain what they draw. This is a fun way to practice spelling our number words. Today, we worked on the first few pages of the booklet and we will continue with this activity during tomorrow’s math class. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After recess, the children had Gym with Miss Jiwani. To end our day, we had Science where we reviewed the main steps in the water cycle, emphasizing the key words: Evaporation, Condensation, Precipitation, and Collection. Today, we spent some time talking about the first phase of the water cycle: Evaporation. We reviewed what evaporation is and then we started a little experiment to show evaporation at work. Today, we filled a cup with ½ cup of water. We then predicted how long we think it will take the water to evaporate. The children then drew a picture of the cup of water in their science journals. We will continue to watch our water over the next few days. Today, we also watched a video about the water cycle.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Monday, October 15^th…

I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend! It definitely was a beautiful fall day yesterday.

Some sad news today. We learned this morning that our former secretary, Mrs. Rathbone passed away yesterday. The children and I had a discussion about this this morning. They were very respectful during our discussion and had many connections they wished to share. The flag outside the front of the school is now hanging at half mast. Your children may have more questions or wish to share more about this with you tonight. Our thoughts are with Mrs. Rathbone’s family at this very difficult time.

Word Ring Testing: There will be no word ring testing this week as my volunteer, Robin, who assists with this task is away on holidays in Ireland this week. Our next testing date will be Tuesday, October 23^rd. Keep practicing your words.

Cereal Boxes: Thank you to those families who sent in an empty cereal box today. We look forward to examining these during Media Literacy this week. If you haven't had a chance to do, please send in anytime this week.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we listened to and then read through our new poem “Bats.” I have chosen this poem due to the seasonal nature, as well as it focuses on number words which we are focusing on in word work and in math. After reading through our poem, we focused on finding the rhyming words in the poem. After shared reading, we listened to our last chapter of “Freckle Juice.” It was then time for some independent reading, followed by word work. For word work, we read through our words and then copied our words into our planners.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by a quick write and then science where we focused on the properties of water (water flows, water can be a liquid). I showed the children 5 containers of different sizes and shapes, each containing water. I then asked the children to decide which container they thought held the most and why? Everyone had a chance to write their name down on a sticky note and vote for which one they thought held the most. The children were asked to explain why they voted for the one they did. Many children said they chose the container that was the highest or the widest. We then discussed how could we find out which one actually does hold the most. We came up with two methonds: One was pouring each of the containers into one container and marking with tape how high the water went. The second was using a measuring cup. We did both methods and the children were so surprised to find out that all 5 containers held the same amount of water…2 cups! It was so awesome to hear the discussions and observations they noticed! We talked about how water can be a liquid (as well as a solid and a gas). When it is a liquid, water takes the shape of its container –it flows and moves when it is not contained.

After lunch we had Math where we began with a number talk. Our focus over the next couple of weeks will be on reading and writing (spelling correctly) the number words to twenty. Today, we focused on number words to ten. Flashcard style, we read the number words to ten, when placed in a random order. We then played a memory matching game on the SmartBoard, matching the numerals and corresponding number words to then. After our large group time, the children worked in partners to play their own version of this memory game. They then completed some independent work practicing spelling the number words to ten. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had Science again where I introduced the children to the water cycle. We talked about what the water cycle is (the continuous movement of water on, above, and below the surface of the Earth). We then completed a large group experiment showing the water cycle in action. Ask your child to tell you about it. After our experiment, we watched a video clip about the water cycle.

Allison

News for Friday, October 12^th…

Brrr!! What a change in the weather!

Cereal Boxes: If possible, the children are asked to bring in an empty cereal box for us to use as part of our Media Literacy studies. Send in anytime next week.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our weekly work word quiz. I have marked the quizzes and they have been sent home in your child’s communication bag. We then gathered at the carpet for our morning message, followed by calendar and shared reading. During shared reading, we read through our poem “When the Leaves Are on the Ground” and then we completed a fill in the blank style activity about our poem. We also played a word game and went over this week’s homework activities. It was then time to listen to Maya’s “Student of the Week” presentation followed by some buddy reading time.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by our library book exchange time. After library, we had outdoor gym.

After lunch, we had Math where we worked on the final portion of math patterning quiz. Next week, we will turn our focus to number words. In Grade 2, students will be learning to read and write (spelling correctly) number words to twenty. So our word work focus over the next couple of weeks will also focus on number words.

After last recess, we had snack and the children enjoyed some Friday activity time while I conferenced with some students. To end the day, the children had Health with Miss Jiwani.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Allison

News for Thursday, October 11^th…

The last of the warm weather I think for this year…

Book Orders: For those who ordered books from the October book order – they have arrived and have been sent home with your child. If you indicated your order was a gift for your child, I have kept it at school and it is waiting for you to pick up at your convenience.

2Hands Clay: Thank you to the many families who have already returned the pink permission slip. Online payments of $12.25 can now be made as Ms. McGowan has now set this up for us on the computer.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “When the Leaves are on the Ground” and then read a different version of the poem that had purposeful mistakes in it – we put on our editing hats and set to work finding all of the mistakes (e.g., capital letters where there shouldn’t be, wrong words, incorrect spelling, etc…). We also completed a cloze (fill in the blank) activity about our poem and played a couple of word games. For read aloud, we finished the wonderful pattern book that Keira brought in to share with the class yesterday for pattern day. It was then time for some independent reading time. During independent reading, I conferenced with some of the students that had finished their written recounts yesterday - going over what they did well, as well as next steps. These will be sent home next week as I still have a handful of students that need to finish. After independent reading, we turned our focus to Social Studies and continued working on our country of origin flags….they are looking great! They have really added to our bulletin board display and it has been wonderful to see how many countries are represented in our class.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing. During writing, those students who needed to continue working on their recounts did that, while others worked on a quick write, as well as their cultural diversity booklets. This was also a time for the children to finish up their flags, tidy out their desk, etc…

After lunch, we had Math where we began the first part of our math patterning quiz. We will continue the second part tomorrow. Next week, we will begin our focus on reading and writing (spelling correctly) number words to twenty. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had Science where we talked about sources of water. We discussed sources of water in both the natural (e.g., oceans, lakes, ponds, streams, springs) and built environment (e.g., wells, sewers, water towers). We then discussed where water in lakes, rivers, puddles, etc... comes from. Most children said rain – we then extended this to water other kind of water could fall into these water sources (e.g., snow). We watched a short video clip on sources of water and then recorded some sources of water in our science journals. This is a lead in to our next topic: The Water Cycle.

Have a great night! Ensure your child dresses for the weather tomorrow as it’s really supposed to cool down and they need to be prepared to be outside for all recesses, as well as outdoor gym tomorrow. Just a reminder that tomorrow is also our library day.

Allison

News for Wed., October 10^th…

Another delightfully warm summer-like day!

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar routines. For shared reading, we read through our poem “When the Leaves Are on the Ground” and then focused on rhyming words. We found the rhyming words in the poem and then played a matching game. We also played a word game. For read aloud, we read chapter two of ‘Freckle Juice’ and then had some independent reading time. We then completed our 17^th quick write, followed by a word work activity.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing. Today, we revisited the graphic organizers we completed yesterday about our Thanksgiving weekends. I then modelled turning the information from our graphic organizer into a written recount. The children then worked independently on their recounts. We also reviewed the rubric criteria that I will be looking for when I mark this writing piece.

Primary Choir took place at lunch today.

After lunch, we had Math – it was great to see so many patterns in our clothing today! Thank you also to Keira who brought in a patterning book for us to read! We then welcomed Mr. McMurphy into our class during our math period today. Mr. McMurphy is an instructional coach with our school board. He worked on completing two number talks with the children about patterning, while I worked one-on-one with some students on a number sense and numeration assessment task. After the large group time at the carpet, the children worked on an independent math activity on growing and shrinking patterns. We will begin our math quiz on patterning tomorrow. The quiz will be divided into two parts with half being completed tomorrow and half on Friday. Just before last recess, we had snack. I have sent home the math work the students worked on today, even if it’s unfinished as our quiz is tomorrow. You may wish to have your child work on the incomplete work as a review for the quiz, but that is entirely up to you. If you choose to do so, you can have your child bring back their finished work for me to see, but again this is optional. Just thought I’d send it home now since our quiz is tomorrow.

Those who ordered popcorn had it today for last snack.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss Jiwani. To end our day, we had Social Studies where we looked at the large graph we worked together to complete yesterday on where our families come from. Today, the children completed a reflection sheet noting which area most of the families our class is from, which area was the least, which area their family is from, and one thing they learned from this activity. As students finished the reflection sheet, they began to work on making a flag to represent one of the country’s their family originated from. Using an atlas that has pictures of various flags, the children worked hard to create their own flag to represent a familial country. We look forward to displaying these flags beside our large world map and graph on our back bulletin board.

Have a wonderful night! Enjoy this gorgeous weather as I hear we’re in for a temperature change very soon!

Allison

News for Tuesday, October 9^th…

I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving weekend and that you all enjoyed spending time with family and friends. It was so beautiful outside yesterday – it felt like a return to summer! I’m definitely going to be savouring these summer like temperatures over the next couple of days!

Important Notes:

1. A pink form was sent home with your child today for an upcoming in-school activity. Please complete the bottom portion of the form, as well as make the $12.25 payment on-line.

2. Tomorrow is Pattern Day in our class, since we have been focusing on patterns in Math. Encourage your child to wear clothes with patterns on them.

3. Sight word ring testing took place today. Be sure to check your child’s ring for new words, as well as continually review the old ones. Feel free to mix up the order of the words on the ring.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading this week our poem is titled “When the Leaves are on the Ground” as many trees are finally starting to change colour, as well as fall to the ground…definitely signs of Autumn. We listened to our poem and then read our poem together. We focused on rhyming words, as well as played a sight word matching game. We ended our shared reading time with a word game. It was then time for our read aloud. Today, we started our first chapter book read aloud: “Freckle Juice” by Judy Blume. I’m sure many of you will remember reading this book too! We then had independent reading time. On Friday, the children exchanged their independent reading books so that in their book bag they have three books at their independent reading level, as well as two books of choice. After independent reading, we had word work where we went over this week’s words of the week and then wrote them in our planners. As students finished copying their words of the week in their planner, they worked on a quick write in their writing books.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing. Today in writing, we reviewed the main parts of a recount (title, introduction, sequence of events, and personal comment). I then modelled completing a graphic organizer about my Thanksgiving weekend. After our large group time, it was time for the children to work independently on completing a graphic organizer about their Thanksgiving weekend. Many times the children are given choice in terms of topic, but today was one of those days where the topic was assigned to them. They worked hard to complete all the parts of their graphic organizer (Five Finger planner) today.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with two number talks: One on the SmartBoard and one on the whiteboard that focused on answering a given question with a multiple choice format. After our number talk, we played a patterning game on the SmartBoard , followed by some independent work on number patterns, specifically on counting by 2’s, 5’s, and 10’s starting at various intervals. Just before last recess, we had snack. We will have a Math quiz on Patterning later this week.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end our day, we had Social Studies where we turned our focus back to our large world map that we examined last week where each child had a chance to put a sticky on the map indicating where their family is from. Today, the children worked on creating 1 (or2) person icons to represent their family. After decorating, they placed their ‘person’ above the appropriate continent to show where their family has come from. Tomorrow, we will look at our class graph and see what information we can find out about our class. Have a wonderful night! Enjoy these summer like temperatures!

Allison

News for Friday, October 5^th…

Happy Friday! I hope everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving weekend and enjoys spending time with family and friends, eating yummy food!

Fresh from the Farm fundraising orders are due by Tuesday, October 9^th.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our weekly word work quiz. The quizzes have been marked and sent home in your child’s communication bag. After our quiz, we gathered at the carpet for morning message, calendar, and our shared reading routines. During shared reading, we read through our poem “Five Little Turkeys” and completed another sequencing activity, followed by a word game. We also went over this week’s homework tasks in the orange duotang. For read aloud, we read a Thanksgiving story and then had some buddy reading time. We also exchanged our independent reading books for next week. Now that I have formally read with everyone, the children are to choose 3 books from their independent reading level, as well as two books of their choice for their book bags.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by Traditions and Celebrations where we talked about the holiday of Thanksgiving. We watched a powerpoint presentation about Thanksgiving, as well as a video clip about Thanksgiving in Canada. We then completed our activity sheet about Thanksgiving in our Traditions and Celebrations duotangs. After Traditions and Celebrations, we had writing where we reviewed the main components of a recount. We then revisited the writing pieces we have been working on this week where we have worked on our title, introduction, and sequence of events. I then modelled the last part of the recount – the personal comment – how did you feel about the event. The children then finished their last part of the recount and added a picture too.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with two number talks. One on the SmartBoard and one, using a multiple choice format, on the whiteboard. We then continued with our focus on number patterns on the hundreds chart. We did some large group work determining where certain numbers would be on a hundreds chart, based on given clues (certain numbers given).

After our large group work, the children worked an independent activity on growing and shrinking number patterns. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, if all class work was completed, the children enjoyed a bit of activity time.

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving weekend!

Allison

News for Thursday, October 4^th…

Wow…definitely a very warm start to the day, but unfortunately as the day progressed, the temperature started to decline. Hopefully, we will have nice weather for the Thanksgiving weekend!

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “Five Little Turkeys” and then completed a sequencing activity – putting a mixed up version of the poem back in the proper order. We also played a word game related to our poem. It was then time for a Thanksgiving read aloud, followed by some independent reading time. The children then completed a quick write, followed by a little bit of time to work in their cultural diversity booklets.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by our weekly library book exchange. After library, it was time for outdoor gym.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with a number talk. Our main focus of our math lesson today was identifying patterns on the hundreds chart. We looked at a large version of a hundreds chart and I asked the children if they noticed any patterns. Here is a link for an online hundreds chart:

http://abcya.com/interactive_100_number_chart.htm

We then counted aloud to 100, pointing to each numeral. We counted by 10’s and talked about what patterns we see (e.g., all the numbers that are counted are in the last column of the chart, they all end in 0, the numeral in the tens column increases by 1 with each new number). We then counted by 4’s and talked about what patterns they saw (e.g., all of the numbers appear in either the middle or last column, the numbers alternate ending in a 5 or a 0). Finally, we counted by 2’s and talked about patterns. We also looked for diagonal patterns on the hundreds chart. I then covered a square on the hundreds chart and asked the children what comes before, after, and how they knew….we repeated such with different numbers, discussing how the vertical and horizontal patterns in the hundreds chart can help us.

http://www.abcya.com/one_hundred_number_chart_game.htm

We continued using the hundreds chart by having several numbers covered up and having various volunteers identify what numbers were covered up and explaining how they knew.

For our math partner word today, the children were divided into pairs. Each pair was given a hundreds chart, as well as ten cubes. One partner closed their eyes, while the other partner covered ten spaces on the hundreds chart with cubes. The first partner then opened their eyes and tried to correctly identify what numbers were covered up…they then checked the accuracy of their guesses by removing the cubes. After our partner work, the children worked independently on a number pattern activity sheet that had them explore vertical and horizontal patterns on the hundreds chart…some of these were tricky! Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, we had Art where we worked on a Thanksgiving activity creating a little 3D turkey that they can set on a table at home for some festive display this weekend. They will bring their turkeys home tomorrow. To end the day, the children had Health with Miss Jiwani.

Have a wonderful evening!

Allison

News for Wed., October 3^rd…

Despite the dreary weather yesterday, the cross country team represented Ryerson very well at the Regional meet yesterday afternoon at Gibbons Park.

In our planner message today, the children are encouraged to look for two different examples of patterns at home (e.g., on wallpaper, flooring, clothing, art work, etc…) as patterns are everywhere and part of our everyday life).

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem, “Five Little Turkeys” and then focused on finding the different forms of punctuation used within the poem. We discussed how the different kinds of punctuation affect how we read the poem. We talked about when our voice should go up (when we see a question mark), when our voice should go down (when we see a period), when we should sound excited (when we see an exclamation mark), as well as when we should pause for a breath. After finding the punctuation in the poem, we played a punctuation game where we were given a variety of sentences and the children needed to determine if there should be a period at the end of the sentence or an exclamation mark. We also played a word game. For our read aloud, we read a Thanksgiving story and then we had some independent reading time. After our reading time, we completed our 13^th quick write.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where we reviewed the parts of a recount (title, introduction, sequence of events, and personal comment). Yesterday, we talked about how to move our title and introduction information to our written draft. Today our focus was on the sequence of events – which is the bulk of the recount – where we find out most of the information. Using my graphic organizer that I completed with the children a couple days ago, I modelled how we take the information from our five finger planner and put it into our written draft. Basically, the children are to copy the main sentence they wrote for each sequencing word (First, Next, Then, After that, and Finally) and then add at least two more details for each event. On our graphic organizers, below each of our main sentences we draw two dots – the two dots remind us to add two additional details (two more sentences) when we write our written draft – the children can check off each dot as they write their additional details as this visually helps them to ensure they’ve added such. After I modelled such for my recount, the children then worked independently on completing the sequence of events for their recount. They worked soooo hard during our writing time today. I was very proud of them! Just before lunch, Abby did some sharing for ‘cultures’ and then we read a great Halloween book that Maya brought in to share with the class.

Choir took place at lunch today for those involved.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with a number talk and then we continued our focus on growing and shrinking patterns. Today, we used the popular book “Where the Wild Things Are” as a springboard for our learning. After reading the story, we talked about what were some of the interesting features on the Wild Things (e.g., eyes, teeth, claws, horns, feet, wings, arms). The children then created their own ‘Wild Thing’ using as many of the different features listed as they wanted to – and using different amounts (e.g., 3 eyes, 5 horns, 4 feet, etc…). After drawing their ‘Wild Thing’ they recorded the number of each feature on the side of their activity sheet. They then chose two body parts to focus on for their patterning word. For example – if their Wild Things had 3 horns, they had to determine how many horns there would be on 8 of their Wild Thing’s. The children were encouraged to use a t-chart to organize their work. They then had to explain the pattern they saw using math language (e.g., It is a growing pattern. The pattern grows by 5 each time). They had a lot of fun with this activity and they drew some creative “Wild Things!” Just before last recess we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had Science where we focused on the uses of water today. Using the SmartBoard, we looked at a picture displaying a house and a school. The children were encouraged to find various examples of how we use water in both settings, circling them on the SmartBoard. After our large group work, the children worked in their science journals to list at list 5 ways we use water in our lives. They will complete a follow up activity to this as part of their orange homework duotang activities this week. Just before home, the children completed an activity where they had to find various friends in the class who had used water in certain ways today and record their names on a recording sheet (e.g., find a friend who brushed their teeth today, find a friend who has a water bottle, find a friend who had a bath). Some students were able to finish this, but others will nee a bit of time to complete tomorrow.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Tuesday, October 2^nd…

Just a reminder that October book orders are due tomorrow.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “Five Little Turkeys” and then looked for all of the rhyming words in the poem. We also played a word game. We read a Thanksgiving story for our read aloud and then had some independent reading time. To practice our word work words of the week (there’s a tongue twister!), the children did an activity titled ‘Rainbow Roll’ where they have to use dice to determine what colour they will practice writing each word in. Just before morning recess, we had quick write.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing. During writing today, we reviewed the main parts of a recount. We then took a look at the graphic organizers we completed yesterday (most students were able to complete these during our writing period yesterday). As we looked at our graphic organizer, we talked about how we can turn that information into a written draft. Our focus today was on just the title and the orientation/introduction. Children often have a hard time putting their three points (of who, when, where) into a one or two full sentences and making it flow. So today, we practiced with lots of examples (e.g., Who: My family, Where: Niagara Falls, When: the Weekend…..On the weekend, my family and I went to Niagara Falls). We did lots of oral practice and then the children worked on writing the title and the introduction for their own writing piece. Tomorrow, we will move onto sequence of events.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with a math number talk followed by our continued work on chart patterns. Today, the children were given the scenario but then had to create the t-chart on their own – determining what titles went on each side of the t-chart and then complete the question using pictures, numbers, and words. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end our day, we had Social Studies where our focus was on “Where is Your Family From?” Today, we used the sheets that all you took the time to complete with your child…thank you very much for this. To begin, we looked at a large world map and talked about what such was and well as what it shows. We looked for countries they knew, continents, oceans, etc….I then explained that we were going to look at the various cultures of our c lass by looking at the activity sheet they completed for homework last week. Each child was given their sheet back, as well as sticker (or more than one if needed) to place on the map to show where their family originated from and the children were also asked to share why their family decided to move to Canada….we had a variety of reasons on the completed sheets so it was wonderful for the children to be able to hear such. During our next Social Studies class, we will begin to work on creating a large class graph about where our families are from and noting the trends about such.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Monday, October 1^st…

Welcome to October! I hope everyone had a great weekend! It’s hard to believe that we’re into the second month of school already! Even with the dreary weather, we were actually able to get outside for all recesses today. Be sure your child has an indoor and an outdoor pair of shoes (or boots) as we can’t have wet shoes in the classroom or in the gym.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our ‘Mistake Monday’ morning message, and calendar routines. During calendar, we went over all of the special holidays and dates that will be taking place this month. For shared reading this week, our poem is titled “Five Little Turkeys” in honour of Thanksgiving which takes place this coming weekend. Today we listened to the poem, read through the poem, and then played a word game. We then had read aloud, where again our read alouds this week will all be related to Thanksgiving. After listening to the story, “Turkey Trouble” we had some independent reading time. For word work, we gathered back at the carpet and went over our words for the week, discussing the focus, as well as reading each word. We then wrote the words down in our planners. Just before morning recess, we had our Quick Write time.

Word ring testing also took place this morning. Be sure to continue to practice all of your child’s “old” words with him/her, as well as their new words.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where we are focusing on recounts. Today, we reviewed the components of a recount (title, introduction/orientation – talking about who, when, where, sequence of events – first, next, then, after that, and finally; and the personal comment – how did we feel). I then modelled the use of our graphic organizer again (Five Finger Planner) about my weekend and then the children had a chance to do the same about their weekend. During our other writing times this week, we will be focusing on how to take the information from our recount and turning it into a written draft. As students finished their graphic organizer, they conferenced with me, and then continued working in their cultural diversity booklets.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with a number talk, followed by our focus on patterns. Over the next few days, our focus will be continued on chart patterns. We are working really hard to show our answers using pictures, numbers, and words to really make our thinking visible. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end our day, we had Science where we began our focus on Water, which is the second part of this unit (Air and Water in the Environment). Today, we talked about ‘What is Water?” In small groups, the children were each given a bin of water and they were asked ot use their 5 senses to describe water (what does water look like, smell like, feel like, sound like, and taste like – of course for taste like we didn’t use the bin of water though, the children used their own water bottles for this part). They described their results in their science journals. To end our science time today, we watched a five minute video on the importance of water.

Have a great night! It’s a long one at school for me with our October staff meeting right after school and then Parent Council meeting (in which I am one of the teacher representatives) tonight from 7-9pm.

Allison

News for Thursday, September 27^th…

Reminders:

1. Tomorrow is a PD Day – no school for students. Teachers will be participating in Professional Development all day at school.

2. Word ring testing will take place on Monday. Be sure to practice your words!

Individual pictures, as well as our class picture, has been sent home today with your child…I can’t believe how quickly they came back!

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our weekly word work quiz. I have marked the quizzes and they have been sent home in your child’s communication bag. After our quiz, we gathered at the carpet for morning message, calendar, and shared reading. During shared reading, we read through our poem “Autumn Days” focusing on the different forms of punctuation used in the text and reviewing how different types of punctuation affect how we read the poem, in order to convey the true meaning of the text and to show expression. We played a word game related to our shared reading poem and I also went over this week’s homework task in the orange duotang. It was then time for buddy or independent reading – student choice since today was the end of the school week.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by listening to Salma’s “Student of the Week” presentation. We then worked in our writing books, writing our 10^th quick write of the year. As students finished their writing, they continued working in their cultural diversity booklets. During this block of learning we also filled out our Terry Fox cards and exchanged our independent reading books for next week.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with a number talk followed by our continued focus on patterns. Today was our introduction to chart patterns (t-charts), specifically using a growing pattern today (where the numbers get bigger). We began by reading the story “How Many Feet in the Bed” by Diane Johnston Hamm. After reading the story, we talked about how many people were in the bed at the beginning of the story? How many feet were in the bed? What happened next in the story? How many people were in the bed now? How many feet were there? We worked together to create a t-chart on the whiteboard.

After recording our results in a chart (which makes our work organized and easier to see patterns), we talked about what we noticed about the numbers as we went down the chart in the first column? The second column? Why does this happen? We reviewed that a column goes up and down while a row goes across. We then talked about what the next number would be for each column.

I then introduced a new problem. What if there was 1 dog in the bed? How many paws would there be? If we continued in the same way as the story, how many paws would there be if there were 8 dogs in the bed? We went through the example together, noting how to set up a t-chart, where to put our titles, and how to record our results. We talked about the importance of showing our work using pictures, numbers (the chart), and words. So for the above example, the children would draw the chart (numbers), draw people – showing two feet on each person – for pictures, and then explain that this is a growing pattern – it grows by two each time – for words.

After our large group work, the children worked on an independent activity where they chose their own animal and then completed the steps above to show how many feet/paws/legs there would be on 8 of their animals. They were encouraged to use pictures, numbers, and words.

After Math, we headed to the Gym for Ryerson’s annual Terry Fox assembly. Once the assembly was over, we headed outside for our run. Thank you to everyone who sent in toonies to show your support, as well as those families who came out to run with us today…awesome job!

After the run, the children enjoyed their snack and a little activity time to end the week.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Allison

News for Wednesday, September 26^th…

Our October classroom calendar has been sent home today, along with book orders for October.

Just a reminder that the “Where is Your Family From?” sheet is due tomorrow. Tomorrow will also be our weekly word work quiz since Friday is a PD Day. Tomorrow afternoon will also be Ryerson’s Terry Fox run. Thank you to everyone who has already brought in a toonie.

Thank you to the many families who reviewed the math quiz on sorting with their child and returned the quiz today. If you haven’t had a chance to do so yet, no worries –just send in as soon as you can.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. We completed our morning message, followed by shared reading. For shared reading, we read through our poem “Autumn Days” and then we focused on syllables, specifically locating the 2 syllable words in our poems. Often children determine how many syllables a word has by clapping it out. I have found some children, however, find this method difficult. Instead, I have the children place their hand under their jaw – as they say the word they can feel their jaw move up and down – when their jaw moves down that is one syllable…ask your child to show you. We also played two different types of word games related to our shared reading poem. It was then time for a Fall read aloud, followed by some independent reading time. Just before morning recess, we had Social Studies where we reviewed what cultural diversity is by watching a video clip. We also started working on a cultural diversity booklet.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by library book exchange and then outside gym. Please ensure your child is dressed for the weather as the temperature really started to drop today and we had many that didn’t have a sweater or coat.

Those that signed up (or hadn’t yet but were interested) went to Primary Choir during part of the lunch hour today.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with a math number talk. We then continued our study of patterns adding onto yesterday’s pizza pattern work by reading the story “Curious George and the Pizza.” After reading the story, the children worked on labelling various pizza patterns – labelling the pattern rule, as well as circling the pattern core. As students finished Math, they worked on a word work activity practicing our words of the week – today’s activity was titled “Rainbow Roll” – the children used dice and a given key/legend to find the colour they need to write each word in (e.g., if they rolled a 2 for the first box, they wrote the first word on our word list in orange, if they rolled a 6 for the second box, they wrote the second word on our word list in purple)….a fun way to practice spelling these words. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After recess, we had Science where we are continuing on our study on air. We continued our study of air today by discussing weather vanes. We talked about what a weather vane is, watched an 11 second video on one, and talked about the purpose of a weather vane. We then made our very own weather vanes! They did a great job with this and we even tried them out (even though it wasn’t the windiest of days, we still were able to get them to work). The children have brought their weather vanes home to try out too. We have worked with the topic of ‘air’ over the past month and next week we will begin to explore ‘water.’ We then began to work on creating our own weather vanes. To end the day, the children had Health with Miss. Jiwani.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Tuesday, September 25^th…

A dreary, rainy day outside today.

Your child has brought home his/her math quiz on the topic of sorting. Please look over the quiz with your child celebrating his/her successes, as well as going over the errors so he/she can learn from his/her mistakes. Please then sign and return. All quizzes will be sent home for you to keep later on in the school year. The quizzes are marked by levels, which can be equated to letter grades (i.e, Level 1 = D range, Level 2 = C range, Level 3 = B range, and Level 4 = A range). Please note that quizzes are only one form of assessment used to determine your child’s overall grade for the unit for the report card.

Just a reminder that tomorrow is our Library Day, as well as Outdoor Gym – be sure your child is dressed for the weather. I was very happy to see lots of rubber boots today!

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read throughout our poem “Autumn Days” and then we focused on finding the rhyming words in the poem, as well as playing a word game. For read aloud today we read a story about Air that we just didn’t get to you during our science class yesterday…it was titled “If We Could See the Air” by David Suzuki. We then had some independent reading time, followed by Drama where we are continuing to work on identifying and showing different types of feelings.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where we reviewed the main parts of a recount (title, orientation/introduction; sequence of events – first, next, then, after that, and finally; and the personal comment). I then modelled another example using the graphic organizer the children will be using – it is called a five finger planner. The children then worked independently on writing their 9^th quick write.

After an indoor lunch recess (due to the rain), we had Math where we began with a number talk followed by our work on patterning. To begin we read the story “The Princess and the Pizza” followed by some discussion questions. After our read aloud, the children were put into small groups (groups of 2 or 3) and given 3 long strips of brown paper to represent the pizza crusts, as well as a pizza box containing pictures of different toppings. The children then had to create three different types of patterns with their toppings – one pattern per strip (e.g., AB, ABB, ABC). They also had to label the pattern rule, as well as circle the pattern core. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After an indoor last recess (due to the rain), the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had Science where we had a discussion on the uses of air (how do we use air in our lives). The children listened to a story and then worked with a partner to write down as many ways as they could think of how air is used in the world. They came up with some great examples. We then made our very own rockets fly! I’m sure they’ll be quite excited to show you tonight!

Have a great night! Let’s hope for a little more sunshine tomorrow.

Allison

News for Monday, September 24^th…

I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend! It definitely felt a little more like Fall outside!

Ryerson’s Terry Fox run will take place this Thursday afternoon. The children are asked to bring in a toonie, if possible.

Just a reminder that the “Where is your Family From?” sheet is due back by Thursday of this week.

Word ring testing took place today. Be sure to check your child’s ring for new words. It is also important to keep practicing the ‘old’ ones too.

We began our morning with planner writing, our ‘Mistake Monday’ morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we began with a word sort today on the SmartBoard where the children were given some words that would be in our poem this week, as well as some words that were about our poem this week (same topic, but the exact word might not appear in the poem). The children then made predictions what they thought this week’s poem would be about. After our predictions, I read the poem to the children and then we read through the poem together, discussing how close our predictions were. We also played a word game. It was then time for a Fall read aloud, followed by some independent reading time. We then turned our focus to word work, where we went over this week’s words of the week, followed by writing the words down in our planners.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by beginning to explore recounts, which the children would have also started working with in Grade 1. We looked at a piece of mentor text that showed an example of a recount titled, “Road Safety.” We talked about how this text is a recount and it is an article for a school newsletter, written by children at a police officer visited their class to talk about road safety. I then read the text to the children and we reviewed the purpose of a recount (to retell and evaluate events and experiences). We then read the text together and then recalled the events in the sequence in which they happened.

We discussed the different part of a recount:

Orientation (introduction noting who, when, where)

Sequence of Events (first, next, then, after that, finally).

We will be working lots with recounts over the next little while. After our group lesson, the children worked independently on our 8^th quick write.

After lunch, we began our math time with a number talk. We then started our next math unit: Patterning. I marked all of the math tests on the weekend and just have one more student to write the quiz (who was absent on Friday) and then I will send the quizzes home for you to look over, sign, and return.

We began our pattering unit by using the children in the class to create various patterns (e.g., standing boy, girl, boy, girl; facing forward, facing forward, facing backwards, facing forwards, facing forwards, facing backwards). We discussed the pattern core (the part of the pattern that keeps repeating), as well as how we can label patterns using alphabet letters – and then when doing so this is the one time where they actually are supposed to use all capital letters. We did some movement patterns (e.g., clap, clap, snap, clap, clap, snap) and then worked with some manipulatives (e.g., cubes, sorting toys, Lego pieces, pattern blocks) to create various patterns (e.g., AB, ABB, AAB. ABC, ABCC). We also watched a patterning video clip, followed by snack.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss Jiwani. To end our day we had science where we focused on another characteristic of air: Air is invisible. We discussed how air is invisible, but that we can see the movement of air (which is called wind). We then went outside and did an experiment that focused on air exerting pressure (air pushes on things). Ask your child about the piece of paper and what happened when we walked vs. what happened when we ran…and why. When we came back to class the children wrote about the experiment and their findings in their science journals. They did an awesome job in Science today!

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Friday, September 21^st…

Happy Friday!

Our first word ring testing date will take place this coming Monday. Be sure to review your child’s words with him/her over the weekend.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our weekly word work quiz. The quizzes have been marked and placed in your child’s communication bag. We then gathered at the carpet for our morning message, calendar and shared reading routines. During shared reading, we read through our poem “A Sense of Fall”, did a Fall activity about antonyms (opposites), and went over this week’s homework task. It was then time for a Fall read aloud, followed by Charlotte’s “Student of the Week” presentation. We then had some independent or buddy reading time – on Friday it’s their choice. We also exchanged our weekly books so that we have new books in our independent reading bags all set for Monday.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by Math where we had our quiz on sorting (Data Management Strand of the Gr. 2 Math Curriculum). They worked very hard on this as for many it was their first exposure to a ‘quiz’. By doing quizzes and tests now, it definitely eases the anxiety of bigger tests such as EQAO in Grade three.

After lunch, we had read a story and then had writing where worked on our 7^th quick write of the year. It was then time to work on finishing up our “Texture Bugs”. Today, the children glued on five different textured materials and then chose a texture word to describe each bug. We look forward to displaying these in the hallway early next week. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end our day, we had some Friday afternoon activity time, along with some catch up time.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Allison

News for Thursday, September 20^th…

Please take a few minutes to check out the ‘Upcoming Field Trips’ section on our class website. I have listed the dates of field trips we know of at this time for Term 1. I love to get the children out into the community, so I’m very excited about our upcoming trips!

Thank you to all of the families who helped their child complete their “All About Me” big book page…they look great! I have put all of the pages into a book and starting Monday, each child will have the opportunity to take home the class big book to share with their family. Enjoy learning more about our class! Please return the book the next school day and turn the pages carefully as they are fragile.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem: “A Sense of Fall” and then we had some volunteers share their own Fall poems that they created yesterday. We read a Fall story and then had some independent reading time. After independent reading, we turned our focus back to shared reading and we worked on the good copies of our Fall poems. We look forward to displaying these on our hallway bulletin board – just in time for the start of Fall on Saturday!

After morning recess, we had snack followed by a quick write. We are getting so much better at generating ideas, noting what we see in the given picture, as well as what we wonder. After our quick write, those who needed to finish working on their fall poems did so, while others had some free writing time. During free writing, the children can choose a writing form of their own choosing (e.g., make a book, write a card, write a letter, etc….).

It was an indoor lunch recess today due to the rain.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with a Math number talk, followed by our continued work on Carroll Diagrams. Tomorrow, we will have a quiz on sorting. Next week, we will begin our unit on Patterning. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had Art where we are focusing on the element of texture. We discussed how texture describes how something feels or looks like (e.g., soft, rough, smooth). We brainstormed a variety of texture words, read a non-fiction book about texture, and then worked on our ‘texture bug’ art activity.

Have a great night! Just a reminder of our weekly word work quiz tomorrow.

Allison

News for Wednesday, September 19^th…

An absolutely beautiful day! Perfect temperature! A great first pre-season game for the Toronto Maple Leafs last night…what an exciting time for the residents of Lucan!

Activity Sheet: Tonight your child has brought home an activity sheet for you to complete as family about your family’s history. Thank you for taking the time to complete the activity with your child and for supporting our learning at school in Social Studies.

It was great to hear so many children say they practiced their word ring last night! Be sure to set a few minutes of time aside each night to do such. Our first testing day will be on Monday.

Mrs. Snow came around and asked who would be interested in joining the Primary Choir. If your child said he/she was interested, he/she has brought home an information sheet.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “A Sense of Fall” and then we began to create our own poems about fall, using the information we gathered yesterday on our ‘fall walk’ outside. The children revisited the graphic organizers we completed yesterday and then chose one item from each of the boxes to include in their poem (e.g., one item from each of the 5 senses). They then used the provided template to create a rough copy of their poem and conference with me. Tomorrow we will work on our good copies. After shared reading, we read two short stories about fall and then had some independent reading time. Just before morning recess, we had Drama. During Drama over the next little while, we will be participating in some stories, discussions, role playing activities, etc…about empathy. Our focus today was on identifying feelings and how knowing how other people feel helps us to get along and be friends with others. We looked at three pictures of three different children, one at a time- looking for clues of how each child is feeling.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by library book exchange and then outside gym…a perfect day for gym outside!

After lunch, we had Math where we began with a number talk followed by our continued work on Carroll Diagrams. We did some large group work at the carpet and then the children completed an activity at their desks, independently. We will have a quiz on sorting on Friday of this week. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, we had Social Studies where our focus was on “Where is Your Family From?” We had a large group discussion about where are families are from – talking about countries, regions, and continents their families may be from. We talked about why they thought families may come to Canada or move to new places in general. I then explained the home activity to the children (the note about such is in your child’s communication bag tonight). To end the day, the children had Health with Miss. Jiwani.

Have a great night – enjoy that beautiful weather!

Allison

News for Tuesday, September 18^th…

Please read the note sent home with your child about Sight Word Rings (on orange paper). If you have any questions, just ask.

Just a reminder that tomorrow is library day – we switched it to a day earlier (each Day 2/7) than what was originally scheduled on our September calendar – it just suits our timetable better. Please ensure your child returns his/her book so that he/she can sign out a new one to enjoy.

Also, “All About Me” pages are due tomorrow! I’m looking forward to putting the pages into a book on the weekend so that everyone can have a chance to take home our class book for a night.

I’m loving that many of the children are starting to look for items that come from/represent different cultures and that they want to bring in such to share with the class. I forgot to mention yesterday that Maya also shared a book about the celebration of Hanukkah with us. Keep up the great work, Gr. 2’s!

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our morning message and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem “A Sense of Fall” and then reviewed the graphic organizer we would then take outside to look for signs of fall using our senses and record such on our sheets. It was a great day to spend a little extra time outside and we definitely had some people searching for those signs of Fall (even though it still feels like summer out there!). When we came back into class we had a read aloud about fall, appropriately titled for today “Fall Walk” and then some independent reading time.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where we worked on our fifth quick write of the year. We do a lot of oral talk before we even look at our writing books as this helps us to generate possible writing ideas. After our quick write, we had some sharing time as we had four children who brought in some items from other cultures to share with the class. Thank you to Abby, Brady, Amelle, and Keira who shared some things with us today…fabulous job!

After lunch, we had Math where we began with a number talk followed by our continued work on Carroll Diagrams. We did some large group work at the carpet sorting shapes into a Carroll Diagram, based on given attributes. The children then worked on completing a follow up activity. Today they did much better working with Carroll diagrams…yay! We will continue working on these tomorrow and Thursday too! Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had Traditions and Celebrations where we focused on Yom Kippur, which begins tonight. We read a non-fiction book about Yom Kippur, watched a powerpoint presentation, watched a short video clip, and then completed the follow up activity page in our duotangs.

Have a great night! Be sure to practice your word ring! Our first testing date will be next Monday (September 24^th).

Allison

News for Monday, September 17^th…

I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend! It definitely felt like the middle of summer…I loved it! It is supposed to be another hot week, so be sure to send your child with a filled water bottle each morning.

Thank you to all of the families who returned the orange homework duotang today. I marked these at lunch, and overall the children did a great job!

We began our morning with planner writing, our ‘Mistake Monday’ morning message, and calendar. For shared reading this week, our poem focuses on the season of Fall as the first day of Fall is to take place this coming Saturday. We began with brainstorming ideas we think of when we hear the word ‘Fall.’ We then took a look at our poem which is titled “A Sense of Fall.” This poem uses each of the 5 senses to describe the season of Fall. Later in the week, we will be writing our own poems about Fall. After shared reading, we read a book all about Fall! We then had some independent reading time followed by word work. During word work, we looked at our new words of the week, discussed the focus, and then wrote the words down in our planners.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by our individual and class pictures. We then had writing where we began with a Quick Write. Just before lunch, we read a story about Picture Day…perfect for today!

After lunch, we had Math where we began with a number talk followed by our continued focus on sorting. Over the last little while, we’ve been using the sorting tool of a Venn Diagram. This week, we will focus on using Carroll Diagrams as a sorting tool….a bit trickier, but with practice we will get there. Together, we did some large group work, sorting ourselves using a Carroll Diagram and then the children completed an independent activity. Just before last recess we had snack.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss. Jiwani. To end our day with had Social Studies where our focus was on ‘What is Diversity?’ We also had our first ‘culture detective’ today – Salma brought in some money from Venezuela to share with the class and make comparisons to our money here in Canada. We started with a large group discussion about such, eventually discussing that diversity is how things are different between and among things of people. We then read the book, “Whoever You Are” by Mem Fox and had a further follow up discussion about what they learned about diversity from the book. Using some discussion prompts, in a think/pair/share format we discussed some ways families can be diverse, what building in our community show that it is a diverse area, how does diversity make Canada a better place, etc…

Have a wonderful night!

Allison

News for Friday, September 14^th…

Happy Friday! What a super quick week…it zoomed by!

Orange homework duotangs have been sent home tonight and are due back on Monday morning.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our weekly word work quiz. I have marked the quizzes and sent them home in the communication bags. We are really working on not just spelling the word correctly, but also using uppercase and lowercase letters appropriately (e.g., not using uppercase letters in the middle of words). To review the marking scheme, click on ‘Word Work’ on our class website as I’ve gone into a little more detail there. After our word work quiz, we gathered at the carpet for our morning message and calendar routines. We then read through our shared reading poem, “School Again” and completed a cloze (fill in the blank) activity, filling in missing words in the poem and we also played a word game. We then went over this weekend’s homework task in the orange duotangs so the children should know exactly what to do. It was then time for a read aloud, followed by buddy reading. On Fridays during our independent reading time, the children are able to buddy up with a partner in our class and enjoy reading together. Just before recess, we exchanged the books in our independent reading bags so that we are all set to go for our independent reading time on Monday!

After morning recess, we had snack followed by listening to Miles’ “Student of the Week” presentation. Each child will have a turn to be the ‘Student of the Week’ two times throughout the school year. We then had writing where we worked on Quick Write #3. We also began an activity titled ‘My Writer’s Heart.’ This is a large heart divided into many sections, where the children are asked to list people they love, places they love, things/activities they love – the writer’s heart is a place they can go to (as they will be glued onto the inside cover of their writing books) when they are stuck for an idea and need a little with what to write about.

After lunch, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. When they came back to class we had Math where we began with some large group sorting activities on the SmartBoard using Venn Diagrams. The children then completed a follow up independent activity. When I mark the students work, I try to note if support was needed. Furthermore you may see items that have been circled (this means there was a mistake) and then the letters ok beside such (this means the items have been corrected) – I much prefer this method to using x’s – but it still lets you know that there were errors, but more importantly that they have been corrected, either independently or with teacher support.

After last recess, the children had Gym with Miss Jiwani. During our last part of the day, the children had some activity time.

Have a great weekend! Remember, Monday is “Picture Day” – be sure to bring your smiles!

Allison

News for Thursday, September 13^th…

A foggy start to the day, but a nice temperature!

Just a reminder that tomorrow will be our first word work quiz of the year. Please review the words in your child’s planner with him/her, as well as the importance of only using uppercase letters where needed.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar. For shared reading, we read through our poem, “School Again” and then looked for short ‘a’ words (to link in with our word work focus this week). We also played a word game. For read aloud, we finished a couple pages in one story we started yesterday near the end of the day, but just didn’t have quite enough time to finish, as well as read a new book about back to school. It was then time for independent reading. Just before morning recess, we had Social Studies where our focus today was on a community of many cultures. We reviewed that our class and community are made up of many different people (linking this back to our friendship fruit salad activity) and that we come from different families and different homes. We discussed how in some homes, a family may speak a different language. I asked the children if any of them were able to speak a different language and if so, which one. We also discussed if any of the children spoke a language other than English at home. Those who did shared with the class how to say hello in their language. We then looked at some cards which had different ways to say hello in many languages – some of them the children recognized and some were new – but we had fun learning many different ways to express the same word. We discussed why people in our community speak different languages? We talked about how people in our community come from a variety of different cultures (after a little discussion on the word culture – special ways of living that different people have; they make speak different languages, celebrate different holidays, eat different foods, listen to different music, etc…). We then brainstormed some different cultures in our community.

I have asked the children to look for (and bring in) samples of objects from different cultures to share with the class (e.g., a menu from a Greek restaurant, a brochure from a Tae Kwon Do school), etc…They are encouraged to be ‘Culture Detectives’ over the next little while and bring in some objects to share with our class to show that our community is made up of many cultures.

After morning recess, we had snack followed by writing where we completed our second quick write. After our writing time, we finished up our Social Studies lesson as we didn’t have quite enough time to finish the book or watch the videos (which were a couple cute clips about saying hello in different languages – they are listed under ‘my links’ on our wesite) during our first part of the morning. Just before lunch, we had a Tornado Drill….they did an awesome job!

After lunch, we had Math where we began with a number talk followed by continuing to practice our sorting skills using a Venn Diagram. We reviewed the parts of a Venn Diagram and then completed some sorting activities on the SmartBoard. After our large group work, the children worked on an independent activity practicing their sorting skills. Just before last recess, we went to the library for our first library visit of the year. The children have signed out one library book. On our original calendar I had scheduled our library day each Day 3/8, but it actually works better for our schedule on Days 2/7…so library will be before the day marked on the calendar for September…but I’ll put a reminder on the website the day before we have library next week.

After last recess, the children had Music with Mrs. Snow. To end our day, we had snack followed by Science where we completed our second air experiment to show illustrate the concept that air takes up space. Our experiment today was a paper towel experiment. We filled large bowls up with water and we also crumpled up a paper towel and crumpled it up into the bottom of a plastic cup. We then turned the cup upside down (open end in the water first) and plunged in completely into the water, being careful not to tilt the cup. We held the cup underwater for 10 seconds. We then removed the cup and paper towel observing whether the paper towel was now wet or dry….and discussing why. We discussed how the air trapped in the cup prevented the water from entering the cup. The water could not push the air out because of this and there was no way for the air to escape. The children then drew/wrote about their findings in their science journals.

Have a terrific Thursday night!

Allison

News for Wednesday, September 12^th…

Just a reminder that our ‘All About Me’ Big Book pages are due a week today (on Sept. 19^th).

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our morning message and calendar routines. For shared reading, we read through our poem “School Again” and we focused on nouns. We talked about how a noun is a person, place, or a thing. We then went searching for nouns in our shared reading poem, followed by playing a word game. We read a back to school story for our read aloud and then had some independent reading time. Just before recess, we continued working on our social studies task from yesterday: “We are alike and different.” We reviewed the concept of a Venn Diagram (where things go that are the same for both people – in the middle, where the circles interconnect, as well as where the differences go). Today, the children reviewed their Venn Diagram with their partners and then completed a follow up activity sheet where they had to outline one way there were different and one way there are the same. We will then glue these to a large piece of paper with our self-portraits and hang them in the hallway so you can see how we are alike and different!

After morning recess, we had snack followed by finishing up our Social Studies activity. It was then time for Outside Gym with Ms. Baxendale.

After lunch, we had Math where we started with a number talk. We then practiced our sorting skills by using a variety of sorting materials and sorting these materials using a Venn Diagram. We also sorted ourselves using a Venn Diagram! We then read the sock clues we created yesterday and the class had to guess which sock belonged to which person. We are getting much better at describing attributes. Just before last recess, we had snack.

After last recess, the children had snack followed by Science where our focus today was the concept that air takes up space. We talked about how air is colourless and because of this we cannot see air with our eyes. We can see the movement of air with our eyes (e.g., wind blowing through trees), but we cannot actually see what air particles look like. We reviewed that there are 3 states of matter: Solid, liquid, and gas – and talked about which one air would be. I then posed the question: Do you think air takes up space? Why or why not? What examples could prove that air takes up space (e.g., air in bike tires, balloons, pool floaties). I then showed the children a deflate balloon and asked them to describe what they saw (a flat balloon). I then began to blow up the balloon part of the way – asking the children what is in the balloon (air) and have them describe what the balloon looked like then. Finally, I blew the balloon up all the way until it was full, asking ‘is there more air in the balloon now than there was before? How do you know?’ We talked about how the balloon looks different than in the beginning because we blew it up with air and the air took up space. We recorded our findings in our science journals.

The children ended their day with Health with Miss. Jiwani.

Have a great night!

Allison

News for Tuesday, September 11^th…

Just a reminder that September book orders are due tomorrow.

White forms have been sent home tonight. At the Gr. 2 level, these forms are mainly for your child to be able to participate in intramural sports/activities.

We began our morning with planner writing, our morning message, and calendar routines. For shared reading, we read through our poem, “School Again!” and focused on finding the rhyming words within the poem. We also did some partner work, using our whiteboards, to try and think of as many ‘ing’ words as we could….we thought of a lot! It was then time for a read aloud, where we read the story “New Year at the Pier: A Rosh Hashanah Story.” This was a good follow up to our discussions about Rosh Hashanah yesterday…they definitely enjoyed the apples and honey treat at the end of the day on Monday! After read aloud, we had some independent reading time followed by language circle where we reviewed why reading is important. We then talked about picturing (visualizing) someone each of us knows who loves to read – what do we picture when we think of this person? What do we know about him/her as a reader? I’ve encouraged the children over the next couple of days to really do some investigating, watching carefully for people who are readers and notice what they are doing (e.g., where are they reading, what are they reading, how are they reading, etc…).

After morning recess, we had snack followed by Social Studies where today our focus was all about our ‘Friendship Fruit Salad’ – thank you to all of the families that sent in a piece of fruit with your child today. To begin, the children sat around the edge of the carpet and everyone had a chance to identify what type of fruit they brought in. They then had to name two attributes about their fruit (e.g., colour, shape, size, texture, etc….a great way to tie in our work on math!). We then put all the fruit in the centre of the circle and we sorted our fruit in various ways. We talked about what we could make with all of this fruit….a friendship fruit salad! We then discussed what would a fruit salad be like with only 1 type of fruit? What do you think it would be like if you could only buy one type of fruit at the supermarket? We then related this back to our class by discussing what it would be like if everyone in this class was exactly the same? How is our class like a fruit salad (e.g., we’re all different, but we all come together to make something great!). We really emphasized that everyone is different and special and that everyone has something to offer our class and to the community. We read a story titled, “It’s Ok to be Different” by Todd Parr and then we began to work on an activity titled “We Are Alike and Different!” For this activity, the children first worked independently on an activity sheet where they were given a variety of pictures and had to colour which ones they liked (on one side) or could do (on the other side). We worked on the second part of the activity in the afternoon.

After lunch, we had Math where we began with a number talk followed by our focus today which was on identifying and sorting attributes…using our socks! We started the lesson by reading “Smelly Socks” by Robert Munsch…I love any time I can tie in literature to what we are doing! We talked about what kinds of socks Tina found at the store across the river (we listed the attributes) and then we looked at the socks we all brought in. We had various children try to describe their sock, using various attributes (e.g., colour, size, shape, pattern/design, thickness). I then said an attribute and anyone who had that attribute on their sock held up their sock (e.g., hold up your sock if it is striped, hold up your sock if it is big, hold up your sock if it is small and blue – 2 attributes). We then played a game titled “Mystery Sock!” where everyone placed their sock in the middle and I gave various attribute clues and the children had to determine which sock I was describing. We played a few versions of this game. For our independent work today, the children used their sock, or one I brought in, to list as many attributes as they could about our sock. We then played a game, where the children shared their attribute clues and then children had to guess which sock belonged to which student….we are learning that the clearer our clues are, the better people are able to guess/determine the answer.

After last recess, we had snack followed by continuing on with our social studies work on “We Are Alike and Different” – during this time, my volunteer Karen worked away at washing all of the fruit that was brought in and cutting it up for our fruit salad for us all to enjoy at the end of the day. We took at a second look at the sheets we finished in them morning about things we like/can do. We then go into partners and the children checked off or starred those activities that they were alike. They then worked on creating a Venn Diagram highlighting things that were the same about themselves and their partner (those went in the middle of the Venn diagram, as well as things that were different – those facts went on the main circles of the Venn Diagram). The children also created a self-portrait that will go with this activity. We will finish this activity tomorrow and then display our work in the hallway.

Have a great night! Enjoy that beautiful sunshine!

Allison

News for Monday, September 10^th…

Brrrr…what a change in the weather! It was definitely a chilly weekend!

Reminder: Just a reminder to have your child bring in a piece of fruit for our ‘Friendship Fruit Salad’ activity tomorrow.

Thank you to those families who sent in a sock today! We will be using our socks throughout the week (starting tomorrow) for various math activities – then the sock will be returned to you.

We began our morning with planner writing, followed by our morning message. Each Monday for morning message our morning message is titled: ‘Mistake Monday!’ This is where I write the message with purposeful mistakes and the children have to be great editors to look for the mistakes, change them, as well as explain why the change is needed. Common mistakes today were using a lowercase letter for the word “I”, using uppercase letters in the middle of words, starting a sentence with a lowercase letter, etc… After morning message, we completed our calendar routines, followed by shared reading. Each week, we will focus on a different piece of text for shared reading. Each day during the week, we will examine the same piece of text, focusing on different features. At the end of the week, the shared reading piece will be part of the homework duotang. This week, our poem is titled “School Again!” I read the poem to the children and then we read through the poem together. We talked about the different feelings that are often associated with starting a new school year and then we looked at the words in the poem to see if we could determine how the author was feeling. After shared reading, we had read aloud – this is one of my absolute favourite times to the day as I just love to read to the class! Today our story was titled, “On Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur” - as last night marked the start of the Jewish celebration of Rosh Hashanah. In Gr.2, as part of the Social Studies curriculum, we learn about all kinds of traditions and celebrations.

After our time at the carpet, it was independent reading time. We reviewed the expectations for independent reading and then the children began independently reading at their desks. During this time, over the next few weeks, I will be reading with each child independently to determine his/her independent reading level. Our last part of the first block of learning was word work. Each week, we will focus on a ten different words (these are posted on the website under word work, as well as written in your child’s planner). We read through the words today, discussed the focus, and then wrote the words in our planners.