This week in the 2nd/3rd grade classroom.

Language Arts-

• adjectives

• figurative language

• cause and effect

• prefixes and suffixes

• summarizing

Math -

      2nd Grade - 

• introducing probability and graphing

     3rd Grade

• review multi-digit digit addition and subtraction problem solving strategies

• expanded notation

Writing - 

• write about favorite story characters

• evaluate and edit our writing

Science -

• plant life cycles

Social Studies - 

• learn about Malala Yousafzai

Coding - 

• use loops to draw shapes

​Spelling Lists - 

     We use the Words Their Way spelling program. Each student will have their own set of words and patterns they work with for two weeks. We will not be sending any standard lists home or having weekly assessments.

Tech Tools - 

 Here's a list of tools we'll be using this year. Please let me know if you have any questions. 

• kidsa-z  - reading and spelling

• freckle - math

• google classroom - email, class communication, assignments

• kidztype - keyboarding

• code.org - coding

• readworks - reading comprehension

• worldbookonline - research                                            

Grading

You won't see A's or B's on any of our work. Most of the time you'll see either a Star (everything is great), a Smiley Face (looking good but might need a little more practice), or a Smiley Face without the circle around the outside (we probably need to reteach this skill). Our report cards look at how well students are meeting state standards. You will see the following ratings:

• AP - advanced proficient (regularly exceeds standards)

• P - proficient (consistently meets standards)

• NP - nearing proficiency (inconsistently meets standards or is close to meeting standards)

• N - novice (not meeting standards) 

Homework

Don't expect to see much work sent home. Our students work very hard during the day, and I would prefer you get to enjoy each other during the evenings. I would ask that you have your child read for at least 15 minutes a night. This reading can take several forms...

• students reading silently

• students reading aloud to someone else (you, siblings, pets, stuffed animals, etc.)

• you reading aloud to your child

To make this reading even more valuable and fun, have your child give a quick retelling of what was read each night.

I will be sending Reading Logs home in Friday Folders. Students who return their completed logs (at least 15 minutes a day for at least 4 days) on the following Thursday morning will earn BEARS that may earn them prizes at the Monday flag ceremonies! 

How Can You Help?

There are a number of things you can do to help your child find success in school. Here are a few simple things you can start with.

• practice basic math facts, counting money, and telling time together (games are a great way to do this)

• read together or alone for at least 15 minutes a night

• have your child keep a journal or write letters/emails to friends and relatives

We share the goal of providing your child with the best education we can. You know your child much better than I ever will, and you are a huge part of his/her success. Please feel free to contact me if you have questions, concerns, or ideas.