Ms. Lee, Ms. Reid, Ms. Roth, Ms. Dowd,
Ms. Bohlman & Ms. Gonzalez
During the month of May, our kindergarteners focused on the character trait of Perseverance. We learned that perseverance means continuing to try even when something is difficult or does not go our way the first time. Throughout the month, students practiced not giving up, trying new strategies, and working through challenges in reading, writing, math, and social situations. We are so proud of the growth, determination, and positive attitudes our students showed as they continued to learn and reach their goals!
Central idea: Knowledge can be expressed in many different ways
Key Concepts: form, responsibility, perspective
ATL Skills: Communication & skills
This month, our kindergarten students are exploring the IB Transdisciplinary Unit How We Express Ourselves. Through this unit, students are learning that knowledge can be expressed in many different ways. We will investigate how people communicate ideas, feelings, experiences, and learning through speaking, writing, art, movement, music, and other forms of expression.
As we explore the key concepts of form, responsibility, and perspective, students will think about what different forms of expression look like, how we can communicate responsibly, and how people may express the same idea in different ways. Throughout the unit, students will strengthen their communication skills by sharing ideas, listening to others, and expressing their learning through a variety of creative activities. We are excited to see all the unique ways our students share their knowledge and perspectives!
Our kindergarten communicators worked together to discuss and share their ideas about our essential question. Students practiced listening carefully to one another, taking turns speaking, and expressing their thoughts clearly. Through meaningful conversations, they learned that everyone’s ideas and perspectives are valuable!
Our kindergarten students demonstrated the IB Learner Profile attribute of being Open-Minded as they watched a short play performed by the 5th graders about Christopher Columbus. Students listened attentively, learned about a historical figure and event, and explored different perspectives from the past. By engaging with new ideas and experiences, our kindergarteners continue to develop an appreciation for learning from others and broadening their understanding of the world around them.
Our kindergarten students demonstrated the IB Learner Profile attribute of being Reflective as they shared their stories with one another. They listened carefully to their classmates, thought about their own writing, and discussed what they did well as authors. By reflecting on their work and learning from others, students continue to grow as confident communicators and writers.
Our kindergarten mathematicians have been having so much fun learning about shapes! Through hands-on activities, shape hunts, building challenges, sorting games, and interactive lessons, students have been exploring both 2D and 3D shapes. They have been learning to identify shape attributes and explain how shapes are alike and different. It has been wonderful to see students working together, using math vocabulary, and discovering shapes all around them in their everyday world!
As part of our learning about identity and self-expression, students completed a special Name Project inspired by the book The Name Jar. Through this story, we learned that our names are an important part of who we are and can tell a story about our families, cultures, and identities. Students proudly explored the meaning, uniqueness, and significance of their own names through writing, artwork, and class discussions. This project encouraged students to celebrate what makes them special while learning to appreciate and respect the identities of others.
Choice Time in the playroom is always a favorite part of our day! During this time, students have the opportunity to explore, create, and learn through play. Whether they are building with blocks, engaging in dramatic play, creating artwork, or working together on imaginative projects, students are developing important skills such as communication, problem-solving, collaboration, and creativity. Choice Time encourages independence while allowing children to practice making decisions, sharing materials, and building positive relationships with their classmates in a fun and meaningful way.