First Day News

The students were amazed at how quickly the day passed. I heard several comments, such as "Wow! It's already 10:00! This day hasn't been too bad!" The kids were introduced to the class rules and procedures, and I wanted to recognize the wonderful manners that your children have. Thank you, parents!

We have already started reading The Trouble with Tuck - a great story about a girl, named Helen, and her dog, Tuck. Feel free to ask your child about chapters 1 and 2. So far, we know that Tuck may be going blind (after he had an accident with the glass sliding door). Helen is an "ugly duckling" of sorts. She lacks self confidence and is hopeful that her dog isn't going blind. Helen has made an appointment for Tuck to see the veterinarian, Dr. Tobin.

We also were introduced to the weekly magazine and read a non-fiction article called "Tarantulas." Ask your child where these creepy spiders live, what they eat, what they look like, if they are poisonous, and if they make good pets.

Friday is always a day of celebration and excitement, but wait! Since we aren't in school on Fridays during the summer, every other Thursday will be "Faux Friday." This day will begin next Thursday (July 9) as a way to honor the children who completed their work on time, followed directions, and respected their peers and teacher. During "Faux Friday," the children will be able to stretch out and relax during their Literacy Centers' time. This means that they may curl up with a good book on the carpet or sit in the teachers chair and complete their tasks. We will also celebrate on this day by having a snack during Literacy Centers (9:30-10:30). If you would like to donate a box of microwave popcorn, some pbj crackers, or fruit snacks, please send them in before Thursday, July 9.

This week, we will be adding Ticket to Read to our Literacy Centers. This is a GREAT reading website that your child can visit at home. This program finds your child's individual reading level and then focuses on reading strategies and comprehension skills to help bring your child up to grade level. Ticket to Read uses a ticket system to encourage your child to play many educational games and read online passages. Tickets can be traded for cool objects that students can place in their "virtual room."

Please remember to return the folder to school tomorrow with your child's green information card. If you would like to donate some pencils, this would also be greatly appreciated :).

This image is borrowed from BarnesandNoble.com