October in Mrs. Whitson's First Grade!

Hi families!

Let me first begin by saying that I am thoroughly enjoying teaching your wonderful children. Watching them learn and interact with one another is a true delight!

Language Arts: In Language Arts we will be building our phonics and spelling skills, and word experiences. To do this we will be learning more about spelling patterns, compound words, contractions, and how to stretch our sentences to improve our writing. We will also continue working on our proofreading skills, handwriting, and basic writing skills. A few other things we will touch on this month are plural and singular nouns, pronouns, and homophones. In our writing, we will focus on using our best handwriting, using proper punctuation, using proper spacing between our words, using capital letters where appropriate, and writing in complete sentences. We have grouped our class into guided reading groups based on their reading levels. Along with Mrs. Snook’s class, we currently have eight reading groups (two per teacher). This allows us to zero in on specific skills based on our reading groups’ needs. During guided reading, the children not in a reading group have independent work to do that is centered around what we have learned.

Science: For the first two weeks of October, we will conclude our science units. We will be looking at how the weather changes with the seasons, how to measure the weather, and how the water cycle works and affects the weather. We will conduct an experiment to see just how the water cycle works and discuss what we should wear for the different types of weather. The vocabulary for this unit is extensive and includes: season, temperature, thermometer, wind vane, rain gauge, precipitation, sleet, hail, freeze, melt, evaporate, condense, and water cycle.

Social Studies: The last two weeks of October we will focus on American historical figures and folktale characters. In particular, we will study Ben Franklin. We will learn about his life, contributions, inventions, and character traits. We will also learn about the time in our country’s history when Ben Franklin lived, and compare it to how we live today.

Math: For the month of October in math, we will cover a great deal. I think most everyone has a firm grasp of addition and subtraction concepts, so I will begin math centers. Some of the concepts we will cover in October are: addition strategies, subtraction strategies, addition facts practice, and subtraction facts practice. The strategies for addition include: count on 1 and 2, using a number line to count on, using doubles, and problem-solving strategy: make a picture. The strategies for subtraction include: using a number line to count back 1 and 2, using a number line to count back 3, algebra: relating addition and subtraction, and problem-solving strategy: make a picture. A few other concepts we will be working on are less than/greater than, odd/even numbers, making fair trades and counting money. We will also be working on place value (tens and ones up to 100). A huge thank you to all for the terrific involvement I see with your child. That makes a world of difference! We have a busy month ahead, with a great deal to learn. If I can answer any questions, do not hesitate to ask.

~Pame Timbs

Other information:

Friday 10/3 :  FALL FESTIVAL 5-8 ; Silly Socks and Sneakers Day

Thursday 10/ 9: Hi Touch field trip permission due

Friday, 10/10: End of first grading period

Thursday 10/16: Report Cards come home.

Wednesday 10/22: Box Tops due. Please send in anytime before then

Thursday 10/23: Relay for Life Biscuit sale

Monday 10/ 27: Hi Touch/High tech in-house field trip (‘Sound’) : Reading Night in the Media Center 6-8

Diana