No Homework

There is no homework this week!  It is a short (3 day) week before vacation.  Enjoy the holidays!

Holidays Around the World

We have been using our "passports" to travel to other countries to learn about the holidays and traditions they celebrate.  This week we traveled to Germany and learned about the tradition of the decorated Christmas Tree.  Below you will see the students working on a spiral tree which can be an ornament and a decorated Christmas Tree.  On Monday, we traveled to Sweden and learned about St. Lucia Day.  It is known as the festival of lights.This day is a reminder that brighter days will follow the dark days of winter.  Students made an evergreen candle crown.

St. Lucia Candle Crowns

                                                              A completed Crown!

                                                      Spiral Christmas Trees - ornament

                                                           Decorated Christmas Trees



Winter Weather Gear

The children are really enjoying the snow this week at school!  Thank you all for sending them with warm/appropriate clothing for the weather.  Please consider leaving an "extra" pair of socks in your child's backpack in case their feet get wet.  Also, some students have decided to leave their sneakers/shoes at school because it is more convenient.  Please feel free to do that if it is easier.   ~Thanks~

"Be Enthusiastic About Reading" B.E.A.R.

This year we have a school-wide theme called B.E.A.R. (Be enthusiastic about reading).  In first grade we stress the importance of reading!  First Grade is all about READING!  Please continue to read with your child each and every day!  Practicing sight words is also a big part of reading.  At this point students are practicing lists A-D.  If you need another copy of the lists please send me a note or an e-mail.  Next Thursday, December 9, 2010 we will have a school-wide B.E.A.R day.  Students are invited to bring a bear to school.  Your child will be able to have snack with their bear and read to their bear.  Fun Fun!!

I have captured some quiet reading times in our room this week.  Enjoy!