Dear Barn Swallow Families,
It is hard to believe we are entering our last week of school! This will be a busy week. On Wednesday we will spend the morning picking strawberries at Unger Farms. You are more than welcome to join us! On Thursday we have Field Day in the morning, pizza lunch for all at the park, and 'move up day' in the afternoon for the second graders. On Friday we will have our Bridging Ceremony. We will miss our second grade friends. Level 1 will be singing 'This Pretty Planet' at the ceremony before sending our second graders over the bridge.
As our last week of school comes to a close, I am reflecting on my time as the Barn Swallow teacher. These last six years have been an adventure and I have enjoyed working with your children. Thank you for sharing your children with me. I hope that you have a wonderful summer making memories with your child and I hope to continue to be a part of your community!
Warmly,
Sherry
Monday, June 10, 2013
Monday, June 3, 2013
Classroom News: Week of June 3rd
Dear Barn Swallow Families,
Last week students continued working on their 'latest and greatest' writing pieces. Students are working on covers for their mammal research project and will be sharing their work this Wednesday at our Celebration of Learning, which is from 5:00 to 6:30. We hope that you will be able to join us for this event! In math, first graders studied 3-dimensional forms, identifying, comparing, and contrasting. Second graders reviewed arrays, regrouping, fractions, and story problems. On Wednesday we worked in the Backyard weeding our garden beds and planting the tomato, pepper, tomatillo, and eggplants that we started and were tending in the classroom. On Thursday we will be going to Fernhill Wetland. Please help your child to be prepared with clothing appropriate for the weather, sturdy shoes for plenty of walking, a sun hat, and sun protection. Thank you for your help in making it a successful learning experience for your child. We're looking forward to bird watching and enjoying nature at the wetland!
Thank you families!
Sincerely,
Sherry
Last week students continued working on their 'latest and greatest' writing pieces. Students are working on covers for their mammal research project and will be sharing their work this Wednesday at our Celebration of Learning, which is from 5:00 to 6:30. We hope that you will be able to join us for this event! In math, first graders studied 3-dimensional forms, identifying, comparing, and contrasting. Second graders reviewed arrays, regrouping, fractions, and story problems. On Wednesday we worked in the Backyard weeding our garden beds and planting the tomato, pepper, tomatillo, and eggplants that we started and were tending in the classroom. On Thursday we will be going to Fernhill Wetland. Please help your child to be prepared with clothing appropriate for the weather, sturdy shoes for plenty of walking, a sun hat, and sun protection. Thank you for your help in making it a successful learning experience for your child. We're looking forward to bird watching and enjoying nature at the wetland!
Thank you families!
Sincerely,
Sherry
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
Classroom News: Week of May 27th, 2013
Dear Barn Swallow Families,
Last week we continued working on several long term projects that we've started. The students have been busy revising and editing their 'latest and greatest' fictional mammal stories and they continued to add details to their adorable handmade felted animals. On Wednesday we worked in the Sunflower Garden. We were able to sample some fresh strawberries as well as purple and green peas. Students tried to decide if the purple and green peas tasted different from each other! They also learned that the more freshly picked a vegetable or fruit is, the more nutrients it is likely to have. On Friday students had their last All-School Meeting of the year.
On Wednesday, June 5th, we will have our last Celebrations of Learning of the school year. It will be from 5:00-6:30 pm. Your child's felted animals and mammal research will be be on display in the classroom and we are excited to share them with you! On Friday, June 7th at 10:00 am we have our annual talent show. Families are encouraged to attend. It is always a great time! The Bridging Ceremony is Friday, June 14th. This is when we celebrate students who are 'bridging' into a new level. We will miss the second graders dearly as they bridge to level 2. Additional information about the ceremony is soon to come!
Thank you families!
Sincerely,
Sherry
Last week we continued working on several long term projects that we've started. The students have been busy revising and editing their 'latest and greatest' fictional mammal stories and they continued to add details to their adorable handmade felted animals. On Wednesday we worked in the Sunflower Garden. We were able to sample some fresh strawberries as well as purple and green peas. Students tried to decide if the purple and green peas tasted different from each other! They also learned that the more freshly picked a vegetable or fruit is, the more nutrients it is likely to have. On Friday students had their last All-School Meeting of the year.
On Wednesday, June 5th, we will have our last Celebrations of Learning of the school year. It will be from 5:00-6:30 pm. Your child's felted animals and mammal research will be be on display in the classroom and we are excited to share them with you! On Friday, June 7th at 10:00 am we have our annual talent show. Families are encouraged to attend. It is always a great time! The Bridging Ceremony is Friday, June 14th. This is when we celebrate students who are 'bridging' into a new level. We will miss the second graders dearly as they bridge to level 2. Additional information about the ceremony is soon to come!
Thank you families!
Sincerely,
Sherry
Monday, May 20, 2013
Classroom News: Week of May 20th
Dear Barn Swallow Families,
Last week we had our first harvest! Students picked and ate fresh peas in the Sunflower garden and inspected the MANY ripening strawberries. We would love to take level 1 to a nearby pick-your-own strawberry farm, preferably organic/chemical free. If we have any parents who know of a nearby farm that would be a good fit, please let me know.
Students continued to work on their needle felted wool mammals. They are really coming along! We hope to present them at the Celebration of Learning on June 5th. On Friday afternoon students learned about heirloom pole and bush beans. We have over 10 varieties of heirloom beans to plant and students were able to get some of them into their garden beds in the Backyard garden. Ask your child about how beans and peas help the garden.
In math, first graders explored and studied geometric shapes through a variety of games and activities. Second graders reviewed and demonstrated various skills that they have been working on in math this year and continued to work on fluency with addition and subtraction facts.
This week students are beginning their 'Latest and Greatest' writing pieces in story workshop. They will be showing what they have learned as writers this year, while incorporating their needle felted animal into the story. Ask your child what his or her story is about, focusing on the beginning, middle, and end.
Thank you families!
Sincerely,
Sherry
Last week we had our first harvest! Students picked and ate fresh peas in the Sunflower garden and inspected the MANY ripening strawberries. We would love to take level 1 to a nearby pick-your-own strawberry farm, preferably organic/chemical free. If we have any parents who know of a nearby farm that would be a good fit, please let me know.
Students continued to work on their needle felted wool mammals. They are really coming along! We hope to present them at the Celebration of Learning on June 5th. On Friday afternoon students learned about heirloom pole and bush beans. We have over 10 varieties of heirloom beans to plant and students were able to get some of them into their garden beds in the Backyard garden. Ask your child about how beans and peas help the garden.
In math, first graders explored and studied geometric shapes through a variety of games and activities. Second graders reviewed and demonstrated various skills that they have been working on in math this year and continued to work on fluency with addition and subtraction facts.
This week students are beginning their 'Latest and Greatest' writing pieces in story workshop. They will be showing what they have learned as writers this year, while incorporating their needle felted animal into the story. Ask your child what his or her story is about, focusing on the beginning, middle, and end.
Thank you families!
Sincerely,
Sherry
Monday, May 13, 2013
Classroom News: Week of May 13th
Dear Barn Swallow Families,
Last week Ms. Carol substituted for me while I spent a few days with my family in Wisconsin. She reported that the Barn Swallow kids did a great job while I was away!
The students designed and created bowls or plates for Mother's Day gifts. We hope you enjoyed yours. The students continued working on their needle felted animals. On Thursday we spent the day exploring Fernhill Wetland. The students spent time watching and identifying birds, and looking for changes since our visit last fall. The first graders worked on their geometry unit. They explored the relationships between various shapes (hexagon, trapezoid, rhombus and triangle). The students used these shapes in solving puzzles, and in strategy games. The second graders learned about arrays and went on an array walk in downtown Forest Grove. They worked on making array cards for multiplication facts for 2x2, 2x3, 2x4, 2x5, 3x2, 3x3, 3x4 and 3x5. Next Friday, May 24th, is our last All-School Meeting and spirit day of the year. The theme will be Beach Day. Your child may dress for the theme if interested (Please help your child select something to wear that is school appropriate, no swimwear please.).
Thank you families!
Sincerely,
Sherry
*A note from FGCS:
Dear Fund Run Supporters:
We're pleased to report that, to date, more than $570 has been donated to the Roots & Shoots Club Fund Run to support endangered lemurs. We apologize for miscommunication about how funds would be collected. A collection envelope will not be coming home as stated on the pledge form. If you have not yet sent in money collected by your student, please do so as soon as you are able.
If you are not sure how much was pledged on behalf of your student, please contact Karen at k.torry@fgcschool.org. Thanks to everyone who supported this student-initiated project.
Last week Ms. Carol substituted for me while I spent a few days with my family in Wisconsin. She reported that the Barn Swallow kids did a great job while I was away!
The students designed and created bowls or plates for Mother's Day gifts. We hope you enjoyed yours. The students continued working on their needle felted animals. On Thursday we spent the day exploring Fernhill Wetland. The students spent time watching and identifying birds, and looking for changes since our visit last fall. The first graders worked on their geometry unit. They explored the relationships between various shapes (hexagon, trapezoid, rhombus and triangle). The students used these shapes in solving puzzles, and in strategy games. The second graders learned about arrays and went on an array walk in downtown Forest Grove. They worked on making array cards for multiplication facts for 2x2, 2x3, 2x4, 2x5, 3x2, 3x3, 3x4 and 3x5. Next Friday, May 24th, is our last All-School Meeting and spirit day of the year. The theme will be Beach Day. Your child may dress for the theme if interested (Please help your child select something to wear that is school appropriate, no swimwear please.).
Thank you families!
Sincerely,
Sherry
*A note from FGCS:
Dear Fund Run Supporters:
We're pleased to report that, to date, more than $570 has been donated to the Roots & Shoots Club Fund Run to support endangered lemurs. We apologize for miscommunication about how funds would be collected. A collection envelope will not be coming home as stated on the pledge form. If you have not yet sent in money collected by your student, please do so as soon as you are able.
If you are not sure how much was pledged on behalf of your student, please contact Karen at k.torry@fgcschool.org. Thanks to everyone who supported this student-initiated project.
Monday, April 29, 2013
Classroom News: Week of April 29th
Dear Barn Swallow Families,
Last week we began needle felting the animals that students researched. The students are very excited about making wool animals! The first graders have been busy with penguin math. They played a subtraction game and have been working on penguin story picture problems. The students have used, shared and explained various strategies for solving problems. Second graders continued to work on fluency with single digit addition. They reviewed regrouping and played a new BINGO game that helped with fluency. During our Out and About students harvested their own radishes that they started from seed. We had many different colors to enjoy. We also planted potatoes in the Backyard Garden. On Thursday we participated in the All School Fund Run to support efforts to safe critically endangered lemurs. Many students ran a mile or more! Please remember, no school this Friday, May 3rd.
Thank you families!S
Sincerely,
A letter from Vanessa:
Dear FGCS Families:
I am writing to let you know about changes in our teaching staff that are planned for the 2013-14 school year.
First, I am delighted to reported that founding teacher Gretchen Ziemer is returning to FGCS. As many of you know, Gretchen took a one-year leave of absence starting at the end of last school year following the birth of her son, Zander. Kent McCord very ably stepped in as the Merlins’ teacher this school year during Gretchen’s absence. We’ve all enjoyed having Kent as part of our school community and wish him all the best with whatever the future holds for him.
As we look forward to Gretchen’s return to the Merlins’ classroom, I also want to let you know about some other changes. As most of you know, Level 4 teacher Shannon Perry recently gave birth to her second child, Julian. After much discussion, it has been decided that Gretchen and Shannon will be co-teachers in the Merlins’ classroom. Both Shannon and Gretchen want to continue teaching at FGCS but, like many parents of young children, they are trying to find a balance between work and family, so we have created this job-share position. I am confident that, with Shannon and Gretchen, the Merlins will have a very strong teaching team.
Of course, this change at Level 3 means that Shannon will be leaving her full-time position as Level 4 language arts/social studies teacher. The position will be advertised beginning this week and we will begin interviewing applicants soon. I will notify students and families as soon as we have filled the position. If at all possible, we will arrange for students to meet the new Great Horned Owls teacher before the end of the school year.
Teachers all have discussed these changes with their students. There will be class discussions with the opportunity for students to ask questions and talk about how they feel about the changes. The news will undoubtedly raise questions for parents, too. Please feel free to contact me at v.gray@fgcschool.org or 503-359-4600. While change can be difficult, I am confident that we will continue to have a strong program with excellent teachers who are deeply committed to scholarship, stewardship and citizenship.
Sincerely,
Vanessa Gray, Principal
Last week we began needle felting the animals that students researched. The students are very excited about making wool animals! The first graders have been busy with penguin math. They played a subtraction game and have been working on penguin story picture problems. The students have used, shared and explained various strategies for solving problems. Second graders continued to work on fluency with single digit addition. They reviewed regrouping and played a new BINGO game that helped with fluency. During our Out and About students harvested their own radishes that they started from seed. We had many different colors to enjoy. We also planted potatoes in the Backyard Garden. On Thursday we participated in the All School Fund Run to support efforts to safe critically endangered lemurs. Many students ran a mile or more! Please remember, no school this Friday, May 3rd.
Thank you families!S
Sincerely,
Sherry
A letter from Vanessa:
Dear FGCS Families:
I am writing to let you know about changes in our teaching staff that are planned for the 2013-14 school year.
First, I am delighted to reported that founding teacher Gretchen Ziemer is returning to FGCS. As many of you know, Gretchen took a one-year leave of absence starting at the end of last school year following the birth of her son, Zander. Kent McCord very ably stepped in as the Merlins’ teacher this school year during Gretchen’s absence. We’ve all enjoyed having Kent as part of our school community and wish him all the best with whatever the future holds for him.
As we look forward to Gretchen’s return to the Merlins’ classroom, I also want to let you know about some other changes. As most of you know, Level 4 teacher Shannon Perry recently gave birth to her second child, Julian. After much discussion, it has been decided that Gretchen and Shannon will be co-teachers in the Merlins’ classroom. Both Shannon and Gretchen want to continue teaching at FGCS but, like many parents of young children, they are trying to find a balance between work and family, so we have created this job-share position. I am confident that, with Shannon and Gretchen, the Merlins will have a very strong teaching team.
Of course, this change at Level 3 means that Shannon will be leaving her full-time position as Level 4 language arts/social studies teacher. The position will be advertised beginning this week and we will begin interviewing applicants soon. I will notify students and families as soon as we have filled the position. If at all possible, we will arrange for students to meet the new Great Horned Owls teacher before the end of the school year.
Teachers all have discussed these changes with their students. There will be class discussions with the opportunity for students to ask questions and talk about how they feel about the changes. The news will undoubtedly raise questions for parents, too. Please feel free to contact me at v.gray@fgcschool.org or 503-359-4600. While change can be difficult, I am confident that we will continue to have a strong program with excellent teachers who are deeply committed to scholarship, stewardship and citizenship.
Sincerely,
Vanessa Gray, Principal
Monday, April 22, 2013
Classroom News: Week of April 22nd
Dear Barn Swallow Families,
Last week we were busy preparing for conferences. In all areas of study, the students choose work to share that represented their best work from the past and present. They spent time reflecting on their growth, strengths and learning experiences. The students paired up to practice conferences so that they would be prepared for your visit. Thank you to all of you for coming and celebrating with your children! I hope that you found the conferences valuable, and that you are as proud of your children as I am.
This Friday after school we are having our Earth Day bike ride. Participation at level 1 requires an adult chaperone. All participants, including adults are required to wear a bike helmet. Permission slips are required, and can be downloaded from the school website.
Thank you families!
Sincerely,
Sherry
Last week we were busy preparing for conferences. In all areas of study, the students choose work to share that represented their best work from the past and present. They spent time reflecting on their growth, strengths and learning experiences. The students paired up to practice conferences so that they would be prepared for your visit. Thank you to all of you for coming and celebrating with your children! I hope that you found the conferences valuable, and that you are as proud of your children as I am.
This Friday after school we are having our Earth Day bike ride. Participation at level 1 requires an adult chaperone. All participants, including adults are required to wear a bike helmet. Permission slips are required, and can be downloaded from the school website.
Thank you families!
Sincerely,
Sherry
Monday, April 15, 2013
Classroom News: Week of April 15th
Dear Barn Swallow Families,
Last week we began planning for our student-led conferences. The students have been reflecting on their growth over the year, and selecting and organizing work to share with you. If you have not yet signed up for a conference, please stop in, or contact the office (503-359-4600). The conferences will be held this Thursday, April 18th. Your children have been working hard to prepare for these conferences! Please remember, this is a time to celebrate your child's growth and success at school and your child will be leading the conference.
In math first graders have been playing games that reinforce skills such as addition facts and adding dollar amounts to 200. Second graders practiced getting ready for their math conference. They will be sharing their skills on: telling time, measuring in inches and centimeters, regrouping with addition and subtraction, and manipulating coins. We had a busy Out & About last week. We began by cleaning up and pulling weeds in our class garden beds and we measured our pea plants and graphed their growth. The tomato, tomatillo, pepper, and eggplant seeds have been sprouting and we have been recording the germination regularly. Ask your child what seeds he or she planted and also see if he or she remembers what the 'cotyledons' of the seedling are.
Please see below for information about upcoming school events:
Friends & Family Night Fundraiser at McMenamins Grand Lodge
5-11 p.m. Tues., April 16
50% of all food and drink sales in the Ironwork Grill go to FGCS
Earth Day Bike Ride
2-3:30 p.m. Fri., April 26
1st-3rd graders must have parent/guardian ride with them
All students must turn in signed permission slips (attached).
All participants - adults and minors - must wear bike helmets.
Thank you families!
Sincerely,
Sherry
Last week we began planning for our student-led conferences. The students have been reflecting on their growth over the year, and selecting and organizing work to share with you. If you have not yet signed up for a conference, please stop in, or contact the office (503-359-4600). The conferences will be held this Thursday, April 18th. Your children have been working hard to prepare for these conferences! Please remember, this is a time to celebrate your child's growth and success at school and your child will be leading the conference.
In math first graders have been playing games that reinforce skills such as addition facts and adding dollar amounts to 200. Second graders practiced getting ready for their math conference. They will be sharing their skills on: telling time, measuring in inches and centimeters, regrouping with addition and subtraction, and manipulating coins. We had a busy Out & About last week. We began by cleaning up and pulling weeds in our class garden beds and we measured our pea plants and graphed their growth. The tomato, tomatillo, pepper, and eggplant seeds have been sprouting and we have been recording the germination regularly. Ask your child what seeds he or she planted and also see if he or she remembers what the 'cotyledons' of the seedling are.
Please see below for information about upcoming school events:
Friends & Family Night Fundraiser at McMenamins Grand Lodge
5-11 p.m. Tues., April 16
50% of all food and drink sales in the Ironwork Grill go to FGCS
Earth Day Bike Ride
2-3:30 p.m. Fri., April 26
1st-3rd graders must have parent/guardian ride with them
All students must turn in signed permission slips (attached).
All participants - adults and minors - must wear bike helmets.
Thank you families!
Sincerely,
Sherry
Monday, April 8, 2013
Classroom News: Week of April 8th
Dear Barn Swallow Families,
We had a great week back from spring break! On Wednesday we planted many kinds of tomatoes, peppers, and tomatillos. We are hoping to plant our little transplants in the school gardens. You and your family might like to begin to consider signing up to be a school garden volunteer over the summer! Families commit to one week at a time and water the garden, as well as other small garden jobs, including harvesting. Each student is in charge of his or her 'crop' and will be in charge of taking care of two pots of plants. Ask your child what his or her crop is.
After we planted, we went on a beautiful spring blossom walk. Students used categorization and tally mark skills to collect data on blossom colors on trees, bushes, and 'ground plants.' We noticed that yellow and pink are very common spring blossom colors.
During math, the first graders worked on measuring and began adding dollar amounts to $200. Second graders continued to review regrouping with subtraction. They are concentrating on being able to use the ones, tens, and hundreds pieces as they work through the problems.
Students started to publish their mammal research using their neatest handwriting and will be ready to share their published research at the student led conferences on Thursday, April 18th! Students are looking forward to sharing their growth at the conference and will continue to prepare and practice this week.
Thank you families!
Sincerely,
Sherry
We had a great week back from spring break! On Wednesday we planted many kinds of tomatoes, peppers, and tomatillos. We are hoping to plant our little transplants in the school gardens. You and your family might like to begin to consider signing up to be a school garden volunteer over the summer! Families commit to one week at a time and water the garden, as well as other small garden jobs, including harvesting. Each student is in charge of his or her 'crop' and will be in charge of taking care of two pots of plants. Ask your child what his or her crop is.
After we planted, we went on a beautiful spring blossom walk. Students used categorization and tally mark skills to collect data on blossom colors on trees, bushes, and 'ground plants.' We noticed that yellow and pink are very common spring blossom colors.
During math, the first graders worked on measuring and began adding dollar amounts to $200. Second graders continued to review regrouping with subtraction. They are concentrating on being able to use the ones, tens, and hundreds pieces as they work through the problems.
Students started to publish their mammal research using their neatest handwriting and will be ready to share their published research at the student led conferences on Thursday, April 18th! Students are looking forward to sharing their growth at the conference and will continue to prepare and practice this week.
Thank you families!
Sincerely,
Sherry
Monday, April 1, 2013
Classroom News: Week of April 1st
Dear Barn Swallow Families,
I hope you had an enjoyable spring break!
Last week our class was busy counting the many coins they brought in for the leukemia 'Pennies for Patients' fundraiser. We are very close to $300 and the students are very excited about their accomplishment! This citizenship project will continue through the end of this week. Students finished their mammal research and they look forward to sharing some facts about their mammals with you at the student led conferences in a few weeks.
In math, the first graders spent the week measuring and comparing lengths using non-standard measurement (popsicle sticks, unifix cubes, etc.), and practicing addition facts. The second graders continued to work on coin amounts under $1.00 and practiced regrouping with subtraction. On Wednesday we all began measuring and graphing the height of our pea plants in the garden.
I hope you all are enjoying this beautiful weather!
Sincerely,
Sherry
I hope you had an enjoyable spring break!
Last week our class was busy counting the many coins they brought in for the leukemia 'Pennies for Patients' fundraiser. We are very close to $300 and the students are very excited about their accomplishment! This citizenship project will continue through the end of this week. Students finished their mammal research and they look forward to sharing some facts about their mammals with you at the student led conferences in a few weeks.
In math, the first graders spent the week measuring and comparing lengths using non-standard measurement (popsicle sticks, unifix cubes, etc.), and practicing addition facts. The second graders continued to work on coin amounts under $1.00 and practiced regrouping with subtraction. On Wednesday we all began measuring and graphing the height of our pea plants in the garden.
I hope you all are enjoying this beautiful weather!
Sincerely,
Sherry
Friday, March 15, 2013
Classroom News: Week of March 18th, 2013
Dear Barn Swallow Families,
Last week level 1 made soup for the Empty Bowls feast, which was held on Thursday night. The soup was made with a lot of love, as students sang songs together and cut vegetables. It was a sight to see! This is a very cohesive and caring group of kids.
In math first graders were able to demonstrate their understanding of the transitive property by comparing, estimating, and measuring the lengths of different objects. They did activities like estimating the length of the teacher's belt with ribbon then categorizing their ribbons on the board as either "longer than," "shorter than," or "the same as." The second graders reviewed counting money and continued to work on subtraction with regrouping. They are learning how to use the ones units and tens sticks to regroup with subtraction.
Helen Thias, a level 4 student, lent us her handmade wool animals to see for our mammal project. Unfortunately, some of them are missing. If you happen to see a brown, wool rabbit (about 4 inches tall), a little white mouse, and a flat clownfish, please let me know! Sometimes things accidentally get mixed up. :)
FGCS is participating in a fundraiser to help raise money for children who are sick with Leukemia. Students brought home small cardboard boxes with handles to collect coins and bills in. So far, our class has raised $101.48! Students can continue to collect donations until Thursday, April 4th. On the 5th we will turn in all of the money. The students are very eager to make a difference and their hearts are in the right place!
Shannon Perry's level 4 students have been eager to get to know more of the FGCS community and have asked level 1 students if they would like to 'buddy-up' at recess once in a while. The Barn Swallows worked hard this week filling out 'applications' to submit to level 4 in order to get matched with a compatible buddy. They were asked a range of questions, from favorite vegetable to favorite super hero. We turned in the applications on Friday and students hope to meet their new buddies this week!
Thank you families!
Sincerely,
Sherry
Last week level 1 made soup for the Empty Bowls feast, which was held on Thursday night. The soup was made with a lot of love, as students sang songs together and cut vegetables. It was a sight to see! This is a very cohesive and caring group of kids.
In math first graders were able to demonstrate their understanding of the transitive property by comparing, estimating, and measuring the lengths of different objects. They did activities like estimating the length of the teacher's belt with ribbon then categorizing their ribbons on the board as either "longer than," "shorter than," or "the same as." The second graders reviewed counting money and continued to work on subtraction with regrouping. They are learning how to use the ones units and tens sticks to regroup with subtraction.
Helen Thias, a level 4 student, lent us her handmade wool animals to see for our mammal project. Unfortunately, some of them are missing. If you happen to see a brown, wool rabbit (about 4 inches tall), a little white mouse, and a flat clownfish, please let me know! Sometimes things accidentally get mixed up. :)
FGCS is participating in a fundraiser to help raise money for children who are sick with Leukemia. Students brought home small cardboard boxes with handles to collect coins and bills in. So far, our class has raised $101.48! Students can continue to collect donations until Thursday, April 4th. On the 5th we will turn in all of the money. The students are very eager to make a difference and their hearts are in the right place!
Shannon Perry's level 4 students have been eager to get to know more of the FGCS community and have asked level 1 students if they would like to 'buddy-up' at recess once in a while. The Barn Swallows worked hard this week filling out 'applications' to submit to level 4 in order to get matched with a compatible buddy. They were asked a range of questions, from favorite vegetable to favorite super hero. We turned in the applications on Friday and students hope to meet their new buddies this week!
Thank you families!
Sincerely,
Sherry
Monday, March 11, 2013
Classroom News: Week of March 11th
Dear Barn Swallow Families,
Last week we were busy in the school's Sunflower Garden. We planted spinach, radishes, and calendula in the garden beds and started transplants of beets, chard, and more. Students also began the muddy and fun work of digging our future seasonal wetland. We will plant wetlands plants that we have learned about this year and hope to see the 'wetland' fill with water before the summer comes!
Students continued to research their mammals. Ask your child which mammal he or she is researching. If you are inspired, you can learn more animal facts at home together and your child can bring new information to his or her research group. We are learning about needle felting and each student will be needle felting their mammal that they are researching. Last week students each used the needle and experimented on wool.
In math, the first graders started using whale to help them count by twos. They made their own whales and made a chart to help them count the increasing number of whales and whale flukes in each row. They are using hundred charts to help them count by twos. Second grade math students were introduced to 'borrowing' with subtraction problems. Students built on their knowledge of the ones, tens, and hundreds places and are learning how to borrow with ones units, tens sticks, and hundreds grids.
We will be making soup for the Empty Bowls event this Wednesday for our Out and About. Thank you to Brenda, Limor, Kacie, and Beth for volunteering to help us cook! If anyone else would like to join us, the more the merrier. Send me an email if you are interested.
Thank you families!
Sincerely,
Sherry
Last week we were busy in the school's Sunflower Garden. We planted spinach, radishes, and calendula in the garden beds and started transplants of beets, chard, and more. Students also began the muddy and fun work of digging our future seasonal wetland. We will plant wetlands plants that we have learned about this year and hope to see the 'wetland' fill with water before the summer comes!
Students continued to research their mammals. Ask your child which mammal he or she is researching. If you are inspired, you can learn more animal facts at home together and your child can bring new information to his or her research group. We are learning about needle felting and each student will be needle felting their mammal that they are researching. Last week students each used the needle and experimented on wool.
In math, the first graders started using whale to help them count by twos. They made their own whales and made a chart to help them count the increasing number of whales and whale flukes in each row. They are using hundred charts to help them count by twos. Second grade math students were introduced to 'borrowing' with subtraction problems. Students built on their knowledge of the ones, tens, and hundreds places and are learning how to borrow with ones units, tens sticks, and hundreds grids.
We will be making soup for the Empty Bowls event this Wednesday for our Out and About. Thank you to Brenda, Limor, Kacie, and Beth for volunteering to help us cook! If anyone else would like to join us, the more the merrier. Send me an email if you are interested.
Thank you families!
Sincerely,
Sherry
Monday, March 4, 2013
Classroom News: Week of March 4th
Dear Barn Swallow Families,
Last week we began our mammal research! Ask your child which mammal he or she is going to study. We planted blue and purple peas in the sunflower garden and did many other active tasks during our Out and About on Wednesday. Students noticed their bulbs popping up in front of the school! During math first graders worked on solving each others' lobster picture problems. They worked on adding time in 5 minute increments with the goal of reaching 60 minutes. Second graders continued to work with money and measuring in inches and centimeters. They are learning to label their measurements with the units. Please have your second grader continue to work on fluency with two single-digit addition problems at home so that they are memorized by the end of second grade.
Class Community News: Lily Sommers' mom, Christina, has a very bad case of pneumonia. Kacie Holt, Thatcher's mom, is coordinating a 'meal train' in order to help Lily's family in their time of need. If you would like to help Lily's family, please contact Kacie at: Kacieholt@hotmail.com
Thank you families!
Please be sure to read about a very fun and important event below:
Forest Grove Community School presents the Empty Bowls Feast
Thursday, March 14th 5:30-7:30pm serving times
United Church of Christ
2032 College Way
Forest Grove, OR 97116
Your suggested donation of $10 or more will support the Family Resource Center and Family Bridge. Purchase tickets ahead of the event and you will get a bowl at the door. Then fill it with delicious soup, grab some bread and enjoy it amongst the members of our wonderful community.
A limited number of handcrafted bowls are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Ticket holders are guaranteed a warm meal. Purchase tickets for the event by March 8th for planning purposes. All families are welcome regardless of contribution amount.
Level 2 and 4 students have been making and glazing bowls in art in preparation for the Empty Bowls Feast. Students in Levels 1 and 3 will also be making soup and bread on their Out and About before the Feast.
This is a school-wide event. We need help cooking with classes, spreading the word about the event, as well as help at the event. Please contact Teresa Perrin, art teacher, (503)359-4600, t.perrin@fgcschool.org or Beth Kittle, parent volunteer, jbkatk@gmail.com to sign up to help.
Last week we began our mammal research! Ask your child which mammal he or she is going to study. We planted blue and purple peas in the sunflower garden and did many other active tasks during our Out and About on Wednesday. Students noticed their bulbs popping up in front of the school! During math first graders worked on solving each others' lobster picture problems. They worked on adding time in 5 minute increments with the goal of reaching 60 minutes. Second graders continued to work with money and measuring in inches and centimeters. They are learning to label their measurements with the units. Please have your second grader continue to work on fluency with two single-digit addition problems at home so that they are memorized by the end of second grade.
Class Community News: Lily Sommers' mom, Christina, has a very bad case of pneumonia. Kacie Holt, Thatcher's mom, is coordinating a 'meal train' in order to help Lily's family in their time of need. If you would like to help Lily's family, please contact Kacie at: Kacieholt@hotmail.com
Thank you families!
Please be sure to read about a very fun and important event below:
Forest Grove Community School presents the Empty Bowls Feast
Thursday, March 14th 5:30-7:30pm serving times
United Church of Christ
2032 College Way
Forest Grove, OR 97116
Your suggested donation of $10 or more will support the Family Resource Center and Family Bridge. Purchase tickets ahead of the event and you will get a bowl at the door. Then fill it with delicious soup, grab some bread and enjoy it amongst the members of our wonderful community.
A limited number of handcrafted bowls are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Ticket holders are guaranteed a warm meal. Purchase tickets for the event by March 8th for planning purposes. All families are welcome regardless of contribution amount.
Level 2 and 4 students have been making and glazing bowls in art in preparation for the Empty Bowls Feast. Students in Levels 1 and 3 will also be making soup and bread on their Out and About before the Feast.
This is a school-wide event. We need help cooking with classes, spreading the word about the event, as well as help at the event. Please contact Teresa Perrin, art teacher, (503)359-4600, t.perrin@fgcschool.org or Beth Kittle, parent volunteer, jbkatk@gmail.com to sign up to help.
Monday, February 25, 2013
Classroom News: Week of February 25th
Dear Barn Swallow Families,
In math last week, the first graders worked on developing and writing lobster picture problems for their classmates to solve. Second graders continued to review coin amounts and have been working on making a single amount under 99 cents in three or more different ways with coins. This is a good activity to do at home for additional practice with this skill! Students were also introduced to measuring in inches, as they fished for and measured trout and small mouth bass.
We hope to help the Empty Bowls project here at school and will be cooking soup at the UCC in Forest Grove next Wednesday, March 6th. Would you like to volunteer to help us with making soup? Please send me an email if you are interested in helping. Thank you!
Thank you families!
Sincerely,
Sherry
If you attended our math celebration of learning last Wednesday, thank you for fishing and doing math with us. What a fun night!
Last Wednesday we spent the afternoon in the Backyard Garden planting snap peas. Students learned about hybrid and heirloom seeds and we talked about saving seeds in the fall versus depending on buying seeds every year. We estimated the amount of peas in one package of seeds and then after looking at a subset of ten seeds we adjusted our estimates. We figured out the total number of seeds by grouping in tens and ones, and then we figured out how many seeds would be in 3 packages of seeds. If we planted the same number of seeds in each of six garden beds how many seeds would each group get.
We hope to help the Empty Bowls project here at school and will be cooking soup at the UCC in Forest Grove next Wednesday, March 6th. Would you like to volunteer to help us with making soup? Please send me an email if you are interested in helping. Thank you!
Thank you families!
Sincerely,
Sherry
Friday, February 15, 2013
Classroom News: Week of February 19th
Dear Barn Swallow Families,
Last week we spent a dry and sunny afternoon in the Ash Street Wetland with rangers from Metro. We learned how to identify plants in the winter and studied red osiage dogwood, big leaf maple, black cottonwood, wild roses, bunch grass, and more. Students tried wild rose hips, which are higher in vitamin C than oranges, and inspected galls. We heard the song of the Pacific chorus (tree) frogs in the wet areas and students watched them hop around, in search of mates. Students worked hard to use their 'owl eyes,' 'deer ears,' and 'fox feet' as they observed nature.
Students worked in reading groups and continue to be excited about reading and are eager to grow. Story workshop is a favorite time of the day and students continue to find creative stories using the many available materials. In math, the first graders worked on fact families for 10, 11, and 12. The second graders continued playing the card game 'Make the Sum,' which helps students with fluency. They also learned a new game called 'Dice Race,' which also gives students practice with fluency. We reviewed coin names and values and are working on adding coins together in amounts under one dollar.
We celebrated love and friendship on Thursday afternoon. Students exchanged friendship cards and we had a festive party, including healthy treats. Thank you for donating, families!
Sincerely,
Sherry
Last week we spent a dry and sunny afternoon in the Ash Street Wetland with rangers from Metro. We learned how to identify plants in the winter and studied red osiage dogwood, big leaf maple, black cottonwood, wild roses, bunch grass, and more. Students tried wild rose hips, which are higher in vitamin C than oranges, and inspected galls. We heard the song of the Pacific chorus (tree) frogs in the wet areas and students watched them hop around, in search of mates. Students worked hard to use their 'owl eyes,' 'deer ears,' and 'fox feet' as they observed nature.
Students worked in reading groups and continue to be excited about reading and are eager to grow. Story workshop is a favorite time of the day and students continue to find creative stories using the many available materials. In math, the first graders worked on fact families for 10, 11, and 12. The second graders continued playing the card game 'Make the Sum,' which helps students with fluency. They also learned a new game called 'Dice Race,' which also gives students practice with fluency. We reviewed coin names and values and are working on adding coins together in amounts under one dollar.
We celebrated love and friendship on Thursday afternoon. Students exchanged friendship cards and we had a festive party, including healthy treats. Thank you for donating, families!
Sincerely,
Sherry
Classroom News: February 11th continued...
Dear Barn Swallow Families,
Part of my newsletter from yesterday did not show up on our classroom blog! (I remember there being some type of glitch with needing to sign in with my personal gmail address, rather than my school email, in the middle of writing the letter and it somehow affected the Blogspot site. It didn't save as I was editing and adding information.)
So, in addition to the long letter from yesterday, I noticed that a few very important details did not make it into the post. We ARE going to Ash Street Wetlands tomorrow and students will need raincoats, rain boots, warm layers, and anything else that will help them stay comfortable, rain or shine. We will be meeting with a ranger from Metro to learn more about observation skills and looking for signs of life at the seasonal wetland. We will also learn more about wetland plants and animals. We are beginning a wetland mammal study and hope to learn more about mammals that live at the Ash Street Wetland. If you would like to join us, you are more than welcome! We will be leaving the school close to 12:50 and will congregate along the B Street trail.
I also wanted to remind families about last week's post about Valentine's Day. We will be having a little party on Thursday afternoon and students are welcome to make Valentines for all classmates. If you would like to send a simple, healthy treat with your child for the party, it would be greatly appreciated!
Thank you families!
Sincerely,
Sherry
Monday, February 11, 2013
Classroom News: Week of February 11th
Dear Barn Swallow Families,
We had a fun week! On Wednesday afternoon Elina Payton, a local artist, visited our class to demonstrate how she makes and uses paints. It was a fun surprise to see that a lot of the ingredients she used were similar to what we have been experimenting with. Elina helped the students to make their own homemade tempera and watercolor paint. On Thursday morning we had the privilege of hearing Will Hornyak, a local storyteller, as he wove important facts and details about the environment, watersheds, stewardship and citizenship into his very entertaining stories. We ended the week with singing our song at the all school meeting. Have you been hearing your Barn Swallow sing it at home? During math the first grade students played games that helped them to compare coin values, figuring out which combinations made more and which added up to less. They also began working on addition fact families. Second graders learned a new math game that allowed students to work on their fluency with addition and subtraction. It's a simple game that you can play with a deck of cards. Be sure to ask your second grader how to play at home!
If you haven't already, you soon will receive the first semester report card. I hope you find the information in it helpful as you continue to support your child's development. Children develop skills at different ages and rates. Your child's report is designed to share with you how your child is progressing in our class and how your child's development compares with grade level standards. If you have questions or if you need greater explanation, please feel free to talk with me about it. I want to be sure that the report card is helpful in our continued partnership to help your child.
A note from a FGCS middle school student:
Dear Parents of Children at Forest Grove Community School,
I am an eighth grade student, Noah Tufts, working on my capstone project. Through this project, we’re supposed explore an interest we have while also making a connection to the community. We also need to get a mentor to help us. What I have decided to do for my project is to teach self-defense practices to all students at the school. I am a skilled martial artist (black belt level), and so is my mentor Mrs. Hansen. I won’t be teaching the kids anything dangerous or scary. We’ll talk about things like situational awareness; how to respond to strangers; and then a few simple drills of what to do if someone grabs you. In a survey of Oregon students, kids were asked if they would help a stranger find a lost puppy. Older kids said No, and most of the younger students did too. But when asked if they would help a stranger find a lost kitten, almost all younger kids said Yes. So, I want to help kids to learn that they should never go with strangers and other basic guidelines of safety. With Vanessa and Rick’s approval, I’ll be teaching students these guidelines during PE classes next week.
Noah Tufts
We had a fun week! On Wednesday afternoon Elina Payton, a local artist, visited our class to demonstrate how she makes and uses paints. It was a fun surprise to see that a lot of the ingredients she used were similar to what we have been experimenting with. Elina helped the students to make their own homemade tempera and watercolor paint. On Thursday morning we had the privilege of hearing Will Hornyak, a local storyteller, as he wove important facts and details about the environment, watersheds, stewardship and citizenship into his very entertaining stories. We ended the week with singing our song at the all school meeting. Have you been hearing your Barn Swallow sing it at home? During math the first grade students played games that helped them to compare coin values, figuring out which combinations made more and which added up to less. They also began working on addition fact families. Second graders learned a new math game that allowed students to work on their fluency with addition and subtraction. It's a simple game that you can play with a deck of cards. Be sure to ask your second grader how to play at home!
If you haven't already, you soon will receive the first semester report card. I hope you find the information in it helpful as you continue to support your child's development. Children develop skills at different ages and rates. Your child's report is designed to share with you how your child is progressing in our class and how your child's development compares with grade level standards. If you have questions or if you need greater explanation, please feel free to talk with me about it. I want to be sure that the report card is helpful in our continued partnership to help your child.
A note from a FGCS middle school student:
Dear Parents of Children at Forest Grove Community School,
I am an eighth grade student, Noah Tufts, working on my capstone project. Through this project, we’re supposed explore an interest we have while also making a connection to the community. We also need to get a mentor to help us. What I have decided to do for my project is to teach self-defense practices to all students at the school. I am a skilled martial artist (black belt level), and so is my mentor Mrs. Hansen. I won’t be teaching the kids anything dangerous or scary. We’ll talk about things like situational awareness; how to respond to strangers; and then a few simple drills of what to do if someone grabs you. In a survey of Oregon students, kids were asked if they would help a stranger find a lost puppy. Older kids said No, and most of the younger students did too. But when asked if they would help a stranger find a lost kitten, almost all younger kids said Yes. So, I want to help kids to learn that they should never go with strangers and other basic guidelines of safety. With Vanessa and Rick’s approval, I’ll be teaching students these guidelines during PE classes next week.
Noah Tufts
Monday, February 4, 2013
Dear Barn Swallow Families,
Last week we added some new elements to our Story Workshop. We added a snow animals workspace with moose, deer, wolves, foxes, rabbits, penguins and more. Students are also now experimenting with wooden blocks, pipe cleaners, googly eyes, and fabric scraps, in order to find stories. It's wonderful to witness how quickly story ideas come to the students when a variety of creative materials are available. In math, first graders worked on games to learn coin values, and practice making trades for pennies, nickels and quarters. Second graders worked on math skills assessments.
We will have a Valentine card exchange on Thursday, February 14th and will have a small party with healthy foods. If you and your child would like to bring something healthy for our party, we would welcome it! Some great choices are cut up fruit, vegetables, dip, hummus, pretzels, cheese, nuts, and more healthy choices.
Here is a list of the students in our class for Valentines. Please do not send candy with the cards. Valentine making is a great opportunity for kids to be creative at home!
Ava, Che, Cooper, Francis, Hannah, Jacob, Jamie, JP, Kalika, Lachlan, Lily, Mason, Max, Maya, Naomi, Natalie, Sam, Thatcher, Tommy, Ulee, and Zenzo
This Friday is a spirit day and it will be pajama day. (Your child may dress in pajamas, but doesn't have to. If your child does come in pajamas, please be sure that they are able to play and do outdoor activities in them.) Your child can bring a stuffed animal to read to during reading time on Friday.
Thank you families!
Sincerely,
Sherry
Last week we added some new elements to our Story Workshop. We added a snow animals workspace with moose, deer, wolves, foxes, rabbits, penguins and more. Students are also now experimenting with wooden blocks, pipe cleaners, googly eyes, and fabric scraps, in order to find stories. It's wonderful to witness how quickly story ideas come to the students when a variety of creative materials are available. In math, first graders worked on games to learn coin values, and practice making trades for pennies, nickels and quarters. Second graders worked on math skills assessments.
We will have a Valentine card exchange on Thursday, February 14th and will have a small party with healthy foods. If you and your child would like to bring something healthy for our party, we would welcome it! Some great choices are cut up fruit, vegetables, dip, hummus, pretzels, cheese, nuts, and more healthy choices.
Here is a list of the students in our class for Valentines. Please do not send candy with the cards. Valentine making is a great opportunity for kids to be creative at home!
Ava, Che, Cooper, Francis, Hannah, Jacob, Jamie, JP, Kalika, Lachlan, Lily, Mason, Max, Maya, Naomi, Natalie, Sam, Thatcher, Tommy, Ulee, and Zenzo
This Friday is a spirit day and it will be pajama day. (Your child may dress in pajamas, but doesn't have to. If your child does come in pajamas, please be sure that they are able to play and do outdoor activities in them.) Your child can bring a stuffed animal to read to during reading time on Friday.
Thank you families!
Sincerely,
Sherry
Monday, January 28, 2013
Classroom News: Week of January 28th
Dear Barn Swallow Families,
Last week the Barn Swallows went to Theatre in the Grove to see The Little Mermaid play. We enjoyed watching our friends Max and Jamie perform! We continue to add new materials to find stories with for story workshop. Last week we added small wild animal figures, which have inspired many nature stories! We also are now getting out the field guides and students are interested in learning more facts about our new animal figures. This will be a nice seque into our wetland animal study this spring! During math the first graders continued solving each other's picture story problems. Second graders reviewed regrouping with addition and practiced fluency with two single-digit addition facts.
It will be our turn to present at the all school meeting next Friday, February 8th. We will be singing one or two songs. You are welcome to come see us at Central School in the Grove Room. We will be beginning near 9:45. Later this spring, level 1 hopes to share some information about wetlands at the all school meeting. I will be sure to let you know when we have it scheduled.
Next week we will have a local artist visit our classrooms to guide students' experiences with a variety of types of paints on many different surfaces. We will be going on a nature tour with a ranger from Metro at the Ash Street Wetland along the B Street trail in early February. We have also learned that the dramatic changes have been made at Fern Hill Wetlands and we are in the midst of planning an early spring trip there. It's also almost time to get planning and planting the school gardens. We have hundreds of seed varieties to choose from. Peas can be planted outside in early February! Do you garden with your Barn Swallow?
Thank you families!
Sincerely,
Sherry
Last week the Barn Swallows went to Theatre in the Grove to see The Little Mermaid play. We enjoyed watching our friends Max and Jamie perform! We continue to add new materials to find stories with for story workshop. Last week we added small wild animal figures, which have inspired many nature stories! We also are now getting out the field guides and students are interested in learning more facts about our new animal figures. This will be a nice seque into our wetland animal study this spring! During math the first graders continued solving each other's picture story problems. Second graders reviewed regrouping with addition and practiced fluency with two single-digit addition facts.
It will be our turn to present at the all school meeting next Friday, February 8th. We will be singing one or two songs. You are welcome to come see us at Central School in the Grove Room. We will be beginning near 9:45. Later this spring, level 1 hopes to share some information about wetlands at the all school meeting. I will be sure to let you know when we have it scheduled.
Next week we will have a local artist visit our classrooms to guide students' experiences with a variety of types of paints on many different surfaces. We will be going on a nature tour with a ranger from Metro at the Ash Street Wetland along the B Street trail in early February. We have also learned that the dramatic changes have been made at Fern Hill Wetlands and we are in the midst of planning an early spring trip there. It's also almost time to get planning and planting the school gardens. We have hundreds of seed varieties to choose from. Peas can be planted outside in early February! Do you garden with your Barn Swallow?
Thank you families!
Sincerely,
Sherry
Tuesday, January 22, 2013
Classroom News: January 22nd, 2013
Dear Barn Swallow Families,
Last week students wrote stories by themselves during story workshop. Normally, it is a time for students to collaborate and help each other with the four traits of writing that we focus on (ideas & content, conventions & spelling, organization, and word choice). Last week was a time for students to see how much they've grown as writers, and they successfully worked alone. I am impressed with the amount of motivation our students have to write and enjoyed reading the students' stories as I continue to work on fall semester report cards! In math the first graders continued working on their crab and sea star picture problems, you will get to see a couple of them in the homework this week. Second graders continued to work on memorizing their addition facts. They reviewed regrouping with addition problems and practiced telling time by five minute increments. On Wednesday we had an In & About. We tried out a variety of watercolor painting techniques and created many sheets of painted paper that we will use on our wetland mural. We will be going to 'The Little Mermaid' play tomorrow!
Thank you families.
Sincerely,
Sherry
Last week students wrote stories by themselves during story workshop. Normally, it is a time for students to collaborate and help each other with the four traits of writing that we focus on (ideas & content, conventions & spelling, organization, and word choice). Last week was a time for students to see how much they've grown as writers, and they successfully worked alone. I am impressed with the amount of motivation our students have to write and enjoyed reading the students' stories as I continue to work on fall semester report cards! In math the first graders continued working on their crab and sea star picture problems, you will get to see a couple of them in the homework this week. Second graders continued to work on memorizing their addition facts. They reviewed regrouping with addition problems and practiced telling time by five minute increments. On Wednesday we had an In & About. We tried out a variety of watercolor painting techniques and created many sheets of painted paper that we will use on our wetland mural. We will be going to 'The Little Mermaid' play tomorrow!
Thank you families.
Sincerely,
Sherry
Monday, January 14, 2013
Classroom News: Week of January 14th
Dear Barn Swallow Families,
Last week we learned about editing our writing for spelling and punctuation, and revising to make more interesting word choices. The students practiced these skills in their stories about paint experiences they've had. The first graders worked on adding multiple teen numbers to get to a total of 50, and predicting, comparing, and developing strategies in a game called "50 or Bust!" They worked on using multiple methods to solve picture problems involving crabs and sea stars, and began to create their own picture problems for classmates to solve. The second graders made up addition story problems and worked with fact families. They continue to work on memorizing their addition facts.
On Wednesday afternoon we walked to Ash Street Field where we met Bonnie and Nathaniel from Metro. We helped them plant young native plants, bulbs and seeds to help restore Ash Street Field to a more natural wetland. We planted Meadow Checker Mallow, allium bulbs, gum weed, and more. The students were great stewards and learned a lot about how to plant in wet, muddy soil. (Photographs and videos are on the right!) On Friday morning we went to our All-School Meeting. Thank you for sending in money for the 'Little Mermaid' play admission. The students are looking forward to seeing some of their classmates perform in the play!
Sincerely,
Sherry
Last week we learned about editing our writing for spelling and punctuation, and revising to make more interesting word choices. The students practiced these skills in their stories about paint experiences they've had. The first graders worked on adding multiple teen numbers to get to a total of 50, and predicting, comparing, and developing strategies in a game called "50 or Bust!" They worked on using multiple methods to solve picture problems involving crabs and sea stars, and began to create their own picture problems for classmates to solve. The second graders made up addition story problems and worked with fact families. They continue to work on memorizing their addition facts.
On Wednesday afternoon we walked to Ash Street Field where we met Bonnie and Nathaniel from Metro. We helped them plant young native plants, bulbs and seeds to help restore Ash Street Field to a more natural wetland. We planted Meadow Checker Mallow, allium bulbs, gum weed, and more. The students were great stewards and learned a lot about how to plant in wet, muddy soil. (Photographs and videos are on the right!) On Friday morning we went to our All-School Meeting. Thank you for sending in money for the 'Little Mermaid' play admission. The students are looking forward to seeing some of their classmates perform in the play!
Sincerely,
Sherry
Monday, January 7, 2013
Classroom News: Week of January 7th
Dear
Barn Swallow Families,
I
hope that you all had a wonderful break. We have exciting news!
We will be going to see "The Little Mermaid," at
Theater in the Grove on Wednesday, January 23rd at 1:00. The
cost for the play is $5 per student. We will need to collect
the money from families by Wednesday, January 16th. Please
bring the money to the classroom, not the office. If you are
unable to pay, please let me know. If you would like to donate
money toward another student's ticket that is great, too. Thank
you!
This Wednesday we will be walking to a seasonal wetland at
the end of Ash Street, along the B Street Trail. We often call
this area 'The Ash Street Field.' We will working on a service
project with Metro to help restore the habitat there. The field
used to be used by farmers. I remember taking my class there
five years ago and it was a monoculture of wheat. Now it has
been planted to be a seasonal wetlands, providing additional habitat
for a wide variety of creatures. I look forward to our project
there! Please help your child to be prepared for rain and cold.
Rain boots, rain jackets, hats, and warm layers will help
ensure that all students are comfortable and can focus on the
project. We have a class set of work gloves, but if your child
would like to bring his or her own, that is great too. We are
not in need of volunteers for this trip, but you are more than
welcome to join us! You can email me if you are interested at:
S.Reuter@fgcschool.org Thank you!
This
Friday we have an All-School Meeting. It is also spirit day and
the theme is opposite/backward day. Participation is optional,
but all students are welcome to join in.
The week before break
we worked on exploring with paint. The students wrote about
experiences they've had with paint. On Wednesday we continued
experimenting with making our own paint. The students have been
able to create some interesting colors with a variety of natural
materials. In math the first graders worked on adding to make
sums in the teens; and adding two or three addends to make sums of
six or seven. The first grade students organized the various
combinations systematically to make sure they had discovered all the
possible combinations for sums of six or seven. Second graders
continued to work on memorizing their addition equations. They
wrote their own wetland story problems and worked more with fact
families. During reading time the students continue to work in
small groups.
We are fortunate to have a group of adults that
work with us regularly to provide a variety of reading assistance to
our class. Mia, our Americorps volunteer, Limor, a parent
volunteer, and Vanessa, our principal, have all been helping us to
provide your children with great opportunities to grow as readers.
In these small groups students are learning a variety of
reading strategies and having opportunities to practice these skills.
The Barn Swallows all continue to grow as readers and regularly
share their excitement about reading with each other. On Friday
students put together a flower bulb project. We are eager to
hear how your bulbs are doing at home! Students also enjoyed a
shaving cream sensory painting experience, made butter with heavy
whipping cream, and popped popcorn in the air popper. (We were
inspired to make the popcorn and butter from the book 'Farmer Boy.')
It's
great to be back at school! We had a really nice first day.
Thank
you families!
Sincerely,
Sherry
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