Money

First graders are working hard to learn the names and values of US coins. They even learned a some to help them remember! They have been learning how to count small collections of coins up to the value of a dollar. I encourage families to make this a real-world skill by asking your child to help you pay for small items, count the change and engage in pretend play scenarios that involve money. The first graders loved making menus and playing restaurant! Try playing store... no credit cards allowed!

First Grade Authors!

The first graders are almost finished "publishing" their books. They are writing their own versions of Laura Numeroff's "If You Give a Mouse a Cookie" series. They started by listening to Laura Numberoff's books. I showed them a version that I wrote when I was a first grader. Then they planned their own versions using a graphic organizer. Then they wrote a rough draft and worked with a teacher to edit and revise their work. They also wrote and typed an About the Author page and made a dedication page! These are outstanding books that I hope the first graders and their families will treasure forever!

http://www.lauranumeroff.com/

Science Experiments

We are studying states of matter in science. Today we made some tricky substances that showed properties of both solids and liquids. The recipes went home today so feel free to experiment on your own too. I'm warning you - it can get messy but it's also endless hours of fun!

Saint Patrick's Day Shenanigans

We built a leprechaun trap during choice time after a few sightings of the little trickster and a flurry of leprechaun dust found in the first grade wing.

Sharing turns into a dance party!

The Wedding

Choice time was a very exciting time for those in the stuffed animal center. Instead of playing school with the little critters, they decided it was time for Theodore Bear (aka Teddy or Big Bear)and Goldie the golden retriever to wed. They used paper, tissues, tape and Jack's jacket to dress the animals and then we ended the ceremony with some formal wedding shots. They plan to hold the reception during next Thursday's choice time.

Happy 100th Day!