In Social Studies we began our exploration of the 7 continents. We made models of the earth and identified where each continent lies based on hemispheres. We made symbolic passports and began our world travels by visiting Africa. We came home Friday wearing Banda masks that we made while listening to African music. Our postcards have returned from Antarctica so we will visit there next!
We started our opinion writing unit this month! The children are writing opinions about the books they are reading. We have enjoyed some great authors through read aloud. Mercy Watson has become a very popular pig in our classroom! Kate DiCamillo wrote a wonderful series about this pig's adventures. We identify character traits, favorite parts and lessons learned. Then we write about our opinions using evidence in the text to support our ideas. We will begin reading books by Tomie DePaola next week. Encourage your children to bring in their favorite books as well!
You have probably figured out our reading and writing are again intertwined! Additionally, we have been working on fluency and expression. Last week, we celebrated with read aloud performances from each reading group! Next week we will begin looking closely at literary elements.
Explaining our thinking in both oral and written expression is essential! Using white boards during this process is a fun way to change ideas and build on each others ideas...