Speaking of math...Asking questions about real life situations is a great way to build math fluency. Try to find ways around the home and when on outings to make up problems. We are sending home the instructions for another math game this week. this game Turn Over Ten and Tens Go Fish can also be differentiated for your child's needs. I noticed most students are strong with fluency for partners of 10. In general they are a bit slower with partners for 7, 8, 9. Practicing these games with a different target number can support the development of number sense. I will also suggest to students this week that, if they want, they could try target numbers to 20. I do not suggest using time/fast math as a measure of success. All students benefit from think time. The students have been playing this way in school as well.
A few thoughts about reading...I commented on my feelings about homework at curriculum night. I feel the routine of paper homework is an important part of success with the APS curriculum. However, in my mind, reading is the most important. I regularly encourage students to "read their world." This means multiple genres and types of print. Poems, magazines, street signs, websites, directions as well us just right books. Students are encouraged to read the pictures, listen to stories, retell what they read, explain what the writer is trying to tell us and the intent of the writing or illustration. Is it a funny book? What is the message or life lesson? Is it informational? All students have accessed the Raz Kids on-line library in school. When they are listening to more difficult text the words are highlighted and their minds are taking pictures of more vocabulary and deepening their understanding.This resource can be accessed from any internet linked device. Let me know if you are having any problem with this. Reading aloud to your child is important for this same reason. Your child will benefit from reading aloud and rereading. So if you add it all up...I guess I am asking that reading takes up more than an assigned 20 minutes but becomes a life style. It is calming and relaxing too!
HOMEWORK: I want to clarify that students may pass in completed homework packets on Friday or Monday. Sorry for any confusion.
Mrs. Henry the school Social Worker has begun a social thinking program in our class on Fridays. She reads us books and we make connections to appropriate school behaviors. Here is a link to some of the resources she uses and resources for home.
As suggested at curriculum night, I have revived my Twitter link and added it at the top of this page. I will try to do more frequent posts. You do need to sign up for an account to view my tweets but do not actually have to participate in tweeting.