Our Dentist Trip

Our trip to the dentist was a huge success.  The kids had a blast and the dentist was very impressed with their knowledge of teeth.  When we returned from the dentist we made a VoiceThread sharing things we learned about teeth and dental health.  Click on the play button below and listen to the wise 1st graders.  Make sure your speakers are on!

Student Led Conferences

We put a lot of hard work into preparing for our student led conferences!  We made portfolios, prepared work to put in the porfolios, and did A LOT of reflecting.  The students did a great job reflecting how they are as a learner and how they have grown this year.  The individual growth and progress is incredible!  The kid so proud of themselves! 

Last week when we finally had our portolios prepared, it was time to practice.  The kids loved this part!  We put them into small groups and they each took turns playing roles in a mock-conference.  They were the parents, Ms. Johnson and of course the student.  The practice went great and I know they are ready for the real thing.  Now my hard work is over and I can sit beside them as they present their porfolios---smiling as the proud teacher.  

Apples and Bananas Song

We have reached the end of our vowel study.  We have learned the short and long sounds for a, e, i, o, u and the two sounds y can make at the end of a word. Vowels are very tricky letters and we have worked hard to learn them.  To celebrate this big accomplishment, we learned the silly song 'Apples and Bananas'.  Listen for the long vowel sounds and sing together at home!

Student of the Week- Alisha

Alisha Rekhani 

Country: India

Languages I speak: English, Hindi

Favorite food: Pancakes

Favorite color: Purple and Violet

Favorite travel spot: Germany and India

Favorite subject in school: Writing

Interesting facts: I like to play in my room.  I have 1 older brother.  I like to make art and craft projects.   

Brain Gym

We have started to use Brain Gym in our classroom. The kids love and so do the teachers!

What is Brain Gym?

Brain Gym is made up of simple and enjoyable movements and activities that we use with students to enhance their experience of whole brain learning. These activities make all types of learning easier but are especially effective with accademic skills. Clients, teachers, and students have been reporting for over 20 years on the effectiveness of these simple activities. Even though it is not clear yet "why" these movements work so well, they often bring about dramatic improvements in areas such as:

* Concentration and Focus
* Memory
* Academics: reading, writing, math, test taking
* Physical coordination
* Relationships
* Self-responsibility
* Organization skills
* Attitude

Ask your children to teach you some of the stretches/activities at home!

Student of the Week- Nina

*Sorry we are late to post about Nina's special week. Thanks for being patient Nina. :)

Nina

Country: America and Poland

Languages I speak: English, Polish and little French

Favorite food: Pierogi with blueberries and cream

Favorite color: Turquoise

Favorite travel spot: Greece

Favorite subject in school: Reading with menus

Interesting facts:My family likes to ride bikes together. I have an older brother and I like when he tricks me.  

Student of the Week- Lars

Lars

Country: USA
Languages I speak: English, Russian
Favorite food: Dumplings
Favorite color: White
Favorite travel spot: Chicago
Favorite subject in school:P.E.
Interesting facts: I like to play soccer. I like to play karate with my brother.  I am quiet in the hallways.