Weekly Update!

We had a great first full week of school! In math, we continued our discussion of place value using three-digit numbers. The girls worked with virtual base-ten blocks on the iPads and explored place value disks and mats for the first time. We also discussed how to write numbers in standard, word, and expanded form (i.e. 259, two hundred fifty-nine, 200 + 50 +9). In addition, we talked about comparing numbers, and we played a fun dice game to practice these skills. 

Also, throughout the week, the girls got into groups and practiced working on a variety of math centers. On Friday, I handed out the rotation schedules for next week and the girls practiced working independently. Some girls logged onto Xtramath.com (and practiced their facts) while others completed math centers independently. 

During language arts and science, we continued learning about ocean animals. We read a book, which included a lot of interesting facts, and the girls added several "Wows" to our Wonder Wall to record their findings. Also, we watched two really great videos from Jonathan Bird's Blue World about coral reefs and cephalopods. On Friday, the girls began to sketch an underwater scene. They will add the finishing touches using pastels and watercolor paints next week. Finally, we are about halfway through our class novel "Dolphins at Daybreak". The girls are enjoying the story and doing a great job completing the packet that goes along with the novel.

Since the girls worked hard all week, we celebrated with some Friday Fun time. Click here to see pictures from this event. The girls chose a variety of activities and made sure to be inclusive. It has been so fun seeing this group bond and make an effort to be kind and helpful to one another. 

           Reminders and Upcoming September Dates

* I encourage your daughter to visit Xtramath on a regular basis. It is a fun way to practice basic math facts and allows teachers to easily track student's progress. If you would like your daughter to use Xtramath on your iPad (but you'd prefer not to purchase the app), you can add a webclip to your homescreen. Just let me know if you are unsure how to do this. 

In addition, here is some good information I took off the Xtramath website, which explains the reasoning behind Xtramath in general and some things to consider regarding the timing feature of this activity. It is possible to make adjustments to your daughter's student settings, so please contact me if you have any questions or concerns.

* September 16th at 10:30 a.m.- School pictures- In the event, we do not finish in time to make it to the dining hall by 11:00, we will eat in the classroom.

* September 19th: Field Trip to St. Christopher's to meet our pen pals (9:00am-10:00am). FIELD TRIP ATTIRE IS NOT NECESSARY. 

* September 20th: Field Trip to the Science Museum (9:00am-2pm). FIELD TRIP ATTIRE IS REQUIRED.

* September 23rd: Field Trip to the Lora Robins Gallery at the University of Richmond (more information to follow)

* September 30th 8:15-8:45- Blessing of the Animals on The Green in front of the Kenny Center. All are welcome to bring their pets. If you are unable to join us, the girls are welcome to bring in a picture of her pet(s) to be blessed.