Here is a quick overview of what we have been covering in math, reading, and writing so far this year and where we are headed next.
Math - We just finished a unit on place value where students demonstrated an ability to read, write, compare, and round numbers through the hundred millions place. We also practiced adding and subtracting using the traditional algorithm. Next, we will be reviewing perimeter and area and practicing our multiplication skills. Throughout the year, an emphasis will be placed on deepening our sense of numbers (by finding different ways to manipulate numbers and through mental math activities) and explaining our thinking both orally and in writing. Anytime a student struggles with a particular concept, we will continue to practice and reteach that concept even as we move on to new topics. The goal is that by the end of the year all students will master all concepts.
Writing - The year began with a focus on using our speaking, listening, and writing skills to conduct interviews and write pieces based upon the information learned. In addition, we also discussed the ways in which authors come up with ideas for stories. This led into our narrative unit, which we are just finishing up. For the first trimester, we focused most of our time on the structure of a well-written narrative. We will be revisiting narratives later in the year to spice up our stories by adding dialogue and description, as well as interesting beginnings and endings. For now we are moving on to opinion writing, where again, we will focus on the structure and purpose of this type of writing.
Reading - Our emphasis for the first trimester has been on picking details out of texts in order to answer questions and make inferences. In fiction stories we have specifically used text details to support our thoughts about the setting and characters. In nonfiction texts, we will continue to pull details from the text while also identifying the text structure and the main idea. We have been participating in reading groups for several weeks now, which allows each student to read texts at their reading level and also receive differentiated instruction in phonics, syllabication, and word study.
Please feel free to contact me anytime if you have questions about what your child is learning in class. Thank you for all of your help and support at home!
