HOMEWORK 4-17-13

Please do the following activities for homework tonight:

*  Solve word problems using IXL.

*  Go to Education City.  Select 1st grade math and play Dancing Robot:  Finding Sums to 20.

*  Play an Education City game of your choice.  Make sure it is not an activity you have done before.  It can be in Language Arts, Math, or Science.

COMMENT BOX:  In the COMMENT BOX tell what game you chose on Education City.  Be sure to sign your first name.  You do not need to be a member, just use ANONYMOUS.  If you cannot get a comment in the box, send in the answer on a piece of paper.

HOMEWORK 4-16-13

As we approach the end of the year we will begin to review skills that we have covered.  Tonight we are going to focus on telling time to the hour and half hour.  Please have your child do these activities:

*  Time  For this activity, your child will read the analog clock and type the digital time.

*  Stop the Clock  Students will enjoy racing the clock to complete the task.  Instructions are provided.

*  Bedtime Bandits  This one starts out reviewing hour and half hour.  If your child does well, it will advance to telling time at 15 minute intervals (eg. 3:15 and/or 7:45).  This is not a concept that we cover in first grade.  You will need to teach this to your child in order to be successful at the higher levels.  This game also says there is an option for playing on an iPad.  I have not checked this out.  If you do explore this option, please leave me a comment in the comment box so I know if it actually works.  :)

Have fun!

COMMENT BOX ASSIGNMENT:  What online activity was your favorite?  Write your response in the comment box.  Remember to sign your first name.  You DO NOT need to have an account to do this; just select 'ANONYMOUS' as the user.  Also remember that your comment will not appear until I clear it and that I typically do not do that until late at night or in the morning the day it is due. 

HOMEWORK 4-15-13

It's XtraMath night.  Please remember that students should be fluent with math facts (addition and subtraction) to 10 by the end of the year.  :)

HOMEWORK 4-11-13

Tonight there is a worksheet for you.  It is in your folder.  Have fun examine your rock!  :)

HOMEWORK 4-10-13

Tonight you are going to practice math facts that have sums of 15, 16, 17, and 18.  Go to Education City.  Select 1st Grade Math.  Choose the tab that says Operations and Algebraic Thinking.  Select the game Water Raider with sums of 15, 16, 17, and 18.

Then practice the "doubles" addition facts playing Concentration.  Remember that knowing your "doubles" helps you remember "doubles +1". 

NO COMMENT BOX ASSIGNMENT

HOMEWORK 4-8-13

It's back to the grind!  XtraMath night!  Work hard, you're doing great! 

HOMEWORK 3-26-13

Tonight you will practice using punctuation and capitalization correctly using a game in Education City.

Go to Education City (educationcity.com).  Log in using the information in the book baggie notebook.

Select the 1st grade bubble, then select the Language Arts bubble.

Go to the 6th tab, labeled Language.

Choose the game entitled Home Run:  End Marks and Capitalization.

Play until you get 100%.

NO COMMENT BOX ASSIGNMENT.

HOMEWORK 3-25-13

It's XtraMath night.  :)

HOMEWORK 3-21-13

One of the long u spellings we are practicing is -ue.  To practice, go to Education City.  Select 1st grade Language Arts.  Select the 4th tab and play To the Rescue. 


For some additional practice, here is a list of other ue and u_e  words.  You can plug them into Spelling City and let your child practice.  You can also use Spelling City to practice trick words or any other words you like.  For instructions, go to Homework 3-7-13. :)

COMMENT BOX: 

Write one sentence for each of the following words (4 sentences in all):  rescue, statue, barbeque, argue.

HOMEWORK 3-20-13

This week we are talking about solid figures.  Solid figures are shapes that have lenght, width, and height. 

To practice, go to Education City.  Select first grade and math.  Select the Geometry tab.  The activity is called Museum Mishaps.  Play until you have 100%.

COMMENT BOX:  In your house, find an example of a cube, rectangular prism, sphere, and cylinder  from your home.  List your examples in the box.

HOMEWORK 3-19-13

We are concluding our study of maps this week.  We have looked at many maps and what we find on maps. 

Tonight, have fun playing one of the following games:

Copycat Geography
In this game, continents flash in a pattern and students copy the order.  Enhance the game by asking your child to name the continent each time it flashes.  Afterwards, have your child identify the continents on this map of the world.

United States
Put each state on the United States map.


In addition to the map games, do 2 Education City activities of your choice.  Please do not play games you typically play.

COMMENT BOX:  What two games did you play on Education City?

HOMEWORK 3-18-13

It's Monday night...you know it's XtraMath night!  :D  Do your best work!

NO COMMENT BOX

HOMEWORK 3-14-13

No assignment.  :D

HOMEWORK 3-13-13

Tonight you are going to practice with graphs and review the Day and Night Sky.

To begin, go to Education City.  You will need to select the Kindergarten area (this is no longer in the Kindergarten curriculum and is appropriate for 1st grade).  Select the Science bubble.  The activity is called Star Gaze.  Complete the activity.

Next, you will practice graphs on the IXL site.  This site is a great place to practice other 1st grade math skills.  You do not need to be a member, but you only get a certain amount of practice time for free each day.  :)

NO COMMENT BOX assignment.

HOMEWORK 3-12-13

Our homework tonight will review what we know about push and pull in science and the spellings for long o.

First, go to Education City.  Select 1st grade Science.  Then, play the game called Animal Trainer.

After that, go to Spelling City.  Like last week (reference directions from the homework on 3-7-13 if needed), enter the following words in the To Start, Try This box (make sure you selet 10 so you can add all the words):  float, toe, go, know, groan, stone, show, coal, doe, glow.

Underneath the box where you entered the words, go to the green Play a Game button.  Play the game of your choice.  After playing the game, scroll down and select the red button that says Spelling Test.  Take the spelling test. 

NO COMMENT BOX assignment.

HOMEWORK 3-11-13

Practice those math facts using XtraMath.  Remember that 1st graders are expected to be fluent with addition and subtraction facts to 10 by the end of the year.  :D

HOMEWORK 3-7-13

We will not have book baggies tonight.  With the 2-hour delay, we did not get our planning time (which is typically when we check the book baggies and get the new assignments done). 

Tonight you will practice spelling words with long i spellings.  Parents will need to do the first part.

Go to Spelling City.

In the area that says To Start, Try This! an adult needs to select the option for 10 words (look at the bottom portion of that area, beneath the third box for adding words).

And adults should enter the following words:  cry, bright, thigh, pie, might, sky, right, light, lie, spy.

After the words are entered, go to the circle beneath the list that says Play a Game.  You can then have your child choose two different games to play.

*  This is also a great place where you can practice trick words.  You can type them in and let your child practice in a fun way.  :)

HOMEWORK 3-6-13

Once again we are working on reading data in graphs.  To practice, we will use Education City.

First, go to the first grade area and choose MATH.  Select the tab that says:  Measurement and Data.  Play the game called Summer Fair:  reading pictographs.

Next, go to the second grade area and choose MATH.  Select the tab that says: Measurement and Data.  Play the game called Speedy Pete's:  interpret picture graphs.

NO COMMENT BOX ASSIGNMENT.

If you write down other games you played and the score, you will be rewarded.  :D

HOMEWORK 3-5-13

We have added new trick words: caught, again, away, until. For homework tonight, read each word on the presentation. After reading the presentation, play Spellbound. NO COMMENT BOX ASSIGNMENT

HOMEWORK 3-4-13

Complete a session of XtraMath.  Remember to focus and be as quick as possible.  Each time you use this program it is like taking a test.  :D

HOMEWORK 2-28-13

We are learning about how long i can be spelled in words.  You will practice this skill using Education City.  Play the following:

Go to First Grade Language Arts and click on the Reading:  Foundational Skills tab and play Flies in the Pies.

Go to Second Grade Language Arts and click on the Reading: Foundational Skills tab and play Fright in the Night.

NO COMMENT BOX

Bring in a sheet showing other games you played and receive a reward.

HOMEWORK 2-27-13

For tonight's homework you will practice number skills using Education City. 

Go to Education City and go to the math section.  Play the following games:

Select Operations and Algebraic Thinking, then play Prince Charming:  Number Sentences to Ten.

Select Numbers and Operations in Base 10, then play Catch a Kuko:  Order Numbers to 100.

NO COMMENT BOX ASSIGNMENT

If you play Education City games other than the ones assigned, send in a list and you will receive a reward. 

HOMEWORK 2-26-13

For tonight's homework, review the trick words using the presentation. In the COMMENT BOX, write one sentence for each of the following new trick words: through, after, then, good.

HOMEWORK 2-25-13

Tonight's homework:

Complete a session on XtraMath.

HOMEWORK 2-21-13

Use Education City to practice <, >, =   and counting up and down by 10.

Play both of the following games:
Dance Stars:  Compare Using Symbols
Mr. Cow's Milk:  County Up & Down By 10

There is NO COMMENT BOX assignment.  :)

HOMEWORK 2-20-13

Our country celebrated Presidents' Day this week.  Read the non-fiction text about Abraham Lincoln and George Washington.  You will need to read about each president separately.
Then, complete the COMMENT BOX assignment.

COMMENT BOX:  We have used a 3-2-1 chart to write about non-fiction text.  When completing a 3-2-1 chart, students summarize and show understanding of what they have read.  Students write 3 sentences to share what they have learned/discovered in the reading (the ideas should be NEW, not previous knowledge); 2 sentences to share what they found interesting; and 1 question they have and would like to answer.  You can see one example of a 3-2-1 chart by clicking the following:  3-2-1 Chart.  For tonight's homework, you need to complete a 3-2-1 chart about the Scholastic News article about Washington and Lincoln in the COMMENT BOX or you can put your answers on the example chart, print it out, and bring it to school.  You can also write your answers on regular paper.  Please make sure your writing is neat.  Use proper capitalization and punctuation.  Words from the article should be spelled correctly. 

HOMEWORK 2-19-13

Complete a session on XtraMath.  You do not need to post in the COMMENT BOX.

HOMEWORK 2-13-14

In math we are learning about the < (less than), > (greater than), and = (equals sign) and how to use them when comparing two values.  We began by making Math Monsters that like to eat larger numbers.  We have used the Math Monsters in class to eat larger numbers.  The Math Monsters always turn their open mouths to the larger number.  If the numbers are equal, then we use the = to show that the values are the same.  Tonight you will practice this skill by playing  Raceway Number Values.

NO COMMENT BOX.

HOMEWORK 2-12-13

This week our phonics focus is on the vowel teams ai and ay.  Both make the long a sound.  We usually use ay at the end of the word and ai  when we hear long a in the middle of a word.  Sometimes we also use a_e  to spell long a in the middle of a word.

Do the LONG A activity to practice.  You will be given a word to read.  The student should read follow the directions as they are given.  When it is time to type, make sure you click in the box until the blue vertical line appears.  After typing, there will be a section where a bird head pops out of holes.  This is like whack-a-mole.  Have fun!

NO COMMENT BOX ASSIGNMENT.

HOMEWORK 2-11-13

Practice fast facts using XtraMath.  There is not a COMMENT BOX assignment.

HOMEWORK 2-7-13

We are working on finding the number that is 10 more and 10 less than a given number.  We are using our knowledge of place value to do this.  In class we use cubes to model numbers and then add or remove cubes depending on the instructions.  We have also looked at the digits in the numbers to see what changes and how it changes.  To practice this skill, play Ten More Ten Less on IXL. 

COMMENT BOX:

Think about the number 76.   Answer these questions about the number 76 in the comment box:
1.  What number is 1 less?
2.  What number is 10 more?
3.  What number is 1 more?
4.  What number is 10 less?

HOMEWORK 2-6-13

We are still working on contractions.  Tonight you are going to practice contractions using Education City.  When you enter the site for this assignment, you will need to go to 2nd grade rather than 1st grade.  You will need to go to Language Arts and play the game called Force Field Contractions.  Play it until you earn 100%.  There is no COMMENT BOX assignment.

Remember, we are still competing with the Kindergarten and 2nd grade.  This would be a great opportunity to earn some extra points for our grade by doing some additional activities.  Post what extra activities you complete in the COMMENT BOX for a reward in class.

HOMEWORK 2-4-13

Practice math facts using XtraMath.  There is no COMMENT BOX assignment.

HOMEWORK 1-31-13

Tonight you will practice more contractions by playing WhichWord.  Read the sentence and each of the word choices to choose the correct word to fill the blank.  Please listen to your child read each sentence.

COMMENT BOX:
Write a sentence for each of the following contractions:
couldn't, don't, aren't, won't, he'll, they'll

HOMEWORK 1-30-13

Tonight we will practice place value with tens and ones.  You will use the IXL site.  Please remember that this one only lets you practice an activity for a certain amount of time before it "times out" for the day. 

COMMENT BOX:
Write a number sentence that shows the value of the tens and the value of the ones in 82.  Think about how we have used the cubes in class.  81+1=82 is NOT a correct answer because it does not represent the value of the tens and the value of the ones. 

HOMEWORK 1-29-13

We are learning about contractions.  They are two words that are blended into one.  One or more of the letters are replaced by an apostrophe.  For example it is becomes it's when it is a contraction.  Please point these out to your child when you see them in print anywhere, especially in their reading books. 

To practice, play Treasure Trove. 

COMMENT BOX:  Write the contractions for the following word pairs: 
1.  do not
2.  should not
3.  was not
4.  will not (Be careful with this one.)
5.  is not
6.  are not
7.  cannot (This one is tricky, too.)
8.  have not
9.  were not
10.  would not

Remember to write your first name in the comment box.

HOMEWORK 1-28-13

Tonight's homework is to do XtraMath.  Concentrate and do your best! 

HOMEWORK 1-10-13

In class we have been working with two digit numbers and building tens and ones.  Tonight's homework works on this skill. 

First, go to Education City.  Go to the math section and select Aqua Cubes.  Watch the lesson and complete the activity.

Next, play Shark Numbers.

Last, complete the COMMENT BOX assignment.

COMMENT BOX:
Greg has toy cars.  He has 7 boxes of cars.  Each box has ten cars in it.  How many cars does he have?  Explain. 

You may answer in the box or send the answer to school on paper.

HOMEWORK 1-9-13

We have added 3 new trick words this week: could, know, some. For homework tonight, read each word in the presentation within 3 seconds. COMMENT BOX: Write the new trick words (could, know, some) three times each. Say the word before you write it, say each letter as you write it, say the word again. Write one sentence for each new trick word. If you would prefer, you may write the assignment on paper and bring it to school in your folder. Please remember to include your name. Two of last nights entries did not have names.

HOMEWORK 1-8-13

Tonight you will practice writing words with the long vowel spelling pattern v_e (vowel blank e). Many of you know this as the "silent e" or "bossy e". View the presentation and follow the directions written there. COMMENT BOX: Either send in the work you did on paper OR write the words and sentences in the COMMENT BOX. Remember to write your first name in the box. If you have time, you have the option of earning Caught Being Good coupons for work on Education City. Bring in your list and scores so we can give you the correct amount of coupons.

HOMEWORK 1-7-13

Practice math facts using XtraMath.

NO COMMENT BOX

HOMEWORK FOR 1-2-13 AND 1-3-13

Both tonight's and tomorrow's assignments are listed.

WEDNESDAY:

Do XtraMath.

THURSDAY:

Do one Language Arts activity and one Math Activity on Education City.


NO COMMENT BOX ASSIGNMENT

Trick Word Activity

For the most recent list of Trick Words, see the Updated Trick Word post.  To practice these words, use the presentation there.  You may also want to try this fun activity.  Make a list of the words your child doesn't know as s/he reads through the presentation.  Write each one of those words on a separate piece of paper.  Crumple up each word and put it in an empty bin.  For each unknown word, write one known word on a separate piece of paper.  Crumple up each one of these words and add it to the bin.  There should be one known word for each unknown word.  So, if your child doesn't know 5 of the trick words, there should be 10 words in the bin:  5 known and 5 unknown.  Empty the words from the bin.  Have him/her toss a crumpled paper into the bin.  If the paper gets in the bin, have him/her read the word within 3 seconds.  If the word is read correctly, the paper should be in a keep pile.  If the word is read incorrectly or not within 3 seconds, then it should be crumpled again and added back into the toss pile.  If your child can read all the words, then play the game the same way, but ask your child to spell the words.  Have fun!

Sandy Hook Elementary - AMENDED ADDRESS

I am not going to discuss the event that is prompting me to post this.  However, I came across this, and felt the need to share it in case anyone wanted to participate from their own homes as a family.  PLEASE DO NOT SEND THESE TO SCHOOL.  The students have varying knowledge of the event and I want to preserve each family's decision on how to deal with the situation.  I am copying and pasting this from a Facebook post.  I am hoping it is valid.

A building has been designated to house the students from Sandy Hook Elementary School. They are in the process of transporting desks, chairs, supplies and so forth to this location.
Tonight the president of the Newtown PTA and others met discussing what we can do to make these children feel comforted upon their return to school.
Please join us in "The Snowflake Project".

We are asking your students to make and decorate a snowflake. We will hang them in the hallways at the stark, new building where the Sandy Hook students will be returning. PLEASE NO WORDS! We want just a cheerful, happy (glitter and sparkle) environment for the students entering the new building.
Please pass on to any teachers you think may want to participate.
When you send your snowflakes, please include a note to tell us where they are from (your school, class, town, etc) to display along with your snowflakes. 

SEND TO THIS ADDRESS

CT PTSA

60 Connolly Parkway

Bldg 12, Suite 103

Hamden, CT  06514

 Thank you so very much!"

Education City Results

WE ARE SO PROUD OF YOU!!!  You are in first place for this month's challenge!  Keep working hard so we can stay on top! 

HOMEWORK 12-13-12

Sorry this is late getting up.  With Miss Shannon out, there was no time to get to this during the day.

Tonight, play Counting by Ten to 100.

COMMENT BOX:  Bill  has 30 boxes.  Stan has 50 boxes.  How many boxes in all?  Explain

HOMEWORK 12-12-12

We have been learning about the suffixes -ed, -s, -ing.  When reading, one "word attack" strategy we use is to identify these suffixes and cover them up to find the baseword.  Usually, once the students look at the baseword, they can read the word quickly.

Tonight, go to Education City.  Select Language Arts and play Hu-La-La Words With Inflectional Endings.  There are many Hu-La-La games, so please make sure you play the one where they have to identify the word with the correct suffix.

After that, on Education City, go to Math and play Catch a Kuko:  Order Numbers to 99.

COMMENT BOX:  Put these numbers in order from smallest to largest.

75, 32, 23, 65, 57, 56

Updated Trick Word List 12-11-12

This week we added three new trick words: so, there, put. You can use this presentation to practice trick words like we do in class. Students should be able to read each word correctly within 3 seconds. Repeated exposure helps students learn the words and read more fluently.

HOMEWORK 12-10-12

Do XtraMath. 

NO COMMENT BOX

Remember you can do Education City activities to help first grade in the monthy competition.

HOMEWORK 12-6-12

Tonight you will practice with characters, setting, and plot in a story.  You will play games on Education City to do this.  First play Rabbit Seeks a Snack.  The story will be read to you, but after it is read, please read the page yourself.

COMMENT BOX:  Make a text-to-self connection between you and the story Rabbit Seeks a Snack.  Remember that a text-to-self connection is a personal event from your life that you think of when you read a story.  Remember to include your first name.

HOMEWORK 12-5-12

By the end of the year students must be fluent with addition and subtraction facts to 10.  To be fluent, students must know the answer rather than having to use their fingers, objects, or counting on/back.  One great way to practice is to use XtraMath.  Not only does it provide excellent practice, but it also collects information about the facts mastered and those that still need to be learned.

For homework tonight, complete a session of XtraMath. 

You may choose to play games on Education City, too.  Wouldn't it be great if first grade won the monthly challenge for December?

COMMENT BOX:  nothing required

HOMEWORK 12-4-12

For tonight's homework, go to Education City and play the following games in Language Arts:

Home Run (capitals and question marks)

Wilderness Park (roots and inflections) - students may need you to use the word 'baseword' instead of 'rootword'.  Our phonics program uses the term 'baseword'. 

COMMENT BOX:  Add -s, -ing, or -ed to the word 'sing'.  Write a sentence using the word you made.

You may want to play other games, too.  You may also use XtraMath at home, too.

HOMEWORK 12-3-12

Telling time to the half hour is proving to be difficult for the students.  Please practice by playing Clock Shoot.  Play both Level 1 and Level 2.

After that, do a Language Arts activity on Education City.  In the COMMENT BOX, tell what game you played.  Please make sure it is not an activity that you have already gotten 100% on.

HOMEWORK 11-29-12

Today we introduced telling time to the half hour.  This is tricky for some students.  Many have problems understanding that the hour hand gradually moves throughout the hour and at the half hour it is located halfway between the present hour and the next hour.  Please help your child by pointing this out when you are looking at analog clocks.  Also, when asked to draw times on the analog clock, make sure that they are drawing the hour hand between the present hour and the next hour. 

Tonight's homework asks the students to match analog and digital clocks.  Please have your child complete the activity.  This activity is located on the IXL site.  It is free, but limits the amount of time you can use it in one day.  Keep this in mind as your child uses the site.

After doing IXL, have your child play one game on Education City.  It can be either a Language Arts or Math activity. 

COMMENT BOX:  Write in the comment box telling what activity your child played on Education City.

HOMEWORK 11-28-12

Tonight, practice the glued sounds -ank, -ink, -onk, -unk, -ang, -ing, -ong, -ung by naming the pictures in the presentation. Have your child say the word, tap the word, and write the word. You will want to have paper with you so your child can write the word. COMMENT BOX assignment: Write each word in the comment box. Choose two words and write one sentence for each. After doing this assignment, play one game on Education City in the Language Arts area.

Glued Sound on Prezi

HOMEWORK 11-27-12

In class we are learning about the clock and telling time.  We are naming the parts of the clock (face, hands) and recognizing the difference between the hour hand (the shorter hand) and the minute hand (the longer hand).  We know that the clock with the hands is an analog clock and that there are 60 minutes in an hour.  We have also discussed the reasons why it is important to know how to tell time. 

To practice telling time, you are going to play 2 games on Education City tonight.  You will play Wakey Wakey Tell Time to the Hour and then play Wakey Wakey What Time is It?  To get to these games, go to Education City.  Click the 1st grade bubble.  Go to MATH then click ACTIVITIES.  After you do that, look at the left side of the screen.  You should see the different topics (numbered 1-5).  Click the 4th one that says Measurement and Data.  When that screen appears, you will see the last 2 games are the Wakey Wakey games.  Please make your child do both. 

There is no COMMENT BOX assignment tonight. 

HOMEWORK 11-26-12

Tonight for homework you are going to work on using capital letters correctly.  Remember that we use the word MINTS to help us check for capitals.

M - months
I  - to talk about oneself
N - names - people, days of week, products
T - titles
S - sentences

Go to Education City.  Login and go to 1st grade.  Select Language Arts.  Play the game Out to Play. 

COMMENT BOX:  Type this sentence correctly in the box:

deb and jim will go to the shop on monday.

Put the THANKS in Thanksgiving

Take a moment and think about what you are most thankful for.  Tell everyone about it in the COMMENT BOX.  I am thankful for so many things.  Most of all I am thankful for my family.  They love me and support me in everything I do.  They make me laugh.  They make me proud.  I love them to the moon and back plus infinity.  I am also thankful for my students.  They make me smile and they teach me something new all the time.  They make me strive to be the best I can be.  Can't wait to see them on Monday.  Until then, though, I will enjoy relaxing with my family.  :)

'Twas the Night Before Thanksgiving

Here is a possible activity for our Great Turkey Challenge (If you need a copy of the letter so you can learn more about the challenge, read this week's letter)!  In class we shared the story 'Twas the Night Before Thanksgiving.  The students drew pictures of how they would hide the turkeys and then wrote stories using the words first, then, next, and last to tell how they would help the turkeys escape.  If you have this book you can read it at home or you can use the link to see a video of the story on YouTube.  Please use caution when using YouTube.  It can be a valuable tool, but it is also easy to wander into an area that is not suitable for students.  After sharing the story, complete the COMMENT BOX assignment in order to earn a prize in the Great Turkey Challenge!

COMMENT BOX:  Answer each of the questions about the story.  You can do it in the COMMENT BOX or write it on paper and bring it to school the first day you come back.

1.  Make a list of the main characters (the ones that must be in the story for the story to make sense).

2.  What is the setting (where and when)?  Remember that you are not to use the words 'inside' or 'outside'. 

3.  What is the problem in the story?  Write a sentence to answer this question.

4.  What is the solution to the problem?  Write a sentence to answer this question.

Xtra Math

Instructions for accessing XtraMath will be sent home in the folders tomorrow (Tuesday).  Using XtraMath also counts as doing work for the Great Turkey Challenge!  To document use of this program, just tell us that your child did it.  We can easily see the work they did.  When the book baggies come home next week, the information will be glued to the inside front cover. 

HOMEWORK 11-15-12

Sorry for the delay in posting, we have had Internet issues again.  For homework, please do Education City.  You can do the activities of your choice.  If you can print out the scores, send them in.  Otherwise, record the scores and the activities and send them in.  Scores of 100% earn 3 caught being good coupons.  Scores in the 90's receive 2 caught being good coupons.  LET'S GET INTO FIRST PLACE!!!!  :)

HOMEWORK 11-14-12

I am sorry to be posting the homework so late.  We have had several technology issues today.  For homework tonight, please have your child use Education City.  S/he should do both Language Arts and Math.  In math, we are focusing on Geometry (not fractions), so you may want to do the activities on that topic.  Please make sure your child scores 90% or better. 

COMMENT BOX:  No comment box assignment for tonight.

HOMEWORK 11-8-12

Ready to earn some points for Education City?  Super!  Tonight you need to practice with Education City.  Use the instructions in the back of your book baggie notebook.  You must complete Hu-La-La:  Short or Long Vowel Sound.  To get to it, go to 1st grade.  Go to Language Arts and scroll down until you find Hu-La-La.  There are two games called Hu-La-La so make sure your child plays the one that focuses on Short or Long Vowel Sounds. 

COMMENT BOX:  Write one sentence for each of these words:  cape, cube, bite.  Remember to put your first name in the box.

HOMEWORK 11-7-12

HAPPY 50TH DAY!!!  Tonight you are going to do another activity to celebrate 50.  We practiced making 50 with groups of 10 today.  For homework, play Counting by 10 until the session is done.  Then, do the COMMENT BOX assignment.  If you cannot display your work in the COMMENT BOX, then bring it in on a piece of paper. 

COMMENT BOX:  Show 4 ways to make 50.  You can use objects, numbers, words, tallies, coins, or whatever way you can think of.  YOU CAN ONLY USE EACH WAY ONE TIME.  For instance, if you write a number sentence for one answer, you cannot use another number sentence.  HINT:  Think of the different ways we showed 50 one the calendar today!  If you post your answer in the comment box, remember to include your first name.  :)

Pumpkin Project

Hurricane Sandy has certainly put a bit of a damper on Red Ribbon Week and our Pumpkin Project.  Please bring your projects to school when we return to school.  As of now, we plan to go ahead with the Gallery Walk on Friday.  I hope you have had fun making your pumpkins.  I know I loved making mine!

Fun Stuff

It looks like we are in for quite a weekend of inside time as Hurricane Sandy visits.  I hope you are taking time to work on your Pumpkin Patch Project.  I will be working on mine today!  If you need a fun break and we still have electricity, check out Halloween Math and work on your addition and subtraction facts. 

Do you like to play Memory?  Here's an addition game called Candy Corn Addition.  Match the sum to the addition sentence.

I will edit this post as I find more fun stuff for you to do.  :)

HOMEWORK 10-25-12

Words can be put into different categories.  Nouns are words that name people, places, or things.  Adjectives are words that describe nouns. 

To practice identifying the difference between the two, you are going to play two games.  The first one asks you to find the noun in a group of words.  The words are definitely harder than what most first grade students can read.  A proficient reader should read the words to the student and then let the student choose the noun.  This game will help promote good vocabulary.  Play Noun Explorer until the round is over.

The second game is called Adjective Adventure.  Again, the words are mostly above what a typical first grader can read.  This game will expand vocabulary and help students understand the difference between nouns and adjectives.  Play the entire game.

OPTIONAL:  Although we have not discussed verbs, your child may have fun playing the Grammar Tutorial.  For this activity, students can select a noun, adjective, and verb and see their creation come to life.  The concept of what a verb is will definitely be understood easily through this activity.

COMMENT BOX ASSIGNMENT (mandatory):  Find a noun in your house.  Name it and write it in the comment box.  Write two adjectives to describe it.  For example:

                                       noun:  ruler              adjectives:  yellow, long

Remember to include the student's first name in the box. 

HOMEWORK 10-24-12

We are learning about how addition and subtraction are related.  We have used part-part-whole charts (look on the front of previous math pamphlets to see some...they have a rectangular shape divided into two equal parts and then a small square on top to represent the whole) to show how the parts equal the whole.  Then we write addition and subtraction number sentences to match the chart.  We have also used triangular cards to do the same thing. 

To practice this skill, play Fact Family Addition and Subtraction.  Play for 5-10 minutes or until the game ends.

COMMENT BOX:  Using the numbers 8, 2, 6, write the two addition number sentences and the two subtraction number sentences that belong in that fact family.  Remember to include your child's first name.  :)

Moon Phases

We are learning about the phases of the moon.  In class we watched this and the kids loved it.  I thought you may want to check it out at home.  :)

HOMEWORK 10-18-12

This week we introduced the 'silent e' or 'bossy e' rule for long vowels.  In words with silent/bossy e, the vowel is long and says its own name, but the 'e' at the end is not heard. 

For example, the word bit becomes bite when the 'e' is added; the 'i' says its own name when the word is said.

To practice, play Make a Word.  Then do the COMMENT BOX ASSIGNMENT.  You will need the list of words that you make during the game to complete the assignment.

COMMENT BOX:  Write one sentence for each word that you made in the Make a Word activity.  Please remember to include your first name in the box.

NEW TRICK WORD PRACTICE PREZI

THIS IS NOT HOMEWORK FOR 10-17-12. FOR TONIGHT'S HOMEWORK, SCROLL DOWN TO THE NEXT BLOG ENTRY. IT IS ENTITLED: HOMEWORK 10-17-12. This is the new trick word practice presentation with our new trick words: says, would, other.

Trick Words on Prezi

HOMEWORK 10-17-12

In class we have been using subtraction sentences to compare two groups.  We have also learned that we can use subtraction to solve stories that involve separating groups.  Tonight you are going to practice using subtraction to solve problems.  Play SUBTRACTION on IXL until your practice time for the day has "maxed out". 

In the COMMENT BOX, solve the following word problem using a subtraction number sentence:

Frank has 10 rocks. Will has 8 rocks.  How many more rocks does Frank have?  Explain with a subtraction number sentence.

Remember to put your child's first name.

First Grade Common Core Workbook

The 2012-2013 school year is the official implementation year of the Common Core State Standards in English Language Arts and Math.  According to the Common Core Mission Statement, the Common Core State Standards "provide a consistent, clear understanding of what students are expected to learn, so teachers and parents know what they need to do to help them. The standards are designed to be robust and relevant to the real world, reflecting the knowledge and skills that our young people need for success in college and careers. With American students fully prepared for the future, our communities will be best positioned to compete successfully in the global economy."  To find out more about what your child is expected to know, check out the Common Core State Standards Initiatives website. 

Our school adopted this curriculum last year in grades K-2.  One of the resources we are using to implement these changes is the First Grade Common Core Workbook.  It is an incredible compilation of the standards as well as activities that hone the first grade skills.  Having the materials at the touch of my hands is a time-saver.  I wanted to make sure you could access this resource as well so you could help your child in a manner similar to what we are doing in class.  You can download a free sample via this site.  Feel free to create the activities at home.  I especially like the cards that ask questions about literature.  One neat way to implement this at home would be to print them out and put them in a cute box or jar.  After reading a book with your child, select one (or more) card and use it to discuss the book you and your child just read.

Let me know what you like by leaving a comment.  :)

HOMEWORK 10-11-12

We are still working on consonant digraphs -ck, sh, th, wh, ch. It is sometimes hard for the students to decide when to use 'c' or 'k' or 'ck'. Tonight they will practice this skill. Using the presentation, have your child identify the picture, tap it, and write it in the COMMENT BOX. PLEASE remember to include your child's first name so s/he gets credit for the work.

Digraph -ck on Prezi

HOMEWORK 10-10-12

Identifying basic shapes builds the foundation for geometry.  Students should be able to identify basic shapes.  To review, play Shapes.

COMMENT BOX:  Go on a shape hunt.  Find objects near you that are examples of the following shapes:  circle, square, rectangle, triangle.  Write the name of the shape and the name of the object in the comment box.  Remember to add your first name. 

example:  circle=dish  

Hatteras Island Cancer Foundation Fun Run

It was wonderful to see so many 1st graders participating in this amazing event!  PROUD OF YOU!!!!  By the way...all of you looked adorable in your pink!!!  :-)

HOMEWORK 10-4-12

Our new trick words are 'give', does', and 'want'. Tonight, practice reading all of the trick words with the Trick Word presentation. COMMENT BOX: Write one sentence for each of the new trick words: give, does, want.

Trick Words on Prezi

HOMEWORK 10-3-12

We have been learning about showing the different parts that can make up the whole in math.  For instance, if you have 10 green and yellow M&M's and 2 are green, then 8 are going to be yellow.  If 6 are green, 4 are going to be yellow.  Understanding the parts and the whole and finding the missing parts builds the foundation for algebra. 

When practicing this at home, you may want to use pennies since each side is different.  To use the pennies to practice, follow these steps to solve the following problem:

There are 8 candles on the cake.  1 is lit.  How many are not lit?  Explain.

1.  Ask your child how many candles in all.  Then have him take out that many pennies, making sure all the heads are "heads" up.
2.  Ask your child how many are lit.  Have your child flip the coins so 1 coin is "tails" up.  Explain that the coin showing "tails" represents the 1 candle that is lit.
3.  Ask your child how many are not lit.  The number of candles that are not lit is shown by the coins that are still showing "heads".  That number is 7.
4.  To explain the answer, the student can draw the coins or write a number sentence.  Some students can apply the subtraction and write 8-1=7 while others can write 1+7=8 or 7+1=8.  Whatever way they choose to show the answer, make sure s/he understands that the parts make up the whole.

This is just one method for solving these types of problems.  Your child may have developed his/her own way to find the missing addend and that is fine as long as s/he demonstrates the understanding that the parts make up the whole.  Often when solving word problems, students automatically want to add the numbers given.  In some cases that works, if the word problem is a joining story that needs the students to find the whole.  However, if given the whole and one of the parts, adding the two numbers is not going to help them find the correct answer.  If your child is having difficulty with this, help by practicing solving both types of problems so they can see the difference.

Tonight's assignment:  
1.  Play Busy Bees for 5-10 minutes.  This game has the student find the number of bees in the hive (the missing part) when told how many bees in all and shown some outside the hive.
2.  In the COMMENT BOX, solve the following 2 number sentences:

*  There are 9 birds on a fence.  2 are blue and the rest are red.  How many are red?  Explain.
*  Three birds were on the fence. 6 more landed on the fence.  How many birds in all?  Explain.

Remember to write your first name so you get credit for the homework. 

Trick Words (updated 10-1-12)

Here is a presentation with all of the trick words from Kindergarten as well as the words we have added this year.

Trick Words on Prezi

Ocean Life

Throughout the year we will be learning about different groups of animals and their needs.  We will examine how their environment provides them with their needs and how their bodies are made for the environment in which they live.

Our first focus is on sea life.  We have read several Magic School Bus books to learn about sea life as well as discuss the difference between fiction and non-fiction text.  We have also read many fiction selections about sea life while we learn about the setting and characters in stories.  We have ordered story events and discussed problem and solution, also.  During TSI, the students are working in groups to research specific sea animals. 

For fun, check out some non-fiction about sea life with Oceanlife for Kids.  Read the information about the various animals.  You may even want to take the quizzes to check your understanding.  When done, write (in the comment box) about something you learned while visiting the site.  Anyone from the CHES first grades who posts will receive a reward.  Remember to post your first name so you can get your prize.

HOMEWORK 9-27-12

This week we began working with digraphs. A digraph is a combination of two consonants that make one sound; you cannot hear each letter when the two are together. The digraphs we are using are sh, ch, th, wh, and ck. When your child is reading, point these out so s/he becomes familiar with them and also begins to recognize them. Tonight you will have a chance to work with some digraphs. Watch the presentation below. For each picture, read the sentence and decide what word should go in the blank. HINT: Each word you use will have a digraph. For each picture word, have your child tap the word. Each word will have 3 taps. Your child has been tapping words since kindergarten. To make sure s/he is doing it correctly, follow these instructions for tapping the word 'shop': 1. Say the word. Shop. 2. Tap the digraph sh by tapping the pointer finger to the thumb and making the sound sh. 3. Tap the o sound by tapping the middle finger to the thumb and making the sound of short o (as in ox). 4. Tap the p sound by tapping the ring finger to the thumb and making the p sound. 5. Blend the sounds together by making each sound as you run your thumb across the tips of each finger (except for the pinky because you did not use it for this word). 6. Say the word again. Shop. COMMENT BOX: In the comment box, tap and write the word for each picture. Please write them in order. Remember to include your first name. The comment will not appear until I release it.

HOMEWORK 9-26-12

This week one of the skills we have been working on is writing and solving number sentences to match dice.  Tonight you are going to practice this skill using virtual dice.  Click the words 'virtual dice'.  When you get to the site, hit the 'roll again' box.  Each time you do this, write and solve the number sentence that matches your 'roll'.  Do this ten times. 

COMMENT BOX:  In the comment box, record the ten number sentences that match what you rolled.  Be sure to include your first name so you get credit for your homework.  If you do not want to post in the comment box, bring your work to school on a piece of paper.  Remember the comments will only appear after I release them.

HOMEWORK 9-20-12

View the presentation and follow the instructions. Please give the presentation time to load before clicking the arrow. It takes about a minute for it to be ready to go. COMMENT BOX: Write the word for each picture in the comment box. Be sure to include your first name in the box so you get credit for your homework.

HOMEWORK 9-19-12

Tonight we will be focusing on matching number sentences to a pictorial model.  We are going to use an activity on IXL called Addition Sentences - Sums to 10.  To get to this activity, simply "click on" the words "Addition Sentences - Sums to 10".  Play for 10 minutes or until the time runs out (unless something has changed, IXL only allows so much practice time each day unless you have a paid account). 

COMMENT BOX ASSIGNMENT:  Answer the following question in the comment box:

Sue has 9 fish.  Some are blue and some are yellow.  If two are blue, how many are yellow?  Explain how you know. 

Remember to sign your first name and to click the 'anonymous' box before selecting 'publish'.  Your comment will not appear until Ms. Kristin releases it. 

Seahorse Giving Birth

In Ms. Kristin's class we read Mr. Seahorse by Eric Carle. We learned that it is a work of fiction, but we could still learn true facts from it. After reading the book we watched a YouTube video showing a male seahorse giving birth to its babies. Several of the children wanted to be able to see the video again, so I am posting it here. PLEASE be careful when allowing your child to view videos in YouTube. Although there are lots of fantastic things posted on their site, it is also extremely easy to access something that is inappropriate as well. Your child may also like to research some more about seahorses. If you find out a cool fact about the seahorse, post it in the COMMENT BOX so others can enjoy. :)

HOMEWORK 9-13-12

In class we are using groups of five and ten to quickly count a number of objects.  To practice this skill, play Ten Frame.  Although this may seem easy, it takes practice.  The goal is to get children to "see" groups of objects and be able to identify how many there are without having to count each one.  This activity enables students to build a solid foundation for the place value skills we will develop this year.  Games 1, 2, and 3 will be the most beneficial at this time and correlate more to the skills we are working on now.  Game 4 delves further into addition and has multiple steps for adding two addends. This activity is optional. The homework requirement is to play Games 1, 2, and 3 for a total of 10 minutes.  Please sit with your child while he does these activities.  You will need to make sure he understands the questions as they change from time to time.  Often, children anticipate the question and give an answer to the question they think is being asked.  Be sure to ask him how he knew the answer.  Being able to explain HOW an answer is found is equally important as finding the right answer.

COMMENT BOX ASSIGNMENT:  To complete tonight's homework, answer this question in the comment box.  Remember to sign your first name.  The comment will not appear until I release it either tonight or tomorrow morning.

Imagine that you have 2 tens frames.  One is filled with chips and the other one has 6 chips in it. 

Answer each question:
(a)  How many chips are there in all? How do you know?
(b)  How many more do you need to fill the second frame? 
(c)  How many will you have if both are full?  How do you know?

Trick Word Practice

Welcome to online homework! Tonight you are going to practice your trick words. To do this, you will need to press the arrow button on the presentation below these instructions. You will read the word that appears. You will then spell the word by clapping and saying each letter (like we did in class) and then repeating the word after the spelling. For instance, for the word 'and', say the word 'and'. Then clap one time while saying "a", one time while saying "n", one time while saying "d". Finally say "and". Follow this procedure for each word. A grown-up should listen to you read each word. Each time you need a new word, press the arrow. Do this for each word (when it is done, it will not advance further). To complete the assignment, choose 3 of the trick words. In the COMMENT BOX, write one sentence for each of the 3 trick words. Write your first name in thee COMMENT BOX so I know it's your work. Submit the work. It will not show until I release it for viewing so don't worry if you do not see your comment. I release them later in the evening or in the morning. If you have any problems completing this work, write a note to your teacher. :)

Trick Words on Prezi

Sassy's Weekend

Sassy

XtraMath

I checked to see XtraMath progress.  I can now see all incoming first graders and my class from last year.  I am thrilled to see that Addyson, Daylynn, Derek G, Evela, Gabriella, Haley, Johnny, Kai, Marissa, and Noah used the program last week!  WAY TO GO!  Only a few more weeks until school starts!  Can't wait to see everyone!

August 1st and XtraMath

As of August 1st, my class from 2011-2012 will lose access again.  I will, at that time, create a new class consisting of my 1st grade class from '11-'12 as well as all the students entering 1st grade (last year's kindergarteners).  In order to enter, all students on that list (my class from '11-'12 and all incoming 1st graders) will need to use the email address graykr@daretolearn.org to gain access to the site as well as their first names and PIN #'s that they already have.  If you have created your own account and linked your child to it, then keep using that.  Thanks for your patience as we learn how to use this program.  :) 

Summer Packet Assignment & XtraMath Update

I hope you are all doing well getting your packets done.  I am already excited about next year!  For this assignment you are going to do some research.  The opening ceremonies for the 2012 Summer Olympics are on Friday.  Your job is to read a few sites about the Olympics and then post what you learned.  Have your family help you search for information about the 2012 Olympics.  Then, in the comment box, write 3 things you learned about the event.  To post in the box, write your message and then sign your first name.  You do not need to have an account; you can select to post anonymously.  Your answer will not appear until I release it.  I view all comments before they can be seen by others.  Have fun!

On another note, there have been some issues with XtraMath.  The classes in which the students have been enrolled ended on July 1st.  I personally am unable to reinstate those classes.  Here are two options:

Option 1:  I believe that you can make your own account and enroll your child using the name and PIN # they were originally assigned (refer to the packet or email me using my email address that I provided in the packet or find it on the school website).  I'm not exactly sure if this works because I already had a teacher account when I linked my son's account to my teacher account.  The data is stored with the XtraMath people, so you may want to contact them via email.  To contact XtraMath Help, just click the highlighted words from this sentence.  I have personally contacted them via email before and they are very prompt and extremely helpful.  You will need your child's KINDERGARTEN TEACHER'S EMAIL. For each, it is the teacher's last name and first two initials @daretolearn.org. 

Option 2:  There is another online tool for practicing math facts called AAAMath.com.  It does not store the data, but still provides online practice of math facts.  For addition, start out small with the 0, 1, 2 facts and then progress to the others when they reach a mastery of those (above 95% correct). You may use the "Practice" area or scroll down to see the 3 choices for games.  The games are more drill and practice, but add an element of fun.  If you choose this option, just initial the box where XtraMath is assigned. 

K5 Learning

This morning I checked out a site called K5 Learning.  It offers a program for families to supplement instruction.  They offer a free 14 day trial which includes a baseline assessment.  After the student takes the assessment, s/he is assigned specific activities to meet the needs of the student.  I have enrolled and watched some videos (I highly recommend watching the one that shows you how to login and work the program) and am waiting for notification that the assessment is ready for my child to take.  I also checked out a sample lesson.  Reports are available to parents in order to monitor progress.  One of my concerns is that some of the math activities do not match our curriculum.  For instance, the program includes counting money.  In first grade we explored money through calendar activities, but it was not required in our curriculum.  However, being able to count money is a life skill that everyone needs to know.  Anyway, I definitely think it's worth checking out with the free trial.  Try it out and let me know what you think by leaving a comment in the comment box!

More on XtraMath

I have heard from XtraMath. MY (my former 1st graders) class has been reactivated. Each class "ends" on July 1 - which is what caused the issue. Students linked to a school account cannot gain access. Parents can get an account (for free) and link to their student; those accounts do not expire. CHES is new to the program and still working out the kinks. If you need direct assistance from XtraMath, you can send questions to erika@xtramath.org. Although I have gotten quick and very thorough replies, please be patient. XtraMath is a free program and is offering an amazing service to so many students. :-)

In the meantime, if you want to practice addition facts online, use AAAMath.  Scroll to the blue box that says 'PRACTICE' and play.  Thanks for

XtraMath

I am having some trouble accessing XtraMath.  Some others are, as well.  I am not sure what is going on, but will try to get to the bottom of it. 

ZooBurst and Other Stuff

I have just finished with school obligations for the summer!  Yay!  I am now taking care of home responsibilities that I have put on hold for a bit, but then I plan to enjoy some fun in the sun (using lots of sunscreen, of course)!  However, I had to take a few minutes to check on my students and add to my blog! 

HURRAY to the follow students from Ms. Kristin's class who have used XtraMath this week (remember that I can't check on Mrs. Kee's students or on students entering 1st grade in August):  Amerika, Ansley, Chloe, Eathen, Gavin, Johnny, Maleia, and Paola!!!  Keep up the great work!  Your second grade teachers are going to be impressed!  I also hope lots of you are earning points in Book Adventure!  Feel free to comment about your work on Book Adventure.  Also, remember to work on those summer packets.  If you have misplaced it, contact the administration office at school Monday through Thursday.

While I was searching for some cool new stuff this week, I came across a site called ZooBurst.  This is AWESOME!  You can make your own online pop-up book!  You have to have your parents register and then you can write your own stories (up to 10 pages for free) and illustrate them with clip art!  There are many features on the free version!  Happy writing! 

National Geographic Kids

National Geographic Kids is an excellent site for kids and families!  Play games, read non-fiction, learn about the world!  Enjoy exploring!  Tell others what you found fascinating by sharing in the COMMENT BOX!  :-)

Happy Summer

I hope all of you are enjoying summer so far!  I am still packing up the room and getting everything finished up.  It's lonely here without students!  I hope you are working on your Summer Packets!   For now, I can only check on XtraMath for the students I just finished teaching, but I am so glad to see that Courtney, Johnny, and Maleia have been practicing!  To the students that were in Mrs. Kee's class, I can't check up on you, so I can't tell if anyone from her class has been using it.  To the students just finishing Kindergarten, we will be able to see your record once we return to school.  If you haven't bookmarked it on your computer, I have linked this entry to the program.  All you have to do is click on the words XtraMath and it will take you to the login page.  Don't forget to check out Book Adventure!  It's very similar to Accelerated Reader.  Keep in touch by using the comment box!  :-)  Ms. Kristin

Accelerated Reader!!!

First graders ROCKED Accelerated Reader!!!!  At our final assembly for the year, both first grades were recognized for their dedication to AR!  Ms. Kristin's class earned 64 bookworms and took over 300 tests!!!  We will pass out the bookworms on Tuesday since we will be outside having fun all day on Monday for Field Day!!!  You should all be proud of yourselves!  The more you read, the better you get. Remember to sign up for Book Adventure so you will be ready to rock 2nd grade!

HOMEWORK 6-5-12 & 6-7-12

Go to the HOMEWORK 5-21-12 & 5-22-12 post and follow the directions.  If you haven't read about Book Adventure, check it out on the blog and then visit the site from there.  Some of the students are already taking tests and loving it!  :)