This week, we explored the upcoming celebration of Chinese New Year - Year of the Rat! In our poem this week, we learned about the different ways families celebrate. We learned about the Chinese zodiac, and which animal we are according to our birth year: either a sheep, rabbit, dragon, snake or horse. Because Chinese New Year is a lunar holiday, the dates change every year, so birthdays in January/February may fall into a different year. Students listened to descriptors about the different zodiac animals, and picked out key characteristics, identifying one that they felt also described themselves: https://www.chinahighlights.com/travelguide/chinese-zodiac/rat.htm
 |
| For information on celebrating the Lunar New Year in Calgary: https://www.visitcalgary.com/things-to-do/stories-from-calgary/lunar-new-year |
Our memory writing is complete! We will be assessing and revising our work next week, as well as recording it on Seesaw to share with you at home!
As we explore additional websites and apps for learning in the classroom, please send in a pair of headphones for your child to use if you have not already done so.
In math, we revisited familiar tasks, looking for the "oops" in selected unfinished examples. Students then worked to identify where/how the "oops" happened, and ways to finish the task correctly, gaining conceptual knowledge of skip counting and personal strategies for addition of multiple addends. We also started exploring the difference between strategies and models.
We also introduced/reviewed 10 Facts, as using anchor numbers are an efficient strategy working towards fact fluency. Using the game, Making 10, students worked towards automaticity of addition 10 facts, flexibility of number with 10 facts and on to fluency between addition and subtraction to make 10, depending on their level of readiness. Look for this game coming home next week for family practice.
Our class has earned their Helping Hearts Reward Lunch! On Tuesday, January 28th, students are welcome to bring their Pokemon cards OR other toy, to play with during lunch. Please ensure Pokemon cards are in a binder/container/baggie labeled with your child's name, and toys are small enough to fit in backpacks during the day. Please no electronics.
Finally, students accessed their Prodigy accounts. Login information is coming home today. Prodigy is a highly engaging way for students to practice some of the concepts taught in class. Please keep in mind, that the Prodigy curriculum does not completely match the Alberta Program of Studies, so some concepts may not be a part of outcomes for grade 1 or 2.
Looking ahead, February is a short, busy and exciting month! Some important dates:
- February 3rd - 7th: Netball visiting program. Forms to be returned January 30th.
- February 18th: Field-trip to Leighton Art Centre. Forms coming home soon.
- February 12th: Literacy Event. Details to follow.
- February 12th: Family Dance. Details from School Council coming soon.
- February 13th and 14th: Teacher's Convention. No School for Students.
- February 17th: Family Day Holiday. No School for Students.
- February 21st - 30th: One World Drumming Residency
- February 24th: Bonavista Eye Clinic In-School Visit
Have a wonderful weekend everyone!
Ms. Thomas
