Hi Families,
Earlier this week, the SpaceX Falcon Heavy was launched, and students were able to watch the Live Launch in the classroom: http://www.cbc.ca/news/technology/spacex-falcon-heavy-launch-1.4520242
It was amazing to see the wonder and excitement in the students' faces as the rocket gained speed and altitude, we caught glimpses of the earth from space, and then the double booster landing.
Grade 2 students had daily lessons on ways to practice their spelling words, as part of their Independent Spelling Program. Each of these can be done at home to support your child's learning:
1. Alphabetical Order
2. Sentence Writing
3. Build-a-Word (playdough, beads, stamps, wikisticks)
4. Rainbow Words
5. Sailboat Words
6. Shape Words
We have been doing "Math Energizers" in our Opening Circle to practice our ability to subitize dot patterns, and develop our automaticity of mental math strategies such as 1 more, 1 less, 2 more, 2 less, 10 more, 10 less, doubles, doubles plus 1, doubles less 1 and how many will make ___?
In the Work Period, students have been working on developing their communication skills as they subitize irregular dot patterns, answering "How many?" and "How do you know?" Many students are able to communicate using vocabulary including "skip counting" or "groups of" and "counting on".
We spent some time developing our conflict resolution skills by watching two short wordless films, stopping them at key points, and identifying the problems, how the characters would be feeling, and what choices they had for a solution. They are a great resource from the National Film Board of Canada, and I know your child would enjoy viewing them again with you at home:
Dinner for Two: https://www.nfb.ca/film/dinner_for_two/
When the Dust Settles: https://www.nfb.ca/film/when_the_dust_settles/
Using our collection of masks in the classroom, students chose a mask of interest and thought about words that described the character of the mask. This was tricky work, as students wanted to list physical characteristics of the mask, when the intention was to describe the aspects of the "mask's" behaviour and attitudes that make up its personality, using descriptive adjectives. In the end, students were all able to create a list of 5 words to describe their mask's character such as sneaky, loud, quiet, powerful, shy, giggly, etc.
Today, we enjoyed an assembly hosted by Room 10 and 11 that acted as our Opening Ceremonies to today's Winter Olympic Sports Day. We learned about the origins of the Winter Games, as well as the different events. Students then floated around to different activities representative of those events. Thanks to the Active Living Committee for organizing such a wonderful day!
On Monday, we hope to do snowshoeing in the afternoon with our Big Buddies. Please ensure your child is dressed for the weather, including snowpants.
February Scholastic book order due Wednesday, February 14th.
A reminder that at the end of next week is Teacher's Convention. No school Thursday or Friday for students.
Also, Monday is Family Day holiday. No school.
Have a wonderful weekend everyone!
Ms. Thomas
