Happy New Year: January 2010

Hello Friends and Families,

     We have started the new year off with a unit on China.  As an introduction, we watched a video called Families of China.  It featured the lives of two children, one from a city and the other from the country.  The film showed the daily routines of going to school, homework, play and living in their homes.  We also shared a big book about a Chinese American boy who lives in San Francisco.  We've had lots of discussion, and much interest has been shown.  We've also enjoyed two folktales: "The Master Swordsman"  and  "The Magic Doorway".  We have incorporated mapping skills, and art projects are being planned with Mr. Cogan. 

In math, we have been learning how to add tens and ones using "mental math".  Check out the math papers in your child's folder this Friday.  Ask your child to explain how they got their sums.  The examples shown across the top are helpful illustrations of the steps.  You can also go to www.pearsonsuccessnet.com and login to your child's student book.  Several of the children have mentioned using the site to try the games and activities. 

In science, our new topic is the study of matter, and its three forms of solids, liquids, and gases.  Our first experiment involved melting 500 ml of snow.  We were amazed to see it melted down to 140 ml of water, and that it took about 4 hours to melt.  We will be doing at least one experiment per week to learn about the changes that can occur with each of these states of matter.

Spelling homework is usually sent home on Monday, and should be returned no later than Friday of that week.  Our weekly test is on Friday.  Please continue to check over your child's homework before it is turned in and provide help if needed.  I appreciate your involvement greatly. 

I am also considering math homework that will be sent home on Fridays, and due back on Mondays.  Check your child's backpack as I may start this practice this week.