First Grade
We are learning to be “KIND in Candyland” this year as we practice being HAWKS who SOAR as leaders! Our first graders are learning about the 7 Habits, which help them become leaders for themselves and for others.
We teach whole-group phonics and reading lessons, and then we move into our small-group lessons. While teachers are meeting with individuals or groups of students, the other students are doing independent tasks, such as work on writing, word work, and their iReady lessons.
This is our sixth year of our math series: Ready Math. Students have been taught multiple strategies to become problem solvers and critical thinkers. Ready Math has a technology component as well, which helps them practice their skills on their individual paths. We have just completed our diagnostics, and students will be working on lessons that focus on what they need.
During our writing block, we have worked on writing an opinion that includes stating the opinion, giving a reason for it, and then providing some closure to our writing. Students will be bringing those pieces home to share, if they haven’t already. We are currently working on our personal narrative writing. Students are enjoying picking a topic of their choosing about something from their lives.
One of our social studies units is about community helpers, and as part of that unit, we had Steve Jones and Taylor Steffensmeier from Pilot Grove Community Bank come talk to each of the classrooms about the value of money and how to save. The students were all excited to receive a piggy bank, as well!
We have also had Clay and Lia come and present a lesson on nocturnal animals. They did a puppet show and then shared information about each of the animals featured. Students enjoyed learning more about each of the animals and seeing all the interesting things they brought with them. They also came and taught them about turtles. They even brought a real live turtle to show them!
This spring, we will hatch chicks! This is always a fun unit for the students, and we appreciate the help from the Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Office to make it a success.
We are excited to help our first graders reach their potential and become eager learners. Thanks for all your support at home!
