weekly update

 Writing:

We are starting our movie reviews, and will finish next week.  See if your second grader can tell you which movie they are writing about. Ask them what their opinion is about the movie and what reasons they have to back up that opinion. Opinion writing has a similar structure to narrative and informational in that they all have an introduction of sorts and a wrap-up of some kind. Persuasive writing is very different though because it requires the second graders to come up with reasons and examples to defend or prove their opinion. 

Math:

We are working on two-digit addition and subtraction.  The homework that came home may help them with these concepts. I have been so impressed with what these second graders can do. They are adding and subtracting two-digit numbers without using the borrowing or carrying method, and many of them can do it in their heads! With this new curriculum they are building such a strong foundation of understanding in math which will serve them well in years to come. 

Reading:

The kids are working on how to become "expert dragons" and helpers.  We are talking about strategies to read longer words.  Ask your second grader how to break apart a long word, by finding the vowels, and using their knowledge of syllable types to determine how to sound it out.  Challenge them to see if they can tell you if the vowel is open or closed to let you know if it should be a long or short vowel sound.  I will continue testing the students on their reading levels this coming week.  So by Friday your second grader should have a good idea if he or she is below, on, or above grade level in reading.

Homework:

The math paper is due by Friday, January 26 (Early Release Day).

Extra Information:

Monday, January 22- School-wide SOAR party.  Have your kids wear their PJs to school, and we are going to enjoy some hot chocolate!  

January 26 - Early Release Day

February 12 and 13- No school- Mid-Winter Break

February 14- Valentine's Day Party! Remember, we are making our own Valentine's in class, but would LOVE for some stickers to help jazz them up! If you would like to come in and help the second graders edit Valentines we would love to have you come in on any of the Fridays before the big day!