Cougar Reading- In class we will review verbs and focus on using verb tenses appopriately in our writing.
English Language Arts- The students enjoyed reading about the properties of matter last week and conducted some tests to investigate the strength and flexibilty of given objects. This week we will build upon this knowlege by learning about physical and chemical changes and observing these changes through various demonstrations that will be performed in class. We will also read Grandma's Ring and Two Stones, two fictional stories that pair nicely with our theme on matter.
In class we will be writing persuasive letters to Santa convincing him that we have been very good this year and deserving of presents. During this process we will focus on how to write a letter, the appropriate punctuation needed, and how to use commas when listing a series of items.
There will be no small reading groups this week so that I can benchmark students before the end of the quarter. Therefore, there will be no reading homework next weekend.
Math- We will continue working our way through Topic 9 Regrouping with Subtraction and will have a math test on Friday, the 13th.
Saturday, December 7, 2013
Sunday, December 1, 2013
Themes and Objectives for December 2-6, 2013
Cougar Reading- We will define and identify collective nouns and possessive nouns.
ELA/ Science- The study of matter and its properties will be taught this week. We will make a Properties poster and test objects by rating them for hardness, strength, and flexibility. We will also identify solids, liquids and gas as states of matter. In stations, we will analyze the shape and sizes of solids, liquids and gases as we conduct experiments. We will conclude the week by defining mixtures, solutions, physical changes and chemical changes and identifying examples of each.
Math- We will begin Topic 9 this week as we learn to subtract with regrouping.
Writing- In class we will write a friendly letter to Santa and begin to learn cursive writing.
ELA/ Science- The study of matter and its properties will be taught this week. We will make a Properties poster and test objects by rating them for hardness, strength, and flexibility. We will also identify solids, liquids and gas as states of matter. In stations, we will analyze the shape and sizes of solids, liquids and gases as we conduct experiments. We will conclude the week by defining mixtures, solutions, physical changes and chemical changes and identifying examples of each.
Math- We will begin Topic 9 this week as we learn to subtract with regrouping.
Writing- In class we will write a friendly letter to Santa and begin to learn cursive writing.
Saturday, November 16, 2013
Weeks of November 18th and November 25th
Cougar Reading- This week we will review nouns, and identify pronouns in text. We will also learn about collective nouns.
ELA/ Social Studies- We will learn about the first Thanksgiving this week by reading Thanksgiving Before Thursday by Mary Pope Osbourne. In class we will distinguish between the fictional characters of Jack and Annie and historical characters Governor Bradford, Patricia Mullins and Squanto. We will compare how customs, clothing, and language have changed since Pilgrim times.
Math- We learned to add two and one digit numbers last week with regrouping. We are using models as well as pen and pencil strategies to solve math problems. We will take a test on Tuesday, November 26th.
Writing- In class we will write a narrative this week about a Thanksgiving Turkey. We will go through the writing process, as we focus on writing with adjectives, using similes to make our writing interesting.
ELA/ Social Studies- We will learn about the first Thanksgiving this week by reading Thanksgiving Before Thursday by Mary Pope Osbourne. In class we will distinguish between the fictional characters of Jack and Annie and historical characters Governor Bradford, Patricia Mullins and Squanto. We will compare how customs, clothing, and language have changed since Pilgrim times.
Math- We learned to add two and one digit numbers last week with regrouping. We are using models as well as pen and pencil strategies to solve math problems. We will take a test on Tuesday, November 26th.
Writing- In class we will write a narrative this week about a Thanksgiving Turkey. We will go through the writing process, as we focus on writing with adjectives, using similes to make our writing interesting.
Sunday, November 10, 2013
Week of November 11-15
Cougar Reading- This week we will build upon our current Weather Unit in ELA by reading the picture book Cloudy with A Chance of Meatballs, reading and visualizing weather poetry and writing an acrostic poem about clouds.
ELA/ Science - In class this week we will complete our study of severe weather by creating a weather safety poster and writing an informative piece on severe weather and what characteristics make it dangerous. We will then move on to learn about types of clouds and the water cycle. In class, we will create a cloud model using cottonballs and portray the water cycle through the art of cartooning. The Cloud Book by Tomie DePaola and A Snowflake Story will be read in class this week.
Math- We will complete Topic 7 Mental Subtraction and test on Wednesday the 13th this week. From there, we will dive into Topic 8 where we will be learning how to add two digit numbers with re-grouping.
ELA/ Science - In class this week we will complete our study of severe weather by creating a weather safety poster and writing an informative piece on severe weather and what characteristics make it dangerous. We will then move on to learn about types of clouds and the water cycle. In class, we will create a cloud model using cottonballs and portray the water cycle through the art of cartooning. The Cloud Book by Tomie DePaola and A Snowflake Story will be read in class this week.
Math- We will complete Topic 7 Mental Subtraction and test on Wednesday the 13th this week. From there, we will dive into Topic 8 where we will be learning how to add two digit numbers with re-grouping.
Friday, November 1, 2013
Week of November 4-8, 2013
Cougar Reading- We will explore the literary device of similies this week as we examine phrases such as "she floated in like a cloud" or "slippery as an eel" and discuss how they make stories more interesting. In class we will write, illustrate, and share our own similies.
Reading- We will read the novel Tornado by Betsy Byars this week in whole group reading. As we read we will identify similies and examine how they enhance the telling of the story. We will also make connections, discuss the characters, setting, problem and solution of the story.
Math- In class strategies for adding mentally will be reviewed and assessed this week on Wednesday, November 6th. We will then begin our new topic subtraction strategies.
Science/ ELA- This week in class we will learn about types of severe weather such as: tornados, hurricanes, floods and blizzards. The students will read and write about safety procedures as we participate in a jigsaw activity where they work in collaborative groups to write a report, make a poster and report their learnings to the class.
Reading- We will read the novel Tornado by Betsy Byars this week in whole group reading. As we read we will identify similies and examine how they enhance the telling of the story. We will also make connections, discuss the characters, setting, problem and solution of the story.
Math- In class strategies for adding mentally will be reviewed and assessed this week on Wednesday, November 6th. We will then begin our new topic subtraction strategies.
Science/ ELA- This week in class we will learn about types of severe weather such as: tornados, hurricanes, floods and blizzards. The students will read and write about safety procedures as we participate in a jigsaw activity where they work in collaborative groups to write a report, make a poster and report their learnings to the class.
Sunday, October 27, 2013
October 28- November 1
Cougar Reading- In class we will read Halloween poems and do a variety of activities such as practice fluency, visualization and have a neat handwriting competition! Literature such as The Lazy Witch, and Five Little Pumpkins will be read this week.
Reading- We will complete our unit on Geography this week by finishing up a flip book on maps and review key vocabulary from our unit. Humorous Halloween literature will also be enjoyed this week as we read The Hallowiener and The Chocolate Chip Ghost in class.
Spelling- We will study "r" controlled vowels this week with the ir/ur spelling pattern.
Math- This week we will learn strategies for mental addition.
Writing- Last week your child experienced the writing process when we wrote our haunted house stories. This week we will write another narrative about a scarecrow as we utilize the writing process again.
Reading- We will complete our unit on Geography this week by finishing up a flip book on maps and review key vocabulary from our unit. Humorous Halloween literature will also be enjoyed this week as we read The Hallowiener and The Chocolate Chip Ghost in class.
Spelling- We will study "r" controlled vowels this week with the ir/ur spelling pattern.
Math- This week we will learn strategies for mental addition.
Writing- Last week your child experienced the writing process when we wrote our haunted house stories. This week we will write another narrative about a scarecrow as we utilize the writing process again.
Friday, October 18, 2013
Week of October 22-25
Cougar Reading- This week we will review nouns and adjectives in class and create a chart of Halloween nouns and a chart of Halloween adjectives. These charts will be used to assist us in a writing a story about a haunted house.
ELA/ Social Studies- Our geography unit is in full swing this week as we continue working on state trivia booklets. Each child chose a state in our country and they are analyzing maps, and learning facts about their chosen state. We will also read Me On The Map and create a flip book of maps showcasing our street, town, state and country.
Math- This week we will compare numbers up 1,000,000 and practice ordering numbers to 1,000,000. We will have a math test on Friday, October 25th.
Writing- We can't wait to get to get started on our spooky- fun haunted house stories! These stories will be descriptive and contain many scary adjectives!
ELA/ Social Studies- Our geography unit is in full swing this week as we continue working on state trivia booklets. Each child chose a state in our country and they are analyzing maps, and learning facts about their chosen state. We will also read Me On The Map and create a flip book of maps showcasing our street, town, state and country.
Math- This week we will compare numbers up 1,000,000 and practice ordering numbers to 1,000,000. We will have a math test on Friday, October 25th.
Writing- We can't wait to get to get started on our spooky- fun haunted house stories! These stories will be descriptive and contain many scary adjectives!
Friday, October 11, 2013
Week of October 14-18
Cougar Reading- The second graders will go batty this week as we continue to read and write facts about bats. As a culminating activity we will write mini bat reports using declarative, exclamatory, commanding and interogative sentences.
ELA- We will begin a brief unit on geography this week as we define the words: reside, route, state, boundary and terrain and read the photo essay Route 66 and The Scrambled States of America. We will do a mini research project on a state of our choice as we complete an informational booklet.
There will be no small group reading groups this week so that I may benchmark students. Small groups will resume the week of October 21st as we begin the second quarter.
Spelling- We will spell words with the ue/ui pattern this week. Our spelling test will be on Thursday, October 17th this week.
Math- We will continue to work on place value by reading and writing numbers to 1,000, comparing numbers and ordering them.
ELA/Science/Writing- This week we will analyze different types of maps in class. We will look at weather maps and discuss how they impact our lives. We will also look at neighborhood and city maps and practice using them in class.
ELA- We will begin a brief unit on geography this week as we define the words: reside, route, state, boundary and terrain and read the photo essay Route 66 and The Scrambled States of America. We will do a mini research project on a state of our choice as we complete an informational booklet.
There will be no small group reading groups this week so that I may benchmark students. Small groups will resume the week of October 21st as we begin the second quarter.
Spelling- We will spell words with the ue/ui pattern this week. Our spelling test will be on Thursday, October 17th this week.
Math- We will continue to work on place value by reading and writing numbers to 1,000, comparing numbers and ordering them.
ELA/Science/Writing- This week we will analyze different types of maps in class. We will look at weather maps and discuss how they impact our lives. We will also look at neighborhood and city maps and practice using them in class.
Saturday, October 5, 2013
Themes, Topics, and Objectives for the week of October 7-11,2013
Cougar Reading- We will focus on types of sentences this week by identifying telling, question, exclamation, and command sentences in class as we create "bewitching" and "batty" sentences this week!
English Language Arts- Small groups will meet again this week to work on reading strategies and discuss comprehension questions. Progress monitoring and benchmarking will take place during the next week or two. I'm excited to check for growth!
In whole group reading we will complete our unit on nutrition and food production. We will read the selections A Breakfast Story , Dragon Goes Shopping, and Bonk Gets Healthy and write literature responses in our learning logs.
Spelling- This week we will spell words with the "oa" and "ow" patterns.
Math- We will be learning about place value to 1000, odds and evens, and using a 100 chart. Flexible grouping in math is being conducted as needed to reteach and enrich skills as needed.
Science- The second graders have been enjoying learning about nutrition and the five food groups with the help of a little dragon and a cast of entertaining and magical characters through a series of lessons entitled Little D's Nutrition Expedition. This week we will conclude our unit by participating in a series of food challenges and taking a nutrition test.
English Language Arts- Small groups will meet again this week to work on reading strategies and discuss comprehension questions. Progress monitoring and benchmarking will take place during the next week or two. I'm excited to check for growth!
In whole group reading we will complete our unit on nutrition and food production. We will read the selections A Breakfast Story , Dragon Goes Shopping, and Bonk Gets Healthy and write literature responses in our learning logs.
Spelling- This week we will spell words with the "oa" and "ow" patterns.
Math- We will be learning about place value to 1000, odds and evens, and using a 100 chart. Flexible grouping in math is being conducted as needed to reteach and enrich skills as needed.
Science- The second graders have been enjoying learning about nutrition and the five food groups with the help of a little dragon and a cast of entertaining and magical characters through a series of lessons entitled Little D's Nutrition Expedition. This week we will conclude our unit by participating in a series of food challenges and taking a nutrition test.
Saturday, September 14, 2013
Themes, Topics and Objectives for the week of September 16-20, 2013
Cougar Reading- We will learn about the Statue of Liberty this week by partner reading grade level literature recounting the history and construction of this magnificent gift from the country of France.
English Language Arts (ELA)- It was amazing to watch my second graders become history buffs last week as we learned about the Revolutionary War. This week we will learn about why and how the Constitution was created in 1787. In class, excerpts from the book Shh! We're writing the Constitution will be shared, and we will partner read The Creature Constitution. We will end the week by having our own "constitutional convention" as we make "amendments" to our existing class reward system.
Math- On Friday we took the Topic 2 math test on Addition Strategies. Topic 3 will begin on Monday, we will be learning subtraction strategies such as subtraction doubles, near doubles, adding to subtract, and using the make 10 strategy.
Writing- The objective for writing this week is to choose a topic, organize ideas, and stick to that topic when writing. The Important Book by Margaret Wise Brown will be read aloud in class. We will use this book as a model to create our own Important Class Book. We will go through the writing process this week as we brainstorm, write a first draft, edit, revise and publish for the first time in second grade.
English Language Arts (ELA)- It was amazing to watch my second graders become history buffs last week as we learned about the Revolutionary War. This week we will learn about why and how the Constitution was created in 1787. In class, excerpts from the book Shh! We're writing the Constitution will be shared, and we will partner read The Creature Constitution. We will end the week by having our own "constitutional convention" as we make "amendments" to our existing class reward system.
Math- On Friday we took the Topic 2 math test on Addition Strategies. Topic 3 will begin on Monday, we will be learning subtraction strategies such as subtraction doubles, near doubles, adding to subtract, and using the make 10 strategy.
Writing- The objective for writing this week is to choose a topic, organize ideas, and stick to that topic when writing. The Important Book by Margaret Wise Brown will be read aloud in class. We will use this book as a model to create our own Important Class Book. We will go through the writing process this week as we brainstorm, write a first draft, edit, revise and publish for the first time in second grade.
Saturday, September 7, 2013
Themes, Topics, and Objectives for September 9-13, 2013
Cougar Reading- On Friday we concluded our two week Daily 5 Bootcamp by creating a rap video about how to select books for independent reading. Be sure to scroll down an view this second grade sensation!!!
It's going to be a patriotic week in second grade! During cougar reading we will make text to text and text to world connections as we read The Man Who Walked Between Two Towers, Marriette on The Highwire, and Heroes of 9/11.
Integrated Language Arts and Social Studies- Thus far we have focused on the themes of courage, honesty and citizenship in class. This week we will apply our understanding of these character traits as we participate in history lessons on The Declaration of Independence, The Revolutionary War, and The Constitution. We will learn about the Patriots and Red Coats by reading The Revolutionary War on Wednesday by Mary Pope Osborne. We will also rewrite the Declaration of Independence as a class and discuss the Constitution. Finally we will identify the Star Spangled Banner, The American Flag and The Statue of Liberty as symbols of patriotism.
Spelling- This week we will illustrate and act out the role of "silent e" in given long vowel words.
Math- Addition is our mission again this week! So far we have practiced solving doubles and near doubles facts and sums of 10. Next week, we will use this knowledge as learn strategies for adding 3 or more numbers and using the make 10 strategy.
It's going to be a patriotic week in second grade! During cougar reading we will make text to text and text to world connections as we read The Man Who Walked Between Two Towers, Marriette on The Highwire, and Heroes of 9/11.
Integrated Language Arts and Social Studies- Thus far we have focused on the themes of courage, honesty and citizenship in class. This week we will apply our understanding of these character traits as we participate in history lessons on The Declaration of Independence, The Revolutionary War, and The Constitution. We will learn about the Patriots and Red Coats by reading The Revolutionary War on Wednesday by Mary Pope Osborne. We will also rewrite the Declaration of Independence as a class and discuss the Constitution. Finally we will identify the Star Spangled Banner, The American Flag and The Statue of Liberty as symbols of patriotism.
Spelling- This week we will illustrate and act out the role of "silent e" in given long vowel words.
Math- Addition is our mission again this week! So far we have practiced solving doubles and near doubles facts and sums of 10. Next week, we will use this knowledge as learn strategies for adding 3 or more numbers and using the make 10 strategy.
Saturday, August 31, 2013
Topics, Themes and Objectives for September 3-6,2013
Cougar Reading- We will continue to practice Daily 5 this week as we learn procedures for using the Listening Center and laptops during Independent work time. We will also learn how to pick "good fit books" (books that are on our level) for independent reading. As a culminating activity we will create a rap video about choosing books that are right for us!
English Language Arts / Social Studies- Adapting the second grade curriculum to the CCR (College and Career Readiness) standards requires the infusion of reading, writing, speaking and listening into our current Social Studies theme. This week we will learn about citizenship while reading Officer Buckle and Gloria by Peggy Rathman and Johnny Appleseed by Stephen Kellogg. We will learn about the importance of citizenship at home, school, in our neighbohoods and country. We will define the words: "rules", "laws" and "responsibility" and use our learning logs to write about what life would be like if we had no rules or laws.
Small group reading begins this week. Your child has been benchmarked and placed in a reading group with students at their level. These groups are fluid and your child may switch groups throughout the quarter.
Spelling- Your child's list of words will come home on Tuesday. Our first spelling test will be given on Friday, September 6. Short vowel words are the pattern being studied this week.
Math- Topic 2 Addition Strategies begins this week. Your child will be taught tips and tricks for adding numbers. Doubles, near doubles, and the making ten strategies will be practiced this week.
English Language Arts / Social Studies- Adapting the second grade curriculum to the CCR (College and Career Readiness) standards requires the infusion of reading, writing, speaking and listening into our current Social Studies theme. This week we will learn about citizenship while reading Officer Buckle and Gloria by Peggy Rathman and Johnny Appleseed by Stephen Kellogg. We will learn about the importance of citizenship at home, school, in our neighbohoods and country. We will define the words: "rules", "laws" and "responsibility" and use our learning logs to write about what life would be like if we had no rules or laws.
Small group reading begins this week. Your child has been benchmarked and placed in a reading group with students at their level. These groups are fluid and your child may switch groups throughout the quarter.
Spelling- Your child's list of words will come home on Tuesday. Our first spelling test will be given on Friday, September 6. Short vowel words are the pattern being studied this week.
Math- Topic 2 Addition Strategies begins this week. Your child will be taught tips and tricks for adding numbers. Doubles, near doubles, and the making ten strategies will be practiced this week.
Friday, August 23, 2013
Concepts, Themes and Topics For August 26-30,2013
Cougar Reading- Next week we will review The Daily Five. A program that teaches students how to select books for independent reading and enables them to spend time reading, reflecting, retelling stories and sharing authentic literature.
English Language Arts- Showing good character is our theme for next week as we touch on the traits of courage and honesty. We will read literature such as Asha In the Attic, Junie B. Jones Is A Crook, and The Boy Who Cried Wolf in class. Each student will be benchmarked next week so that I can determine their independent reading level. My goal is to begin small group reading in early September.
Spelling Next week spelling will be done in CLASS ONLY. No lists will be sent home.
Writing- We will begin writing in Learning Logs this week! Each child has their own binder filled with notebook paper in which they will respond to literature and poetry. We will also review letter formation and practice writing lower case letters this week.
Math- We began Topic 1 Understanding Addition and Subtraction in class this week. We will conclude this topic on Thursday August 29th and will take our first math test on Friday August 30th.
English Language Arts- Showing good character is our theme for next week as we touch on the traits of courage and honesty. We will read literature such as Asha In the Attic, Junie B. Jones Is A Crook, and The Boy Who Cried Wolf in class. Each student will be benchmarked next week so that I can determine their independent reading level. My goal is to begin small group reading in early September.
Spelling Next week spelling will be done in CLASS ONLY. No lists will be sent home.
Writing- We will begin writing in Learning Logs this week! Each child has their own binder filled with notebook paper in which they will respond to literature and poetry. We will also review letter formation and practice writing lower case letters this week.
Math- We began Topic 1 Understanding Addition and Subtraction in class this week. We will conclude this topic on Thursday August 29th and will take our first math test on Friday August 30th.
Sunday, May 5, 2013
Objectives, Topics and Themes for the week of May 6-10
Cougar Reading- This week we will participate in an author study of Marc Brown as we identify story elements and character traits in Arthur stories.
Reading- Small group reading will end by Wednesday, May 8th, to allow me to conduct end of the year benchmarking for some students. In whole group reading we will continue to read stories that go along with our Economics theme.
Spelling- Our final spelling list for the school year will come on Monday the 6th.
Math- We will step up to third grade this week as the skills of multiplication, division, and fractions are introduced to the students this week.
Social Studies- We will learn the meanings of the words: goods, services, producers, consumers, barter and trade this week as we delve deeper into our unit on Economics.
Writing- We will continue to write memoirs from our year in second grade.
Reading- Small group reading will end by Wednesday, May 8th, to allow me to conduct end of the year benchmarking for some students. In whole group reading we will continue to read stories that go along with our Economics theme.
Spelling- Our final spelling list for the school year will come on Monday the 6th.
Math- We will step up to third grade this week as the skills of multiplication, division, and fractions are introduced to the students this week.
Social Studies- We will learn the meanings of the words: goods, services, producers, consumers, barter and trade this week as we delve deeper into our unit on Economics.
Writing- We will continue to write memoirs from our year in second grade.
Friday, April 26, 2013
Objectives, Themes and Topics for April 29th- May 3rd
Cougar Reading- This week we will review story elements: setting, character, problem, and solutions as we read traditional and fractured fairytales. We will also perform story retellings with popsicle puppets, as we challenge each other to identify story elements in each retelling.
Reading- We will begin our final theme in whole group reading on the topic of Economics. This week we will read the non-fiction essay Round and Round The Money Goes as well as the Chinese folktale Seeds of Fortune and define words such as: earn, spend, value and interest. In small group reading we will continue working in our ability leveled groups for one last week! There will be no more weekend reading homework this school year:)
Math- In math this week we will practice the concept of repeated addition, create arrays, and begin to study multiplication facts. An at home math project will be sent home on Friday, May 3rd. Look for it in your child's take home folder next week.
Social Studies- We will learn about needs, wants, goods, and services this week through our study of economics
Writing- After reading the book Memoirs of a Goldfish, we will begin to create a memoir of second grade memories. We will write, peer edit and revise our stories this week.
Reading- We will begin our final theme in whole group reading on the topic of Economics. This week we will read the non-fiction essay Round and Round The Money Goes as well as the Chinese folktale Seeds of Fortune and define words such as: earn, spend, value and interest. In small group reading we will continue working in our ability leveled groups for one last week! There will be no more weekend reading homework this school year:)
Math- In math this week we will practice the concept of repeated addition, create arrays, and begin to study multiplication facts. An at home math project will be sent home on Friday, May 3rd. Look for it in your child's take home folder next week.
Social Studies- We will learn about needs, wants, goods, and services this week through our study of economics
Writing- After reading the book Memoirs of a Goldfish, we will begin to create a memoir of second grade memories. We will write, peer edit and revise our stories this week.
Sunday, April 21, 2013
Topics, Themes and Objectives for April 22-26
Cougar Reading- This week we will analyze character traits of given characters such as Jack and Annie from The Magic Tree House series and Junie B. Jones.
Reading- In small and whole group reading we will be discussing Earth Day and engaging in discussions and debates about how we can make active changes to conserve energy, water and care for animals on our planet.
Math- This week we will complete our unit on time and graphing and begin to learn about arrays and multiplication.
Science- This week we are learning about the steps of the scientific method and asking lots of questions as we conduct mini experiments in the classroom.
Writing- In combination with our Earth Day theme we will write an acrostic poem about Earth, and write a contract pledging to make healthy changes that will save energy and water in our own homes.
Reading- In small and whole group reading we will be discussing Earth Day and engaging in discussions and debates about how we can make active changes to conserve energy, water and care for animals on our planet.
Math- This week we will complete our unit on time and graphing and begin to learn about arrays and multiplication.
Science- This week we are learning about the steps of the scientific method and asking lots of questions as we conduct mini experiments in the classroom.
Writing- In combination with our Earth Day theme we will write an acrostic poem about Earth, and write a contract pledging to make healthy changes that will save energy and water in our own homes.
Friday, April 12, 2013
Objectives, Topics and Themes for April 15
Cougar Reading- This week we will participate in word play as we learn about homophones and homonyms in class. Don't be surprised if you hear your second grader cracking jokes about the bare bear:)
Reading- This week we will focus on the areas of speaking and listening as we discuss, debate and problem-solve how to care for endangered animals, conserve water on our planet, reduce air pollution and recycle. You will be impressed the knowledge your second grader acquires as we prepare to celebrate Earth Day on Monday, April 22nd.
Spelling- Next week we will study past tense verbs and learn spelling rules for adding -ed to given words.
Science & Writing- Look out future scientests! This week we will learn about the scientific method as we define words and practice the steps by participating in some hands-on experiments, and journaling about our experiences.
Reading- This week we will focus on the areas of speaking and listening as we discuss, debate and problem-solve how to care for endangered animals, conserve water on our planet, reduce air pollution and recycle. You will be impressed the knowledge your second grader acquires as we prepare to celebrate Earth Day on Monday, April 22nd.
Spelling- Next week we will study past tense verbs and learn spelling rules for adding -ed to given words.
Science & Writing- Look out future scientests! This week we will learn about the scientific method as we define words and practice the steps by participating in some hands-on experiments, and journaling about our experiences.
Sunday, April 7, 2013
Topics, Themes and Objectives for April 8-12th
Cougar Reading- This week we will identify synonyms and antonyms as we use a Thesaurus and play word games in class. We will especially focus on distinguishing between shades of meaning in synonyms. For example we will compare the words "big" and "huge" and determine how and when we use those words in our writing.
Reading- In connection with our weather unit in science we will read an informative essay about the the water cycle as well as a fiction story called Grandma's Ring, a story about a young girl who is waiting for the snow to melt so she can find her Grandmother's lost ring. We will also enjoy the humorous adventure stories Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs and Pickels to Pittsburgh. The second graders will enjoy these informative and wacky books this week!
Spelling- Drop the "y" and add the "i"! Who remembers learning that spelling pattern when they were in second grade? I do. This week your child will experience this pattern too:)
Math- We will conclude our topic on measurement this week by reviewing inches, feet, yards, centimeters and meters. We will have a math test on Thursday, April 7th.
Science & Writing- We will learn about the water cycle this week as we read about it, create a diagram, demonstrate precipitation with a cotton ball and water dropper, and create a cartoon water cycle.
Reading- In connection with our weather unit in science we will read an informative essay about the the water cycle as well as a fiction story called Grandma's Ring, a story about a young girl who is waiting for the snow to melt so she can find her Grandmother's lost ring. We will also enjoy the humorous adventure stories Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs and Pickels to Pittsburgh. The second graders will enjoy these informative and wacky books this week!
Spelling- Drop the "y" and add the "i"! Who remembers learning that spelling pattern when they were in second grade? I do. This week your child will experience this pattern too:)
Math- We will conclude our topic on measurement this week by reviewing inches, feet, yards, centimeters and meters. We will have a math test on Thursday, April 7th.
Science & Writing- We will learn about the water cycle this week as we read about it, create a diagram, demonstrate precipitation with a cotton ball and water dropper, and create a cartoon water cycle.
Sunday, March 24, 2013
Themes, Concepts and Objectives for March 25-29
Reading- In whole group reading we will read the selections Emma and The Silk Train, A Breakfast Story, and the photo essay Foods Long Journey and define the words freight, consume and distribute in class. Small group reading will resume this week as we begin the fourth quarter.
Cougar Reading- This week we will read various short passages and practice the skill of compare and contrast.
Math- This week we will review adding and subtracting money and take a math test on Wednesday, March 27th before begining a new math topic on measurement.
Science- Identifying types of severe weather and learning about weather safety precautions is our objectice for this week. We will read, collaborate, report and share what we learn this week in science!
Writing- We will use what we've learned about writing good sentences and using adjectives in our writing to become editors this week as we participate in an activity called "building muscle! Each day we will read writing samples and determine which samples are wimpy ( not enough detail, poorly constructed), brawny ( too wordy, boring) and which samples have just the right amount of muscle:)
Cougar Reading- This week we will read various short passages and practice the skill of compare and contrast.
Math- This week we will review adding and subtracting money and take a math test on Wednesday, March 27th before begining a new math topic on measurement.
Science- Identifying types of severe weather and learning about weather safety precautions is our objectice for this week. We will read, collaborate, report and share what we learn this week in science!
Writing- We will use what we've learned about writing good sentences and using adjectives in our writing to become editors this week as we participate in an activity called "building muscle! Each day we will read writing samples and determine which samples are wimpy ( not enough detail, poorly constructed), brawny ( too wordy, boring) and which samples have just the right amount of muscle:)
Friday, March 8, 2013
Topics, Themes, and Objectives for March 11-14
Cougar Reading- An introduction to prefixes and suffixes will take place this week as we begin to prepare the students for third grade. As a third grader your child will do many word study activities with prefixes and suffixes.
Reading- We will participate in a brief literature unit on folktales and legends. Two Irish folktales and several Native American legends will be read aloud this week as we explore their story elements and determine the moral of each tale.
Spelling- kn, wr, and gn are word patterns that we will learn this week.
Math- We will begin Topic 14 Adding Money this week.
Social Studies- We will prepare for our field trip to The Museum of Natural History in Topeka by reviewing what we have learned about the Plains Indians during a Tic Tac Toe Game.
Writing- We will work on story retellings this week as we retell two Irish folktales shared in our own words. We will also "author" our own legend this week.
Reading- We will participate in a brief literature unit on folktales and legends. Two Irish folktales and several Native American legends will be read aloud this week as we explore their story elements and determine the moral of each tale.
Spelling- kn, wr, and gn are word patterns that we will learn this week.
Math- We will begin Topic 14 Adding Money this week.
Social Studies- We will prepare for our field trip to The Museum of Natural History in Topeka by reviewing what we have learned about the Plains Indians during a Tic Tac Toe Game.
Writing- We will work on story retellings this week as we retell two Irish folktales shared in our own words. We will also "author" our own legend this week.
Saturday, March 2, 2013
Concepts, Topics and Themes for March 4-8
Cougar Reading- This week we will learn strategies, tips and tricks for answering comprehension questions. We will read fiction and non-fiction passages and practice going back in the text to highlight important information. We will also learn how to zero in on the correct answers in multiple choice questions.
Reading- We will read the Magic Tree House novel Buffalo Before Breakfast this week as part of our Plains Indians Unit in Social Studies. We will continue to use the reading strategy of creating images as we read and will utilize strategies for answering story questions as we complete a literature packet on the book.
Math- This week we will continue our study of coins as we make a flip book showcasing various coins, their worth, and what percentage of a dollar they represent. We will also record interesting coin facts and trivia into our flip books. We will have a math test on counting coins on Friday, March 8th.
Social Studies- We will continue our unit on Plains Indians by learning about the people, customs and culture. We will learn about the roles of men and women in a tribe as well as learning about the significance of choosing a name. In class we will conduct our own naming ceremony this week.
Writing- This week we will infuse the skills of paragraph writing and technical writing with Dental Health! We will write a paragraph retelling a humorous story about caring for our teeth. We will also create a model of our teeth complete with a legend and diagram defining the types of teeth in our mouths. We will also record predictions and obsevations as a dental experiment is conducted.
Reading- We will read the Magic Tree House novel Buffalo Before Breakfast this week as part of our Plains Indians Unit in Social Studies. We will continue to use the reading strategy of creating images as we read and will utilize strategies for answering story questions as we complete a literature packet on the book.
Math- This week we will continue our study of coins as we make a flip book showcasing various coins, their worth, and what percentage of a dollar they represent. We will also record interesting coin facts and trivia into our flip books. We will have a math test on counting coins on Friday, March 8th.
Social Studies- We will continue our unit on Plains Indians by learning about the people, customs and culture. We will learn about the roles of men and women in a tribe as well as learning about the significance of choosing a name. In class we will conduct our own naming ceremony this week.
Writing- This week we will infuse the skills of paragraph writing and technical writing with Dental Health! We will write a paragraph retelling a humorous story about caring for our teeth. We will also create a model of our teeth complete with a legend and diagram defining the types of teeth in our mouths. We will also record predictions and obsevations as a dental experiment is conducted.
Saturday, February 16, 2013
Themes, Topics, and Objectives for February 19-22,2013
Cougar Reading- We will explore the reading strategy of visualization this week with Aesop's Children's Fables. As the fables are read aloud the students will draw the images they see in their imaginations. At the conclusion of each story we will compare our illustrations with those in the book. We will also identify the teachable "lesson" in each fable.
Reading- This week in reading we will participate in a shared reading lesson on a story called City Green, about a community that pulls together to create a garden in a run down city lot. We will also read The Buffalo Hunt, as part of a cross-curricular study on the Plains Indians.
Spelling- the ou/ow pattern will be applied to given words this week. Test on Feb 22nd.
Math- We will conclude our Geometry Unit this week with a test on Feb 21st and the sharing of our Geo-bugs on the 22nd.
Social Studies- This week we will begin a unit on the Plains Indians by learning about their homes, food, and how they communicated.
Writing- Nouns and verbs will reviewed all this week in writing.
Reading- This week in reading we will participate in a shared reading lesson on a story called City Green, about a community that pulls together to create a garden in a run down city lot. We will also read The Buffalo Hunt, as part of a cross-curricular study on the Plains Indians.
Spelling- the ou/ow pattern will be applied to given words this week. Test on Feb 22nd.
Math- We will conclude our Geometry Unit this week with a test on Feb 21st and the sharing of our Geo-bugs on the 22nd.
Social Studies- This week we will begin a unit on the Plains Indians by learning about their homes, food, and how they communicated.
Writing- Nouns and verbs will reviewed all this week in writing.
Friday, February 1, 2013
Themes, Topics and Objectives for February 4-8, 2013
Cougar Reading- We will read about George Washington and Abraham Lincoln this week and compare and contrast their similiarities and differences. We will also continue discussing the character traits of a hero as we learn about former leaders of our country.
Reading- The Magic Tree House novel, Twister on Tuesday by Mary Pope Osborne, will be read aloud this week as we learn about Pioneer life in the 1850s.
Spelling- The oy/ oi spelling pattern will be applied to given words this week
Math- On Monday we will take our test on Topic 11, Three Digit Addition and Subtraction, and then we will begin a Geometry Topic on Tuesday. During this topic we will define terms, such as geometric figures, plane shapes, vertices, edges, and angles and also compare and contrast various shapes.
Writing & Social Studies - These subjects will be combined this week as we write an adventure story about traveling on the Oregon Trail in the year 1853. We will also particpate in a "jigsaw" activity where we split into groups, read an article about Pioneer life, and create an informational article about an aspect of Pioneer life such as education, cooking, homes, and the role of men and women. Our articles will be combined into an informational big book, complete with diagrams, illustrations, and captions that will be on display during Student-led conferences.
Reading- The Magic Tree House novel, Twister on Tuesday by Mary Pope Osborne, will be read aloud this week as we learn about Pioneer life in the 1850s.
Spelling- The oy/ oi spelling pattern will be applied to given words this week
Math- On Monday we will take our test on Topic 11, Three Digit Addition and Subtraction, and then we will begin a Geometry Topic on Tuesday. During this topic we will define terms, such as geometric figures, plane shapes, vertices, edges, and angles and also compare and contrast various shapes.
Writing & Social Studies - These subjects will be combined this week as we write an adventure story about traveling on the Oregon Trail in the year 1853. We will also particpate in a "jigsaw" activity where we split into groups, read an article about Pioneer life, and create an informational article about an aspect of Pioneer life such as education, cooking, homes, and the role of men and women. Our articles will be combined into an informational big book, complete with diagrams, illustrations, and captions that will be on display during Student-led conferences.
Saturday, January 26, 2013
Themes, Topics and Objectives for the week of January 28- February 1st
Cougar Reading- As an extension to our theme on Elections in reading, we will hold a superhero election in class. We will read brief fictional biographies of Peter Parker and Bruce Wayne, identify their heroic attributes and character traits. We will then hold an election in class to determine who is the better Superhero! We will also review verbs this week.
Reading- In reading we will read biographies of famous black Americans such as Harriett Tubman, Ruby Bridges, Jesse Owens, GeorgeWashington Carver and Baraq Obama. We will create a scrapbook honoring these heroes and writing short summaries about their lives.
Spelling- We will apply the -age, -arge, and -adge pattern to given words this week.
Math- In math we will continue to practice adding and subtracting three digit numbers in class.
Social Studies- This week begins our unit on Pioneers. We will learn about how brave settlers traveled the Oregon Trail. We will also create our own wagon for the trip and participate in an activity where we simulate packing for the trail out west as we determine what would NEED to bring versus what we woud WANT to bring.
Writing- We will complete our short unit on poetry writing this week as create a Persona Poem and a Poem using Onomonatopeia.
Reading- In reading we will read biographies of famous black Americans such as Harriett Tubman, Ruby Bridges, Jesse Owens, GeorgeWashington Carver and Baraq Obama. We will create a scrapbook honoring these heroes and writing short summaries about their lives.
Spelling- We will apply the -age, -arge, and -adge pattern to given words this week.
Math- In math we will continue to practice adding and subtracting three digit numbers in class.
Social Studies- This week begins our unit on Pioneers. We will learn about how brave settlers traveled the Oregon Trail. We will also create our own wagon for the trip and participate in an activity where we simulate packing for the trail out west as we determine what would NEED to bring versus what we woud WANT to bring.
Writing- We will complete our short unit on poetry writing this week as create a Persona Poem and a Poem using Onomonatopeia.
Saturday, January 19, 2013
Themes, Topic and Objectives for January 21-25
Cougar Reading- We will complete our unit on mysteries this week as we read as The Chocolate Caper by Rusty Fischer and identify victims, wintesses, and red herrings in the story.
Reading- The Election and Grace For President are our reading selections this week. We will make text to world connections this week as we read about the Presidential Inauguration in Scholastic News.
Spelling- We will apply the -ice pattern to given words
Math- Three Digit Addition and Three Digit Subtraction are the skills we will practice and master as we begin Topic 11 in math
Writing- In class we will write and edit an accrostic poem, persona poem and a cinquain.
Social Studies- We will conclude a unit on Inventors and Innovations this week by learning about The Wright Brothers and their airplanes with Mrs. Dolan and the Pony Express and assembly lines with Mrs. Vaughan. It has been fun rotating to different second grade classrooms and learning about inventions!
Reading- The Election and Grace For President are our reading selections this week. We will make text to world connections this week as we read about the Presidential Inauguration in Scholastic News.
Spelling- We will apply the -ice pattern to given words
Math- Three Digit Addition and Three Digit Subtraction are the skills we will practice and master as we begin Topic 11 in math
Writing- In class we will write and edit an accrostic poem, persona poem and a cinquain.
Social Studies- We will conclude a unit on Inventors and Innovations this week by learning about The Wright Brothers and their airplanes with Mrs. Dolan and the Pony Express and assembly lines with Mrs. Vaughan. It has been fun rotating to different second grade classrooms and learning about inventions!
Saturday, January 12, 2013
Themes, Topics and Objectives for January 14-18
Cougar Reading- We will continue our unit on mysteries this week by listenimg as the chapter book The Bald Bandit and picture books, The Web Files , and Grandpa's Teeth are read aloud in class. We will apply the vocabulary words we learned last week as we identify clues, red herrings, victims, and crimes, as we solve these mysteries together.
Reading- In Reading this week we will make connections with Social Studies as we read about the inventors Alexander Graham Bell and Henry Ford. We will also learn about the life and works of Martin Luther King Jr. in class.
Spelling- We will learn to apply the pattern -ank. -ink, and - unk this week.
Math- Topic 9 Subrtraction with Regrouping is going very well in class. The students are really getting the hang of "borrowing" from the tens and "giving" to the "ones". They get faster each day at solving problems. We will test on Friday, January 19th.
Writing- Adjectives and Poetry are our objectives for the week. We will begin the week by creating a Pocket Thesaurus that we will use all through the month as we begin a unit on poetry writing this week.
Social Studies- Your student will participate in Invention Rotations this week! They will learn about the invention of steamboats and trains with me on Monday and Tuesday, and then they will learn about the invention of communication systems such as cave writing, morse code and the telephone with Mrs. Smith. On Friday, your child will learn about the Wright Brothers and the invention of the airplane with Mrs. Dolan.
Reading- In Reading this week we will make connections with Social Studies as we read about the inventors Alexander Graham Bell and Henry Ford. We will also learn about the life and works of Martin Luther King Jr. in class.
Spelling- We will learn to apply the pattern -ank. -ink, and - unk this week.
Math- Topic 9 Subrtraction with Regrouping is going very well in class. The students are really getting the hang of "borrowing" from the tens and "giving" to the "ones". They get faster each day at solving problems. We will test on Friday, January 19th.
Writing- Adjectives and Poetry are our objectives for the week. We will begin the week by creating a Pocket Thesaurus that we will use all through the month as we begin a unit on poetry writing this week.
Social Studies- Your student will participate in Invention Rotations this week! They will learn about the invention of steamboats and trains with me on Monday and Tuesday, and then they will learn about the invention of communication systems such as cave writing, morse code and the telephone with Mrs. Smith. On Friday, your child will learn about the Wright Brothers and the invention of the airplane with Mrs. Dolan.
Sunday, January 6, 2013
Concepts, Topics, and Themes for January 7-11, 2013
Reading- In whole group reading this week we will practice using "fix-up strategies" as we read the story Amazing Magnets. The students will practice asking themselves questions as they read to insure they fully understand the text. In small group reading we will meet with our new groups on Tuesday.
Cougar Reading- We will launch off the new year with a mini- unit on mysteries. We will introduce vocabulary words such as: "sleuth"," red herring", and "suspect" as we read several picture books and unravel some clues.
Spelling- Spelling lists will be sent home with your child tomorrow. Look for their list to come home in their folders.
Math- We will begin Topic 9 on subtraction this week. We will practice subtracting two digit numbers with and without regrouping.
Writing- We ended 2012 practicing the the writing trait of Voice. We wrote from the perspective of a turkey, a shoe, and Christmas elves. We will begin 2013 by continuing to refine our "voice' in writing by choosing new and interesting words in our writing. This week we will review adjectives and "retire" old favorites such as "fun" , "good", and "sad". We will learn to use a Thesaurus and find new and exciting words to use in our writing.
Social Studies- This week we will define the words "inventor" and "innovations" as we begin a study of Famous American Inventors and Inventions. This week we will learn about the invention of the popsicle, ear muffs, band-aids, and mayonnaise. The students will understand and appreciate how inventors and innovations have improved our way of life.
Cougar Reading- We will launch off the new year with a mini- unit on mysteries. We will introduce vocabulary words such as: "sleuth"," red herring", and "suspect" as we read several picture books and unravel some clues.
Spelling- Spelling lists will be sent home with your child tomorrow. Look for their list to come home in their folders.
Math- We will begin Topic 9 on subtraction this week. We will practice subtracting two digit numbers with and without regrouping.
Writing- We ended 2012 practicing the the writing trait of Voice. We wrote from the perspective of a turkey, a shoe, and Christmas elves. We will begin 2013 by continuing to refine our "voice' in writing by choosing new and interesting words in our writing. This week we will review adjectives and "retire" old favorites such as "fun" , "good", and "sad". We will learn to use a Thesaurus and find new and exciting words to use in our writing.
Social Studies- This week we will define the words "inventor" and "innovations" as we begin a study of Famous American Inventors and Inventions. This week we will learn about the invention of the popsicle, ear muffs, band-aids, and mayonnaise. The students will understand and appreciate how inventors and innovations have improved our way of life.
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