Spring Newsletter

In Readers' Workshop we are finished our Unit on Characters in Books. The students have learned to look at the characters in the books they read as a friend. Many students have read through whole series and can tell someone all about the main character. We have learned that many fiction books have a problem and solution and we can understand the author's message. Many children have been reading for longer periods of time because they are so excited to read about the characters in their books. In addition, we studied books across the genres. We compared nonfiction books to fiction books on the same topic. Last, we  read some fairy tales to better understand the Second Grade Fairy Tale Theater show which was April 19th. This was a performance in which all second grade students got to participate. Next, we are starting book clubs.  The students will get into groups to read and reflect on books.

Along with reading about characters in books we wrote  fiction character stories in  
Writer's Workshop.  Each student created a character that goes on realistic adventures. The students had many books in their series and were excited to read their writing to their friends in kindergarten and fourth grade. The excitement in the room over the last month to write was infectious. Some students had up to 13 stories in their series!  Next, we are learning about poetry. The students are learning to see the world through artists eyes and express their feelings.

In Math, we are starting Chapter 17, Addition and Subtraction to 120. The students will use the strategies they learned in Chapter 13, addition and subtraction to 40,  to help them with regrouping larger numbers. Being able to add and subtract in the vertical form is a necessary skill for second grade. In second grade addition and subtraction starts with 3 digit numbers (100s) and goes up to 4 digit numbers (1000s).  Over  the summer your child may access two online resources:
www.mathgames.com   or    www.gregtangmath.com

In Science,  we are learning  about Air and Weather all through May.  During this science unit, the children will explore properties of air as it interacts with other materials and when it is put under pressure.  We will observe, record and discuss the weather every day and discuss the types of instruments scientist use to learn about the weather.


Important dates to remember:
Thursday, May 25th-  All Library Books due
Friday, May 26th- Field Day
Monday, May 29th- No School, Memorial Day
Thursday, June 1- Last Day- EARLY RELEASE