First Week, Check!

We had a wonderful week in first grade. We learned about each other, about our classroom, about our expectations and procedures and we learned about scientists. The Magic Playdoh experiment helped us to realize that scientists ask questions to find out why something happens. They also conduct experiments and use tools to do so. We used magnifying glasses to explore our classroom and Abigail's rock collection.

We learned that good readers build good reading habits. We discussed where we like to read, what we like to read and how we like to read. The students created a list of reasons why it is important to be a good reader: reading is everywhere! We made a bulletin board of our favorite places to read and we listed how important our reading environment is. We are reading lots of books already in first grade. This week we will look at characters in our favorite stories and we will establish rules for our reading workshop.

Up North at the Cabin

We just got back from Michigan. My husband's family likes to travel to Cedarville to do some fishing. Last year, Jason decided to get me a fishing pole and made me get a license and try my luck at some Pike. I was hesitant at first but being the competitor I am, I decided that I wanted to catch the "big" one. I went up against the family and came out on top with a 28 3/4 inch Pike. This year, I had to beat my record and I was successful. I caught a 29 1/4 inch Pike. I would like to thank the academy, my producer, the director, lol.  Anyway, as I was reading one of many books while watching the kids swim, I looked out over the water and was mesmerized. What a beautiful, peaceful place! I was truly blessed and grateful to have the opportunity to enjoy it. Which, of course, made me think of school. :)) I thought of one of the books I always share with my students to teach connection making; Up North at the Cabin by Marsha Wilson Chall. It is an awesome book with fantastic pictures and so many connections to my vacations. Unfortunately, I have only been able to enjoy our cabin in my adult years.

A New Book

So, I was going through my children's books and I found one I had never read before. The cover was so cute, I had to dig right in. Being a girl from Wayne County, I thought I knew a lot about cows and farms but Averi and I learned many new things from this wonderful book. Check it out! I love the pictures and the author's style.

Welcome to First Grade!

So, I have been waiting for the opportunity to teach first grade and I have finally been granted my wish! I loved teaching fourth grade, I loved teaching third grade and now I am sure I will love teaching first grade. Let's face it, I love teaching. I have been busy preparing for my new role and I get more excited each day. As I make changes to the blog, please bare with me. I deleted a lot of my old websites and information, but I will continue to add new and exciting things throughout the summer. See you soon!