This week's read-a-louds were Guess Again by Mac Barnett, Once Upon a Time by Niki Daly, and the Jolly Pirate by Brett Helquist. All three of these books are new to our classroom library. Guess Again, is a fun book that tries to trick kids in what they think will happen on the next page. Once Upon a Time is a book that focuses on a student who is nervous to read. "When Sarie's teacher says, "Children, take out your reading books," a sick feeling grips Sarie. The words trip up her tongue and she stutters and stammers, making the children in the back row giggle. But there are two people who her schoolfriend Emile, and Ou Missus, the old lady living over the veld. One Sunday, Sarie comes across an old copy of Cinderella and begs Ou Missus to read it to her, Ou Missus says, "No - we will read it together." Sarie's confidence grows, until the day comes when the school principal says to Sarie, "You read beautifully!"
This was a great book to read with the message of persevering with ones ability to read. Our writing this week had the kids finishing their writing from the reading of Brave Irene. On Monday, the students brainstormed ways in which Irene demonstrated her braveness. They did this by citing specific examples from the story. The class then used this list to write a new letter to me in the form of another opinion piece. Next week we will start writing about each student's favorite toy.
I still need the three pictures from Hewitt, Finn, and Luke. They can be placed in this folder.
The kids had another glorious winter sports day on Wednesday. It is so great to see how this group helps each other get ready. I want to give a specific shout-out to Finn and Landen. They are able to get ready fairly quickly and then kindly help others buckle up their boots too. A big kudos to them for their kindness and teamwork.
NOTES:*Please make sure to label any winter clothing your child brings in. It is amazing how large our lost and found (with unlabeled items) gets during the winter months.
*Please make sure your child's homework bags is sent back to school on Wednesday mornings. With some kids bringing a different bag to school on ski days, it is hard for them to remember to grab it from their backpack.
*Each year I run a basketball camp at Harwood. If your child would like to attend, please email me for an application.
Peace,
Mr. Young
