Dear Parents,

Math for the last few days has been interesting!  The firsties are learning about comparing two digit numbers and putting two digit numbers in order from the least to greatest and vice-versa.  When we compare those 2 digit numbers, please remind them at home that we always, always, always compare the 1^st number to the 2^nd number.  I like to add teeth to my greater or less than symbol (and sometimes an eye!) to show that the little monster dude (that is what I call him) is totally selfish and totally hungry…..ALL THE TIME.  So his wide open mouth is always eating the bigger number.  Some of the firsties seemed totally on board with this little trick to help remember, others, not so much…ha.  I am not requiring them to draw in teeth and eyes on their comparing symbols, as long as they are able to remember how to use the symbols. 

 

We read the story “Tar Beach” by Faith Ringgold.  For more information about this story, check this out…

http://www.guggenheim.org/new-york/collections/collection-online/artwork/3719

The firsties will be creating their own “tar beaches” next week…..stay tuned!

This is a picture of the 1st graders using the castanets that they made in Spanish class.  Did they show you how to use it?  Did they dance for you? 

Next week is going to be BUSY!!  I will write this tomorrow’s parent note as well, but our 100^th day of school is on Tuesday.  Please send your firstie with 100 items, which can be 100 pennies, 100 cotton balls, 100 buttons, 100 q-tips, etc…  We have a few fun things planned, so I am looking forward to it! Firsties may also dress like they are 100 if they would like to as well! Watch for pictures of this fun day. 

    Finally, it might be hard to see, but this is a picture of the firsties helping each other...without prompting. We were making their baptismal mobiles and when they were finished, they asked if they could help others.  It was very sweet and I just wanted to share it with you!

F

Blessings on your week!

Miss Gallagher