Cross-Text Sharing

Each day we have a block of time called "Read to Self". This is an opportunity for the kids to read books from their browsing boxes. In their boxes, they have books from reading group and books they have "shopped" for from tubs. Rereading familiar text is a key to strengthening fluency.

One day a week, we substitute "read to self" for "read with someone". During this time, the kids pull out their Lead 21 books from their browsing boxes. These are the books that I have read with them at small group. Although their texts are of varying difficulty, they all have the same theme. This month, all of the Lead 21 books have the common theme of "Friends and Family". I try to pair them up with someone from a different reading group. The kids love sharing their books with each other, as you can see in these photos!

QR CODES

QR codes are a great tool to use in the classroom. The students are interested in them and always feel like they are solving a mystery. The uses for the codes are endless! Some of my favorites uses are scanning a code to link to a story, on the iPad, and scanning to solve word riddles.

The kids have been sharing with me their observations of QR codes in their environment. Recently, during lunch, the kiddos discovered a QR code on a box of raisins....excitement! This week for our morning meeting share topic, I would like the students to bring in a QR code that they find. HINT: The newspaper usually is a sure bet for finding a code. I realize the content of the codes won't always be of interest, to first graders, it's simply fun to share their discovery of a code!

Mercy Watson

Mercy Watson read-alouds have been a favorite! Mercy is a cute pig who will do anything for hot buttered toast! The publisher has a great website full of Mercy Watson activities. If you have time, check it out: mercywatson.com

Here's an at home challenge. Have your child make a drawing of his/her favorite Mercy Watson character. Write two sentences explaining why they picked the character. Bring it to school to share at morning meeting!

Squeakers has loved going home with families on the weekends. Please note the volunteer spot button, on the blog. This is an easy way for families to sign up for Squeakers.

Also, I am searching for a wagon that we can use to transport iPads from room to room. If you have an old wagon, that your family doesn't use anymore, please contact me.

FUN FRIDAY

Fun Friday continues to be a weekly favorite. The kids accumulate "golden tickets" all week for various good deeds. On Friday afternoon, tickets are counted and the kids with the highest number pick their Fun Friday activity first.  Here are some pictures of the kids at their choices!

Teacher Whiteboard- They created their own "Morning Message"

Puzzles

Leggos

Leggos

Cars