Wednesday, September 24, 2014

First Days of Fall

The weather has shifted and fall is upon us!  The girls have been happy at school as they settle into routines in First Grade and celebrate fall with many fun activities.  In Math, we have been building our number sense.  The girls have reviewed writing numerals and number order through using tools like ten frames, number lines and the Hundred Chart.  Last week, the whole First Grade enjoyed a day of game playing as they learned how to use ten frames to play "War" and "Concentration". We are currently working on addition strategies and will continue to find new ways to add so that the girls have many tools in their tool belts for these kinds of problems.  







The girls have been reading and writing every day in their classrooms, and they are proud of their improved stamina during Independent Reading time.  In Science we have started to learn the role of a scientist by focusing on our 5 senses.  First Graders were happy to use all of their senses as we explored popcorn last week!




Social Studies is a wonderful time for us to come together as a class to discuss and learn about the holidays and traditions of many people around the world and right in our BMS community.  This week we have focused on Rosh Hashanah, and the girls have enjoyed listening to books about the holiday, coloring, and even enjoying a special treat of apples and honey.  We wish all of the families that celebrate Rosh Hashanah a Happy New Year!  La Shana Tova!  Our fun with apples will continue on Friday as we celebrate Johnny Appleseed's Birthday.















Wednesday, September 17, 2014

Technology

The 1st grade students have been working very hard in technology.  We began the year with a discussion about the acceptable use policy and online safety.  Next, we learned how to use My Story in order to create a digital autobiography.

Art: We Are All Artists!


Art: We are all artists!

Every student started the year by making a small 3x3 inch self-portrait. There are quite a few inherent challenges using small paper and black pen that help the girls get comfortable right way with the art quip: "Turn your uh-oh into an ah-ha."  The girls were encouraged to make a clear choice in their work and to be bold. The works are on display at the entrance of the art studio with the following questions to guide their observations: Which portraits show that the artist used line variation? Which portraits show that the artist made a discovery about herself, her art, or her materials? Which portraits show that the artist tried the blind contour technique to record her observations without looking? Which portraits show that the artist made a clear choice about line, shape texture, value, or space in her work? In art this year we will make art, look at art and talk about art! We are all artists! 






Welcome to music class!  I am impressed with the involvement of the first grade in all our musical activities and their cheerful interest in learning.

Welcome to First Grade!!!

Dear Families,

We have had a wonderful start to our school year, and we are enjoying getting to know your daughters.  We look forward to sharing information and fun activities throughout the year on this blog.  Please check back often to see your girls in action!

Love,
Miss Lacy and Mrs. Gandhi

Miss Lacy's Homeroom

Mrs. Gandhi's Homeroom