Week of August 25 - 29
Friday Notes
by Margaret Schaffer
August 22, 2008
Reading: Grade 2 reading will focus on advancing children's phonemic awareness, phonics, and high-frequency word recognition skills, extending their understanding of narrative and informational text, and increasing their efficiency in written communication. We will begin with Smart Start. Smart Start reviews some of the earlier skills so that your child will be ready to begin a successful experience in Grade 2. Smart Start offers the opportunity to start slow and enjoy the first week of school with a variety of literature. The find out more about the reading series and at home activities go to www.macmillanmh.com
Math: The emphasis in Chapter One is mastery of basic addition and subtraction facts to 12. They will learn strategies to help recall facts with speed and accuracy from memory. Students will also begin two-minute addition timings of the facts 0 to 10.
Theme study: We will start the year with a Self-Esteem Unit. This unit will help children build a positive self-concept. I will be using the literature selection George and Martha as the core of this unit.
Science: We have a new science book. Our class is beginning with the study of plants. In chapter 1, the children will discover how plants make new plants. They will learn about the things that plants need to stay alive, and they will also explore the many ways that plants are alike and different. To find out more about on new Science Book and activities go to the same web-site for reading and click on Science.
Social Studies: Our first unit is We Live Together. The first section we will be working on is Celebrate Freedom. More information available on www.macmillanmh.com and click on Social Studies.
Extra Notes: We have a lot to do in second grade. At this grade level they become independent workers. I will be sending home math and reading homework occasionally that will reinforce what was taught that day. It should be returned the next day. I also encourage you to read with your child every night. We will also be working diligently on our behavior. Remember, if you have any questions concerning school work, please call me.
Reminders: Labor Day - No School - Sept. 1
Inservice - September 15 - No School
