1. Welcome to First Grade First grade is an exciting year full of NEW adventures, learning, friends, and memories! Learning together with pride………

2. Web Site

3. Literacy Block Guided Reading Read to Self Partner Read Listen to Reading-Books with CDs and reading sites on the iPad Word Work=Fountis and Pinnell spelling program Making Meaning  Writing oLetter Writing oJournal Writing oNarrative Writing oInformational Writing oOpinion Writing

4. Listen to Reading We hear examples of good literature and fluent reading. We learn more words, thus expanding our vocabulary and becoming better readers. Writing Just like reading, the best way to become a better writer is to practice writing each day. Spelling/ Word Work Correct spelling allows for more fluent writing, thus speeding up the ability to write and get thinking down on paper. This is an essential foundation for writers. Reading to Self and Partners Meeting with the Teacher in Guided Reading Groups This time allows for students to be exposed to and read books that are “just right” for them! This is also a time to strengthen skills and reading strategies. Meeting with the Volunteer in Small Groups to play Games Literacy Stations

5. F&P Phonics K-2 Used to teach whole class and small group lessons Continuum addresses the 9 Categories of Learning Early Literacy Phonological Awareness Letter Knowledge Letter/Sound Relationship Spelling Patterns High Frequency Words Word Meaning Word Structure Word-Solving Actions

6. Math  Every Day Math  Practice Worksheets  Math Games  Skills …a problem-solving approach based on everyday situations; …an instructional approach that revisits concepts regularly; …frequent practice of basic skills, often through games; …lessons based on activities and discussion …mathematical content that goes beyond basic arithmetic

7. Social Studies/Science Units Stars and moon Collecting and examining life Nutrition Magnets and Motion Habitats Friendship Fairy Tales

8. Technology Students have opportunities to learn and use computers to create projects and complete various types of assignments  Microsoft Word, PowerPoint  Learning sites  Various games to reinforce skills

9. Homework files and newsletters posted on my web page  Homework goes home on Friday and is due the following Friday  Usually included in homework:  Math sheet  Reading log-Please make sure your child writes out the name of the books s/he reads for homework.  Please make sure that your child understands the math, the answers are on my web page in the math parent letters.  IXL

10. Snack Time In the afternoon Please send your child’s snack, no candy We have students with severe nut allergies-no nuts in the classroom. Children may bring nuts in their lunches. Water bottles encouraged, water only

11. Book Orders Please do online, see my web site for the link and class activation code HCGHW

12. Classroom Management Our school motto is: We make choices that do not cause a problem for others! Points are randomly awarded to reinforce appropriate behaviors in a positive manner.  Teams can earn points when they are attentive and following directions.  Sticker books

13. Volunteers –Field trips (Zoo in June) and volunteering for anything: Fill out the State Patrol form, a link is on my web –In the morning from 9:45-11:30 to do math activities and games with small groups for 15 minutes each. By the end of the morning, you will have worked with every child at the table outside our classroom. Confidential All levels –Art docents- Jeanie Johnson, Yunny Seo, Sreelakcehme Chinni, –Room parent-Jeanie Johnson, Sreelakcehme Chinni, Kajal Ram –Volunteer schedule- Kajal Ram

14. Odds & Ends  Student of the Week- Each child will get a week to share about themselves and their favorite things. An explanation will be sent home with a poster to be completed.  Work for absent child  Wednesdays…I follow our usual schedule  If your child’s pick-up routine changes, please let me and the office know.  Please e-mail or write me a note if you have any questions or concerns!

15. Communication Teaching is a partnership! E-mail: simonsenm@issaquah.wednet.edu Home Communication Folders Connect Website: Newsletters, Parent Math Letters

16. Helping Students Achieve

17. The Direct Benefits to Newcastle Visual arts lessons The science initiative Music software to teach music through technology A picture book’s guide to comprehension National Board support VOICE mentoring program GLAD support and training opportunities

18. MackinVIA A fantastic digital resource available to all Newcastle Lions! One username/password Use eBooks for at-home reading practice Access databases for research Tutorials available online Look for your child’s login information in E-News or on Ms. Berry’s Library Connect site. Thank you to ISF for your generous support!

19. To do now and before you leave:  Write your child a note, there is a paper on your child’s desk