Graphing Mania!

We just finished up a unit on Graphing in math. The students had fun with many hands-on activities to help us learn how to collect, record, and analyze data. To practice these skills, students invented a question to ask their classmates. They then conducted a survey to collect their data and complete a tally table. Next, they transferred their data to the graph. Finally, they analyzed their results by writing about what they learned about their survey question.



We also had fun in the computer lab using a program called The Graph Club. Students were able to follow the same steps as above but display their data digitally through the computer program. The data can be modified to show different types of graphs, and students can write about what they learned from their data.

Vowel Teams

During the word work component of our Reading Workshop, we have been learning about Vowel Teams. We made a list of the vowel teams that we could find in words, and reviewed the rule "When two vowels go walking, the first one does the talking." The children then searched for vowel teams in their own reading and recorded them in their Thoughtful Log to transfer learning from whole group to independent work.  



We Did It!

Our whole group behavior goal last month was to fill a jar with brownie mix. When the students were able to work quietly, listen carefully, transition smoothly, receive compliments from others, etc. we added a scoop to the jar. This was very motivating and served as a successful form of positive reinforcement for expected behaviors! It works as an alternative to individual behavior incentives, as we worked together as a whole group to accomplish our goal. We finally filled the jar, and the students enjoyed delicious, gooey, chocolatey brownies (from a different box mix of course) and a movie.



Second Grade Star

Each week we feature one of our classmates that gets to be the 2nd Grade Star! This person creates a poster and brings in tidbits from home to share with the class so we can learn more about him or her. The star is also allowed to propose an activity that he/she could do to showcase a talent to the class. Below, Brie chose to read to the class.



Family Fun Night

Last month we had our annual Family Fun Night. The theme this year was "Carnival". Our generous PTO and several teachers worked together to develop simple (but oh so much fun!) games for the kids to participate in throughout the school. I was in charge of the Cookie Walk. We placed 20 numbers on the floor in the library and students walked around the numbers for as long as the music played. When the music stopped, I drew a number and the person on that number won! Families donated baked goods as prizes. It was quite the challenge for me not to indulge in some baked goodness during the game, but I restrained myself :)