Our day is very busy, filled with learning and fun!
Morning work: As the children enter the classroom, they will unpack and begin - 1)their journal entry for the day - Pictures and labels will progress to inventive (phonetic) spelling and conventional spelling of high frequency words.
2)Fine motor manipulatives
3)Name/phone number/address writing practice The above will alternate.
Morning Circle Time: This is the time we explore the calendar, keep a running record of the number of days in school, check the weather and make a graph. This is also an ideal time to practice social skills by greeting each other, sharing thoughts and ideas, and discussing our day. Many other skills are taught and reviewed, such as counting by fives and tens, and playing a circle game where we can practice taking turns, patience, and cooperation.
Literacy: A large portion of the morning will be spent on exploring the foundational skills of reading and writing, such as phonemic awareness and phonics skills. We will also enjoy wonderful literature and poems as a springboard to explore these skills.
Math: Each day, the students will be introduced (as much as possible using manipulatives) to a mathematical concept, and will then apply their knowledge to complete a page or two in our math book.
Religion: The students will explore the life of Jesus, several prayers and hymns, and various feasts of the Liturgical year. During Advent and Lent, we will prepare for Jesus in our heart through several supplemental and fun activities. Social Studies/Science: We have flexibility in exploring various science and social studies themes, and many of the themes and concepts we explore are student-interest driven. We also explore the seasons and the reasons for the holidays, such as Veteran's Day and Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
Centers: Centers is a time for the students to develop independence and cooperation in small groups. It is also a time for me to work with individual students to assess literacy and math skills, so that I can plan instruction accordingly.
Specials: The students will enjoy various specials throughout the week, such as Music, Art, Gym, and Technology. Dramatic Play: Dramatic play is important for young children. It helps develop social-emotional skills, language, and critical thinking. It also helps enhance creativity and imagination. Students will be encouraged to join in dramatic play.
We also enjoy read-alouds, recess, singing, art and crafts, and an occasional "dance party"!