In Social Studies, students worked hard to practice their listening and speaking skills during discussions. Here are the core standards we worked on for this first social studies unit. CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.1.1.A
Follow agreed-upon rules for discussions (e.g., listening to others with care, speaking one at a time about the topics and texts under discussion).
Build on others' talk in conversations by responding to the comments of others through multiple exchanges.
In math, we've been working on this common core standard, (as well as others).
CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.1.OA.A.1Represent and solve problems involving addition and subtraction. Use addition and subtraction within 20 to solve word problems involving situations of adding to, taking from, putting together, taking apart, and comparing, with unknowns in all positions, e.g., by using objects, drawings, and equations with a symbol for the unknown number to represent the problem.
We have lots of games and tools to help us practice manipulating numbers. At this point in first grade, we don't expect students to add and subtract in their head (although it's great if they can!). We talk a lot about strategies for working with numbers, and the number line or number grid are great for this. So is drawing pictures or using real objects to count. 
We are also working hard at collaboratively sharing ideas and discussing our math strategies. This is to help us meet CCSS.MATH.PRACTICE.MP3: Construct viable arguments and critique the reasoning of others. We do this by using sentences stems lie "I agree with _____ because ________" and playing games in partnerships. Our kids are doing so well with this!
Early in September, we had a great field trip to Wash Park to get us started on our writer's workshop! We walked to three different spots around the park and wrote observations. Anytime kids are writing, we want to encourage them to use vivid details that help paint a picture in the reader's mind. 
Last Monday, we celebrated filling our marble jar for the first time! The class can earn marbles for doing anything well as a whole group. The kids chose to have a popcorn party and watch part of a movie in the afternoon. We are already well on our way to the second full jar!
In science, we have been exploring meteorology! Last week, we investigated thermometers and temperature, and this week we are focused on clouds! Soon, we'll be talking about the water cycle and doing some really fun experiments to see the cycle in action! 
On Monday, we talked about all the items that need to be returned in the homework folder on Fridays. Students have been doing a great job doing homework, but often they are missing just one or two pieces and can't get all their extra recess. Please use the checklist on the Newsletter to make sure you have everything in the folder on Friday morning. Thanks so much for your help at home!
