Weekly Update

Hello Parents,


     Our class has really been adjusting well to kindergarten procedures and routines. We have started to delve into our academic studies, which means we will be really focusing on forming letters correctly, producing corresponding letter sounds, and beginning to sound out basic words in the coming weeks. We are also going to begin working on identifying and creating rhyming words, along with mixing and fixing the letters in student names. In math, we are going to work on the number two and practice identifying similarities and differences among items. This week in social studies we will discuss what the United States of America is, and what our flag represents. In writing, we will begin to practice copying/transferring words and sentences from the board, and  write "I am __" sentences.


     If you are finding that your child completes his/her daily homework quickly and easily, you may wish to ask them some questions to practice the above skills in addition to what is on the calendar. Homework in kindergarten is designed to simply get your child in the routine of completing homework, and extra practice at home can truly help your child's learning blossom this kindergarten year. However, if your child is struggling with the homework, simply encourage him/her to put forth his/her best effort. Please let me know as soon as possible if your child is really struggling with the homework, so we can try to work something out.


     Monday I will be sending home paper plates for your child to begin the September Family Project. I can't wait to see the wonderful creations - and remember to be creative and have fun with it!


     Thank you to all the parents and family who have left such kind comments on our classroom blog! If you have not had a chance to check out our blog, it is at www.colwellsclass.blogspot.com. I hope to update it weekly with photos and commentary about our classroom learning. I truly enjoy teaching your children and I am finding it such a joy to get to know each and every one of them these past couple weeks. Also, thank you so much to the parents who have sent in hand sanitizer, postage stamps, and Clorox wipes for our classroom. Your donations truly go a long way in helping our classroom run effectively and participate in additional projects. 


     If you know anyone who would be willing or interested to contribute toward a project for our classroom, I have several projects listed at www.donorschoose.org/mrs.colwell . The first project listed would purchase specimens for our class to observe first-hand the life cycles of butterflies, ladybugs, and ants. It would also purchase owl pellets to help us learn about the life cycle of owls and the animals they eat. If fully funded, I am hoping that we could embark on these science experiments in the spring.


Important Dates:
September 14 – Book Fair Begins
September 16 - Scholastic Book Orders Due
September 16 - Library Day (Please turn in signed library forms in binder so your child may soon check out books)
September 21 - Early Release Day - Dismissal @ 12:15
September 23 - Book Fair Ends


     As always, if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to e-mail me.