One not so fun thing about the beginning of the school year is all the assessing! I started to do a bit this week in spelling and math, and will continue with reading assessments next week. It's not super fun for the kids, or for me, but it is important in that it lets me know where we need to start. They've been real troopers, so that makes it a bit easier!
We've also started establishing some of our homework routines. After checking in with the kids, it seems to be going well. They didn't seem to be overwhelmed or stressed, so hopefully we're on the right track. Next week, we'll be adding Simple Solutions and spelling homework, so if your child is having a hard time, please let me know. Also, be sure to sign your child's agenda each night so that you are aware of what is due for homework.
The students have already learned so much in religion class this year! They have already researched our class's patron saint, Saint Cecilia, and learned a special prayer in her honor. I think we're going to have a very special year with St. Cecilia as our patroness! We also attended our first mass with Father Ben, who I think is absolutely fabulous, and I think the kids agreed!
In reading and writing, we've also started to establish some good routines for our workshops. The workshop starts with mini lesson focusing on a certain skill, then the students have time to practice using that skill in their own reading or writing. When they are done, we share how they used the skill so that we can learn from each other. The kids have done great learning the routines and have shown me already that they LOVE reading! We've worked on finding meaning in the stories we read, which the students have done great with.
We wrapped up the week with "Fun Friday" (which it had been pretty fun on its own up until then anyway). EVERY student in the class earned Fun Friday this week through their good behavior, so I treated them to one of my favorite snacks, Pumpkin Fluff and vanilla wafers. I don't know if "Pumpkin Fluff" the real name for it, but that's what I always call it. It's delicious regardless, and the kids couldn't get enough of it! They even licked the bowl and spoon clean! Many of them were begging for the recipe, so if you see a list of ingredients in your child's agenda, that's why!
It was such a fun week! I am so excited to be able to so many fun things with this class! They are excited to learn, excited for school, and so kind to one another! Keep up the good work, parents! You've sent me some good ones!