For the Week of December 16-19, 2012

 

Wednesday: *Class Christmas Party (8:15-9:15)

*Visit with Santa and Recitation (9:15-9:45)

*Early Release (12:00 pm)—No Aftercare

 

Spelling/ Literature: This week, we will be reviewing the sounds and letters that we have learned. We will play games that allow us to practice identifying letters by sound, sight, and formation. In Literature, we will read Christmas and winter themed stories, and identify them as narrative or informative writing.

 

Unit Study:  We will be reading several stories related to Christmas and winter.
 

 

Math: In math, we will complete Chapter 9: Comparing Sets. In this chapter, we will learn to compare two sets one-to-one to find the difference in the number of objects. This week we will focus on comparing sets up to 20, comparing sets to find the difference, and combining sets. Comparing sets is the most basic form of subtraction. Combining sets lays the foundation for simple addition. We will use manipulatives to further our understanding of these concepts.

 

Nature Study: This week, we will be reviewing the animals we have learned about during this semester. We will review the characteristics of each animal class.

 

Bible: This week, we will be reading the stories of “The Birth of Jesus” and “The Shepherds’ Visit.” Please feel free to read and discuss these stories at home with your child.

 

Show and Tell: There will be no Show and Tell this week.

For the Week of December 10-14, 2012

*Candlelight Christmas Service—Thursday, December 13, at 6:30 pm

 

Snack Helper for This Week: Sarah

 

Spelling/Grammar/Literature: In spelling, we will be focusing on instant letter recognition, unblending sounds in words, and changing sounds to make new words. Our spelling pattern for this week will focus on the Floss Rule (If a one-syllable base word ends in the final /f/, /l/, or /s/ sound immediately after a short vowel, the /f/ sound is spelled ff, the /l/ sound is spelled ll, and the /s/ sound is spelled ss.) As we practice the spelling of our words for the week, we will also be discussing and learning proper handwriting. We will continue to discuss “closed syllables,” a syllable that ends in at least one consonant. The vowel in a closed syllable is short. All Floss Rule words are closed syllables that end with at least one consonant.

In literature, we will be discussing narrative writing, informative writing, and informative-narrative writing, and comparing these types of literature. When reading, we will discuss what type of story it is, and identify the author’s purpose and the elements of the story. This week we will listen to narrative selections and explain why children all over the world enjoy the story (universality). We will also be reading in unison and individually.

 

Unit Study: This week we will be learning about Christmas. We will be learning about the history behind many traditional Christmas symbols, including the Christmas tree, the candy cane, the star, and the candle. We will read the story of Jesus’ birth and other traditional tales including The Night Before Christmas, The Legend of the Poinsettia, and The Gingerbread Man.

 

Math: In math, we will begin Chapter 9: Comparing Sets. In this chapter, we will learn to compare two sets one-to-one to find the difference in the number of objects. This week we will focus on comparing sets up to 20, comparing sets to find the difference, and combining sets. Comparing sets is the most basic form of subtraction. Combining sets lays the foundation for simple addition. We will use manipulatives to further our understanding of these concepts.

Nature Study: This week, we will be reviewing birds and introducing the penguin. We will review six characteristics that classify an animal as a bird (1-vertebrate, 2-warm blooded, 3-feathers, 4-two wings and two feet, 5-beak, 6-hatch from eggs). We will read about penguins, discuss their habitat, and post a photo of an Emperor Penguin on our Nature Study wall.

 

Bible: This week, we will be reading the stories of “The Golden Calf” and “An Angel Appears to Mary.” Please feel free to read and discuss these stories at home with your child.

 

Show and Tell: This week our Show & Tell will focus on Christmas. Children may bring a drawing that illustrates what Christmas means to them or what they are most excited about relating to their Christmas vacation.

For the Week of December 3-7, 2012

Snack Helper for This Week: Remi

Snack Helper for Next Week: Sarah

 

Spelling/Grammar/Literature: In spelling, we will be focusing on instant letter recognition, unblending sounds in words, and changing sounds to make new words. Our spelling pattern for this week will be using the letter f to spell the /f/ sound. We will discuss the position of the letter in the word (is it in the initial position or final position). As we practice the spelling of our words for the week, we will also be discussing and learning proper handwriting. We will learn about “closed syllables,” a syllable that ends in at least one consonant. The vowel in a closed syllable is short.

In literature, we will be discussing narrative writing, informative writing, and informative-narrative writing, and comparing these types of literature. When reading, we will discuss what type of story it is, and identify the author’s purpose and the elements of the story. We will also work on reading in unison and individually.

 

Unit Study: This week we will continue our unit on South America. We will learn that the country of Brazil is the largest country in South America, while Chile is the longest. We will discuss the equator, and learn that it is an imaginary line around the middle of the world, like a belt. We will learn that the weather near the equator is always the same, wet and warm. We will discuss the Amazon River, the Amazon Rainforest, the Andes mountain Range, the Atacama Desert, and the world’s highest waterfall, Angel Falls. We will also learn about different animals who call the Amazon River/Rainforest home, including the Amazon River Dolphin, the Red-Eyed Tree Frog, and the Scarlet McCaw. We will also spend time discussing the people and various folktales. On Friday, we will begin to learn about Christmas by discussing different Christmas symbols and traditions around the world.

 

Math: In math, we will continue Chapter 8: Numbers to 100. In this chapter, we will recognize pairs and count by 2s and 5s up to 20, learn to use tally marks, count to 100, count by 10s, and sequence numbers 1 to 100. We will be using manipulatives and hands on activities to learn about grouping and counting numbers. On Friday, we will begin Chapter 9: Comparing Sets. We will begin this chapter with counting sets up to ten.

 

Nature Study: This week, we will be reviewing Insects and introducing the grasshopper. We will review six characteristics that classify an animal as an insect (1-invertebrate, 2-exoskeleton, 3-three body parts [head, thorax, abdomen], 4-six legs, 5-antennae, 6-some have two wings). We will read about grasshoppers and post a photo of a grasshopper on our Nature Study wall.

Bible: This week, we will be reading the stories of “God Watches Over the Israelites” and “Moses Receives God’s Laws.” Please feel free to read and discuss these stories at home with your child.

 

Show and Tell: This week our Show & Tell will be free choice, but with a twist! This week we will be having Secret Show & Tell. The chosen item should be placed in a brown paper bag or gift bag, so that it cannot be seen. Each child should be prepared to give 3 clues about their item, and will then allow their classmates to guess what the item may be.

For the Week of November 26-30, 2012

Snack Helper for This Week: Vince

Snack Helper for Next Week: Remi

 

Spelling/Grammar/Literature: In spelling, we will be focusing on instant letter recognition, unblending sounds in words, and changing sounds to make new words. Our spelling pattern for this week will be using the letter d to spell the /d/ sound. We will discuss the position of the letter in the word (is it in the initial position, final position, or both?). As we practice the spelling of our words for the week, we will also be discussing and learning proper handwriting. We will learn about“closed syllables,” a syllable that ends in at least one consonant. The vowel in a closed syllable is short.

In literature, we will be discussing narrative writing, informative writing, and informative-narrative writing, and comparing these types of literature. We will be focusing on the narrative element of emotional appeal (the way in which authors use words, phrases, or sentences that make us feel happy, sad, or sorry for others). We will discuss how precise language contributes to emotional appeal.

 

Unit Study: This week we will begin a unit on South America. We will learn that the country of Brazil is the largest country in South America, while Chile is the longest. We will discuss the equator, and learn that it is an imaginary line around the middle of the world, like a belt. We will learn that the weather near the equator is always the same, wet and warm. We will discuss the Amazon River, the Amazon Rainforest, the Andes mountain Range, the Atacama desert, and the world’s highest waterfall, Angel Falls. We will also learn about different animals who call the Amazon River/Rainforest home, including the Amazon River Dolphin, the Red-Eyed Tree Frog, and the Scarlet McCaw. We will also spend time discussing the people and various folktales.

 

Math: In math, we will continue Chapter 8: Numbers to 100. In this chapter, we will recognize pairs and count by 2s and 5s up to 20, learn to use tally marks, count to 100, count by 10s, and sequence numbers 1 to 100. We will be using manipulatives and hands on activities to learn about grouping and counting numbers.

 

Nature Study: This week, we will be introducing Insects. We will learn six characteristics that classify an animal as an insect (1-invertebrate, 2-exoskeleton, 3-three body parts [head, thorax, abdomen], 4-six legs, 5-Antennae, 6-Some have two wings). We will learn a song to help us remember the parts of an insect’s body.

 

Bible: This week, we will be reading the stories of “The Tenth Plague” and “The Crossing of The Red Sea.” Please feel free to read and discuss these stories at home with your child.

 

Show and Tell: This week our Show & Tell will focus on South America. More information will be sent home soon.

Lesson plans

For the week of 11/12/12 through 11/16/12

**On Thursday, November 15, we will be performing our Thanksgiving Recitation at the Thanksgiving Chapel Service (8:30 am in the Sanctuary). Concert Dress is required.

**On Friday, November 16, we will have our Service Project in the morning, followed by our Thanksgiving Recitation and Feast, at 12:00 pm in the Fellowship Hall. All parents are invited to join us for this special time to celebrate and give thanks. Concert Dress is Required.

Snack Helper for This Week: Maddox

Snack Helper for the Week after Thanksgiving: Vince

 

Spelling/Grammar/Literature: In spelling, we will be focusing on instant letter recognition, unblending sounds in words, and changing sounds to make new words. Our spelling pattern for this week will be using the letter a to spell the short /a/ sound and the letter s to spell the /z/ sound. We will discuss the position of the letters in the word (is it in the initial, medial, or final position?). As we practice the spelling of our words for the week, we will also be discussing and learning proper handwriting. We will learn about “closed syllables,” a syllable that ends in at least one consonant. The vowel in a closed syllable is short.

In literature, we will be discussing narrative writing, informative writing, and informative-narrative writing. We will be focusing on the narrative element of emotional appeal (the way in which authors use words, phrases, or sentences that make us feel happy, sad, or sorry for others). We will discuss how precise language contributes to emotional appeal.

 

Unit Study: This week we will continue our unit on Thanksgiving. We will be learning about the Pilgrims’ life in the New World. We will be learning about the relationship between the Indians and the Pilgrims. We will be reading about the hardships the Pilgrims faced, how they learned from and became acquainted with the Indians, and the first harvest feast. We will be reflecting on and talking about the things for which we are thankful.

 

Math: In math, we will continue Chapter 8: Numbers to 100. In this chapter, we will recognize pairs and count by 2s and 5s up to 20, learn to use tally marks, count to 100, count by 10s, and sequence numbers 1 to 100. We will be using manipulatives and hands on activities to learn about grouping and counting numbers.

 

Nature Study: This week, we will be reviewing the kingdoms and classes we have been introduced to this year. We will review the characteristics of living things, and the characteristics of fish, birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. We will be completing a project on the life cycle of a frog.

 

Bible: This week, we will be reading the stories of “Moses Warns Pharaoh” and “The Plagues of Egypt.” Please feel free to read and discuss these stories at home with your child.

 

Show and Tell: This week for Show & Tell, each child should bring a picture, drawing, or item that they are thankful for.

October, PLEASE don't go!!

October has got to be one of my favorite months.  Now that TX is home (that was a little painful to type...but easier than it used to be), I'm a little sad to not have the same Octobers that I remember as a kid in NC.  Those cool, crisp days with amazing blue skies and orange, yellow, and brilliant red leaves filling up the landscape are to me like heaven on earth.  We've just now started to feel and see some of those cool days, minus the changing leaf color.  Oh well.

Thankfully, I can look back on all the fall-like October days with no regret b/c we Russell's got our Autumn on for every last one of them.

There was the awesome pumpkin exhibit at the Dallas Arboretum earlier this month.

There was also a glass exhibit by Chihuly, so an amazing surprise around most every corner.

 And, then a fun road trip to the German town, Walburg, TX, for yummy German food with friends and fun music in the biergarten.

And, a fun Friday playdate with Aidan and the boys.

I've been looking forward to the annual Master Gardener's Garden Fair since last year, and the weather was perfect again.

And, what October would be complete without....

And, to round off one fun October, we took a trip to the woods of Arkansas to meet up with Aunt Marjorie, Uncle Herb, cousin Vincent, and Granddaddy Russell.  (pictures to come)
Finally, we got to bask in the amazing colors of Autumn!  Yay! 

Lesson plans

**Parent-Teacher Conferences will be held on November 2, 2012. There will be no school on this day.

Snack Helper for this Week: Margaret

Snack Helper for Next Week: Miriam

 

Spelling /Literature: In spelling, we will be focusing on instant letter recognition, unblending sounds in words, and changing sounds to make new words. Our spelling pattern for this week will be using the letter n to spell the /n/ sound. We will discuss the position of the letter n in the word (is it in the initial, medial, or final position?). As we practice the spelling of our words for the week, we will also be discussing and learning proper handwriting. We will learn about “closed syllables,” a syllable that ends in at least one consonant. The vowel in a closed syllable is short.

In literature, we will discuss how narrative and informative elements differ. We will explain that authors use words, phrases, or sentences that make us feel happy, sad, or sorry for others (emotional appeal).

 

Unit Study: This week in Unit Study, we continue learning about Mexico. We will review that Mexico is south of the United States. We will learn that the Pacific Ocean is to the west of Mexico and the Gulf of Mexico is to the east. We will review that Texas and Mexico are separated by the Rio Grande. We will learn about the capital city, the language, and the culture. We will also be learning about Diego Rivera, a muralist from Mexico, and creating a classroom mural.

 

Math: In math, we will complete Chapter 7: Solid and Flat Shapes, where we will learn about the different aspects of solid shapes, including faces, edges, and corners. This week we will identify and extend a shape pattern. After completing Chapter 7, we will begin Chapter 8: Numbers to 100. In this chapter, we will recognize pairs and count by 2s and 5s up to 20, learn to use tally marks, count to 100, count by 10s, and sequence numbers 1 to 100. We will be using manipulatives and hands on activities to learn about grouping and counting numbers.

 

Nature Study: This week, we will be introducing amphibians. We will discuss the characteristics of amphibians (1-vertebrate, 2-cold-blooded, 3-moist, slimy skin (no scales), 4-breathe through lungs and gills, 5-hatch from eggs, 6-live part of life in water and part on land). We will also be learning the life cycle of a frog.

 

Bible: This week, we will be reading the stories of “Joseph the Governor” and “Benjamin and the Silver Cup.” Please feel free to read and discuss these stories at home with your child.

 

Show and Tell: There will be no school on Friday, so we will not be having Show & Tell.

Lesson plans next week

For the Week of October 22-26, 2012

**Friday, October 26: Field Trip to the Pumpkin Patch

 

 

Spelling/ Literature: In spelling, we will be focusing on instant letter recognition, unblending sounds in words, and changing sounds to make new words. Our spelling pattern for this week will be using the letter t to spell the /t/ sound. We will discuss the position of the letter t in the word (is it in the initial or final position?). As we practice the spelling of our words for the week, we will also be discussing and learning proper handwriting. We will learn about “closed syllables,” a syllable that ends in at least one consonant. The vowel in a closed syllable is short.

In literature, we will discuss how narrative and informative elements differ. We will explain that narrative writing may be realistic (e.g., The Carrot Seed) or make believe (e.g., The Three Little Pigs).

 

Unit Study: This week in Unit Study, we will complete our trip to Canada and then head south to the third country in North America…Mexico. We will discuss that Mexico is south of the United States. We will learn that the Pacific Ocean is to the west of Mexico and the Gulf of Mexico is to the east. We will review that Texas and Mexico are separated by the Rio Grande. We will learn about the capital city, the language, and the culture. We will also be learning about Diego Rivera, a muralist from Mexico.

 

Math: This week we will continue Chapter 7: Solid and Flat Shapes. In this chapter, we will be learning about the different aspects of solid shapes, including faces, edges, and corners. This week we will focus on drawing flat shapes, identifying basic flat shapes within a scene, and making pictures using basic flat shapes. We will be using manipulatives and hands on activities to learn about solid and flat shapes.

 

Nature Study: This week, we will be reviewing reptiles and introducing the Red-Eared Terrapin. We will discuss the characteristics of reptiles (1-vertebrate, 2-cold-blooded, 3-have dry, scaly skin that sheds as it grows, 4-breathe through lungs, 5-hatch from eggs). We will be reading about terrapins and turtles. We will be observing photographs and even a real Red-Eared Slider.

 

Bible: This week, we will be reading the stories of “Joseph the Slave” and “Pharaoh’s Dreams.” Please feel free to read and discuss these stories at home with your child.

 

Show and Tell: This week for Show and Tell, children should bring a photograph, stuffed animal, or drawing that illustrates a reptile. Children should be prepared to give three (3) reasons/characteristics explaining how their animal is a reptile.

Lesson plans for next week

For the Week of October 15-19, 2012

 

***Fall Break: October 19, 2012—No School!

Snack Helper for this Week: Connor

Snack Helper for next Week: Lauren

 

 

Spelling/Grammar/Literature: This week we will be focusing on instant letter recognition, unblending sounds in words, omitting syllables, and changing sounds to make new words. Our spelling pattern for this week will be using the letter p to spell the /p/ sound. We will discuss the position of the letter p in the word (is it in the initial or final position?). As we practice the spelling of our words for the week, we will also be discussing and learning proper handwriting. In literature, we will read many informative selections. We will discuss topics and facts, and identify these in the selections we read. We will also learn about essential information, that which is necessary to the main idea.

 

Unit Study: This week in Unit Study, we will be learning about the country north of the United States of America: Canada. We will discuss that Canada is made of provinces and territories. Our landmark of focus for Canada is the CN Tower.

 

Math: In math, we will begin Chapter 7: Solid and Flat Shapes,

where we will learn about the different aspects of solid shapes, including faces, edges, and corners. This week we will also be learning how to get flat shapes from solid shapes. We will be using manipulatives and hands on activities to learn about adding numbers.

 

Nature Study: This week, we will be introducing reptiles. We will discuss the characteristics of reptiles (1-vertebrate, 2-cold-blooded, 3-have dry, scaly skin that sheds as it grows, 4-breathe through lungs, 5-hatch from eggs). We will be reading about reptiles, and creating a list of animals that are reptiles.

 

Bible: This week, we will be reading the stories of “Jacob’s Return” and “Joseph’s Dreams.” Please feel free to read and discuss these stories at home with your child.

 

Show and Tell: Due to Fall Break, we will not be having Show & Tell this week.

Have a wonderful week!

Three's a picnic!

We're really loving our new-found quality time just with Aidan these days.  With Connor off to school, our playdates give us opportunity to hang with a 3 and younger crowd more frequently.  So fun!  Last week we had a fun picnic at a local park and Aidan had some fun in the sun and the sand with some great pals.  

Can't believe I was fast enough to get them all in the picture.

 

Silly faces come soooo easy for these two hams!



Digging for treasure with Kate and Annie---from my viewpoint, the sweet treasure is sitting right beside them...budding friendships are so special!

 And boy does it wear us out!  This is how I found him at quiet time that day--complete with candy corn socks and what I think were pretend sock puppets on his hands.  What a cutie pie!  He plays right up until he keels over. 

 Another great tradition we've started is each Friday we meet some friends at one of the Baylor cafeterias for supper.  This is one of Aidan's best buds, Fergus.  He and his parents and little sister, Elsa, are here from Glasgow, Scotland this semester.  We will be soooo sad to see them go back home this December.  But, maybe they'll be a trip to visit Fergus sometime soon! 

Yep!  Three is definitely for me! 

Special relativity

Lately, Connor has been fascinated with stars and space and galaxies.  Every library day at school, he comes home with a different space book.  One week, I could tell that the teacher guided him to a more age-appropriate section b/c he came home with a variation of jack and the beanstalk.  But, the next week...back to the final frontier.

This morning, he spotted a Stephen Hawking special on the universe and physics.  ???  I know, right???!

There were so many "OH MY WORD!"'s and "Look and this Mama!" and "There are ROBOTS studying Mars!" that I could hardly hear the show. 

Some of his observations and questions about it:

--So, Mama, when was the Earth quite young? (yep, he said 'quite')
--Daddy, there have been robots studying Mars since the 70's.  (to which, Daddy said that he was born in the early 70's). Wha!  The robots have been there a LONG time!
--Are the ice crystals on the moon turned into water that we drink?
--I can't believe that humans are in outer space. (then, daddy qualified it and said that humans only live on Earth).  But, Daddy, isn't Earth in outer space....so aren't we in outer space too....sort of?  (Wow, smart boy!)


The other night, we walked outside to try and spot Venus just before bedtime.  When he found out you can see Venus and sometimes Jupiter in the night sky he was all "no way!".  We stood there and watched for 15 minutes or so while four or five stars popped out.  He noticed that some were "blinking"...I told him they were twinkling and sometimes they looked like that b/c of the way the Earth's atmosphere curved and all the gases made it look 'flickery'.  He said, "Just like the silly mirror at the museum!"

Science is so much more fun through their eyes! 

Lesson plans

For the Week of October 8-12, 2012

Snack Helper for this Week: Cole

Snack Helper for next Week: Connor

Spelling/Grammar/Literature: In spelling, we will continue listening for individual sounds in words, unblending words, and becoming familiar with the order of the alphabet. This week we will begin working with spelling words and have our first spelling test on Friday. Our focus this week is on spelling the short /i/ sound. In literature, we will read many informative selections. We will discuss topics and facts.

Unit Study: This week in Unit Study, we will continue learning about the United States of America. We will review that the USA is located in the middle of the North American continent, between Canada and Mexico. We will review that the USA is made up of 50 states, with 48 being connected together, and that our country grew west from toward the Pacific Ocean. This week we will discuss the Grand Canyon and the Golden Gate Bridge. On Friday, we will move north of the United States of America, to Canada. We will discuss that Canada is made of provinces and territories.

Math: In math, we will complete Chapter 6: Numbers 0 to 20 and then begin Chapter 7: Solid and Flat Shapes. In Chapter 6, we will be focusing on counting from 17 to 20 and reading and writing the corresponding numerals, and also comparing and ordering groups of up to 20. We will then begin Chapter 7 where we will learn about the different aspects of solid shapes, including faces, edges, and corners. We will be using manipulatives and hands on activities to learn about adding numbers.

Nature Study: This week, we will be reviewing mammals and introducing rabbits. We will discuss the characteristics of mammals (1-vertebrate, 2-warm-blooded, 3-have fur or hair, 4-live on land or in water, 5-give birth to live young, 6-give milk to their young). We will be reading about rabbits, observing pictures of rabbits, and completing a drawing of a rabbit in our Nature Notebooks. We will also be observing the live rabbit at school.

Bible: This week, we will be reading the stories of“Jacob and Rachel” and “Jacob’s Wedding.” Please feel free to read and discuss these stories with your child.

Show and Tell: This week, Show and Tell will be free choice.

Snakes and snails....

Lots of fun conversations lately---one getting to be a know-it-all boy and one that's very stubborn-headed. 

Tonight, I overheard:

Connor: Aidan, do you know what boys are made of?
Aidan: uuh, plastic?
Connor: No.  It's buggars and spices and everything nice.
Aidan: yyuuck!

What a pair!

They LOVE bath time.  They especially love working certain words into the conversation...like bottom, and BM, and pee pee, and penis.  **sigh**

Tonight, they had an all-out yelling match b/c Connor told Aidan that he was older and Aidan screamed that no! that he was older than Connor.  Sometimes I think that I see smoke coming off Connor's little righteous head.  Brothers...Aidan really knows how to push Connor's buttons.

But, oh my!  When they're sweet to each other.  What a gift that is!
Aidan's struggling with nighttime fears and being scared to go to bed lately.  He heard an acorn fall outside and that sent him over the edge last night.  I could bearly understand him through his sniffs and choking cries as he explained that he was 'cared.  Poor thing! 
Connor (with the sweetest voice) said,"Aidan, that's okay.  Acorns and leaves don't always stay on the trees.  It's fall and that's what they do when it's fall.  They fall down.  It's okay Aidan."

Love them.

/rē-diNG/

It was like a light was turned on in Connor's mind the other night.  A few months ago, I'd thought I thought I noticed a readiness to learn to read in him so I bought a few readers and tried to walk him through it. 

This was met with very little effort and a lot of grumbling.  It was clear that he understood the sounds of each letter, but refused to let me guide him to put the sounds together, barring a couple of a+t or a+n sounds.  Anything further than that brought on lots of eye-rolling and moaning.

Fearing that I was instilling a dislike for the whole process, I stopped and put the books away.  He just wasn't ready.

All of a sudden, this past weekend, he asked out of the blue for me to get the books back out.  He wanted to show me how he'd been working at school with his teacher to sound out words.

 

I was so proud of him!  I loved watching his little mind working through the letters...tongue sticking out as he thoughtfully studied the words. 

 

And, what a joy to see his excitement at this accomplishment!  He was so proud of what he could do that he finished book after book and asked for more.  By bedtime, he was armed with a flashlight and books and dove under the sheets; and, I remembered, fondly, so many nights as a little girl when I would sneak books under my covers at night. 

 

Richard is reading The Hobbit to them at bedtime right now.  I've been amazed at how excited Connor has been about the story.  During breakfast, he inundates me with plot summary from the night before....and, he's all,"Can you believe that Mama?!"  He really liked The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe earlier this year, but it's nothing like this. 

 

Aidan likes to listen in too, although, I'm not quite sure what exactly he's taking away from the narrative.  He talks about Hobbits, repeats some phrases, and gets tickled when Richard changes his voice for each character; but, we'll be excited to reread it to them when he gets a little older and has a bit more perspective and grasp of the story.

 

 

 But, for now, I just love witnessing these little, everyday miracles.

Lesson plans

For the Week of October 1-5, 2012

Snack Helper for this Week: Sarah

Snack Helper for next Week: Cole

Spelling/Literature: In spelling, we will learn to separate words into individual sounds (unblending) and we will be listening for the sounds of /o/ and /m/. We will also be discussing the order of the letters in the alphabet, sequencing the letters, and playing games to help make us more familiar with the letters of the alphabet. This week we will continue to work on the correct way to grip a pencil, and we will learn general handwriting rules. In literature, we will be learning how to hold a book correctly, and to identify the title, author, and illustrator. This week we will be discussing informative writing. We will discuss topics and facts.

Unit Study: This week in Unit Study, we will continue learning about the United States of America. We will discuss that the USA is located in the middle of the North American continent, between Canada and Mexico. We will learn that the USA is made up of 50 states, with 48 being connected together. We will learn that our country grew west from toward the Pacific Ocean. We will be introduced to the United States flag, seal, and bird (the bald eagle). This week we will discuss the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, the Statue of Liberty, Niagara Falls, and Mount Rushmore.

Math: In math, we will continue Chapter 6: Numbers 0 to 20. Counting up to 20 is the most basic form of counting two-digit numbers. Mastering knowledge of numerical sense up to 20, as well as its sequence, is the stepping stone to counting numbers up to 100. In this chapter, children will count up to 20 objects by using one-to-one correspondence. They will also build on their concept of one more by using ten-frames to count on. Children will also learn to compare and sequence numbers to 20. This week we will focus on counting, reading, and writing numbers 10-20. We will be using hands on activities and manipulatives to further our understanding.

Nature Study: This week, we will be discussing mammals. We will learn the characteristics of mammals (1-vertebrate, 2-warm-blooded, 3-have fur or hair, 4-live on land or in water, 5-give birth to live young, 6-give milk to their young). We will be brainstorming a list of mammals and reading about mammals.

Bible: This week, we will be reading the stories of “Esau and Jacob” and “Jacob’s Ladder.” Please read these stories at home with your child, and have them narrate the story back to you.

Show and Tell: For Show and Tell this week, please have your child bring a stuffed animal that is a mammal. Reminder—the item must fit in your child’s backpack, with the backpack still being able to zip shut.

***Uniform Reminder: Please remember—Children should wear chapel dress on Tuesdays.

Girls: Jumpers with white collared shirts and privacy shorts.

Boys: White button up shirt (long or short sleeved) with black pants or black shorts.

Next week is SPIRIT WEEK!!

**Monday: students will receive mums to wear all week--regular uniform dress

**Tuesday: students may wear mums or spirit ribbons with their chapel uniform

**Wednesday: Crazy sock, crazy hair, crazy hat day--students may choose 1, 2, or all 3 to wear with their uniform

**Thursday: Falcon with flair day- Falcon Friday clothing and add your own flair. Pep Rally and Tailgate at 5:00

**Friday: Decade Day or Storybook character dress up. Football game @7:30

Lesson plans preview for next week

For the Week of September 24-28, 2012

 

Spelling/Grammar/Literature: In spelling, we will work on counting syllables and listening for the sounds /l/, /h/, and /g/. We will also be working on recognizing letters instantly, playing Alphabet Bingo, guessing letters by their shape, and naming what comes before and after certain letters. This week we will discuss setting, characters, event, and precise language.This week we will work on the correct way to grip a pencil, and we will learn general handwriting rules. We will be learning how to hold a book correctly, and to identify the title, author, and illustrator. With each story, we will discuss setting, characters, event, and precise language.

 

Unit Study: This week in Unit Study, we will begin learning about the United States of America. We will discuss that the USA is located in the middle of the North American continent, between Canada and Mexico. We will learn that the USA is made up of 50 states, with 48 being connected together. We will be introduced to the United States flag, seal, and bird (the bald eagle). We will discuss the stars and stripes on the flag, and the significance of the colors and the number of stripes (13). We will also be learning about the White House, and looking at the different rooms that are in the White House.

 

Math: In math, we will begin Chapter 6: Numbers 0 to 20. Counting up to 20 is the most basic form of counting two-digit numbers. Mastering knowledge of numerical sense up to 20, as well as its sequence, is the stepping stone to counting numbers up to 100. In this chapter, children will count up to 20 objects by using one-to-one correspondence. They will also build on their concept of one more by using ten-frames to count on. Children will also learn to compare and sequence numbers to 20. This week we will focus on counting to 20 and reading and writing the numbers 10, 11, and 12. We will be using hands on activities and manipulatives to further our understanding.

 

Nature Study: This week, we will continue discussing birds. We will review the characteristics of birds (1-Warm-blooded, 2-Vertebrate, 3-Have feathers, 4-Have beak, 5-Have two wings and two feet, 6-Hatch from eggs), and the hand motions to help us remember the characteristics of birds. This week we will be introducing Mockingbirds. We will observe photos and listen to the sounds of the mockingbird. We will be drawing pictures of mockingbirds in our nature notebooks.

 

Bible: This week, we will be reading the stories of “Sodom and Gomorrah” and “Isaac and Rebekah.” Please feel free to read and discuss these stories at home with your child.

 

Show and Tell: For Show and Tell this week, please have your child bring an item that is red, white, or blue.

 

*Thank you so much to all of you for helping make our Texas Roundup a success! The children had a great time reviewing, having horse races, and tasting chili and trail mix. Thank you!!!

Men are from Mars....

The other day, I was rewarding Aidan for a successful potty trip with a treat from the "magic box".  He picked some Nerds candy that was probably left over from Halloween last year.  I reached out to try some--I had to make sure it was alright!  Then, he informed me that it was only for boys.  This led to a hilarious discussion about the difference b/w girls and boys:

So, what kind of candy do girls eat?  Tea.
Do what?!

I asked in a different way.  So, what kind of snacks to girls like?  Uumm, girls have tea. 

What about boys.  What kind of snacks to they like?  Boys like candy...and...laffy taffy...and...magic boxes....

And, Aidan, what kind of games do girls like to play?  Umm, I don't know...

What kind of games do boys play?  Clubhouses, outside, sandboxes....uh...swords...dragons...

Interesting.  Don't girls like to play clubhouses and outside games too?  No, because they're girls.

Oh, so can you think of any games that girls might like to play?  Books.

......But, I like to read books too.  (whew!)

So funny that even at 3, he's forming some impressions about gender. 

I think that if Connor and I were to have this same conversation, he'd be a bit more diplomatic...like, well, yeah, some girls like to play chase but some girls don't...and, boys sometimes like dolls whenever they are sad or something.  Got to love my little savvy ambassador!

Aidan...he is nothing if not true to his instinct.  He unapologetically tells it like he sees the world...not really desiring to entertain another point of view ---that's what I think...that's who I am. 

The proud mama in me is convinced that I am watching a confident leader and strong, determined, and unwaivering man in the making.  I pray that the Holy Spirit will lead his heart to desire the Lord's point of view in his life.  And, that God will shape his character to be an honorable and ethical and loving man.  A man who in the face of false teachers will hold true, unyielding to the Truth of the Gospel.

Lesson plans preview

For the Week of September 17-21, 2012

 

Spelling/Grammar/Literature: In spelling, we will work on counting syllables and listening for the sounds /d/, /f/, and /l/. We will also be working on recognizing letters instantly. This week we will introduce the correct way to grip a pencil, and we will learn general handwriting rules. In literature, we will be learning how to hold a book correctly, and to identify the title, author, and illustrator. This week we will discuss setting, characters, event, and precise language.

 

Unit Study: This week in Unit Study, we will continue our study of Texas. We will locate Texas on a map of the United States of America. We will identify the capital city of Austin, the panhandle, Red River, Rio Grande, and the Gulf of Mexico. We will learn about the symbols of Texas, including the bluebonnet, the pecan tree, the mocking bird, the lone star flag, and the armadillo. On Friday, we will conclude our study of Texas with a Campfire Review.

 

Math: In math, we will complete Chapter 5: Size and Position. In this chapter, children will learn to recognize big and small things and to use prepositions to describe position. This week we will focus on big and small things and understanding the concept of same-sized objects. We will explore the idea that only a few big objects fit into small spaces and many small objects fit into big spaces. We will discuss positions and identify positions of objects in space.

 

Nature Study: This week, we will be discussing birds. We will introduce the characteristics of birds (1-Warm-blooded, 2-Vertebrate, 3-Have feathers, 4-Have beak, 5-Have two wings and two feet, 6-Hatch from eggs), and the hand motions to help us remember the characteristics of birds. We will be observing birds (live and in photographs), and we will be drawing pictures of birds in our nature notebooks. We will go on a bird hunt around the school to watch live birds.

 

Bible: This week, we will be reading the stories of“Abraham’s Two Sons” and “The Sacrifice of Isaac.” Please feel free to read and discuss these stories at home with your child.

 

Show and Tell: For Show and Tell this week, please have your child bring an item that is native to/related to Texas. This can be an item that was found (pecan, river rock, Mockingbird feather, etc.) or it can be a photo of a trip (Alamo, river, etc). It can also be a picture from the internet of an item that is native to Texas.

Lesson plans preview

**Monday, September 10, 2012: Waco Landmark Field Trip—Meet us for Lunch in the Pecan Bottoms of Cameron Park at 12:00 pm

 

Spelling/Grammar/Literature: In spelling, we will be discussing letter names and sounds. We will be focusing on the sounds of n, s, a, i, and z. In literature, we will be discussing and identifying beginning, middle, and ending sounds, and we will talk about rhyming words. We will be learning how to hold a book correctly, and to identify the title, author, and illustrator. This week we will discuss setting, characters, event, and precise language.

(Connor's school implements the curriculum from Neuhaus called scientific spelling...which, as best I understand it, is an approach that teaches the students the sounds, patterns and rules, and phonology so that they don't have to memorize so much--sounds good to me).

 

Unit Study: This week in Unit Study, we will conclude our study of Waco landmarks by taking a field trip around our city. We will then move from a study of Waco to Texas. We will locate Texas on a map of the United States of America. We will identify the capital city of Austin, the panhandle, Red River, Rio Grande, and the Gulf of Mexico. We will learn about the symbols of Texas, including the bluebonnet, the pecan tree, the mocking bird, the lone star flag, and the armadillo.

(Connor is so excited already!  And, I have to laugh in anticipation of the chance that he may be corrected whenever he says the word pecan--he takes after his Southern Mama and says 'pee-can'. Dear school, please don't take the Southern accent out of my boy!)

 

Math: In math, we will begin Chapter 5: Size and Position. In this chapter, children will learn to recognize big and small things and to use prepositions to describe position. This week we will focus on big and small things, and understanding the concept of same-sized objects. We will also explore the idea that only a few big objects fit into small spaces and many small objects fit into big spaces. We will also begin to discuss positions, and identifying positions of objects in space. (I also learned this week that the LOCS curriculum for math is Singapore Math.  Here's a link to an article about the success of the Singapore curriculum: http://www.nytimes.com/2010/10/01/education/01math.html

 

The more I learn about Live Oak's approach and methods, I am more and more blown away and so happy with our decision to put him there.

Side-bar:  I spent a lot of time worrying about this school or that...got a LOT of welcome (and unwelcome) comments.  Public vs. private vs. charter.  I think that every parent wants (and SHOULD) think that where their child is in school is the best place for him or her; and, throughout this experience surrounded by other families sending their children to kindergarten, I've encountered some parents who, in an attempt to defend their decisions, are really judgemental about other options.  I'm just so thankful that we have options!  What a wonderful situation we have here in Waco!...I hope that I never make another mother feel conflicted about what they've chosen as best for their family.  Come on!  We are all out to give our children the best opportunities to grow their minds, hearts, spirits, and give them the tools they need to make their own dreams come true and make their own difference in this world.        

 

Nature Study: This week, we will continue our discussion on fish. We will review the characteristics of fish (1-Cold-blooded, 2-Vertebrate, 3-Have scales, 4-Breathe through gills, 5-Most have fins, 6-Hatch from eggs), and the hand motions to help us remember the characteristics of fish. We will be observing goldfish (live and in photographs), and we will be drawing pictures of goldfish in our nature notebooks. (Connor asked me the other day,"Mama, did you really come out of grandma's tummy?  And, did Aunt Gretta too?")

 

Bible: This week, we will be reading the stories of“Abram’s Journey” and “Abram, Sarai, and Hagar.” Please feel free to read and discuss these stories at home with your child. 

 

Show and Tell: For Show and Tell this week, please have your child illustrate their favorite part of our Waco landmark field trip. We will be sharing our drawings and our favorite parts of the trip.

 

Up to our eyeballs in poop....yeah, ya' heard me!!

 Aidan has, for as long as I can remember, has filled our world with light and happiness.  His fun-loving personality and heart-on-his-sleeve attitude makes him probably the most magnetic and definitely the cutest member of our little family.  You should hear this kid pray--so cute (God, tank you for mama and daddy and Connor and Aidan, and grandma and pop pop, Jesus and God....and tank you God for shoot guns)--couldn't you just eat him up?! 

He rolls with the punches.  He laughs with the best of 'em.  There's no such thing as a stranger, shyness is unheard of, and his middle name could be play....or maybe milk---tee hee.

With Connor in kindergarten these past few weeks, we've gotten to spend more one-on-one time with this here cutie pie...and we are loving it!

His play is almost totally different than Connor.

      

It's cars, trucks, trains, and planes....and a whole lot of SILLY.  He makes pow sounds for guns and rubbling sounds to help his vehicles come to life.  He talks while he plays--I can't always tell what the story is about, but usually I hear him narrating where his trucks go. And, I've noticed him going off on his own for 20-30 minutes at a time, just pushing his cars around the floor making up pretend games with them.  He's content not to include me...very self-motivated. 
He looks up to Connor with so much pride.  I'm totally in love with him when I see his entire body filled with excitement and joy in the presence of his big bro.  And, thankfully, at least so far, he doesn't seem too broken-hearted if Connor rejects his enthusiasm and refuses his company at times.  To see the two of them together, getting along, is truly the stuff of my dreams!

I guess you're wondering about that title...well, no cuter-than-cute kid can be completely perfect...right?!

That brings us to the subject of poop.  We knew we were up against quite a different personality going into potty-training.  I thought that I'd out-smarted it...waited til he was 3...til I thought he was ready.  Well...apparently, his 'testins (as he likes to call them) weren't ready. 
By the end of the first month of my VERY casual and not-very-consistent tries to potty train, the kid was doing both jobs on the potty during the day.  I thought I was home free.  What a great and smart mommie I was! 

But, poopie-pants put a big kink in my ego-trip.  A few weeks after daytime success...after diapers had been removed and given away, the kid just started back up pooping in his pull-up. 
And, we're not talking a one-time-a-day pooper here.  Aidan is.....very regular.....more than very regular.....like 3-5 times a day regular. 

Once his preschool started back up, his teachers urged us to put him in underwear rather than a pull-up. 

He was good....for them! 

But, he held in 2 days worth of poop at school and then let it all out on his next day home with me.  FIVE pairs of underwear people!!!  FIVE.  FIVE!
Finally, I surrendered back to the pull-ups (BTW, that evening I had one dirty pull-up too!)

Not sure how cloth diapers are environmentally friendly.  I must've swirled those underwear in the toilet and flushed 4 or 5 times each before I was able to soak off all that yuck.  And, my skin crawled thinking about them spinning around in my washing machine.......**shudder**

I'm at a bit of a loss as to why the digression.  Am I expecting too much from him?  I've been told that boys generally have a harder time potty training than girls at the same age.  I know he can do it b/c we had 3 or more good weeks. 

During one of the grossest clean-up sessions, I caught Aidan laughing at the situation.  OH NO HE DIDN'T!  "It is NOT funny young man!"  And, to this he cleverly and in his very cute and Aidan-way answered,"oh, I wasn't laughing at that Mommy.  I was laughing at something else." 


What has worked for all those other mommies of hard-headed boys?  Any advice is welcome!!  Pretty please! 

Lesson plans

Lesson plans for next week:

Spelling/ Literature: In spelling, we will be discussing letter names and sounds. We will be focusing on the sounds of n and s. In literature, we will be discussing and identifying beginning, middle, and ending sounds, and we will talk about rhyming words. We will be learning how to hold a book correctly, and to identify the title, author, and illustrator. This week we will discuss setting, characters, and event. (I can definitely tell this stuff is starting to sink in as the weeks go on.  I can hear him saying words over and over, thinking what the first letter must be and getting tickled when he finds ryhming words.) 

Unit Study: This week in Unit Study, we will be discussing our community of Waco. We will learn that a landmark is a building, monument, or place designated as important or interesting. We will discuss various landmarks of the Waco area including The Dr. Pepper Museum, the Suspension Bridge, The Alico Building, Lover’s Leap, Cameron Park, and the Cameron Park Zoo. (Connor loves being the authority on any subject.  He'll love getting the official scoop on these Waco places that we've loved and visited all his life.) 

 

Math: In math, students will learn to count to 10 and write the numerals for these numbers, and to find one more or one less to solidify the counting sequence. This week we will be focusing on: knowing that objects can represent a set of objects up to 5 and fingers and toes together can represent up to 20; determining one more; understanding and showing the meaning of same and more; and knowing how many more. We will be using manipulatives and hands on activities to learn about numbers.  (Today in the car, Connor informed Aidan that if you keep counting after one thousand you eventually get to two thousand.  Smartie pants)

Nature Study: This week, we will introduce fish. We will learn the characteristics of fish (1-Cold-blooded, 2-Vertebrate, 3-Have scales, 4-Breathe through gills, 5-Most have fins, 6-Hatch from eggs). We will learn hand motions to help us remember the characteristics of fish. (This subject is definitely peaking his interest.  He finds and captures roley-poleys and worms and then wants to know if they have bones or not.  Also, how do fish breathe?  And, did you know that the water that you drink goes into your stomach, your body uses it, and then the stuff your body doesn't use comes out in your pee pee? )

Bible: This week, we will be reading the story of “The Tower of Babel.” Please feel free to read this story at home with your child, and have them narrate the story back to you.  (I love to hear the take away from these stories.  It seems like every time we talk about a particular OT story, he brings up a different point.  And, his perspective is priceless, ie. the people thought that they could build it so high to be like God---that was so silly!  Cuz, God's everywhere...not just high.)

Show and Tell: Show & Tell this week is My Favorite Color. Please have your child bring an item that represents their favorite color.  (I'm curious what his favorite color will be this week.  It's been changing lately, from purple to gold or silver, and most recently to yellow.)