September 11th, 2017

Dear Parents,

We are now into our fourth week of Grade 2! I can't believe how much learning we have done in such a small amount of time. Below is an overview of last week.

Math
In math, we took a step back from word problems and focused hard on addition strategies. Normally I highly suggest that children create their own strategies as we all see numbers so differently, however, I have had to encourage the children by showing them two ways that they can count 2 and 3 digit numbers with ease. I find that the algorithm strategy is one that I will teach last as it shows a lower level of learning and does not help children make sense of numbers very easily. My aim this year is to really help the children figure out strategies that work well for them. We will be focusing a lot on how to get the answer, not necessarily the answer itself. For example, during a test I expect students to show me how they got their answer. It is then easy to see if the child understands the required task, miscalculated, or genuinely has no idea of their mental processing.

Literacy
Students were introduced to read to someone last week. They really enjoy this literacy task, and it is a great way for students to learn from each other. Although everyone has a different reading level, we find ways to read books. If a student is paired with somebody that cannot read words yet, then they would discuss the picture (reading the pictures is 1 out of 3 ways to read a book). Next week I would like to introduce listen to reading or word work. Once word work is up and running, the students will then be taking their words home to practice throughout the week.

Unit
We have had lots of fun learning sign language in class. Sign language is a way that deaf people communicate (express themselves). P2 is working on memorising the alphabet to share at an upcoming PYP assembly. Towards the end of the week we started creating a flag that represented our family. Students were asked to think of four key words that describe their family, to create symbols for each word, and to pick meaningful colors. You will be able to see them on Thursday during our meet the teacher evening.

My unfinished example of a family flag.

*** I am planning to begin homework next week. It will be given out on Monday's and should be returned to school by Friday. Homework is highly encouraged, but is not compulsory.