The final week of the first semester was fast-paced and wonderful. I gave each student an informal assessment during the week, to inform me of what I needed to review and continue having them practice. I am looking forward to next semester. By the time we all get back together in January, the longest night will have passed. I do hope you have a clear night tonight to see the convergence of Saturn and Jupitar. Each night they move closer together, and it is quite a sight.
We will finish several pages of the Ancient Civilizations main lesson book during our virtual week, and we will begin a math block that week. By the time I finished teaching Ancient Egypt, I decided I want to be an Egyptologist!! The advanced technology that the Egyptians were able to use to build the pyramids, to make the wheel, which led to the use of chariots, and to make paper is one of the most amazing stories in history.
One of the assessment assignments last week was to write a story, given a prompt. The stories were delightful! If your child is willing to share the story, you will be impressed!
Friday we built a fire in the fire pit and gathered with the Middle School at the picnic tables to sing Christmas songs, do a Christmas puzzle, and make date balls. We walked the Advent Spiral, which while different, as it was outside during the school day, was still beautiful and a wonderful experience. So fitting for our outside experience this year. Linnea Geiger took a lot of photos, as did other teachers. Thank you to Linnea who stood outside all the blustery morning to take the photos! You will be able to find pictures on our FB Families website posted there by Linnea. I tear up every year as I watch these wonderful children walk the spiral. This year they looked so tall and grown up. After the spiral the class gathered with the Middle School students and they exchanged their Secret Santa gifts. It was a lovely way to end the semester.
My wish for all of you is that you will have a wonderful holiday season. It may actually snow on Christmas this year. I hope it does!
Happy New Year!
Blessings,
Kathee
