The second grade class had a busy and fun week of school! As we are in a math block, we spent time focusing on several math processes. We practiced how to make ten using single-digits in addition as a way to add faster. The students then solved long single-digit addition equations where they had to first find the combinations that make ten and then solve the equations. We also built and solved equations using single and double-digit numbers using our addition or subtraction mats as well as our beads and tens sticks. Morning math has focused on mastery of basic math facts using both addition and subtraction. You will see a variety of worksheets coming home that focus on repetitiously solving these types of equations. The idea is for the children to memorize these facts so they can focus on more complex math without also needing to spend time on basic computations.

Ki Emily, our Movement and Student Support teacher is now joining us on Tuesday and Thursday mornings and doing short exercises with the entire class based on Brain Gym exercises. These movements help to integrate mind and body to promote easier learning. It is beneficial for all students! Emily also works with small groups of students to help develop a variety of skills such as spatial relationships and bilateral movements, among others. The students enjoy all these activities because they are fun too!. The class is also working diligently on knitting projects, working in the forest during Environmental Education, having fun in Movement class, and helping to feed the animals during our gardening time.

We have one more week of focused math and then we begin a new language block on saints and other historic, heroic people.

With gratitude,

Melissa