First Grade: January 7-10, 2025
Dear First Grade Families,
Welcome back to school! We hope your holidays were fun and restful. The bonus day off last Friday was a nice little gift to the children, although they definitely came back from their break invigorated and ready to delve back into learning together! Last week saw the class begin their second Math Block, which focuses on the four Math processes: addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. Students enjoyed a story about a gnome kingdom ruled by the just (and purple-clad) King Equals, deep beneath the earth among beautiful shining jewels. Throughout this block, the children will develop their understanding of arithmetic, with each of the four processes meaningfully personified by gnomes embodying the four temperaments central to Waldorf education. Last week, we met Pearl Plus, who wears green and is of phlegmatic temperament. Adding brings this character, who is a steady sort of person, lots of comfort! Parents may be interested to read about the four temperaments and reflect on their child’s personality. A particular Math Gnome may resonate with your child!
This week, the class will continue practicing math problems using their fingers, manipulatives, and number lines, along with plenty of movement activities. They will learn about subtraction and multiplication, which is deeply supported by skip counting with movement.
Finally, thank you for your provision of winter gear to support our important task of keeping the children warm! Students have been beautifully protected from the elements by all their special clothing and boots in the subfreezing temperatures we have experienced lately.
Announcements and Reminders for First Grade:
Personal care: Please consider sending lip balm and other skin protection products in your child’s backpack to prevent chapping in the cold wind.
1/17: Southern Train Museum visit
1/20: MLK, Jr Day of Service: No School
1/20: CAB Service Project: 10:00 a.m.
1/21: Early Childhood Curriculum Night: 6:00 p.m. (adults only, please)
1/22: Grades Curriculum Night: 6:00 p.m. (adults only, please)
Warmly,
Ki Michelle
