December 24, 2012

Here are some photos of our Christmas concert stars!  Enjoy!  Merry Christmas, everyone!

December 20, 2012

Sorry for not posting lately - things have been a little busy around here ...

Reminders for tonight and tomorrow:

The doors for the concert will open at 6:30.  Seating is first come, first served style.  Students should be here by no later than 6:45.  Students can wear their Christmas finery or, failing that, a white shirt and black pants or blue jeans. 

There is no spelling test tomorrow and no home reading tonight.

There will be another cookie sale tomorrow.

The student council is inviting students to participate in a school spirit day tomorrow by wearing  red, green or white.

We're still accepting food bank items and will be participating in the "human chain" to deliver the food tomorrow morning.  Thanks to everyone who has supported our food bank drive this year!

There will be a Christmas sing-along tomorrow morning right after recess with Val and Morley Fleming. 

I hope to see everyone here tonight for the concert!  The students are sure to be a big hit!

December 12, 2012

Happy Dozens Day!  And thanks to all the parents adn siblings who helped out with our 12:12 on 12/12/12 activities!  Here's a photo of the crew who participated.

What a good-looking bunch of students!

I've added a new link for Christmas activities on the side - right at the top of the links list.

Please remember that tomorrow afternoon we will be visiting the Festival of the Trees at the Jasper Yellowhead Museum.  We'll walk over around 1:30 and should return by 2:30.

December 4, 2012

Happy Birthday to Logan - and thanks for the yummy (and gummy!) cupcakes!

Tonight's book is The Little Skunk.

Book orders went home today and are due Friday.

Newsletters went home today.

Our concert night has been set for Thursday, December 20th.  Hold your breath!

November 30, 2012

Today's home reading is the I'm Busy book from our basal reading series. 

We had a visit from Baby Jack (our Roots of Empathy baby) today.  The students made some very astute observations about Jack's progress - what sharp students we have in here!

Our swimming week wrapped up today.  Swim reports are in the pockets of agendas.

There was a possiblity that the grade one classes would be going on the Santa train next Tuesday morning, but it turns out that there will not be enough tickets to accommodate us.  There were some tickets that became availabe today (at More that Mail), in case anyone would like to take their child(ren) on their own.
Enjoy the weekend!

November 29, 2012

Reminders for tomorrow:
1.  Read The Cap.  (This book should be quite easy for everyone.)

2.  Bring swim gear.

3.  Study for the "my, by spy, cry, why, etc." spelling test.

November 28, 2012

Welcome to our newest member of Room Four: Tianna!  It's great to have another new student!

Today's book for home reading is Fish Fun. 

Remember that we will be swimming again tomorrow afternoon.  Check out the photos of our fish!

November 26,2012

Tonight's book for home reading is The Deer.

Remember that we have swimming tomorrow afternoon (and all the rest of the afternoons this week), so dry out that swim gear and pack it up for tomorrow's pool adventures.

November 25, 2012

Just a quick reminder that we have swimming lessons every afternoon this week.  Everyone will need their swim gear for tomorrow.

November 21, 2012

Reminders for tomorrow:

Read "Gail and Ben".

There will be a cookie sale - remember your quarters!

November 20, 2012

Welcome to our new student: Chloe!  Now we have a matched set!

Thanks to everyone who returned report card envelopes and interview and comment sheets.  I've set up interviews for the people who returned their forms - check your child's agenda for your time.  (Interviews are in our classroom - Room 4.  They are scheduled to last 15 minutes each - I'll try to stick to the time frame!)

Tonight's book is "A Real Pal" - lots of double vowel practise!

November 15, 2012

Tonight's reading selection is "The Bee".

Study those "ar" words for the test tomorrow!

Thanks to those who've returned the Remembrance Day art and swim permission forms.  We're still waiting for a few more to come back ....

Today the students heard the story of Persephone and Demeter and their connection to the seasons.  (Apparently Persephone, the daughter of Demeter, was so lovely that Hades nabbed her and took her to live underground with him.  Demeter was the goddess of growing plants.  She was so sad that her daughter had disappeared that she neglected her crops and plants, which dried out and turned yellow.  People were so worried about this that they appealed to Zeus, who decided Hades must return Persephone.  The only problem was, Persephone had eaten 6 pomegranate seeds while she was underground.  Because she had done this, she had to return to Hades for 6 months of every year (the 6 months of fall and winter).  When she returned above ground, however, her mother perked right up and let all the plants grow again - presto!  Spring and summer! 
We had a little taste of pomegranate after the story.  Hopefully nobody got pomegranate juice on their clothing....

November 14, 2012

Happy Birthday, Chloe!  Thanks, too, for the delicious treats you shared with us!

Our reading selection for today is another "magic e" book: The Cake.

Our spelling list this week has "ar" words: arm, car, etc.  The students helped choose the words and even came up with the tricky choice "heart" as a challenge. 

A note/permission form regarding the school's swim program went home today.  Please sign and return the permission form ASAP.  Thanks.

A second note/permission form went home today regarding a Remembrance Day art competition.  If you wouldn't mind your child's art project being entered in a contest, please sign and return the form.  (We made pictures of poppies - they turned out beautifully!)  Thanks.

November 13, 2012

Tonight's reading selection is "The Joke".  It concentrates, again, on the "magic e" concept.

The class wrote "Oowwee!" stories today, detailing previous injuries or accidents.  Drop in to read the bulletin board outside our classroom tomorrow - the writing should be completed and up on display by then.  (It will be largely unedited by me, so you'll get a pretty good idea of where your child's writing abilities stand at this point.  I'm quite impressed with the products so far!)

The guitars are now finished and on display in the classroom.  They look mmmmmmmarvelous!  Thanks again to Logan's mom and Hana's mom for all the work they did cutting out the guitars.  You rock, Mrs. D and Mrs. R!

November 8, 2012

Reminders for tomorrow:

Read "The Big Game" - another "magic e" book.

Study for the spelling test on "ow" words.

Book orders are due.

November 6, 2012

Today's home reading book is "Tab and Mac".  It concentrates on the "magic e" concept, where an "e" jumps to the left over the letter beside it and makes the vowel it lands on say its own name.  (For example, "hop" becomes "hope" and "bit" becomes "bite".)  The book also reinforces use of quotation marks, and reviews the sight word "said". 

Notes went home today regarding some upcoming testing and a mistake on the pink phone lists that went home earlier this year.  (The phone lists showed there was an early dismissal this Friday when, in fact, there is not.

Remember that the book fair is on until 7:00 pm.  The sale is upstairs in the library.

Class book orders are due this Friday.

November 5, 2012

Our spelling list this week has words that show two different pronounciations of "ow": the letters as they sound in how, now, cow, wow, owl, howl, etc. and as they sound in grow, blow, slow, below, snow, etc. 

Tonight's reading selection is "Ted" - enjoy!

Just a quick thank you to everyone who has taken off winter/wet footwear at the entrances to the hallways.  It helps keep the floors clean and dry and sets a good example for the students.  We appreciate the respect and concern you show for our students and our floors!

November 2, 2012

Spelling test results are in the agenda pockets.

Here are some photos from our Hallowe'en celebration:

Unfortunately, the dance video didn't turn out - sorry about that.

November 1, 2012

Tonight's reading selection is entitled "Meg".   Many of the students are finding the phonetic/decoding skills and, consequently, the reading itself, to be easier every day.  A good target for reading now is to have them work for smooth, fluent expression.  This may mean that they will repeat some sentences - sometimes more than once.  In school, we talk about how the reading should sound like you're talking to someone, not being robotic.

Thanks to everyone who sent treats for our Hallowe'en party.  What a nice feast we had!  The students' costumes were great - and so was their dancing.  (I'll see if I can find time tomorrow to post a video of their Arthur Murray moves.   Hold your breath everyone...)

Our spelling test tomorrow is on the "ook" family.

I've added a link at the side to  another website: www.funbrain.com.  Just click on Funbrain, listed under the links on the right hand side.  (I've changed the format of the blog so that it's easier to find the links.... no scrolling down required any more.)

October 30, 2012

The at-home reading book for tonight is "Val and Ned".

Remember that tomorrow (afternoon only) students are invited to dress up for Hallowe'en. 
Also, students should bring a SMALL individual-sized fruit box to contribute to our witch's brew.  If anyone would like to send something for the treat table, we'd be happy to accept your offerings with our thanks.

Mrs. Sawka's class is still accepting food bank donations for their Haunted House fund raiser.  The food bank collection is on display at the school's front door.  Please have all donations in by this Friday.  (Many thanks to those who have generously given to this fund raiser.)


Here are some photos from our Halloweener lunch:

October 29, 2012

Excitement is about to reach fever pitch here in Room Four as the following things are lining up for this week:

1.  The spelling list consists of words from the "ook" family.  Study hard!

2.  We will be having a hot dog lunch (a "Halloweener Celebration") here at school tomorrow, so all you parents who pack lunches every day - take a break tomorrow!

3.  We will be having a Hallowe'en party Wednesday afternoon.  Students are invited to dress up and to bring something for the treat table, if they'd like. 

For a cool Hallowe'en card, click here.

And for your weekend viewing pleasure, have a peek at our "Waddlee-Atcha" video.  (It's my first attempt at videography.  I'll try to improve for the future!)

There's a note in the agenda pocket regarding our Monday visit to Mrs. Sawka's Haunted Classroom (admission:  $1.00 and a food bank item) and our Hallowe'en party next Wednesday afternoon.

Have a great weekend, everyone!

October 25, 2012

Happy Birthday (from yesterday) to Angelo and Hana!  And thanks for the birthday treats that Hana shared with us.  Yum!   We need more birthdays here in Room 4!

A note outlining pool hours went home today.  Please check the front agenda pocket.

The book for tonight's reading pleasure is Hal and Nip. 

Study hard for tomorrow's spelling test!

Here is a photo of our Roots of Empathy baby and his mom - and, of course, all his adoring new first grade friends and fans!

October 23, 2012

Tonight's brown envelope book focuses on the short "i" sound (the "i" as it is pronounced in "iguana").  Enjoy Tim and the Tin Man!

October 22, 2012

There's no brown envelope reading today.  Enjoy the break!

The spelling words this week are the ones from last week's list.  Everyone normally gets 100% on the spelling test, but last week we had a pretty dismal showing.  I know the words were tough, so thought I'd give everyone another shot at them this week.  (There was one person who did have a perfect score last week: Angelo!  Because he already has 100% on the spelling words, Angelo has immunity from this week's test.  Super job, Angelo!)

October 17, 2012

The photographer is coming tomorrow morning; anyone who missed photos the first time around, or anyone who is planning on getting retakes should polish up those pearly whites and practise smiling.  (If you are getting retakes, please return the original photo package.  If you are getting photos for the first time, please pick up forms for this from the office.)

The fire chief is also coming tomorrow to pick up the pamphlets that were handed out last week.  If you want to enter your child in the "Fire Chief for a Day" contest, please go through the pamphlet's activities with your child, then sign the front of the pamphlet and return it to the school.

The spelling test will be tomorrow.  (I made a mistrake yesterday when I said it would be Friday - sorry about that.)

The brown envelope book for tonight does not need to be returned to the school.  You can keep it for your at-home library, but please jot down the title and the date on the brown envelope.  Thanks.

Remember that tomorrow is the last day for students this week.

October 16, 2012

We had our first visit from Baby Jack today - what a sweetie!  The students were great with him - and are already looking forward to his next visit!

The Reading Envelope book for today is the first one in our basal reading series.  Students should read the whole book (including the back cover) to parents.

I thought I'd give you a quick little reminder that students have no school this Friday.  Teachers will be attending Institute in Hinton that day.  Our spelling test will be Friday this week.

October 15, 2012

The witch hats that came to school today were fantastic!  We had a hat with feathers, one with leaves, one with a long spooky veil, one with fancy feathers, another with amputated fingers, another with a fancy spider theme, lots with cool home-made artwork, one loaded with candy, one plastered with spider webs .... and lots more.  Great job, everyone!  Some of the hats have been hung already - parents: drop in for a peek, if you have the courage!



We've shifted gears in our at-home reading support program.  Parents have been reading to the students; now it's the students turn to read to the parents.  The students are bringing home an envelope with a short book inside - students should read the book aloud (prompts for when they're stuck are listed on the envelope at the top), then parents need to record the book's title and the date the book was read.

October 12, 2012

We had a very busy day today: two tests, and 3 special events!  The results of the spelling and reading tests are in the front pockets of the agendas. 

Our first special event was a visit from Mr. Smith, the assistant fire chief.  He gave a talk on fire safety and passed out colouring books and a pamphlet on fire safety.  If you fill out the fire safety form and return it, your child's name will be entered into a draw for Fire Chief for a Day - imagine the excitement! 

Our second special event was an afternoon visit from Lynda Shore, who will be presenting a Roots of Empathy program to the class this year.  Lynda has sent home a letter explaining the program, and she has requested that parents complete and return the student/family info sheet that accompanies the letter.

Our third special event was a presentation on an aspect of French culture: creating music with wooden toy dolls - some fun!

Most students have read most of the plastic book bag books, so none were sent home this weekend.  We'll be sending home some different reading material next week.  Hold your breath ......

Please remember that the decorated witch hats are due Monday, along with the Roots of Empathy and fire chief forms.  Thanks!  Have a great weekend!

October 11, 2012

Reminders for tomorrow:

1.  Spelling test

2.  Sight/phonetic word reading test

3.  There will be another cookie sale, this one with a one cookie limit.


We've had our first decorated witch hat returned to the classroom - and a very beautiful one it is!  Hana's hat looks stunning, hanging from our ceiling! 

October 10, 2012

Reminders:

1.  Practise those "ing" spelling words for Friday's test.

2.  Practise those sight/phonetic flash cards for Friday's test.

3.  There will be a cookie sale tomorrow.  Bring a quarter if you'd like a cookie!

October 9, 2012

It was great to see that everyone survived the feasting bonanzas that I'm sure we all participated in over the weekend!  Hopefully everyone enjoyed their turkey dinner bells and Thanksgiving booklets.  Hallowe'en literature and art projects are lining up next.  Whoooeee!

There is no plastic book bag today. 

There is a package of sight/phonetic flash word cards in the agenda front pockets.  Please review flash cards with your child.  We'll have a test on the words on Friday.

Students from Room 4 here at good old JES brought home a witch hat today.  Their homework this week is to decorate the hat and return it to school by next Monday at the latest.  Parents are allowed - encouraged, even - to help.  The hats have been given to the students, so feel free to glue, sew, staple, cut, etc. - anything goes.  I can't wait to see what creations will come back to the classroom!

Last Friday, the class talked about turkeys camouflaging themselves to avoid being eaten.  After our discussion, we looked at pictures of Liu Bolin, camo expert extraordinaire.  Check out the photos of him.  (Just click on the word "photos" in the previous sentence.)

October 4, 2012

Reminders for tomorrow:
1.  Numbers reading test.  Study hard!

2.  Book orders are due.

3.  Bring a SMALL amount of peas or corn or other cut-up veggies (1/2 cup will be plenty) for our Thanksgiving stew.  Thanks!

Thanks, too, to Hana's mom for the delicious treats!

October 3, 2012

These first grade students teach me something new every day.  We made turkey dinner bells today.  One student was very excited about the project, because, as he said, his grandparents have a dinner bell because (here's the educational part) "they were born in the fifties".  Hmmm.  Good to know!

Reminders:
1.  Book orders are due Friday.
2.  Please send a half cup of cut-up veggies (or peas or corn)  Friday morning for our Thanksgiving stew.
3.  The students will have a test Friday on matching the numbers (1,2,3, etc.) with their lettered names (one, two, three, etc.).  This will replace the regular Friday morning spelling test.

October 1, 2012

It's hard to believe that October is here already!  Check the front pocket of the agenda for this month's school newsletter.  There is also a note glued into the agenda, beside today's date.

September 28, 2012

Thanks to everyone who supported the Terry Fox fund raiser.  Our class raised $22.00!

Spelling test results are in the front pockets of agendas.  It's clear that people are practising at home, since there are LOTS of 100% papers going home again today.

Enjoy the weekend!

September 27, 2012

Remember that tomorrow afternoon we will be running around the school block as part of our school's Terry Fox fund raiser.  We're trying to have everyone in the class to bring a toonie to donate, if possible.  Thanks for your support for this.

Study hard for tomorrow's "ay" spelling test!

September 26, 2012

We've returned to the plastic book bag program, but will periodically throw in a book like yesterday's, just to keep things interesting ...

Please remember that we will be participating in the Terry Fox Run Friday afternoon.  If you can send a "toonie for Terry" to help with the school's fund raising for this event, that would be great.

We introduced two new words today: "not" and "this".  The sight word vocabulary just keeps on growing here in Room Four!

Giving your child some time on the Star Fall Phonics link (on the left side of the blog - lower down) will help them strengthen their word attack skills and sight word expertise.  As well, I added a new site - ABCya! - to the links.  It, too, should help with phonics and sight words.

If you have any empty, clean tin cans (any size) that you could send to school for a special project, I'd love to have some.  The cans should have one end intact.  Thanks.

September 25, 2012

Parents, you'll have the night off from reading tonight.  The first graders are bringing home a book that they've authored themselves, and they're planning on reading to you!  Enjoy!

We've practised reading the book here at school, so the students should be able to knock everyone's socks off with their wonderful reading.  The book is illustrated to give the students a pictoral nudge if they're stuck.  (This is a perfectly fine way for them to help figure out written text at this point in their academic lives.)

If your child gets stuck on a word, a useful strategy they should employ is ask to themselves "What do I know about this word?"  Then they can start saying things like, "Well, it starts with a "c" .... that says "c" like the start of cat ... then it has an "a" .... that says "a" ... " etc.

We've been working on reading smoothly, so that it doesn't sound like a robot is speaking, so lavish lots of praise on that smooth expression, if you hear it!

September 24, 2012

Our class took a walk over to the community garden area this morning, where Mrs. D'Antonio gave us a wonderful tour.  We felt, tasted, and smelled our way through the tour, and we even got to dig some spuds AND make garden sushi!  Does life get any better than that?  If anyone has not visited the gardens, it's a lovely thing to do on a fall afternoon (or morning).

The spelling list ("ay" words) went home today.  Study hard for Friday's test!

Thanks to everyone for keeping such good track of the books and activities that match them from the plastic bag reading program.  We are missing a few of the activities - if any are kicking around your home, could you please return them?  Thanks.  (The activities are used over and over so it's important that they are kept with the bags.)

We saw a great performance this afternoon on wildlife in the mountain parks.  The performers presented information on wolves, bears, snails, goats, etc. - and were very entertaining.  (It was almost as much fun watching the audience as it was watching the performance ....)

September 20, 2012

Study hard for tomorrow's spelling test!  (The words all have an "ot" ending.)

Remember that there will be a noon dismissal for students tomorrow.

Thanks very much to everyone who contributed to our shopping spree at the United Church thrift shop this morning.  Thanks too, to Logan's mom for coming along as one of our shopping gurus - we appreciate your expertise!  The scarecrows are made, christened (the boy is Spook and the girl is Plum), and hung on the bulletin board outside the library upstairs. 

September 19, 2012

We will be going to the thrift shop in the basement of the United Church this Thursday morning.  We plan to shop for scarecrow clothing as part of a language arts/art lesson.  Please send a small donation - even 25 cents would be fine - to contribute to our shopping adventure.  Thanks.

Remember that school photos will be taken Thursday morning, as well.  Practise those smiles!

September 17, 2012

Notes regarding school photos went home today.  (School photos will be taken this Thursday.)

We've been practising the number and colour words, if you need some more words to work on in the evenings.  (We've worked on the numbers one through ten so far.)  We've also been practising counting to 100 - there's a good challenge!

Just a heads-up for this Friday: there will be a noon dismissal to allow teachers to attend a professional development afternoon.

September 14, 2012

Spelling test results are in the front pockets of student agendas.  What a great result everyone had!

Students also began writing their own agenda entries today.  We'll try to continue this practise from now on.

Enjoy the weekend!

September 13, 2012

Happy Birthday, Addi!  (And thanks for the delicious cupcakes!)

Reminders:
1.  It's Meet the Teacher Hour tonight from 6:30 - 7:30.  Bring bowls and spoons if you'd like to have some ice cream at the beginning of the evening.
2.  Tomorrow is our first spelling test.  Study hard!
3.  A note went home regarding an opportunity for students to appear in a video for the Icefield Visitor Centre.  I just now read the note and saw that the casting call for interested people was last night.  My apologies - I didn't receive my copies of the letter until today. 
4.  Students brought home the first five Companion Reading assignments today.  (The Companion Reading program is one of our foundations of literacy in Grade One here in Room Four.)  Please review the material on the sheets with your child.  This will help reinforce what has been taught in class.  The sheets do not have to be returned to school.

We are still hoping to tempt a parent to sit on the School Advisory Council to represent our class.  Meetings are held once a month - anyone interested?

September 12, 2012

Reminders:  1. There is a school advisory council meeting upstairs in the staffroom tonight at 7:00.  We're still looking for a room rep - anyone interested?  We are also still looking for a key communicator.  Let me know if you'd like to take on this job (with our thanks!) as well.
                    2.  We will be going to the museum tomorrow morning, right after recess, to look at the train display there.  We will return by the regularly scheduled lunch hour.
                    3.  Please check to see if your child knows his or her birth date.  (We use birthdays as part of our computer logins, so it's handy if everyone knows when they were born ...)

Hopefully the book bag program is going well.  Thanks for returning the books each morning, and for looking after and returning the contents of the book bags.

Come and check out our Cornflake leaves bulletin board.  The students did a great job!

September 7, 2012

Swim notes and school newsletters were sent home today.

Remember to return the signed student info and computer user agreement forms as soon as you can.  Thanks.

Book orders are due Monday.

Have a great weekend!

September 6, 2012

Happy Birthday to Rowan!  He turned 6 on the 6th - pretty special!

Book orders went home today and are due (with payment, please!) Monday. 

I also meant to send home a book on train safety, but managed to forget to hand them out before the bell rang.  I caught up with a few people in the hallway and on the playground, but I know I missed lots of students... my apologies.  I'll send home the books tomorrow for those people who I missed today.

We reviewed yesterday's sight words (the, I and is) and practised the letter formation and sounds for m, n, f, s, and a.  At-home review of these letters and words will help everyone solidify their learning.

We will be starting our first computer classes tomorrow.  Passwords are set up with students' initials and birthdates, so it's helpful if everyone knows when their birthday is.  Please check with your child to see if they can tell you their correct birthdate, and teach it to them if necessary.  Thanks.

September 5, 2012

The students have a short homework assignment for tonight: review the words  I, the, and is.  There's a note in the agenda regarding this.

I meant to send book orders home today but forgot to hand them out ... oops.  My apologies.  I'll send them home tomorrow.

September 4, 2012

Welcome to our class blog!  The blog will be used to post annoucements, reminders, "bouquets" etc.  Also, there are links on the right hand side - just click on them to explore some sites and activities that we'll take a look at this year.

The students are all bringing home agendas today.  Please check these daily, then sign them and return them to school the next morning.  There will be notes, book orders, permission slips. etc. in the pockets of the agendas from time to time.  Today's agenda pocket holds lots of treats: insurance forms, phone lists, student info forms, and computer user forms.  Please complete and return the computer and student info forms asap.  Thanks.

We don't have time set aside for snacking during class time, but students are welcome to bring a recess snack and, later this month, the school's Brain Boost (fruits and/or veggies delivered daily by volunteers to the classrooms) should kick in.   (Students do eat brain boost food - if they choose - during class time.)

We are looking for school council reps and classroom communicators for Room 4.  School council meetings are held once a month.  Key communicators phone out or email parents/caregivers as needs arise.  If you are interested and willing to help out, we'd be grateful!

June 26, 2012

Thanks to all the parents who helped out with our end-of-year picnic and hike!  We really appreciate the time, effort, and treats!

Tomorrow will be our final day of school this year!  It's hard to believe - the year has flown by!  Students will have an early recess, then will head over to the activity centre for the grade six walk-down.  Students will be dismissed with their report cards, portfolios, and large art projects (butterflies, kites and - for the first graders - the "Ain't Gonna Paint No More" people.

Have a great summer everyone!  Thanks for a wonderful year!

June 25, 2012

(Review) word of the day: vast

Thanks so much to the parents who volunteered to help out with today's sports afternoon!

Just a reminder that we are going to Lake Annette for our picnic tomorrow.  Grade one students will be leaving the school at 11:15.  Grade 2 students will leave for the lake approximately a half hour later.  (The bus we've booked doesn't hold all the students at once, so we're leaving in two waves.)   All students should be back at the school by 3:00.

Thanks to all the parents who volunteered to send healthy finger food for our picnic.  Thanks, too, to everyone who volunteered to drive their children to and from the lake - it means we can get everyone out in two trips instead of three. 

Please ensure that your child is properly dressed for the day.  If you want them to wear bug spray or sunscreen, please apply it at home before they leave for school.  Thanks!

Now for clear skies tomorrow .....

June 24, 2012

Our school sports afternoon is planned for tomorrow (Monday the 25th).  Students from our class on red teams include Geneissa, Joie, Sarah, Josh, Athena, Wyatt, Yzabelle, Kurt, Adrian, Anzu, Jake and Patrick.  If possible, could those students wear red t-shirts tomorrow afternoon?  Everyone else is on a white team and, if possible, should wear white t-shirts. 

Thanks to Sarah and Michael's mom for agreeing to help out with our sports afternoon!

June 21, 2012

(Review) word of the day: pendemonium

Thanks to everyone for their contributions to the afternoon's International Celebration!  What great food and great presentations!  We are so lucky to have such a rich, diverse classroom community.  We're like a mini-UN!

Please remember that we will be swimming tomorrow afternoon.  We will leave the school around 2:45 and swim from 2:00 to 3:00.  Parents may meet their children at 3:15 at the pool; any students NOT met by parents will return to the school with Mrs. R and me.

June 20, 2012

(Review) word of the day: peril

Our tote bag art project was a smash hit today!  Thanks so much, Marla, for your time, material, ideas, and expertise!  You're the best!

Remember that tomorrow afternoon we are having an international food sample day - and that students can bring other things (stories, flags, maps, ornaments, clothing, etc.) to represent their heritage.

June 18, 2012

Word of the day: teminate

Our trip to the museum this afternoon went very well; I recommend a visit to everyone!

Our Aboriginal games session was very good, as well.  All the students were given an eagle feather (provided by Marla Pollock - thanks, Marla!).  Our presenter explained that receiving an eagle feather is a great honour in the Aboriginal culture.  People who graduate from high school or university often are awarded eagle feathers.  Our presenter told the class they were getting theirs because of all their hard work in Grades 1 and 2 and to honour their graduation into the next grade.

Please send in wrapping paper asap for the journal covers.  Thanks!

Our trip to investigate aquatic life in Cottonwood Slough has changed.  We will not be going to the slough, as Mme. Paulette visited there on the weekend and found it to be too flooded to merit a safe and worthwhile look at pond life.  Instead, we will leave the school after our regular lunch period and hike up toward the slough.  If the weather permits, we will carry on around the Sawridge loop and pass the fairy tree on our way back to school.  (We'll do this even if it's raining just a little.)  If we find the weather changes for the worse or is too much to handle once we've started hiking, we'll turn around before going on the Sawridge loop and double back to the school.  If it's pouring rain before we even start, we'll just stay at school.  (Cross your fingers for decent weather!)

June 17, 2012

An end-of-year note regarding upcoming activities went home Friday. Please remember that tomorrow we will be walking to the museum in the afternoon.

Also, please send wrapping paper (for journal covers) ASAP.  Thanks!

June 13, 2012

Word of the day: drenched

Due to rainy weather, our Cottonwood Slough trip has been changed from tomorrow to next Tuesday.

Grade one students: remember that this is the last week for Golden Envelope reading and writing.  Make your last two writing projects your best ones yet!

June 14th is actually the posting right before this.
(Sorry - these postings are out of order.  Yesterday's posting accidentally went to "Draft" instead of "Publish"  - what else don't I know?)

June 14, 2012

Word of the day: lethal

Grade one students will have their final spelling test tomorrow.  Study hard!

This is also the final night for the "Golden Envelope" reading/writing.  Thanks for all the at-home support with this!

June 12, 2012

Word of the day: drowsy

We took a short walk over to the library's temporary location this afternoon.  Students who did not have library cards were given one, and we got a tour of the library.  Notes regarding the library's summer reading program will go home tomorrow.  We didn't sign out books today - we'll leave that  up to parents' discretion.

Regarding our planned hike to Mina tomorrow: students should still plan on going.  Please send a bagged lunch and a backpack with a water bottle and a small snack, if desired.  Students need to dress appropriately and wear appropriate footwear, and - depending on the weather - may choose to carry sunscreen (cross your fingers!) bug repellent, and warm jackets in their packs.  We will keep a weather eye out; if it is pouring rain, we'll  postphone until a later date (TBA).  (We'll wait until recess before we decide whether or not the weather will allow us to hike.)  Thanks to Matteo's mom, Sarah and Michael's mom, and Athena's mom for volunteering to hike along with us!

Mrs. Hibberd dropped in for a surprise visit this afternoon!  The students were elated to see her.  We considered kidnapping her, but then we remembered that that's against the law ... and that her husband would miss her terribly.  We can't wait until we see her again!

June 11, 2012

Word of the day: vast

The first graders have a "Students' Choice" spelling list this week.  All the words on the list have been selected by the students.  They've given themselves some challenges!  We've added Anzu's name (written in Japanese) as a special challenge - let's see what happens Friday!  This will be our final week of spelling - study hard everyone, and we'll finish with our best results of the year.

This will also be our final week of the "Golden Envelope" program - but hopefully everyone will keep up their great daily reading, even without a teacher checking up.

We're keeping a weather eye out for our field trips scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday.  If it's miserable (i.e. raining) on those days, we'll reschedule.  We'll keep you posted.

June 8, 2012

Word of the day: melancholy

The first graders did an amazing job on today's spelling test - especially considering that the words were really tough on this week's list.  Great work!

The grade one students are having a golden envelope holiday this weekend.  We'll resume the program again Monday.  Next week will be our final week for golden envelope reading.

We still have some tree seedlings for grade one students.  Any takers?

Thanks to all those who have returned the three permission forms that went home this week.  We're still waiting for a few more to come back ....

Thanks, too, to everyone who participated in the school's Black and White Day.

Enjoy the weekend!

June 8, 2012

Word of the day: pandemonium

Reminders for tomorrow:
1.  Grade one students have a spelling test.  (Remember, these are words that we practise saying wrong so that we can spell them right.)

2.  It's Black and White Day tomorrow - students are invited (but not required) to wear black and/or white clothing.

3.  We're waiting for a few permission forms to come back.  Please return yours (all three of them!) asap.   (My apologies for the date mix-up on the Mina hike letter.  We will be hiking to Mina next Wednesday, June 13th.)

Here are a few photos of our tie-dyed sock project.  Enjoy!



June 4, 2012

(Reveiw) word of the day: swift

The grade one students have a challenging word list this week.  They are all words that we pronounce wrong so that we can spell them correctly!  While the list looks pretty formidable, you might be surprised at how well they work through our test this Friday!

The school is participating in Wild Wacky Walking Wednesday this week. Students and staff are challenged to find a way to get to school without being driven in a vehicle - pogo sticking?  Riding a pony?  Roller blading?  Decorating a bike and riding that?  Arriving in a wheelbarrow?  Anything goes!  High school students will be on hand to give prizes to anyone participating in this event.

This Friday our school student council is sponsoring a Black and White Day.  Students are invited (but not required) to wear black and white colours on that day.

Two notes regarding end-of-year events were sent home today.  Please sign and return these ASAP.  Thanks.

May 31, 2012

(Review) word of the day: wise

Reminders for tomorrow:
1.  Grade one students have a spelling test.
2.  Book orders are due.  (This will be our final book order of the year.)
3.  We've been given tree seedlings for all the grade one students.  If you'd like a seedling, please let me know and I'll send one home with your child tomorrow.

May 30, 2012

(Review) word of the day: lethargic

Remember that book orders are due this Friday.  (This will be our final book order of the year.)

I'm planning on sending the tie-dyed socks home on Friday.  PLEASE RINSE THEM WELL BEFORE YOUR CHILD WEARS THEM OR BEFORE YOU WASH THEM WITH OTHER CLOTHING!  We rinsed them well at school, but additional at-home attention is recommended.  (This project turned out really well, by the way.  I'd buy a pair of socks like the ones the students created!)

May 25, 2012

(Review) word of the day: sly

Today was our last "Baby Arlo" day.  We're all sad that he won't be coming to Room 4 on a regular schedule any more, but we know we'll see him out and about Jasper!  Thanks so much to Ashley and Clifford for sharing their baby's milestones with us!

Thanks, also, from the gals of Room 4, to Michael for our Friday lei surprises!  You're the best, Michael!

May 24, 2012

(Review) word of the day: foe

There will be another small cookie sale tomorrow.

Grade One students will have a spelling test on the "ound" words tomorrow.

The painted kites art projects look great - drop in for a viewing!

May 23, 2012

(Review) word of the day: revive

There will be a cookie sale tomorrow.  Dig out those quarters!

A note from the principal went home today and should be in the pocket of your child's agenda.

May 22, 2012

(Review) Word of the Day: serene

Grade One students have an "ound" spelling list this week - with the addition of the word beautiful.  Study hard!

We had quite a day of "22" today: it was the date, it was the number of feet on the bed in Don and Audrey Wood's book The Napping House, it was 20 to 11 when we were discussing the number 22, and student #22 was chosen for the ever-popular "Draw for Sam".  Coincidences galore!

If parents have not yet had time to check out the tie-dyed socks outside our classroom, please stop in for an eyeful of cool (wearable!) art!

May 17, 2012

My apologies for not posting for the last little while; things have been pretty busy here in Room 4 at good old JES and my postings have been back-burnered because of that.

Word of the day today: revise

Tomorrow is Wacky Shoe Day.  Students are invited (but not required) to wear or bring some crazy footwear to school .

There will be a noon dismissal for students tomorrow.

First graders have a spelling test tomorrow.  Study hard!

May 7, 2012

Word of the day: serene

We survived our first day without the amazing Mrs. Hibberd, who has now completed her university studies and has returned to her husband and home in B.C.  We miss her already!  Many thanks, Mrs. Hibberd, for the treats all the students found in their mailboxes today!  We hope you had a nice sleep-in this morning!

Check out the photos of our first grade t-shirt project from last week.  (What a good looking bunch of  designer/models we have!)

April 26, 2012

(Review) word of the day: console

Congratulations to Michael, Jake, Kurt, and Marielle for appearing in today's spotlight assembly.
Everyone will have a chance to be in the spotlight this year, so if your child hasn't been honoured
with a spotlight appearance yet, they will be in either May or June.

There will be a cookie sale again tomorrow.


Grade One students need to practise for tomorrow's spelling test.

There will be a noon dismissal tomorrow.

A note regarding safety around the library construction activities was sent home today.

The Edmonton Journal once again has posted a link for their goose webcam.  Check it out on the side link!

April 19, 2012

Word of the day: concur

Remember that there will be a spelling test for Grade One tomorrow. Also, tomorrow is Food Dress Up Day and there will be an afternoon assembly to honour JES's volunteers.

April 18, 2012

Word of the day: opaque

The first graders have been working hard on re-writes - listening to, and then summarizing stories. Our theme has been pirate stories. The class is doing very well at identifying and relating beginnings, middles, and ends, and then adding details about them. I thought yesterday's treasure hunt deserved a photo cameo in our blog - enjoy!

Reminders for Friday:
1. Study those pirate spelling words.
2. It's "Food Dress-Up Day".
3. There is an assembly in the gym at 2:30 to recognise and honour parent and community volunteers.

The first graders have been studying geometry, under the capable direction of Mrs. Hibberd. Soon there won't be a triangular prism or a cube or a pentagon that escapes their notice!

April 17, 2012

Word of the day: translucent

The first graders have a list of pirate spelling words to practise for this week. Study harrrghd!

The first graders dressed in pirate garb and had a treasure hunt through the halls of JES this morning - some fun!

This Friday is "Food Dress Up Day". Students are invited (but not required!) to dress as an item of food. This should be an intersting one!

This Friday afternoon the school is hosting an assembly to honour parent and community volunteers. The assembly will begin at 2:30 and will be held in the school gym. Mark it on your calendars!

Mrs. Hibberd has been guiding the class through some exciting "Boats and Bouyancy" activities. (Who knew you could make a boat out of plasticine?)

March 22, 2012

(Review) word of the day: mneumonic

It was great to touch base with all the parents this week during formal interview times. (Please remember that I am always open to answering questions or discussing concerns. I can be reached by phone at 852 4447, ext. 204, or by email at lindmorg@gypsd.ca. Of course, you can always drop in and speak to me in person as well.

Remember that egg protectors are due tomorrow; let's see how creative everyone can be!

Book orders are due tomorrow.

There will be a noon dismissal for students tomorrow.

March 20 2012

(Review) word of the day: benign

Happy first day of spring! I meant to tell the class: On the first day of spring, an egg is supposed to be able to balance perfectly on its end. Try it out, if you get a minute, at home.

A note went home today regarding an ususual homework assignment. Students have to build an egg protector - with a raw egg inside - out of any material(s) they'd like. Parents are allowed to help out. The egg protectors should be brought to the school Friday morning. We'll get Mr. White to throw the egg protectors off the roof for us and see how many raw eggs survive the fall. I've tried this activity with other classes before - it's really "eggsciting" for the kids. Thanks in advance for helping out, parents.

The class has been learning some dances with Mrs. Hibberd. Ask to see the line dance moves they were taught today!

Phoebe has already laid 2 more eggs. They were laid March 12th and 15th, so should be ready to hatch around mid-April. (That Phoebe keeps our hummingbird webcam exciting. Bless her little birdie heart.)

The Out-of-School-Care program is hosting a cookie sale this Thursday.

There will be a noon dismissal this Friday.

March 19, 2012

(Review) word of the day: tranquil

Report cards went home today, with parent comment sheets, interview notices, and report card envelopes to be returned tomorrow.

There will be no spelling list or test for the first graders this week.

The leprechaun caused quite the mess in our classroom over the weekend. We nearly caught him in one of our traps, but he managed to elude capture in the end. Maybe next year .....

Our "rubber egg" turned out really well! We found that it could survive a 10 cm fall, but not a 20 cm one! We also learned how to tell hard boiled eggs from raw ones - without cracking the shell! Tune in tomorrow for more egg news.

Our worm farm babysitting is coming along nicely. There are tons of the little wigglers in the bucketk! In honour of the worms, and in keeping with the second grade science "Small Crawling and Flying Animals" unit, we made worm tunnels (and worms to go in them!) in class today. They're drying on desktops as I write this, but should be ready for a bulletin board display tomorrow. Hold your breath!

March 14, 2012

Word of the day: descend

There will be a cookie sale tomorrow. Dig out those quarters!

March 8, 2012

Word of the day: vague

The students set new time records today organising ski gear, putting skis and poles on, skiing the "big loop", and putting gear away at the end. It's a shame the happy collision of our good snow and good weather will probably draw to a close now; the upcoming weather is supposed to be quite warm and we'll likely have any white stuff left to ski on next week.

Grade One students have a spelling test on the "qu" words tomorrow.

There will be a noon dismissal for students tomorrow.

March 7, 2012

Word of the day: versatile

The students were little rockets at the ski trails this afternoon! Weather permitting, we'll ski again tomorrow afternoon for what will likely be our final day of xc fun. (It's supposed to get quite warm in the next few days and we're probably going to lose the snow because of it.)

Remember that there will be a noon dismissal for students this Friday.

Ask your child how an egg can be incredibly fragile and extremely strong at the same time. Or see if they can tell you about the parts of an egg.

March 6, 2012

Word of the day: benign

Cross country skiing went well today. We're going to take advantage of the good weather we've been having and go again tomorrow afternoon. Please ensure that students are dressed appropriately for this phys. ed. activity. (We discovered today that waterproof mitts or gloves are preferable to the non-waterproof variety ...)

Phoebe's baby left the nest last evening! Now we'll have to watch for her new eggs to appear.

There will be a noon dismissal for all students this Friday.

March 5, 2012

Word of the day: autobiography

We plan on cross country skiing tomorrow afternoon (weather permitting) so please ensure that your child has a toque, mitts and a hoodie to wear under their winter coat. (It gets pretty warm x-c skiing and many students are more comfortable if they can take off a layer. I don't mind if they take off their winter coats once we've started skiing, but they need to have at least a hoodie on to replace the winter coat.)

Phoebe's first baby has left the nest! The second should be ready to fly away any day now.

March 1, 2012

Word of the day: invincible

Welcome to Jake, our new first grader!

Grade one students have a spelling test tomorrow. Study hard!

We'll be going to the activity centre tomorrow right after lunch for our second gymnastics class with Nadia. We should be back at the school around 2:00.

February 28, 2012

(Review) word of the day: isolated

Students are invited (but not required) to wear pink tomorrow in support of our student council's anti-bullying campaign.

Please remember that we will be going to the activity centre tomorrow and Friday afternoon (right after lunch both days) to participate in some gymnastic lessons and activities. We should return to the school by 2:15 both days.

The first graders are working well with the at-home reading/writing program. Students should now begin to increase the amount of writing they do; 3 or 4 sentences per day would be a good goal for everyone.

Book orders went home today and are due Friday. (I may have missed a few people when handing out the orders - my apologies for this. Anyone who did not pick up a book order today can do so tomorrow.)

February 24, 2012

(Review) word of the day: prefer

We've been designing and creating some wonderful symmetrical snowflakes - stay tuned for their upcoming bulletin board debut!

If you have not yet returned your child's gymnastics permission form, please do so asap. We go to the activity centre next Wednesday for our first session with Coach Nadia.

February 23, 2012

(Review) word of the day: inevitable

Thanks so much to Athena's mom and Sarah and Michael's mom for volunteering at our winter carnaval afternoon today! The event was a lot of fun and the weather was spectacular for it!

Grade ones have a spelling test tomorrow. Study hard!

If you have not already returned your child's gymnastics permission form, please do so asap. Thanks!

February 21, 2012

(Review) word of the day: prognosticate

We welcomed a new person to our classroom today: Mrs. Hibberd, a student teacher from the U of A, has joined our class and will be with us until May 4. We look forward to working with her!

A note regarding gymnastics went home last week. We'll be attending gymnastics classes with Nadia Wassef at the activity centre next week. Please sign and return your child's note if they have your permission to participate in this activity.

Thanks to Athena's parents for volunteering to help out at the winter carnival this Thursday afternoon. The events will all take place at the Centennial Park. Any parents who'd like to join us are most welcome to do so!

Grade One students: remember to do your at-home Golden Envelope reading and writing.

February 17, 2012

(Review) word of the day: empathy

Thanks so much to everyone who contributed to the Teacher Appreciation Week activities and treats! We really appreciate your appreciation!

February 16, 2012

(Review) word of the day: transition

Here is a link to photos of the famous Harrison Hot Springs sand castle competition. (We read a story about sand castles in Language Arts today.) The With a Friend book that the story came from is one of the Golden Envelope reading books today.

Grade One students: remember to do that Golden Envelope reading! Try to write more than one sentence in your printing book, too. Add lots of detail! Also, remember to study for your Friday spelling test!

We were treated to a great gymnastics display this afternoon at the activity centre. The young gymnasts did a great job!

A note regarding next week's winter carnival went home today. We need two parents to help volunteer for this event. Please let me know if you can help out! Thanks!

February 15, 2012

(Review) word of the day: resume

We were lucky enough to watch Phoebe feeding her babies this morning! We were able to clearly see food and/or pollen on Mom's bill and were quite amazed at how far down her babies' throats she seems to insert the food! The babies are usually ready to leave the nest after about a month, so the day-to-day changes will be pretty amazing; we'll be checking in often on our feathered California friends!

We've been learning about suffixes and contractions in Grade One Language Arts. Ask your child to give an example of a suffix word - or ask them to show you the pupil contraction trick we tried in class.

Skip counting to 100 by 2's, 5's, and 10's should be pretty secure by now. As well, Grade One students are getting better at identifying and counting coins and at recognising the "o'clocks" of a clock. Any at-home reinforcement of these math concepts will help your child retain and extend their math skills!

February 14, 2012

Word of the day: cherish

Thanks to everyone who sent Valentine treats and who helped organise cards! We enjoyed everyone's contributions!

Remember to check in on the hummingbird link at the side. Apparently Phoebe's newest babies hatched February 10th and 12th!

February 7, 2012

Word of the day: prefer

Remember that students will be dismissed tomorrow at noon to allow the teachers to travel to Edmonton for the teachers' convention there. There will be no school this Thursday or Friday.

Students will be bringing home 2 notes today: one regarding next week's Valentine's Day party and another on measures to prevent the spread of the flu.

Remember that tomorrow is "Bring a Stuffie to School Day." Students are invited (but not required) to bring a stuffed animal to keep them company here at JES tomorrow morning.

February 6, 2012

Word of the day: inevitable

There is no spelling list for Grade One students this week. Golden Envelope reading/writing will continue as usual.

We worked through a Brain Buster today. Get your child to show you how to get into the Fresca Club ... or the Peaches Club .... or the Salt and Pepper Club .... have fun!

A note went home regarding Brain Boost volunteers. We REALLY need parent volunteers to help prepare and deliver daily fruit and veggie snacks for the school. All the snacks and containers, etc. are provided. The job is not difficult and doesn't take much more than 20 minutes. All work is done before the morning bell. If you are able to help, please contact Michael and Sarah's mom at the email address on the note that you'll find in your child's agenda. Thanks!

February 3, 2012

Word of the day: pacify

Thanks to all the students who participated in our "Shoe and Tell". There were some great ideas: baby shoes, a boot that had traveled to Dubai, Saudi Arabia and Cyprus, a shoe with built-in roller blades, 2 kinds of ski boots, skull and cross bone shoes, fashion boots, a mom's high heel, clown shoes, genie shoes ... Shoe La La!

Keep an eye on the hummingbird link at the side. Phoebe has laid at least one more egg and it should be hatching some time soon!

Enjoy the weekend, everyone!

February 2, 2012

Word of the day: prognosticate

There will be another (small) cookie sale tomorrow.


Remember that tomorrow is our "Shoe and Tell"!

Book orders are due tomorrow.

Grade One students have a spelling test tomorrow. Study hard!
Grade One students have a new component to their at-home reading program. Please see the note attached to your child's agenda.

Happy Groundhog Day!!! (I was unable to link the groundhog activities we did in class to our blog - sorry.)

February 1, 2012

Word of the day: empathy

There will be a cookie sale tomorrow.

Copies of the school newsletter went home today.

We were lucky enough to have a guest from Hinton this morning. She taught us about dream catchers and guided the class through the process of making them. The glue on them is drying as I write this! Hold your breath in anticipation of their arrival in the homes of Room 4 students!

January 31, 2012

Word of the day: transition

Book orders are due this Friday.

Grade One students practised Spelling City (from the links at the side) activities in computer today. This might be a good thing to continue at home, since this week's spelling list is a bit more challenging.

Remember that we will be skating tomorrow afternoon. Please ensure that students have proper clothing and, of course, skates. As before, teachers will walk back to school with any students who are not met by their parents at the arena.

January 30, 2012

Word of the day: resume

We will have a Show and Tell this Friday - one with a special flavour! We'll be having a Shoe and Tell. Students should bring a shoe (or a slipper or a boot) to show the class and tell us what mkes it important or special. The shoe can be a baby shoe, or a borrowed shoe, or one from a costume - anything goes! It's going to be interesting to see what everyone comes up with!

The first graders have Golden Envelope reading and spelling practise tonight. (The spelling words this week are the most challenging ones yet, so may require a bit more practise than usual.)

January 26, 2012

(Review) word of the day: pessimistic

Thanks to all the guests who came to our demonstrations of learning today! It was fun having you visit!

Grade One students have a spelling test tomorrow. Study hard!

Tomorrow is "Dress as a Story Book Character Day". Students are invited (but not required) to dress as a character from a book. There promises to be some great photo ops for this event!

There will be a cookie sale tomorrow.

January 24, 2012

(Review) word of the day: tardy

A note regarding student-led conferences went home today. Instead of having parents attend outside school hours, we have a new idea for this year's student leds. Grade One parents are invited to attend class with their children Thursday morning from 8:30 until 10:40 and all parents are invited to come to our afternoon gym class from 1:10 - 1:50. It should be a good way to see what your child is up to with their Language Arts and Math programs - and it should provide a good glimpse into your child's Phys. Ed. program.

The class will be skating again tomorrow afternoon. As always, please make sure your child is properly dressed for this activity.

January 23, 2012

(Review) word of the day: enigma

We started our milk carton masks today - stay tuned for them to be on display!

January 19, 2012

(Review) word of the day: precocious

Grade One students have a spelling test tomorrow on the "ight" words.

Science students: talk about our popcorn lesson today. What makes popcorn pop?

There will be a noon dismissal tomorrow.

January 18, 2012

(Review) word of the day: endeavor

Remember that Games Night is on tonight upstairs in the library and staff room. Families are invited to come and play board games and try a karaokee (sp?) song or two.

Ask the students what they found about about golf balls and playground balls in cold weather!

January 17, 2012

(Review) Word of the day: Janus (Ask how much toothpaste this guy would need to buy!)

Remember that the class is skating tomorrow. Please send warm clothing - including snow pants and (naturally) mittens. Any students who are not picked up at the arena will walk back to the school with the teachers.

Also, tomorrow evening from 6:30 until 7:00, there will be a Family Games Night upstairs here at JES. Family members are all welcome. There will be board games in the library and a karaokee (sp?) station in the staff room. For those brave enough to venture out into the cold, the evening should be a good one!

January 16, 2012

Word of the day: pessimistic

Baby Arlo paid us another visit today - and left us with his blog address! Just click on the "Baby Arlo" link on the side if you want to check in on our ever-popular little guest!

January 14, 2012

Athena's mom told me about a new live webcam - one of a bear's den in Minnesota. The bear's name is Jewel, and some watchers believe she's in labour! I've added the link to Jewel's webcam on the side. Enjoy!

January 12, 2012

Word of the day: corridor

First graders have a spelling test tomorrow. Study hard!

There will be another (small) cookie sale tomorrow.

January 11, 2012

Word of the day: prompt

There will be a cookie sale tomorrow. Dig out those quarters!

We're currently reading a Roald Dahl book called Matilda. The main character (Matilda) is a little six year old girl with amazing intellectual gifts. Because of Matilda, we added the word "precocious" to our word of the day list. Because of our discussion of the word "precocious", I showed the class a video of a girl who is musically precocious. If you haven't already heard of Jackie Evancho, click on her name and you'll be in for a real treat!

January 10, 2011

Word of the day: tardy

Just a reminder for tomorrow: We'll be skating in the afternoon. We leave the school around 1:45 and will be on the ice from 2:00 until 3:00. Parents can pick their children up at the arena. Any children who are not picked up at the arena will walk back to the school with the teachers. Please send skates, a hockey or ski helmet (no bike helmets, please) and appropriate clothing. We have ski helmets to loan if anyone needs to borrow one.

Thanks to the parents who volunteered to help tie up skates - we'll meet you at the arena. Parents who are skating with us: please plan to wear a helmet while on the ice. Thanks!

One more gentle reminder: if your child has not returned their permission form, they will not be able to skate with us. (We're still waiting for 3 forms to be returned.)

January 6, 2012

Word of the day: loquacious

The first graders are bringing home a bird whistle today. They need to be filled with water, then you tip them back and forth while gently blowing through the tail. The birds are theirs to keep - enjoy!

January 5, 2012

Word of the day: precocious (from the Roald Dahl book "Matilda", which we are currently reading)

Book orders are due tomorrow.

January 4, 2012

Word of the day: endeavor

Grade One students have Golden Envelope reading to complete - as usual!

The students were introduced to Sudoku today. We've got some aspiring Sudoku champs in here, by the look of things!

Newsletters went home today.

Book orders are due Friday.

January 3, 2012

Word of the day: Janus

We have a new student in first grade - welcome to Yzabelle!

Book orders went home today and are due Friday.

There is no spelling list for this week.

The first graders celebrated with "Tim Tam Slams" today - yum! To make one, buy a package of Tim Tam cookies, then brew a pot of tea or make some hot chocolate. Bite opposite diagonal corners of a Tim Tam cookie, put one bitten end into the hot drink, then suck hard on the other bitten end. The innards of the cookie will get soft and gooey - eat and enjoy! (We used caramel Tim Tams and can highly recommend that flavour!)

Don't forget to check in with Phoebe! Her babies are growing to beat the band.

First graders: remember to read your Golden Envelope book and have your parent write its title on your envelope.