Curriculum

This next week is when we will be starting our timed addition tests in math.  This involves us using the “Rocket Math” program that they used in first grade in which they are given 40 one-digit addition problems to complete within one minute and 45 seconds.  They increase slightly in difficulty once each level is passed.  Students pass that particular level even if they miss 2 of them.  In second grade we are expected to finish all basic addition facts and subtraction facts that we will hopefully be starting in January/February.  Also in Math, we will be working on some addition strategies that will help them get to the answer much more quickly!  During our English and Writing time we will be focusing on identifying verbs in sentences and writing something that we like to call “Super Sentences”.  Ask your child what these are about and I am sure that they can fill you in!

Students continue to do a fantastic job of piling up their minutes in their reading logs.  Last week we jumped up to 835 minutes of reading outside of the classroom!  This is absolutely amazing!  Keep it up!  This week’s log is due Monday, September 21st! Also, during our Reading/Literacy time, we will shift our focus towards poetry and take a look at a variety of poem styles that have to do with nature.  Our study of plants in Science flows nicely with our unit on trees and nature as we monitor growth in our small “green house” (…and I do mean very small).  Students are watching for sprouts from a sensitive plant, a sunflower, and a bean plant.  They are very excited to see first hand the stages that these plants go through!

Spelling Words

name        good      sentence      man      think      right       might      high      tight      flight     bright     push      pull       strength

Challenge:         community                   ancestor

Extra Info

Besides our new CATCH program that emphasizes a healthier lifestyle for everyone, we are also being visited by Miss. Sarah Carr from the University of Illinois Extension Office in Lincoln.  Her visits will add even more interesting components to our study of healthy lifestyle choices.  The program that she uses is called, Organ Wise Guys and covers the important organs of our body that we rely on to function and thrive.  She also spends time highlighting healthy food choices and ways to keep our body strong.  This is something that is enjoyed by all participants.  She will be in our classroom every other Friday beginning this Friday, September 18th.

Have a fabulous weekend!

Mrs. Johnson