January Curriculum
Language
This month we will continue to examine descriptive writing. We will learn about adjectives and how they can be used to add detail and interest to writing. We will also learn about the difference between an adjective (describing word), verb (action word), and a noun (person, place, or thing). Every week our class does a shared reading of a new Poem of the Week. Each student has a poem book at school. If you would like to practise reading our Poem of the Week at home, you can find links on the Homework tab. We will continue with our Word Study homework each week. Keep up the great work! For a fun way to practise Word Study spelling words at home, check out: Spelling City (type in spelling words and click on the free activities below, such as "spelling test" or "play a game") ... you will need functioning computer speakers to make the most of these activities! For reading practice, students can play the "Bang!" reading game at home. We learned how to play this game in class, and a set of all the Word Study (#1-14) cards were sent home the last week of December so that students can make their own Bang game at home. Have fun practising reading! Character Education
This month at CIS, we are focusing on the Character Education trait of optimism. Don't worry, be happy! Remember to have a positive attitude at school and at home!
Social Studies
Unit 2: The Local Community
We are beginning a new unit in Social Studies which focuses on the local community. Students will learn about community helpers, where they work, what they do, and the tools they use to do their job. We will learn about the importance each community helper has to the community. The Arts
In art class, we will continue to examine colours this month. We will review primary and secondary colours. We will also look at making shades and tints by adding black and white to colours. We will continue with some winter-themed art, and also make some crafts for the upcoming Tet holiday.
In drama class, we will continue to focus on evoking emotion through body language and facial expressions. Students will practise controlling body movements when we try out some "mime" performances this month. Mr. John is teaching our class music this year. Students have been enjoying learning new sounds and moving around to various types of music. |
Math
Unit 5: Measurement
We will begin our unit on measurement by learning about recording lengths, heights, and distances with non-standard units of the same size (such as popsicle sticks, straws, etc.) We will also learn how to estimate and measure surface area using non-standard units (example: guess how many post-it notes can cover a floor tile, and then measure by placing the post-it notes without overlapping to cover the surface). At home, your child can also get more practice with measurement at: http://www.turtlediary.com/grade-1-games.html (Try games such as Length Measurement) http://www.ixl.com/math/grade-1 (Try M.2 and M.3) Science
Unit 2: Understanding Structures & Mechanisms - Materials, Objects, and Everyday Structures
We will begin our next unit on materials, objects, and structures. Students will investigate structures that are built for a specific purpose to see how their design and materials suit the purpose. We will examine different materials, their properties, and how they are made. For some interesting science videos, check out a free trial at: http://brainpop.com (Science videos) Health and Physical Education
Students will continue to practise cooperative games and handball. We will continue to teach throwing and catching skills, and game strategy. The class is also learning about good sportsmanship when playing games in PE and at recess time. Students will learn how to find their heart rate when engaging in physical activities. Please remember to bring reusable water bottles to gym class every Monday.
Swimming is an important part of the Physical Education program, and students will receive an individual mark on their report card for swimming. Please make sure your child is ready for swimming class every Wednesday. If your child is unable to go swimming, please provide a doctor's note. Ms. Heather is our swimming teacher this year. In health class, we will discuss the topic of bullying, and what students can do to avoid it, and how to problem solve if it does happen. Ms. Glicy, our school nurse, will be visiting our class again in the new year to discuss topics such as Hand Foot and Mouth disease, healthy eating, and avoiding germs by washing hands, covering mouth when sneezing/coughing, etc. |