Dice Math

We have found dice to be incredibly useful in creating math problems. The kids worked on creating their own 3 digit numbers over the past several weeks. They used these 3 digit numbers to practice ordering and comparing numbers and also to make charts. They would roll the die 3 times to come up with their number. I found this to be a huge time saver in class and recommend you do the same at home when students are working on these concepts in their home practice packet. I will add pictures soon!

Buddy Reading

Here are some pictures from our buddy reading last Friday. I usually save reading with buddies for Fridays since it has the potential to get noisy.  My hope is for them to read to each other, discuss their books, and then be able to write about their discussion.   

Poster Math

Poster math is a fun approach to learning math.  The idea is that students will first work independently and then as a group to solve a problem.  They are first given a difficult/multi-step problem to work on.  Then they are put in teams.  Each student takes turns sharing how they got their answer.  It is amazing to see the light bulbs when a student sees a new way to solve the same problem.  I love how it exposes them to different ways of thinking and helps them build those key problem solving skills.  After discussing the possible solutions they will decide on what they think is the best way and make a poster showing/explaining their thinking.  Either I will pick or the group will nominate a 'scout' for their team.  The scout will go out and see what the other groups did on their posters.  This gives them further information on how to work the problem and show their thinking.  The scout may then report back to the group and help put the finishing touches on their poster.  At the end of our time we make a circle with all of our groups and our posters.  Each group takes turns explaining and their final project is normally hung in the hallway.  This process teaches them so much more beyond math.  They must work as a team.  It fosters good communication skills, kindness, and explaining their thinking.  I look forward to poster math every other week! 

Conscious Discipline

Dear Wonderful Families,

I am very happy to share with you that our class will be using Conscious Discipline as our behavior management program this year. Conscious Discipline is an evidence-based, self-regulation program that integrates social-emotional learning and discipline.  The program, developed by Dr. Becky Bailey, empowers adults to consciously respond to daily conflict, transforming it into an opportunity to teach critical life skills to children.  Conscious Discipline is a way of organizing our classroom around the concept of a school family.  Each member of the school family, both adult and child, learn the skills needed to successfully manage life tasks such as learning, forming relationships, communicating effectively, being sensitive to others' needs, and getting along with others.  The skills include composure, empathy, integrity, assertiveness, responsibility, the ability to make good choices, and the ability to see the best in others.  I encourage families to visit the Conscious Discipline website for additional information: consciousdiscipline.com.  I would be glad to answer any questions throughout the year about this program!

                                                                               

                                                                    

Love,

Mrs. Kimmel