Classroom News

Interruptions/Behavior Update

We have been noticing a significant increase in interruptions during teacher explanations and read aloud's.  We will be conducting an experiment next week where students will be getting a dojo point taken away for interrupting every time it is observed.  I want it to be clear that it does not mean that your child is having a terrible day if you see a lot of red (negative) dojo points.  After conferencing with children, we are hoping it can provide a visual for those children that are having a particularly difficult time controlling their voices and interrupting throughout the day. 

Daily 3 Literacy “Rounds”

This week, students were introduced to a new literacy structure that will be in addition to what we are currently working with.  This structure teaches independence and gives each child the skills they need to create a love of reading and writing.  It currently consists of three tasks (read to self, read to someone and work on writing).  Children work on one of these tasks each “round.”  I spent time in the beginning of the week observing students and keeping track of when there stamina was waning.  This gave me a good idea of how long each round should be.  We are working in 10 minute rounds and after each round, students come back to the rug for a new mini-lesson.  When all children are fully engaged in their task, I am able to pull small groups and work on differentiated reading groups.  It also gives me time to work with students one-on-one, giving them exactly what they need.  Ask your child about Daily 3 and see what he/she says! 

Field Trip Reminder

We will be going to be Audubon Center in Huntington, VT on Wednesday, March 30^th.  Please make sure your child is dressed appropriately, as I am anticipating that it will be muddy!