How to "Read to Someone"

In our classroom we are doing the Daily 5.  One of the things in Daily 5 is " Read to Someone."

This is what we do:

Ask a classmate to read with you.

Get your Book Box.

Find a good spot to read.

Sit on your bottoms-- Elbow to elbow, Knee to knee (EEKK!)

Choose something to read.
Take turns reading to each other in partner voices.

Read to someone is good becasue we like it and we like to pracitce reading.

Maybe you should try reading to someone too!

How to Use Xtra Math

Xtra math is done on a computer. We use it to practice math facts. We are working to get better at addition facts. After we log-in and get to Xtra Math we click the start button.

  A math fact is on the screen like 6+2=  we use the numbers on the keyboard to enter an answer.

 If you get it right,you go on to the next question.  If you get it wrong, you will see the answer.  You have to type the answer to get the next fact.  You have 10 seconds to answer.  We can do Xtra math in the computer lab, in the classroom, or at home.  We just have to remember our individual PIN numbers. 

The green dots time how long it takes you to answer.

This is what it looks like if you take too long.

Here is an example of the results of a quiz.  The Smiley faces are for correct answers.

Do you think you would like to try Xtra Math too?

Click the link here: Xtra Math to go to the site.

The Water Cycle

In science we are learning about the water cycle. We made our own water cycle in a baggie. You can too. Here is how you do it:

Materials:
1 plastic bag with a ziplock top

1 sharpie permanent marker
1/4 cup of water
masking tape

Steps:
1. Use the marker to write these words on the bag:
condensation, evaporation, precipitation
2. Pour the water into the bag. Zip it tight.
3. Use the tape to tape the bag to a window.
4. Observe what happens.

Now you have your own water cycle!

Please tell us what you think of this project.

If you try this yourself, comment about what you observed.

OPEN HOUSE 2011

Free picture slideshow made with Smilebox

Happy New Year!

I know it is September, it seems like you should be hearing that in January! But in the School World it is that exciting time of year when Happy New Year takes on a new meaning!  I am excited to be starting a new school year in a new grade level and am planning on using this blog to post journeys we take in room 412 this year.  I hope parents and students will visit this spot to take a look at (or even to post, 3rd graders--this means you!)  what we've been up to!

I am starting with a quick post and photos of  our room now that the only thing it is missing is learners!! This spot will be under construction and will go through changes throughout the year!  Stop by to see what's new!

View of our calendar, check in area and social studies board.

Here is our whole group meeting spot with a trunk that will hold some of our tools for our adventures!

Small group learning area, can't wait to fill our empty tree with reading strategies and possibly poems? A Poet-Tree if you will!  (thanks, Mrs. F for the idea!)

Our Library and Wonder Window!

Chapter books!

Picture books! (excuse the messy desk behind it-that is my stuff to go home on top!)

Mailboxes and extra supply area (there is a meeting table in front that is not pictured-oops!)

Computers!

Here you can see an extra writing area and our monthly themed books!

So here's your sneak peek, the room and this blog are definitely going to be under construction with the help of my students!  Can't wait to see you all on Wednesday!  If you can make it, Stop by on Tuesday at 2:00 to Drop off supplies and say hello!  I'll be there until 3:30!