Grade 1 Math and Animal Learning
The first graders just completed Unit 1 in the Math Investigations program. I’ve been hearing many positive comments from both the students and the parents. The first graders love all the math games. I’m often greeted with the question,”What fun math game are we going to play today?” As a teacher and a parent, I know firsthand that learning through play is a valuable and meaningful way for children to learn math facts and concepts. This first unit really helped the students to focus on counting a group of objects slowly and accurately. They learned some new strategies for combining single digit numbers, and they are all approaching word problems with great enthusiasm and mathematical skill. Be sure to check your child’s homework folder next week for the next parent letter, about geometry; as well as your child’s class work from Unit 1.
Continuing with Animals
Today was our first field trip. We went to the Waikiki Aquarium. It was a great learning experience for the children. We were guided to certain exhibits that featured animals that had adapted to their environment in some way. As I accompanied my group, children made comments such as,”I didn’t know an octopus could change color,” and “Isn’t is cool that a sea star can grow a new arm if they lose one?” There were several exhibits that we were unable to visit, so be prepared for your son or daughter to ask permission for an upcoming weekend trip to the aquarium.
As we gathered outside to view the two Hawaiian monk seals, a woman stated that there were two Hawaiian monk seals actually on the beach in Waikiki. Mrs. Bailie and I decided to take the children for a walk down the beach to see if they were still there. What an absolute rare treat for the children to see! Smack dab in the middle of Waikiki Beach were two monk seals taking a rest. I was very proud of our students; they were quietly respectful and kept their distance from these endangered animals. Since it was time for our return to school, I quietly announced to the boys and girls that it was time to line up and board the bus. One second grade girl quickly replied, ”No thank you, I’d rather stay here and watch the seals.” I certainly agreed with LC; it was a rare and precious moment. Be sure to watch the local news tonight. They may state why the seals decided to rest in crowded Waikiki. Thank you to all the moms who joined us today; it was a great field trip.
In today’s packet, you will find a paper detailing directions to MPI’s online subscription databases. At our faculty meeting yesterday, the high school librarian presented these websites. As MPI parents, you are entitled to log on using the information provided on the paper. For our first and second grade students, I suggest that the parents do the logging on for them.
Next week, the animal learning continues with a field trip to the Honolulu Zoo, and we’ll be having guest speakers from the Dolphin Institute on October 23 and a visit from the Honolulu Academy of Arts Museum in a Box program on October 26. More info about both as well as Spooktivity will be forthcoming. It is indeed a busy month!
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