WINTER BREAK!!!!

Today the students had a blast! We went on a polar express ride where we visited the Winter assembly, made ginger bread homes, and watch The Polar Express movie!!! Not to mention had lots of treats!!! Oh, by the way, I had to send treats back home that were not enough for the whole class. There were several treats packaged with only 24 treats. I sent a note on Monday, reminding parents that we have 30 students, and like I told the kids "If I don't have enough for everybody, then nobody gets one." Either way, the students did have a lot of treats and they were so happy. According to one of the students, "This is the best day ever!"

Also, we do have a case of hair lice in our classroom. I sent notes home today with more information. Please make sure to check your child's head and discuss good hygiene habits.

Lastly, parents have address concerns on how they can further help their child at home. Over the winter break I am sending 2 workbooks that you can use to help guide your child. These workbooks are 2 out of 6 that I will continue to send home as we cover material in class. To get you started, we did complete some of the math workbook. These workbooks should be used like a NWEA coach book. NWEA is the test that will assess how much growth your child has made this year. Please keep in mind that these workbooks should be completed with an adult and not by alone.

Also, please continue to use Odyssey and Raz Kids if internet access is available. You can locate both these links on our class blog at www.mrsestrada.com.

Odyssey: www.thelearningodyssey.com

Username: first initial and last name

Password: initials

School: explorer

Raz Kids: www.raz-kids.com/main/Login

Teacher Username: mrsestrada1

Password: initials and class #

Happy Holidays and See You Next Year!

~Mrs. Estrada

Wednesday 12/12/12

Hi! Please don't forget to send a shoebox to school before Friday! Also, Friday your child can dress in their pajamas for The Polar Express day!!!!!!! We are almost done with our next published book in nonfiction writing. The students' all about books are coming out super cute!

BIG THANKS to David's mom who sent disinfecting wipes!!! We really appreciate it, especially during this time of year when all the kids our getting sick. 


Homework: 
Spelling: rainbow write

Math: Worksheet on subtraction

Phonics: Worksheet

Reading: practice sight words and practice reading

Monday 12/10/12

Hi! Our holiday party will be on Friday, December 14, 2012. We will be doing a unit on the book The Polar Express this week. We are asking that just like the character in the book that all children come to school on Friday in their pajamas!

We will also be making ginger bread houses on Friday. If you haven’t done so yet, please send a shoebox (labeled with your child’s name) to school. This shoebox will help in carrying home the ginger bread house and other holiday goodies.

If you would like to send a treat for the class party please make sure you send enough for 30 students. All treats must be store bought and individually wrapped. Please don’t send cupcakes or large bag of chips.

Thank you!

Homework:

Spelling: 3 times each, this weeks words are Santa, gifts, toys, elf, shop, tree, snow, North, Pole, sleigh, naughty, good, bright, lights, cards

Reading: practice sight words (know, let, live, may, of, old, once, open, over, put) and practice reading

Thursday 12/06/12

Hi! I am being sent to a literacy workshop tomorrow so the students will have a substitute tomorrow.  Therefore we took our Spelling test, Math test, and Sight Word test today.

Thank you to all the parents who returned progress reports today. If you haven't done so, please send them back to school as soon as possible.

Also, next week we will be making ginger bread houses!!! Please send a shoe box to help your child in the carrying of their houses so they make it home safe.

Homework:
Math: Workbook page

Reading: practice reading! 

Wednesday 12/05/12

Hi!

Today was a quick day! Reminder, that if you have Internet access at home, please place your child in Odyssey or Raz Kids. The school stated that it is recommend that each child use 90min a week in each Reading and Math for Odyssey! That's a lot of time and impossible for me to reach that goal for every student with only 6 computers in the classroom. So any time you can get them on Odyssey would be awesome! Remember, Odyssey is directly related to your child's NWEA scores that we discussed during report card pick up. You can click on the link to the right. All reports are sent to me via email, so remind students to do their best! Get clicking!

Username: first initial and last name
Password: first and last initial
School: explorer

Homework:

Spelling: rainbow write, test practice worksheet,  and study words for test tomorrow!

Math: worksheet on making tables

Phonics: worksheet

Reading: practice sight words and practice reading. Sight Words test tomorrow!

Tuesday 12/04/12

Hi! Today the students were scientist as they conduct a label on teeth (eggs) and tested 3 different brands of toothpaste. We tested Colgate, Crest, and Pesodant. The toothpaste that was most effective was Colgate! Ask your child what they learned about healthy teeth habits and the eggsperiment!

Homework: 

Spelling: 3 times each

Math: worksheet on missing addends

Phonics: worksheet

Reading: practice sight words and practice reading

Monday 12/03/12

Hi! Today we started our unit on Healthy Teeth and Part 1 of our Science Fair Eggsperiment!!! We will be testing the effectiveness of toothpaste on getting teeth bright and white!

Please make sure to send your child to school as often as possible. We had 6 students out today! Mondays and Fridays are extremely important. Since Mondays we introduce all new material; spelling words, sight words, and story of the week.

P.S. Wednesday is 1/2 day!!!

Homework:
Spelling: 3x each and the words are swish, trash, rash, dash, crash, mush, blush, crush, flash, rush, wish, flush, hush, mash, smash, dish, and plush

Math: worksheet on adding 3 numbers

Reading: practice reading and practice sight words; from, give, going, had, has, her, him, his, how, just

Thursday 11/29/12

Hi! Tomorrow is picture day!!!!!! Your child can wear whatever they want (even if you didn't pay for pictures) all students will be photograph for our class picture!

On a Health Note:
We started our reading centers this week and one of the centers is computers. About 1/2 of the students have their own headphones. You don't need to purchase your own, but if you would like to send headphones for your child only to use as a lice precaution please feel free to send a pair to school. Otherwise, they will you the same 6 community headphones.

Lastly, we usually have "Wipey Wednesday" where the students use disinfecting wipes to clean their desk in order to keep ourselves germ free. With pencil usage, glue, coloring, and eating breakfast their desk get dirty really quick. So it's essential to have "Wipey Wednesday." You can donate some disinfecting wipes that would be great!

Homework:
Spelling: practice test AND worksheet on making spelling words. TEST is tomorrow

Math: Worksheet on addition

Reading: practice sight words for TEST tomorrow and practice reading

Wednesday 11/28/12

Hi! Today we had an awesome day of learning. It amazes me how much first graders can learn so quickly!!! I also wanted to tell you that I really appreciate YOU, the parents! Its helps so much when you the parents work on reading everyday with your child, homework, and practicing sight words. Thanks!

We are lucky enough that our school purchased 2 wonderful online programs that are designed specifically to meet your child's need. The programs are aligned with your child's NWEA scores and it setups activities that are at their level. Please feel free to access these programs and set your child up to work on for about 25-30 minutes a day. This is a great tool to use, especially when your child says "I am bored..." put them on the computer!!! You can access the links on the right.

RAZ KIDS: (IPad App available)
Teacher Username: mrsestrada1
Student password: initials and their class number

Odyssey Learning: 
username: student's first initial and last name
password: initials
*where is says odyssey type "explorer"


Homework: 
Spelling: Rainbow Write

Math: Addition worksheet

Phonics: workbook page on short "i" sound

Reading: practice sight words and practice reading

Tuesday 11/27/12

Hi! Today we are continued to write our All ABout Books for Science and Writing!!! they are coming out great! The students have been reading all about animals for weeks now and now they were able to Pick the animal of their choice and write their own nonfiction expository text!!! Can wait till they finish!


Homework:
Spelling: draw and write 5 sentences

Math: addition workbook page

Reading: practice sight words practice reading

P.S. Picture Day is Friday!!!!!!

Monday 11/26

Hi! So sorry about late post. Had a meeting right after school and totally forgot!!!!

Today I am sending home Sight Word Notebook. This notebook should be used everyday to practice sight words. Today we made flashcards (in hopes that if children make it themselves they be more motivated to use them) and we stapled a baggie to the back of the sight words so they can not forget them!!!! Please practice these everyday. You child needs to know how to read these in a snap!

On book orders at https://orders.scholastic.com/FLZ8R  (click on DEC) or you can send book orders to class, last day is Friday!!!


Homework: 
Spelling: 3 times each 

Math: Workbook page on ten frame to count up

Reading: practice sight words and practice reading

Wednesday 11/21/12

Hi!

Today I am sending home the Friday Test folders. Please, review and sign all test and folder and return it all back on Monday. After testing students today on sight words, I am very sad to only have a half the class get a 100% on these 10 words. Sight word practice is a nightly expectation and students should be practicing these using their notebook or the flash cards.Students need to be able to read these in a snap! The faster they learn these the better they will be at reading.

I wish you all a Happy Thanksgiving!!!!!!!! I am thankful for being able to do what I love to do, TEACH! I am thankful for having a wonderful class!!!!!


Homework:
Reading: Practice sight words and practice reading. Book Reports due Monday!

Thanksgiving Scholastic News: read and complete questions in the back 

Tuesday 11/20/12

Hi!

Today I introduce RAZ Kids. It's and online program that is leveled to meet the needs of your child. This program can also be access at home and there is a FREE IPad app if you  access to an IPad. All students need to do is log into http://www.raz-kids.com/main/Login and the username is mrsestrada1. Then students click on their name and beginning reading the story of their choice. The only rule is that before they go onto another book they need to have 1) listen to the story, 2) read the story, and 3) lastly take the quiz on the story. This is a great way to help at home and get some more reading practice in. Students can collect stars to go cyber-shopping for their rocket-ship. Check it out!

I add the link to the right under "Web Practice"

Spelling: Write 5 sentences and draw 5 pictures

Math: worksheet on sums of 10

Reading: practice sight words and practice reading 

Monday 11/19/12

Hi! This week's stories are Where Wild the Wild Things Are (fiction) and A Good Night's Sleep (nonfiction). This week we will revisit the same sight words as last week since I was out 2 days and there are only 3 days this school week.

Homework:
Spelling: Words this week are: tell, sell, call, fill, mall, still, will, fell, and hall 
3 times each

Math: Worksheet on addition through sums of 12

Reading: practice sight words and practice reading 

Thursday and Friday

Hi! I am so sad that I had to miss class today and all the Family Reading Night fun :(

I have been fighting this cold/flu since the weekend and after yesterday school day, my voice was gone! As much as I would rather be at school doing what I love to do, I am stuck in bed miserable. I will be out tomorrow and hope to be healthy and back for Monday (Doctor's orders). I feel horrible missing 2 days of school this week, but I don't want to spread the gross germs to anyone.

Thanks for your understanding,

~Mrs. Estrada

Homework:

NO Math worksheet

Spelling: Practice for Spelling test tomorrow

Reading: practice sight words and practice reading. Book Reports due Monday 

Wednesday

Hi! Tomorrow is Family Reading Night from 6:30-8:00! The WHOLE school read the same story Marisol McDonald Doesn't Match and in honor of this book will we all come to school MIS-MATCHED! The contest that we are trying to win is the room that is mis-matched the most get a FREE PIZZA PARTY!!! We were so close last time to win during parent-conferences, so I hope we can win this time!!! Dress your child in the most ridiculous outfit you can think of. (Strips with pokie-dots, hair-do's that don't match, socks that are crazy, and maybe even different shoes!!!) Have fun with it!

Spelling: write and draw 5 sentences

Math: workbook page on graphing

Reading: practice sight words and practice reading

Monday 11/13/12

Hi! Today we had our introduction to nonfiction books!!!! We will be entering our nonfiction unit and students will be reading and writing in the nonfiction genre. Will be integrating our science unit on animals into our reading and writing as well.

Spelling: 2 times each
words this week are: big, bog, hug, mug, Greg, fog, bag, Meg, sag, and fig 

Math: Workbook page on graphing

Reading: practice sight-words (this, under, want, white, was, well, what, who, will, and with) and practice reading  

Thursday 11/08/12

Hi!

Today I am sending home the Friday Test Folder and weekend reading book. Tomorrow I am being sent to a Literacy Workshop so the students will have a substitute tomorrow and I figured it would be one less thing for the sub to worry about. Please don't send back the Friday Folders until Tuesday (no school Monday, Veterans Day) this way the sub won't get confused.

Homework:
Spelling: no need for practice test we took it today

Math: worksheet on bar graphs

Reading: PRACTICE SIGHTWORDS!!!! I was disappointed with the amount of students who did poorly on their sight words test. Sight words need to be memorize since these words can't be decoded. Every night the expectation is that parents work with their child on the sight words either using the collection of flashcards or the sight word notebook. Student who master sight words will read much faster. Please continue to read every night as well.

Wednesday 11/07/12

Today we learned about some History of the United States of America. We learned about English settlers and how the Native Americans Indians helped teach them to grow corn. We learned about the first president of the United States and how America won it's freedom from England. In Science we are learning about families and the different types of families. Today we focused on grandparents and continue this into writing workshop as the children wrote about their own grandparents!!!


Homework:

Spelling: Rainbow Write

Math: Workbook page on pictographs

Reading: practice sight words and practice reading
*I will be testing sight words tomorrow since Friday is an 1/2 day and their will be no time to test

Tuesday 11/06/12 Election Day!!!!

Hi!

Today we had an exciting day with a writing and art craft activity to go along with our story Marisol McDonald Doesn't Match. We also voted today! In our class Mitt Romney 5 and Barack Obama 29!!!! We will find out who wins hopefully tonight! VOTE, VOTE, VOTE!

Homework:
Spelling: Draw 5 Pictures and Write 5 Sentences

Math: Worksheet on pictograph and tally chart

Reading: practice sight-words and practice reading 

Book Reports! Due on Mondays!

 Hi! I wanted to share a couple of Book Report samples that students did an awesome job on! All book reports must be filled out entirely and written in complete sentences by the student. All illustrations should include lots of details and color! Help your child take pride in their work by coloring and writing neatly. 

P.S. We are starting the Six Flags reading program which I will keep track of reading minutes by the completed book reports and reading log your child completes weekly. Happy Reading!

 

Monday 11/05/12

Hi! We had a day full of learning today! This week's story is Marisol McDonald Doesn't Match and it's about a Peruvian-Scottish American girl who has a little spunk and likes things that don't match, like peanut butter and jelly burritos! At the end she learns that being different is okay a long as you are being yourself. In Math we are starting a unit on graphing, today we learned about tally charts!

Homework:
Spelling: 3 times each this week's words are; led, fed, pad, rob, tab, mob, glad, grab, had, red, nab, and glob
*note the pictures don't match the words but are more of a tool to use in rhyming the ending sound... if you can spell Bob then you should be able to spell rob because they rhyme! 

Reading: Practice sight words and practice reading 

Math: Workbook page on tally charts and subtraction 

Friday 11/02/12

Hi! Sorry for the late post. Friday the children had a great time writing their Santa Letters!!!! We also took our Spelling and Math test. In Social Studies and Writing we made campaign posters for the presidential election. They came out super cute!!! I will keep this hung up till Family Reading Night so you all can see how cute they came out! 

Homework:
Reading: book report and keep practicing those sight words

Thursday 11/01/12

Hi! We read the book “I Can Be Prsesident Too!” and it included stories from 6-10 years on why they would make a good president. I asked the students to think about (and sleep on it) why they would be a good president for tomorrow's activity. Tomorrow we will be making campaign posters on why we would make a good president.  Are they honest? Responsible? Determined? A problem solver? Generous? Respectful? Keep promises? Leader? and how do they show it???

Homework:

Spelling: practice spelling test

Reading: practice sight words and practice reading

Math: Workbook page on subtraction 

P.S The last day to purchase any items for Book Fair is tomorrow. Students may bring money to purchase items during school. 

10/31/12 HAPPY HALLOWEEN

We had a Spooktacular day today! We went to the Halloween Assembly in the morning. We worked on subtraction strategies in Math. In writing we illustrated ourselves in costumes and wrote detailed clues on our costumes for readers to guess what we dressed up for Halloween. Then we had tons of treats at our Halloween party!!! Lastly we had our Halloween parade!

The kids had a blast and they all looked so adorable in their costumes!!! Thanks for all the treats parents!

Homework: Spelling Rainbow Write

Reading: practice sight words and practice reading.


P.S Some students are missing their Santa Letters requests. This is really important in order to start writing out Santa Letters tomorrow. All sizes must be on paper, even if you aren't asking for clothes (it's part of Santa Helpers Program)

Monday 10/29/12

Hi! Welcome back!!!! Tomorrow is Report Card Pick Up Day!!!! Please come and discuss with me your child's progress. Classroom's with 100% attendance get FREE pizza party, and 1st graders love pizza!

You can stop by from 12:00pm-3:30 and then from 4:15-7:00pm (usually the earlier times has the least wait time)

I also want to give a special THANKS to Josue's mom for sending in some supplies for our Community Supply Area!!! We are fully stocked and I am so grateful for those who donated.

Homework:
Spelling: words this week are plan, stun, grin, tan, spun, tin, ran, win, sun
since we won't be in school tomorrow please complete both 3x each and write 5 sentences/pictures

Math: Worksheet on fact families

Reading: Practice sight words and practice reading!!

See you all tomorrow!

Fall Break!!!!

   Dear Parents,

    I hope you enjoy your week off of school and spend quality family time! I am sending home practice decode-able books for your child to use as extra reading practice. These books are yours to keep at home. Your child is to continue reading every night and complete a book report for Monday 10/29/12.  Remember practice makes improvement!

       I also wanted to let you know that when we return from Fall Break we will be implementing Reading Centers. One center is the computer center. If you would like your child to have their own set of headphones to use during computers please send a pair to school. Headphones will be labeled and stored in their reading box when not in use. This is a lice precaution to keep us healthy.

Lastly, our Halloween party will be on 10/31/12. You may bring treats for the class. Please make sure all treats are store bought. As of today, we have 30 students (15 girls and 15 boys). Our enrollment changes often so I will notify you if any changes.

Have a wonderful break and happy reading!

Mrs. Estrada, NBCT 

Thursday 10/18/12

Hi! Today we worked on zooming in on small moments in our writing workshop. We will be working on examining our lives and writing about small moments that happen to us for our next Unit in Writing. Tomorrow is a half day of school! Students will be dismissed at 11:30am. Students can wear jeans only if they wear a school logo shirt.

Homework:
Spelling: Practice test

Math: Workbook page 39-40

Reading: Practice Sight Words and practice reading 

Wednesday 10/7/12

Hi!

Today we learned how to use a cardinal rose and read maps in Social Studies. Ask your child how they learned to remember North, East, South and West (Never east soggy waffles.) We also learned about the season in Science and the different activities we do within each month. 

Homework:

Spelling: Rainbow Write

Reading: practice sight words and practice reading

Math: Worksheet on subtracting 

Tuesday 10/16/12

Hi! Today learned how to use a Venn Diagram to compare and contrast two characters in a story. We also started to read our 1st chapter book Junie B. Jones is in First Grade (At Last), we are practicing on listening to the words to visualize the picture in our minds. Students really enjoyed the character of Junie B. Jones and we will continue to read 1-2 chapters a day!

I wanted to give a special THANKS to Nubia's mom for sending markers to add to our Community Supply Center!!! Community Supply Center is an area for students who don't have their own supplies or may forget something at home where they can borrow from. This supply center helps with transitions between lesson since we don't have to waste time "looking" for a pencil, crayon, erasers, etc students know they can simply borrow and return supplies.

Community Supply Area: Filled and READY! 

Homework:
Spelling: Draw 5 pictures and write 5 sentences

Math:Workbook page on subtracting

Reading: Practice sight words and practice reading

P.S Friday is a half 1/2 day of school. Students dismiss at 11:30 for Fall Break!!!!

Monday 10/15/12

Hi!

Today we read the story "Chester's Way."  Another great book from the same author of Chrysanthemum, Kevin Henkes. We also worked on counting backwards in Math for subtraction. Lastly, I am so proud of the class building the their silent reading stamina! We are now at 12 min of silent reading!!! This is a huge accomplishment for us. We started the year with 2 minutes, so we have grown so much already.

Homework:
Spelling: 3 times each. This weeks words are rat, not, lot, bit, fit, fat, quit, sat, rot
*the pictures to these sorts don't match the words, BUT are the pictures of previous words and they rhyme. So the intention is if students can spell mat then they can rat

Math: worksheet on counting backwards

Reading: practice sight words and practice reading

Friday and Weekend 10/12/12

Hi! Today we took our Spelling Test, Sight Word Test, and Math Chapter 5 Test!!!  When reviewing Chapter 5 Math Test, please note that the Common Core Standards for word problems require that students draw and show their thinking and work for each word problem. We also learned about earth's resources and recycling in Social Studies.

I also wanted to give a Special THANKS to Kylie's mother who sent crayons and glue for our Community Supply Area. The children who don't have crayons were super excited to use the supplies. Thank you again!

Friday Test Folder: Please review, sign, and return each test. Also, please sign the log inside the folder.

Book Report: Practice reading the book your child borrowed from our classroom library. Today we practice again filling out a book report with the story Chrysanthemum. Please make sure your child is using complete sentences and color their pictures. 

Thursday 10/11/12

Hi! I wanted to say "Thanks" to all the parents who are using the website!!! I have seen great improvements in homework return and quality. Also, it really helps when students that miss school, return to school with their work done! Thanks a lot!

Lastly, I have been having a lot of students complaining about not having crayons, scissors, or glue. Please make sure your child has the tools they need to learn. I sent notes home earlier this week for specific students who are missing supplies. I would appreciate it if you could please send supplies to school. Thanks!

Homework: 
Spelling: give a Practice Test

Math: Worksheet on adding (we have a Math test tomorrow)

Reading: Practice sight words for test tomorrow and practice reading 

Wednesday 10/10/12

Hi! Today was another great day in class. I really like teaching first grade because they make so much growth so quickly!!! I remember when they came in an August and a sentence was hard for them to write. Today they wrote their own paragraphs about their name by themselves!!! Also, in science we are learning about the water cycle. Ask them to sing the Water Cycle song to you!

Homework:
Spelling: Rainbow Write

Math: Workbook page 35-36

Reading: Practice sight words and reading every night!

Tuesday 10/09/12

Hi! Today was our Writing Celebration!!!! We had cookies and juice and then went to the "Story Museum" were we had the chance to read stories written by the authors in Room 104! Students finished their 1st narrative where they wrote 3 pages, told a story with a beginning, middle, and end, added lots of details and dialogue!!!!! I am so proud of all of them! They did an AWESOMTASTIC job!

Homework: 
Spelling: Write 5 sentences with capitals and end marks. Draw 5 pictures to match your sentence

Math: Worksheet on adding 

Reading: practice sight words and reading in nightly log 

Crysanthemum:We have just read the book Chrysanthemum in our class.  Please have your child tell you about this story. You can also view the story on our class blog under “Class Read Alouds.” Please talk to your child about their name.  Help them answer the following questions. Make sure they understand well enough to share their research about their name. We will share the stories of our names with each other in class over the next few days.

Monday 10/08/12

Hi!
 This week's spelling words are: zip, lip, pig, rip, mill, wig, sill, dig, and Jill (with a capital letter)

Homework: 
Spelling: 3 times each

Math:WB page on subtraction

Reading: practice sight words and reading nightly log 

Friday! 10/05/12

Hi!
Today most students finish their books!!!! It was a great feeling for all of us to work with a piece of writing and add details, dialogue, and illustrations. The children worked so hard on these stories to get them published! We are waiting on a few more students to get their books finish and join Author Hall of Fame!

Homework:
Friday Folder: Please review test and sign BOTH the tests and test log sheet.

Book Report: Students borrowed a  library book today and need to complete a book report for Monday. Remember good readers read a book more than once (practice reading it tonight and then again on Sunday). All book reports must be colored in order to get an A!

Missing Forms: The following students are missing forms. I sent home a sealed envelope of another copy of the form. Please sign and return forms as soon as possible!
-Joshua, Eliana, Gianna, Rudy, Ruth, and Isaac

Lastly, please work with you child every night on their sight words!!! They will learn to read quicker if they memorize and can say these words in a snap!

Thanks again and see you Monday!

~Mrs. Estrada 

Thursday 10/04/12

Hi!

Today we learned about the water cycle in Science and about the different types of lands in Social Studies. We also learned that when adding two numbers it is easier to start with the greater number and count up in Math.

Homework: 
Spelling: Practice test

Math: Worksheet on counting up

Reading: Practice sight words and reading log 

Wednesday 10/03/12

Hi!

Today the we learned about adding dialogue to our writing! The children's stories are coming out awesome!!! In Math we started Chapter 5 learning how to count on. Please ask your child to show you how using their "beehive" approach.

Homework:
Spelling: Rainbow Write

Reading: practice sight words and reading in nightly log

Math: Worksheet on counting on

Tuesday 10/02/12

Hi! I just wanted to remind you if you haven't completed the health/medical form please do so as soon as possible. Also please sign and return progress reports and failure notices. If you have return the forms already, then THANK YOU and keep being awesome. Lastly, please remind your child to keep ALL toys at home. Today we had a child bring a DS to school and with toys being so expensive we don't want to worry about lost, broken, or stolen items.

Thanks a ton!
~Mrs. Estrada

Homework:
Spelling: Draw and write 5 pictures and sentences (Some students ask to do more than 5, and of course they can. I will never say no to going above and beyond!)

Math: Worksheet on subtraction. Students must show their thinking by crossing out objects.

Reading: practice sight word flashcards and reading

Monday 10/01/12

Hi! Today in writing we picked one of our fvaorite story ideas to make into a publish book!!!! It will be an exciting day as we transform our writing into real books!!!

Homework:
Spelling: 3 times each. This week's read our: bug, nut, rug, run, sun, cut, mug, bun, hut

Math: Worksheet on subtraction

Reading: practice reading every night and sightword flashcards

Friday 09/28/12

Hi! Today Progress Reports are going home!!! Please make sure you review your child's progress reports with them. Please sign and return Progress Reports on Monday. 

Also, Friday Test folders are going home. Please review, sign, and return test on Monday. 

Lastly, please make sure sure book reports are completed by Monday. Today, your child borrowed a book from the classroom library to complete their book report. (Students who did not return book from last week, weren't allow to check out a new book, sorry.) 

Have a wonderful weekend! See you Monday!

Mrs. Estrada

Thursday 09/27/12

Hi! Today we learned about Cesar Chavez in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month! We also grew a lot has writers today, as we wrote our first paragraph!!!!

Homework:
Spelling: study words and give a "practice" test

Reading: Practice reading (log on backside of orange folder) 

Sight words: Practice sight words. For sight words students can practice "snap spelling" were you (parent) can call out the words and they can try to spell the word the "best" that they can. Students won't need to spell the word for tomorrow's assessment, but it will help them recognize the word when they read off the list tomorrow. 

Math: worksheet on subtraction 

Wednesday 09/26/2012

Homework:

Reading: practice reading every night (reading log in backside of orange folders) and practice sight words flash cards

Spelling: Rainbow Write

Math: Workbook page on subtraction

Tuesday 09/25/12

Hi! Today we worked on Math Centers and Reading Centers!!! This is a huge progress as it shows that the students are growing and becoming more responsible everyday. I did want to take this time to ask parents to please ensure that your child completes their homework nightly. I know it can be difficult to make time with busy schedules, but 1st grade is so important to build good foundational work habits!

Thanks,
Mrs. Estrada


Homework:
Spelling: Draw ONLY 5 pictures and sentences that match the illustration

Math: Workbook page on subtraction

Reading: Practice sight word flashcards and Reading Log

Parent Homework: Please complete the Student Medical Informational sheet and return as soon as possible.

Monday 09/24/12

Hi!

Today students will be bringing home their Sight Word Notebook for the first time. Please help your child practice their words by reading from the list or using the flashcards they received today.  Your child needs to be able to read these words "in a snap."

Homework:
Spelling: 3 times each

Reading: Practice sight words and read every night. Record reading in Reading Log

Math: Workbook page on subtraction

Friday 09/21/12

Hi! Today the students had a substitute teacher. Therefore, they were not able to check out a book from our classroom library. Please make sure your child reads a book from home, or a perfect time to take a trip to the Chicago Public Library to get a book for their book report due Monday. If you need to print a book report (misplaced) you can by clicking on "book report" to the right of the screen. Otherwise, the book report should be in the back slip of their orange folders.

See you Monday!
~Mrs. Estrada

P.S. Please make sure your child has school supplies to be successful in class. Yesterday, so many children didn't have their crayons and scissors. We only have 2 boxes of crayons and 4 scissors in our community share center, so with 31 students this becomes a challenge. If you can please make sure your child has everything they need that would be great. Thank you!

Homework:
Reading: Read and complete book report. Book report illustrations should be colored. 

Wednesday 09/19/12

Hi! The strike is finally over and we are back in the groove of things! Today we had to work on remembering routine and procedures as we transitioned from one lesson to the next.

I also wanted to remind parents about the importance of reading every night with your child. Some reading logs and response journals came back empty today. For those folks that had completed reading logs and journals, GREAT JOB!!!  Please work with your child so they can build a love for reading!

Lastly, there will be no Spelling words these week since we started the week on a Wednesday.


Homework:

Reading: practice reading (reading log)

Math: Workbook page on addition and subtraction (today we learned about subtraction)

Monday 09/10/12

Hi Parents,

Unfortunately CPS and CTU were not able to come to an agreement yet. I hope this strike is short and that our students get the quality education they deserve. On behalf of the teachers from our school and myself, we would like to thank all the parents and children who came and picketed today. Your support is appreciated in this fight to better our schools and education system.

Keep watching the news for the most up to date information about when school starts again.

Sincerely,
Mrs. Estrada

Friday and Weekend 09/07/12

Hi! Today I am sending home the "yellow" Test Folder. Please review the test inside the folder and sign each test to verify you saw your child's progress. In addition, please sign the Test Folder log keep track of communication.

Homework:
Reading: Read the book you borrowed form our classroom library and complete a book report.

Test Folder: Get test signed and return to class on Monday

Thursday 09/06/12

Hi! Today was an excellent day in first grade! We were able to complete 2 rotations of literacy centers with smooth transitions and we completed all subjects today! The students are growing so much in classroom routine that we are learning so much more, with 31 students this is a great accomplishment!!! YAY First Graders!!!


Homework:

Reading: read Nat's Cat for sight word practice and record in Reading Log

Math: Worksheet on addition 

Spelling: practice test and study words. Test tomorrow!

Wednesday 09/05/12

Hi!

Today we will be on Day 3 of Spelling since we had no school on Monday. Please look inside the Spelling notebook for more details. Most students were able to complete draw 5 Spelling words/sentences in class.

Homework:
Math: Worksheet on Addition

Spelling: Rainbow Write

Reading: read every night and record reading log

Tuesday 09/04/12

Hi!

Today we took our first NWEA assessment in the computer lab. Students will be taking this assessment three times throughout the year in Math and Reading. This assessment is to guide instruction and students' accountability for making growth in 1st Grade. Tomorrow we are taking the Reading assessment.

Homework:
Reading: Read every night and record reading in log (behind orange folder)

Spelling: 3 times each 

Friday

Hi! Today I had to miss school. The students had a substitute for the first time, I am sure they had a great day!

Homework:

Reading: Book Report students need to complete book report over the weekend. This could be any book of their choice. If your child misplaced their book report you can print an extra one at the right "book report"

Reminder: There is no school on Monday, see you Tuesday! 

Wednesday 8/29/12

Hi! Today we worked on writing stories that are small moments in our lives! Students did a great job drawing their illustration and matching their sentences with their words. Encourage your child to stretch out their words to hear all the s-o-u-n-d-s in the words. 

Homework:

Spelling: Rainbow Write (see spelling notebook)

Math: Worksheet on adding with drawing counters and words problems

Reading: Re-read "Fan and Nan" pg 51 and "We Can" these are easy decode-able stories or your child can read another story. (This might be too easy for some students) record reading in log.

Tuesday 8/28/12

Hi! I am asking if you can please donate one of the following items. If you can, that would be great! We have been  having lots of spills and accidents in our class. I try to teach my students healthy habits and keeping us healthy by keeping our space clean. Any little help is greatly appreciated! 

-Lysol disinfectant spray

-Lysol or Clorox Wipes 

-Purell hand sanitizer 

Homework:

Spelling: draw 5 more pictures and write a sentence using your spelling words in your sentence

Math: Workbook page 11-12

Reading: Practice sight words and read a book record reading in your log 

Monday 8/27/12

Hi! Today we learned about our weekly sight words. These words are not their Spelling words. students are responsible to practice these sight words nightly. Sight words make up 70% of words that students will encounter when reading. Sight words are not easy to decode so students will need to memorize them. Practice makes progress!

Homework:

Math: Worksheet on adding

Spelling: 3 times each

Reading: practice sight word flash cards and nightly reading

Thursday 8/23/12

Hi!

Today we worked on build our stamina during silent reading. We also practice on working at literacy centers.

Homework:
Spelling: practice test 

Math: workbook page

Reading: Read every night with your child 

Wednesday 8/22/12

Homework:

Reading: practice reading and record in reading log

Spelling: Rainbow Write (see inside of Spelling notebook)

Tuesday 8/21/2012

Hi!

Today we had an awesome day in school! The students are picking up the routine just fine. I am excited to report that we had all but 3 students complete their homework last night! That's awesome for a class of 31 students. Thanks parents for your help and support.

Homework:
Reading: practice reading (log on the back of the orange folder)

Math: Worksheet on counting

Spelling: Draw and illustrate  5 spelling words

Monday 8/20/12

Hi! Today we are off to our first day of our weekly routine. Today students received their Spelling words and we will work with these words throughout the week. I will update this blog daily to keep you inform on daily homework.

Homework:
Spelling: 3 times each (we started in class, so students just need to finish)

Math: Workbook page 3-4

Reading: Every night your child needs to read (please look in the back of their orange folder for more details).

Happy Monday!
~Mrs. Estrada

Under Construction!!!

Hi! I wanted to let you know that this blog will be under construction for the next couple of days as I transition from teaching 3rd grade to 1st grade this year!!!! Super excited to teach in the primary grades and utilize my knowledge of literacy. Please visit back to see the new changes to www.mrsestrada.com.

See you back on the 1st day of school, August 13th!!!! Don't forget the longer school day starts at 8:00am.

Enjoy your last days of Summer vacation,
~Mrs. Estrada

Summer Vacation!!!

It has been a great school year! I am so PROUD of all my students who worked very hard throughout the year. Thank you to all the parents who were supportive in helping their daughter/son with their homework, projects, reading logs, math facts, and motivation to always do their best! I had a great year working with this class and I will miss them all. Enjoy your summer, have some fun in the sun, and keep reading!

~Mrs. Estrada, NBCT

Wednesday 6/6/12

Hi! Today we took our last Reading Extended Response for the year!!!!!!!!!! This Friday is Fun Fair!!!!


Homework:

Spelling: You Pick 3 

Phonics: pgs 169-172

Math: Workbook 79

Reading: 20 min log and literature circle role sheet

Monday 6/4/12

Hi! Today we worked on literature circles as we continue to follow the Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane. We also worked on Math Extended Response working on making different combinations. Also, reminder that Awards Ceremony is tomorrow at 1:15pm, parents are welcomed!!!!

Spelling: Master Copy

Writing: Picture and Interview Article published  

Reading: 20 min log and literature circle role sheet

Friday June 1st 2012

Hi! Tomorrow is our Chicago Fun Run!!!! Students need to be at school at 8:15am! Those parents who are chaperoning and going on the bus need to be at school at 8:15 as well. Parents can also take their child themselves to Washington Park (5700 Russel Drive). The race starts at 10:00am!We should be back at school around 11:45. Please make sure your child knows a phone # they can call you at in case we get back earlier.

Homework:
Math: Workbook 76

English: Packet on Special Verb Be

Chicago Run: 8:15am 

May 5/31/12

Hi! Today we continued to read the novel The Miraclous Journey of Edward Tulane. We are working in literature circles using the reading strategies as students rotate roles from reporter, investiagtor, fortune teller, plugger and artist!!

Spelling: Finish You Pick 3

Reading: 20 min, reread Edward Tulane Chapters 5-6 and role sheets

Math: Workbook pg 75

English: pg 136 #1-15

Wednesday 5/30/12

Hi! Sorry for forgetting to update blog yesterday! It's been a busy time of year as we are getting ready to end the school year. Today the students enjoyed a trip to the Shedd for our sea creature unit! We had a blast! I also want to give a special thank to Taco Burrito King for providing lunch for all the students today!!! Thank you!

Homework:
Spelling: You Pick 3

Reading: 20 min log and Edward Tulane literature circle role sheet

Thursday 5/24/12

Hi! FIELD TRIP TOMORROW!!!!!!!! Bring a plastic bag lunch (You might want to include an ice pack to keep lunch cool, I will also bring a cooler for the students to throw their lunches in) Students are allow to wear shorts (light material that will dry easily with the sun) and their Chicago T-Shirts they created!!!! Please make sure your child wears an extra tank under their white shirt since white shirts can become "see through" when wet. Lastly, please make sure your child gets to school on time!

Homework:
Spelling: finish "You Pick 3"

Reading: 20 min log


Writing: news article and sketch on Daniel H. Burnham's plan

Tuesday 5/22/12

Hi! Today the students were able to make 3D models of their sea creatures!!!! We also took our end of the year cumulative test for math. Students also published their Chicago Skyscraper/Sport news article today. Tomorrow we will be working on our next article were students will write about Jean Baptiste Point Du Sable or Daniel H. Burnham.

Homework:
Spelling: You Pick 3 

Math: Review worksheet

Reading: 20 min log..... read about Sea Creature

Monday 5/21/12

Hi! Today we began our Science/Nonfiction Reading Unit of Sea Creatures!!!! Every student was assigned a specific sea creature to research and to become an expert on! Reminder that Chicago History Field Trip is THIS FRIDAY!!!

Homework: 
Spelling: 5 times each

Writing: Draft 3 paragraphs of news story reporting on the best Chicago Skyscraper or Sport. Illustrate and write caption to match news story. Use research notes!!!!

Math: review worksheet in preparation for End of the Year Cumulative test

Reading: 20 min log, read Sea Creature leveled book and record 4 more "I learned... I wonder..." on notes while reading. 

Friday 5/18/12

Hi! Today we had a great day of learning as we integrated our Peru Unit for International Night and Chicago Unit for Writing/Social Studies into our center. Students learned a lot about Peru through today's read a loud and then worked at a map and flag making center. Students learned about the architectural of Chicago skyline! Reminder that are field trip will be next Friday May 25 th!

Homework:
Friday Folder: please review, sign, and return test

English Packet: Verb Practice

Reading: 20 min log

If internet is available: Students may work on their continue research to their opinion piece of BEST Chicago skyscraper or sport!

Thursday 5/17/12

Hi! Important reminder that our field trip as been postponed to due to the NATO Summit. We will be taking our Chicago Trip on Friday, May 25^th 2012. This will allow us to fully enjoy the sights of downtown Chicago.  New permission slips will be sent home tomorrow!

Homework:

Spelling: Glue Sort and Write Sort, study for Spelling Test!

Reading: 20 min log

Scholastic News: Read and complete questions in the back. 

Writing: practice Editing the Editor worksheet