It is the 2010 and we are all 5 now (thank goodness). As the children have all the basics under their belt and are comfortable with our classroom, classmates and routines, we are ready to embark on some new material.  We will be starting the PAF (Preventing Academic Failure) program which I am determined to call “Better Letter Time”. The letters worked on in class will be expected to be formed correctly from now on. The first letter is the letter c and we will be working on formal lines. We will be working in a workbook for part of this program.

Soon the children will be tested on letter names, letter sounds, and sounding out words to see where I need to change my instruction to work with them more efficiently and more productively. These are timed tests so it is important to practice the letters and sounds until they can be given quickly.

We will also work to write simple sentences using our sight words, read color words and now that all the children are benchmarked, they will begin reading “just right” books. At this time, most of the children are reading predictable books. If you read the first page to them, they should be able to pick up on the pattern of the book and continue reading. Children should begin to use their reader’s toolbox - look at the picture, touch the words as you read, and look at the initial sound of the words.

If you send me a note, I will send extra books home for your child to read to you. Just return the books when finished.  

Hopefully, I will have a little time to teach the children a little about Alaska. I was lucky enough to go hiking for two weeks in Denali National Park and I have pictures and adventures to share with the children.

Happy New Year.