OPEN HOUSE INTEGRATED CURRICULUM � math, phonics,
grammar, social studies, science, reading and writing are all
taught within
the context of a theme using real literature and books related to
that theme.
This theme is stated at the beginning of the weekly newsletter.
We use a Phonic�s workbook. You will see those pages come home
on a regular
basis.
JOURNALS � reading and writing go hand in hand. We learn to read
by writing
and we learn to write by reading.
We use 4 duotangs � one for each quarter.
VOCABULARY/SPELLING � We we use Sitton�s most frequently used
words(there are
30 for the first grade) plus words that are related to the theme.
MATH � emphasis is on number facts up to 10. It is important to
use the flash
cards nightly. Timed tests will begin in January.
Other concepts taught are time, money, measuring and shapes. Math
pages and
homework will come home often.
PORTFOLIOS � I keep several samples of writing in a portfolio to
be sent home
around report card time. Each piece is dated in order to see
progress.
FIRST GRADE COMMUNICATIONS � Each and every Monday I will send
home a
newsletter to keep you informed as to the theme for the week,
homework and
other tidbits going on in our classroom. You may also find this
information
on St. Al�s web page.www.saintals.org. The website is updated
weekly.
HOMEWORK � varies nightly. It will be listed in the weekly
newsletter.
Every night your child should review number facts, read and
practice
handwriting.TABLETS needed for homework are sold for $2.00 here
at school.
GYM CLASS is on WEDNESDAY. First graders may wear gym clothes to
school on that day. Please clearly label clothing.
BIRTHDAYS may be celebrated by sending in a treat on that day.
Please be sure
that the treat is something that can easily be distributed.
Summer birthdays
will be celebrated in May. A notice will be sent to you at that
time to
decide on a date. NO PARTY INVITATIONS MAY BE SENT THROUGH SCHOOL.
LABEL your child�s clothing, backpack, lunchbox, etc. This is
very important
as children often do not recognize their own belongings.
RECESS is at 9:30 and 11:30 EVERYDAY. Please see that your child
is dressed
appropriately. Also, your child may have a healthy snack during
morning recess.We do go out in all weather but rain!
When ABSENT, a written note stating the reason for the absence is
REQUIRED
when your child returns. Have some responsible person come to our
class to
pick up homework.
Scholastic BOOK CLUB order forms are sent home each month. There
is no obligation to buy. If you do want to order please make a
check payable
to SCHOLASTIC BOOK CLUB.
�BOOK IT� program is sponsored by Pizza Hut to encourage good
reading habits.
It begins in October. I will send home a monthly calendar each
month for the
six months of the program. Each month your child must read (or be
read to)
for 15 minutes for 10 nights. You then need to initial the box on
the
calendar for those nights and return it when it�s completed (a
total of 150
for the month). This program is homework and is required.
STAR OF THE WEEK is a program that helps promote self-esteem.
Each child will
have a turn. A note will be sent home telling you of his/her
turn. Please
help fill out the interview and gather some pictures and any
other meaningful
things.
I began a HOMEWORK BAG program a couple of years ago which was
liked very
much. Therefore I will do it again this year. Your child will
bring home a
bag of sorts with activities and directions. This is an
opportunity for you
to spend a little time with your child with some fun but
educational
activities. You may keep it for only one night so that it can
circulate
throughout the class. There are many bags with different
activities
that will be circulating throughout the year. Have fun!
Our BIG SIB program is for the purposes of guidance and tutoring,
role
modeling and sharing creativity. The children will be paired with
an eighth
grader to do some reading, journal writing, and art projects.
They meet once
or twice a month. No gifts or treats should be exchanged.
PARENT HELPERS are needed and wanted. Put preferred day and time
on sign up
sheet at Open House. You will be notified as to when to come.
Once a month is
preferred but if only once a year your child will be happy! It is
mandatory
that you take the Child Decree Program and be fingerprinted
before you can
help. This is mandated by the Archdiocese and you will need to
show your card
for verification. Thank you for your understanding in this matter.
COMMUNICATION is very important. If your child is having any
difficulty or
you have any questions please contact me by: calling the school
office and
leaving a message as to when is a good time to reach you; writing
a note; or
emailing me at cappel_p@saintals.org.
FRIDAY PACKETS will come home with the oldest child in school.
This contains
all communication from the school office and the PTO.
SCRAP PAPER of any kind from your work or elsewhere is always
appreciated.
I�m looking forward to a great year!
