We are closing out the first month of the new year, and students have enthusiastically embraced our studies of the solar system, space, and constellations. Kindergartners methodically created their own paper version of the solar system after hearing lessons from Ms. Melissa and Ms. Diana about each planet. Keeping with Montessori practices of presenting material in a concrete way, the children were taught about our solar system through songs and movement. During whole group instruction, 3 children were chosen to represent the sun, earth, and moon. The proper rotation times were then recited. For instance, “it takes 365 days for the earth to go around the sun” and “it takes 28 days for the moon to go around the earth.” An ample supply of planet books in our science area gave our students the chance to learn about our solar system.
Eating a “moon snack” after preparing it with Evangelina (Roman’s mom) and Michele (Sophia’s mom) in our kitchen. Thanks ladies for orchestrating the cooking project this month.
Completing a four digit addition problem, using the stamp box objects.
On to a more earthly subject, considerable effort is used to teach and reinforce grace and courtesy in the classroom. Every Wednesday morning, Ms. Melissa gives a whole group peace lesson. At times, she talked about what makes someone a good friend (a good friend is kind, a good friend is helpful, and a good friend listens to your words). It has been wonderful to watch our students employ these guidelines in some of their social relationships! Ms. Melissa routinely emphasizes the importance of using good manners. It has a profound effect on the room when students are using their good manners. As their interactions are respectful of each other, the room is more peaceful and deeper levels of concentration and learning are experienced in the space. Let’s keep this process going both at home and at school. We find that the more children use “please and thank you” in their daily interactions, the more natural and unprompted their responses become.
Exploring Europe while using the puzzle map to trace the countries onto a white piece of paper.
REMINDERS
Wednesday, 1/29 is kindergarten re-enrollment information night at 5:00pm for the 2020-2021 school year. All families who have currently enrolled pre-K children are encouraged to attend.
Thursday, 1/30 is 1st grade re-enrollment information night at 5:00pm for the 2020-2021 school year. All families who have currently enrolled kindergarten children are encouraged to attend.
SNACK AND FLOWER THANKS
A great big thanks to Ben, Zach, and their families for providing delicious snacks and beautiful flowers for our classroom.