Wednesday, November 4, 2009

Second Grade Field Trip



Second grade students were super excited this morning about their field trip to JCA. We were privileged to watch a play about the very first Thanksgiving. The actors/actresses on stage traveled back in time to 1620 where they met pilgrims, Native Americans, and the Queen of England. We learned from the play, that the Pilgrims traveled to the New World on the Mayflower in search of religious freedom. The Pilgrims signed the Mayflower Contract which guaranteed equality amongst themselves when they settled in Plymouth. A harsh winter was approaching and the local Native Americans decided to help the Pilgrims learn how to survive. The Native Americans taught the pilgrims how to fish, plant corn, and use a bow and arrow. The Pilgrims govenor, William Bradford declared the day to be a day of thanksgiving. The Pilgrims invited Squanto and the local Native Americans to join them for a feast and a day full of festivities to show their gratitude. The play was very interactive...students were able to go on stage and be a part of the act. What a great experience! We owe a big thanks to Mrs. Morris and everyone that was part of putting this field trip together.

Great Job Everyone,


Ms. Hawas


Saturday, October 24, 2009

Fall Carnival Festivities

This years fall carnival was amazing. :) The day started off great with a parade from the K-1 grades. The whole school cheered them on as they showed off their literary costumes (costumes from a book). The day didn't stop there...From 6-7 p.m., students were dressed in their costumes and were able to receive treats from each post on the first floor. There were some very creative costumes. I saw a chef, Sleeping Beauty, Junie B. Jones, a cowgirl, Harry Potter, a caterpillar, Stellaluna, and even a Chicka Chicka Boom Boom tree. My costume just had to be Fancy Nancy from the book, Fancy Nancy and the Posh Puppy. My costume idea was no surprise to my students since my favorite word to use is "fancy." From 7-9 p.m., students were able to use their tickets at the booths outside. There was bowling , musical books, bean bag toss, rock climbing, a fun jump, nachos, Starbucks, and the list continues. The carnival was so much fun and the volunteers were great as always. I cannot wait until next year!

Friday, October 23, 2009

Literary Pumpkins


Well, what is a literary pumpkin? A display of pumpkins is made from a scene in a chosen book. First, the students from each class decide on a book they love to read together. Next, they decide on a scene they like from their chosen book. Then, the students in the class decorate the scene by painting the pumpkins, cutting clothes for the characters, and putting the final product together. Finally, the beautiful literary pumpkins are displayed in the front lobby for everyone to enjoy. Our class chose the book, Strega Nona, written by Tomie De Paola. In our scene, Big Anthony is sitting on the magic pot of overflowing spaghetti. Spaghetti is even coming out of the doors. I really enjoyed working with the students on the literary pumpkins. Thank you to all of the volunteers that were able to help...YOU are amazing!

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

Combinations Club Graffiti Wall



This year our second grade students are learning to become fluent with addition combinations. Students will learn these combinations through repeated practice and educational games. The combination sets include: Make Ten, Plus 1, Plus 2, Doubles, Near Doubles, Plus 10, and Plus 9. When students believe they have mastered one set they will be quizzed using flash cards. Wait it gets more exciting...It is their choice when they want to be quizzed. If a student answers all combinations correctly they get to sign the graffiti wall by the classroom. How exciting!!! Of course, they are celebrated in the classroom and receive a certificate to take home. I am so proud of all of my brave second graders for trying and never giving up :)

Wednesday, October 7, 2009

Our Classroom Survey


The month of October is all about SURVEYS. Surveys are a fun way for class members to get to know each other better. It is also a great way for students to voice their opinions on a certain topic. The following are class surveys we have worked on: "Which outdoor activity is your favorite?", "What is your favorite color?", and "Which weather condition is your favorite?" Stay tuned to find out which survey we work on next.