January is great!  It often feels like a brand new year has begun – the children return rested and happy (and noticeably taller!)  But, unlike September, we already know each other well and we can quickly return to our established routines and rhythms.

Our new unit of study is Penguins in the Antarctic with a particular focus on Emperor and Adelie penguins.  Our classroom library has many books that teach about their unusual habitat.  We also will have several adorable projects to accompany this, so make sure to keep an eye on our bulletin boards over the next few weeks.

Writing Workshop continues to be a big hit with the children.  They are developing perseverance and a great work ethic.  Each day they can’t wait to begin writing (if fact, if my mini-lesson goes on too long, their hands go up with the question, “Can we start now??”)  I enjoy seeing their enthusiasm and their skills grow simultaneously!

Working together during Writing Workshop!

We celebrated Sam’s school birthday last week.  Sam’s parents were able to join us in the classroom.  The class had a great time listening to a book about super heroes.  Afterwards there was delicious cake to share.  Thank you, Terri and David, for making Sam’s birthday a happy one!

We had a special treat this week.  Gabrielle’s dad, Paul, was a professional musician earlier in his career and a few days ago he came to the classroom to play recorder for us (actually, he played three recorders for us – soprano, alto, and a tiny sopranino!)  He is an excellent musician and the children were mesmerized!  Thank you, Paul, for sharing your talent with us.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In closing, we’ve spent good time this week learning about the life of Martin Luther King, Jr., and other courageous people – Rosa Parks and Ruby Bridges – of the 1960’s.  Today we read Martin’s Big Words by Doreen Rappaport.  Based on the book, each child had their own “Big Words” to say:

Don’t fight.  Love People.  Treat people the way you want to be treated.  Ben

I want no violence.  Bronly

I don’t want any wars.  Elias

I want love all around the world.  Everett

I have a dream that one day all the hunters will agree that hunting rhinos is not fair.  Gabi

I want no more guns.  Henry

I hope for peace and I want to do a speech.  Jacob

I wish Martin was never put in jail.  I want no war.  Max

Wish.  Happy.  Love.  Money.  Hope.  I have a dream.  Sam

 

Powerful words from small people!  Have a great weekend.

Andrea