Hello Everyone,

We have been very busy since the return from March vacation. We finished the Science Unit, “Sates of Matter.” We did a total of 15 experiments or investigations. The best was the last one, where we made ice cream! I asked Neal, “Why are we making ice cream in Science class?” He responded, “Because the liquid will turn to a solid in the machine and then it will be go in our mouths and turn back to a liquid.” Perfect!

Each child wrote a non-fiction book all about matter. They had to include a table of contents, headings, labeled diagrams, and an experiment. They were quite comprehensive and a wonderful assessment of what was mastered and retained. They will be bringing these home as they are finished. Look for them in the backpacks. We are now onto amphibians and reptiles. We will be going to Bartholemew’s Cobble on April 30 to explore a vernal pool and possibly a few friendly snakes and turtles. More details will follow.

We are in the middle of our study of Mexico and its culture, food, music, language, history, and holidays. Mrs. Hilliard is working with the children on songs and movement. Ms. Velez, the BCD Spanish teacher, came to the class as a guest and played a game with the children in Spanish. Our Mexican Fiesta is Friday, April 24, at 10:45. All are welcome to celebrate learning and eat delicious foods.

In math the first and second graders completed a study of geometry. They studied 2-D and 3-D shapes. There is a great deal of vocabulary: prisms, hemisphere, trapezoids, quadrilateral, nets, faces, vertices, edges, and much more. The first graders used their knowledge of shape to create a 2-D mural of a town, and a 3-D model of a hotel. They named it “The 3-D Hotel” – very appropriate. Next, we are onto place value for first grade and fractions for second grade.

Everyone’s reading is improving, but they still need practice to remain fluent. Please continue to encourage your first or second grader to read a bit every day. It really makes a huge difference! Thank you for your support.

On Wednesday, April 15, we will be traveling by bus with the Lower School to the Mahaiwe Theater to see the play, “The Very Hungry Caterpillar.” It should be very fun and is supported by BCD. We will leave at 9:15 and return for recess at 11:30.

One morning this week, we announced “NO SNOWPANTS FOR RECESS!” A huge shout of joy erupted in the cubby area. We are more than ready for spring!

Fondly,
Ms. Milani