Week of Nov. 6th-Nov. 10th

What a special week in 2G!  We had an amazing field trip to the Children's Museum on Tuesday.  The Japanese Home we got to explore was incredible and we learned so much about what a traditional home/lifestyle would have been like in the past.  Please enjoy these additional highlights of our studies:
Social Studies: In preparation for our big trip, we learned about what a Japanese home may look like in both urban and rural areas. We are reading about the daily routines of a young boy and girl in a wonderful book entitled, All About Japan, by Willamarie Moore.  In addition, 2Gers are studying the four main islands of Japan and how different the weather and landscape is in each one.  
Science:  Scientists had so much fun learning about many of the creatures that live in and around a rotting log.  We got to see photographs of each creature and talk about what we observed. At the end of the week we played a food chain game and everyone was surprised to see who was on top! Ask your scientist to tell you about some of their favorite rotting log friends.
Literacy: Readers continued their non-fiction research about landforms and bodies of water with a partner this week.  We are learning to tell important facts in our own words.  Students are asking excellent questions as they read as we practice thinking "beyond the text". 
Writing Workshop:  Way to go, Publishers!!! Writers published their small moments stories on Thursday.  These fantastic stories include a dedication page and cover.  Students learned how to use their new Spelling Dictionaries to edit their writing. We'll be using our dictionaries when writing all future stories as we learn to check our work more independently.  I am so proud!
Math: Mathematicians used Base 10 Blocks to practice regrouping.  In addition, we created, "Place Value Pumpkins" that are on display on our hallway bulletin board.  These highlight our ability to describe a given 2 or 3-digit number in four different ways: 1. In a number bond 2. In a number sentence 3. Using Hundreds, Tens, and Ones, and 4. Drawing a picture of Base 10 Blocks. 
Enjoy your weekend!