Hour of Code

This week we participated in the Hour of Code, a week in December,  during which children are encouraged to try coding and beginning programming.  On Tuesday, we the children had the opportunity to try out different coding games.  They can access these coding games at home at Hour of Code Activities.  Be sure to ask your child about the coding games he or she tried!

In math, we continued working with triple-digit numbers and worked on rounding those numbers to the nearest ten and hundred.  We also learned the standard algorithm for adding numbers in math.  After using a variety of strategies to solve multi-digit addition problems, the children were taught how to add numbers in the way you were probably taught in elementary school.  We used base ten pieces (hundreds, tens, and ones) and quick sketches to help model the standard algorithm as well.  Can your child demonstrate this new strategy for you?

In Reader's Workshop, we are continuing with our nonfiction study.  Miss Deb's class is reading historical books and Miss Niles' class is reading biographies.  This week Jeff Badillo, our technology integrationist, visited Miss Niles' class to teach them how to use Puppet Edu.  This is an app on the ipad that allows students to make slide shows with voice recording.  The children then read and created slideshows about the subjects of their biographies.  Ask your child about his or her slideshow!

Our nonfiction books in Writer's Workshop are coming along quite nicely!  We hope to have some kind of author's share before the Holiday Break.  Many children are in the rewriting and publishing phases of the writing process.

We were very excited that one of our Esprit 3rd Graders was chosen as Principal of the Day for this month!  He spent the day with Ms. Celmer and had the opportunity to read to some of the students in the school and drink hot chocolate!!!

Lastly,  we hope to see many of you at the PTO Holiday Craft Fair this Saturday.  Team Esprit will have a table so be sure to stop by and see all of their creations.  Have a great weekend!