Silent Reading Replaces Rest Time

Many of us were thrilled at the notion of reading during rest time. Now that we all can make it an entire day without nodding off, kindergarten has begun sustained silent reading. For almost ten minutes Room Thirty-One is silent; with the exception of elongated vowels and tricky sight words erupting in an effort to sound out.


During this time students are expected to choose a book they can read to themselves without aide. These books can be found in baskets labeled for reading group levels. Soon, each child will receive a book bin where they are given specific texts to read for proficient practice.

Suresh's Family Culture

Our tradition of celebrating family culture continues with Suresh's drawn depictions of his mom, dad, brother and his cats. Four beautiful pictures of cats to be exact. The class was enthralled with tales of the prized animals. Great conversation was had over the differences between family pets, their role in the household and why, alas, some houses yet remain devoid of furry creatures.

Halloween

Thanks to all the volunteers who aided Lucy Bosworth, we were able to have a a party that included gift bags, wholesome food and...a little bit of sugar!

A kindergarten tradition! Jump!
Crazy!
But first smile nicely.

Hi Eimhin!
Can Baba Phet fly to the ground?

I don't know, but Supergirl can help!


Can you pick out the superheros, mad scientists, or Star Wars characters?

Can you tell the height of the photographer here?

Sophie's Family Culture

Culture can be explained in many ways. Sophie decided to present her family culture using PowerPoint. As always, our similarities and differences were discussed, even concerning the way which we present and why.

Our Family Cutlure Window

Leo, Soren and Isabella have had the opportunity to share their family culture to the class. This presentation comes in many different forms. Children are asked to share about their home life in order to begin conversations about the similarities and differences within our community. Students love finding out that they have been to the same places, celebrate the different ways, or wonder at the possibility of responsibility. As Leo put it, "because we are old enough to pick up our own toys! (we have to clean our room)"


Soren and Leo brought in pictures and asked the class to really try and figure out the differences between them. The class worked hard to create a Venn Diagram of the twins similarities and differences. My favorite similarity between the Westrey twins was, "they both love!".



Isabella gave Mrs. Kurkinen the highest of compliments when she perfectly mimicked her teacher by saying, "I won't call on you unless you are sitting criss-cross with your hand quietly raised".

Math Harvests

We got such nice specimens at the patch, we had to get the specs!
Kindergarten came home today with the pumpkins they picked on out field trip to Oregon Heritage Farms. First, every scientist must observe their object. Then... the unifix cubes come out and the measuring begins. Ask for your kindergartner to tell you a little about their pumpkin!

Author's Chair

As students begin to write their ideas using words (AND LOWER CASE LETTERS) they are given the chance to stand on a chair and read the finished piece to the class. Some may have a whole page about the best part of kindergarten : ) and some may have a list of their favorite superheros. Regardless of the topic, it spares the rest of us on with new ways to refine our craft.