Here I go to Seattle, get married and then return to VA and forget to blog. Well that isn't actually the truth; I didn't forget to blog, I just haven't been able to find time. I'll have regrets when I go back to read the archives years from now. Well, the light is shinning bright at the end of this tunnel and rain is now falling on this dry spell.
Before the Spring Break we enjoyed an unforgettable event, Outside of the Box Day. The Molecules became elves and helped the shoemaker by designing and creating very cool shoes. Thank you to the parents who joined us, gave their time and support. We love you! After creating the shoes we walked the runway in Mrs. Riverson's room. Her students extended great compliments before presenting to us the their handmade instruments. What a treat we all had! The pride and effort put forth was outstanding!
To end our plant unit, we decorated the front of the school with pansies. We've explored the roots, stem, leaves and flower... we're plant experts. Ask us anything!
In Math Workshop we will finish the year reviewing all the math concepts introduced this year. Lots of attention will be on addition and subtraction word problems and number sentences, counting coins and yes, even making change. Each week new math games and activities will be introduced that the Molecules will play with partners. While they work independently, Ms. V and me will work with the Molecules needing additional support.
On Monday, Mr. Markowitz joined us to share his creative improv talents. Lots of laughter here! What fun!
Today we celebrate the administrative assistants at our school. We created a book for these wonderful people letting them know why they were important. This book was inspired by Margaret Wise's The Important Book. We headed down to the office to present Mrs. Diaz, Mrs. Mazzaro, Ms. Morard and Ms. Warring our book. I think we may have made their day!
We've enjoyed watching this fox and her family all week. It seems they love to hang at ASFS!
Our animal unit has begun! For the next two weeks we'll hang out in the woodlands. The next stop after the woodlands is the ocean, then desert and finally the rain forest. In each region we'll study the different animals of that habitat. Soon to be arriving in the classroom: tadpoles, caterpilers, and mealworms.
Best wishes to you and Drew, Mr. Riley!
Molecules: I had so much fun helping on Outside the Box Day--you all are SO creative!
And guess what? Haley's Nana and I saw the mama fox and her two babies right in front of us as we were walking behind the school on our way home--very cool!
Posted by: Pamela | April 27, 2006 at 09:57 AM
Dear Mr. Riley and Marvelous Molecules,
I was so happy to be able to be able to see all of you in your classroom while I was visiting with my granddaughter Haley and her mom and dad. I was impressed with how well-behaved you were and the interest you showed in your projects. Most of all, I loved the positive way you responded to your classmates who read to you from the Author's Chair. Keep up the good work!
Haley's Nana, Pat
Posted by: pat Lessard | April 27, 2006 at 03:50 PM
Looking forward to visiting with you and all those beautiful Molecules in a couple weeks.
Love,
your Papa
Posted by: Ray Riley | May 23, 2006 at 10:34 PM