Opinion Writing

First graders have begun a new writing unit and it's all about sharing their opinions on something, writing a review of it, and trying to convince others to try it (or not!).  We began our unit by focusing on some popular board games and card games. Students chose a game that they really like to try out this kind of writing.  They made a plan before starting their piece to help them think through the reasons they had to support their opinion (aiming for at least three reasons). We are in the early stages but already some strong opinions and supporting reasons are shining through!

The Most Important Parts

During Reading Workshop first graders have been learning about, and finding, the most important parts of the stories they are reading.  Students are marking these parts with sticky notes, which helps them to remember those parts when they are talking about the book with someone else.  We have done this as a whole class, discussing together what the big events and most important parts are of a story that we have read together.  Students are also doing this important work in small reading groups, as well as in their independent reading books.  During partner reading, students have been telling each other about the important parts in their books before reading them together.  There have been a lot of wonderful conversations going on about our books and the most important parts in them!  It has also helped students to slow down and do some deeper thinking about the stories they are reading. 

Celebration Tomorrow!!

RES students have earned another reward for their expected behavior!  

FRIDAY April 7

Sugar on Snow

And 

Dress Like a Vermonter!!!!