It’s hard to believe we are in our last stretch before the end of the school year! That said, there is still A LOT of work to complete to get everyone ready for first grade. Please continue to talk with your child about working hard and making good choices throughout the day. I appreciate your support at home!
If you still need to return your field trip money or Sing and Share RSVP, please do so ASAP.
Also, please let me know if you are not returning to PLE in the fall.
Dates:
May 2- Starting the countdown of the ABCs of Kindergarten
(more info to come)
May 11 – Ann Arbor Hands-on Museum magnet assembly at school
May 15th week – iReady testing
May 16 – Half Day (12:25 dismissal)
May 19 – Sing and Share 10:15– 11:15 am (end-of-year celebration). Guardians are encouraged to attend.
May 24 – Field Trip to the West Bloomfield Nature Center
May 26 – Half Day (12:25 dismissal)
May 29th – No School
June 2 – Tentative Field Day- Summer Birthday Party – we will not celebrate birthdays after this event.
June 13 – Final Half Day of School (12:25 dismissal)
Reading and Phonics
We studied blends and diagraphs. Blends are two or more consonant sounds that are blended in words, such as “bl,” “st,” and “gr.” Learning blends is important in kindergarten because it helps children develop their phonemic awareness, which is the ability to hear, identify, and manipulate individual sounds in words.
Phonemic awareness is crucial for reading and writing because it helps children understand the relationship between letters and sounds. In addition, by learning blends, children can more easily recognize and decode words, making them more confident and proficient readers.
In addition to improving reading and writing skills, learning blends can help children improve their vocabulary and language development. By understanding how different sounds are blended to form words, children can better understand the meanings of those words and use them in their speech and writing.
Writing
We started a new unit on persuasive or opinion writing. Students identify a problem and come up with ways to fix it. We do not write many essays but focus more on banners and signs. One benefit of learning persuasive writing in kindergarten is that it can help children learn how to express their ideas and thoughts in a clear and organized way. For example, persuasive stories, signs, and banners require students to identify their main point or argument and provide supporting reasons and evidence. By practicing this skill, children can learn how to structure and communicate their thoughts effectively.
Another benefit of persuasive writing is that it can help develop critical thinking skills. When writing a persuasive story, children must consider different viewpoints and think about countering arguments that may oppose their own. This can help them become more analytical and discerning in their thinking.
Science
Last two weeks, we studied what makes something living and all about Worms. We also wrote a book about worms that you can read below. Learning about worms in kindergarten can be beneficial for several reasons:
- Scientific knowledge: Learning about worms can help children develop their understanding of biology and ecology. They can learn about the physical characteristics of worms, how they live and reproduce, and their role in the ecosystem.
- Environmental awareness: Understanding the role of worms in the ecosystem can help children develop a sense of environmental awareness and responsibility. They can learn how worms contribute to soil health and the growth of plants and how their actions can impact the environment.
- Hands-on learning: Studying worms can be a hands-on and engaging way for children to learn about science. They can observe and interact with worms, which can help them develop their observation and inquiry skills.
- Language development: Learning about worms can also help children develop their language skills. They can learn new vocabulary words related to science and the environment and practice using them in conversation and writing.
- Personal growth: Learning about worms can help children develop important unique qualities such as empathy and responsibility. They can learn to appreciate the value of all living things and develop a sense of responsibility for caring for the natural world.
Learning about worms in kindergarten provides a valuable foundation for children’s scientific knowledge, environmental awareness, language development, and personal growth.
Social Studies
This week we learned about wants and needs, producer and consumer, and money. We will learn more about money later in the year. Still, students become fascinated with learning how money and trading help us provide for our needs.
