Mrs. Trask - First Grade
June 4, 2010

BIBLE: We finished our study of Psalm 23 and how shepherds care for their sheep. We had great discussion about following our Good Shepherd.

READING/LANGUAGE: We took down our footprints representing the books we read since finishing the Book-It program. You might want to continue the footprint path in your house giving your child a footprint for every book read this summer.

I shared the Westerville Library's Summer Reading Program information with your child. The kick-off is Thursday, June 10 at 9 am at the library with all kinds of fun activities as well as getting a reading log to participate in the program. I will be there next Thursday and hope to see my students as well.
When grade cards come home, I have included a letter to offer reading series your child can read through this summer as well as their reading level presently. The librarians will help you to find appropriate books for your child to read based on his/her reading level.

I use an assessment called the DRA. This is used throughout the public school districts in the Columbus area. Many students scored either at a Level 24 or Level 28. These levels mean that your child should be reading books that would be appropriate for the latter half of the grade 2. I am so pleased with these scores. In order to keep your child's reading this strong, your child MUST continue to read on a daily basis.

I am sending home a reading survival kit packed with summer reading/craft ideas for your child to enjoy.

MATH: We spent time on telling time this week. I am sending home a math survival kit with activities to review and go into more depth math concepts discussed this year.

MISCELLANEOUS:
1. Grade cards will go home next week after all library books, school fees or other necessary paperwork is turned and/or checked from all families

2. Yearbooks are still available to order if you would like one. Please check with the office if you need a new order form.

I want to say that it has been a joy working with this class this year. Every year is unique is some way and I would say that this class has had the characteristic of leadership. I had many "chiefs"in this class. The academic strength in this class has been remarkable particularly in the reading and language areas. Over 98% of the class is reading at a mid-second or late second grade level.

From my perspective as a Reading Specialist, that is amazing!!! Thank you for supporting the program through the practice of reading at home. It makes all the difference.

I pray that each of you have a blessed summer with many opportunities to explore. There is a wonderful book called, Kids Love Ohio. You can check it out from the library. The call number is 917.71 ZAV. It lists dozens of places you can take your child in Ohio to discover & learn about everything imaginable. I highly recommend it.

It was written by a family who lives here locally. Many places listed are free or have a minimal charge involved. I shared the book with the class. Did you know that you can visit a real castle down in Cincinnati? Or can take a horse drawn canal boat ride? These and other fun things are listed in this book.

I will be checking my school email this summer. If you have questions or want more summer learning activity ideas, please let me know.
Blessings to you,
Mary Trask