From what I've heard it sounds like everyone had a fantastic vacation.  We have really appreciated having snow since our return to school.  Thank you for sending your children with appropriate clothing each day- it makes it much easier to actually enjoy the snow if they are warm and dry!

In math we have started a unit on geometry.  So far our focus has been on observing and describing 2-dimensional shapes, noting each shape's distinguishing characteristics, such as number of sides and corners or vertices.  Children have had an opportunity to make shapes and designs using pattern blocks and  geo-boards, as well as using paper shapes to make pictures.

Exploring shapes with geo-boards.

Since our return we have been exploring similarities and differences among people around the world, particularly children.  The books we have a read do a wonderful job of pointing out that while we are all unique, in many ways, no matter where we live in the world, we have much in common.  One book we read is Shades of People, by Shelley Rotner and Sheila M. Kelly.  One page in the book says "Our skin is just our covering, like wrapping paper.  And, you can't tell what someone is like from the color of their skin."    After reading this book we observed eggs, noting the different shades and unique feature of each egg.  After making our observations we cracked several eggs and noticed that while each egg is a little different inside, they are all remarkably alike - sort of like people.   Some of the books we have really enjoyed are One World, One Day by Barbara Kenley, and Wake Up World!  A Day in the Life of Children Around the World, by Beatrice Hollyler.   This book explores the daily routines of eight children around the world from waking up and eating breakfast, to going to school, playing with friends, and eating dinner and going to bed.  While these children have vastly different lives depending on what part of the world they live in, there are also many really important commonalities.

Observing eggs.

*Next week is Rainbow Week!  Each day hot lunch will be based on a color of the rainbow and children are encouraged to wear the corresponding color.  Monday is red day!