Polar Express and Math

We read the Polar Express today.  The kids had some experience with the movie, and were able to draw comparisons, and differences to the book.  We all turned to talk with a partner throughout the book,  making connections, talking about the character's feelings, and discussing the meaning of the word "lurch."

After the book was read, everyone took a train with numbers on it.  Then they rolled two diced and counted the sum of the dots.  They found that number on the train and colored it in.  We problem solved what to do if we got the same number twice.  The kids came up with great solutions like, "Color it again,"  "Check it to see if you could color it better,"  "Do nothing,"  and "Use a different color."

We went outside for recess and the kids had a great time playing in the snow.  Every child needs to bring a hat, mittens, snow pants, and boots to school EVERY DAY.  Even if the morning is super cold, by recess time it might be warm enough to go outside.  I want all the kiddos to be nice and warm so they can enjoy their recess.  Speaking of snow gear, I find that it helps to put ALL the snow gear in a reusable HANNAFORD bag, the kind right at the cash registers (they are the ones big enough, stand up on their own, and are easy to carry).  If the bag is labeled with your child's name, just like ALL the items inside the bag, it makes getting ready for recess and departure MUCH easier.  The kids can just grab their bags, go to a place with lots of space, and get ready.  They won't be all cramped by their cubbies.  This will also make it easier for your child to carry gear from home to school instead of trying to cram it into a backpack.  Please try to have one of the bags with your child's gear in it after Christmas break.