Reading Workshop

This week we entered into an author study of one of The Cooper School’s most favorite
authors: Cynthia Rylant. Author of the Poppleton series, the Henry and Mudge books, and picture book favorites like When I Was Young in the Mountains, Cynthia Rylant’s rich literature for children is perfect for in-depth study. Students got to explore her books this week, noticing similarities and differences between series, and identifying personality traits of characters.

Art

Did you know that the Inuit have a rich and ancient tradition of creating beautiful carvings from soapstone? They sometimes incorporate bone or antler into the pieces as well. In an attempt to recreate this process, First Graders got to chance to carve not soapstone… but soap! In a special art class, and under the guidance of some extra adults, students used plastic knives to carve a chosen Arctic
moti
f. Whale tails and polar bears were the most common, but some students chose other creative designs. The results will be on display at our Polar Presentation next week!
Self-Assessment

This is the time of year that we teach students how to reflect on their learning and assess both their areas of strength and areas for growth. Over several weeks, we examine everything from math to reading to handwriting to cooperative partnerships. In each area, First graders carefully consider how they have grown this year and how they would like to keep growing. Reflection, in this way, is a highly valuable part of the learning process and we are happy to give it the time and consideration it deserves.

Important Dates

• Monday, February 22 – Polar Presentation, 8:15am
• Friday, February 26 – TCS Parent Coffee Morning, 8:30-9:30am
• Friday, March 4 – First Swim Lesson!
• Monday and Tuesday, March 7 and 8 – Half Days, Student-Led Conferences
• Friday, March 11 – Second Swim Lesson!
• Friday, March 18 – Third Swim Lesson!