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Student expectations for 2002 - 2003 Language I use whole language and phonics based approaches in my reading program. My spelling units are based on phonics and are important to the skills I intend to develop. Also, students will read books of their own choice as well as the reading text. They will be expected to read aloud as part of the language experience. Hillcrest has also adopted a new reading curriculum, and we are also experimenting with ability grouping. In the second grade there will be reading groups of 10 to 15 students who are similar in reading ability. The hope is that we will be better able to focus on the needs specific to each group and improve the reading abilities of all. This year I will continue the successful Home Reading Program which I began last year. This program allows students to bring home beautiful books for you to read with your child. It was, in part, the reason my student's reading ability increased so much last year. Mathematics In addition to the basics in math we have the Mathlands program which involves pure thinking skills, and the use of mathematical tools that will aid in comprehending number theory and its applications. We have adopted a new math program as well this year and I feel that in combination with what I already have the students will have an exciting time in math. Science In science we will use the hands on and experimental approaches as we explore the factors effecting how plants grow and learn how to keep records, and create experiments of our own. I will also explore the nature of sound, and the physics of construction. Social Studies Part of social studies is learning how to solve problems one has with another person. For this reason we begin the year with building our class rules. Then I have them experience problems solving by using what I call class court. In class court we do not establish guilt or innocense, but rather focus on coming to a solution which resolves the differences. We study the pledge, the San Francisco, California, and U.S. flags, and we learn about the different people who make up our commumity. Computer Skills This year I have upgraded my computers and we will be able to study in the curricular areas of math, reading, and language, graphic arts, and chess. Music, Singing, and Chess Each year I make arrangements for the teaching of musical instruments in my class. In past years this results in my class performing several times during the school years. I will also teach singing and chorus. My class forms the core of Hillcrest's Chess Club. Each year we play every Friday, and play in a tournament in May. Chess is valuable component of my curriculum because of its potential for developing thinking skills, and problem solving. Class Court Part of my Social Studies curriculum includes class court, a forum for students in my class to resolve differences through discussion; we do not decide guilt. But rather help them find a peaceful solution. I manage the court while the students find solutions. Homework This year students will have math and spelling homework Monday through Thursday, always. Almost every day there will also be a reading comprehnesion sheet. To this I have added the Home Reading Program. Occasionally there will be additional work that will require your participation. I ask that you sign each of your child's homework assignments. This helps me work with your child and communicate with you. It is very important. Missing homework: I keep track of missing or incomplete homework and I arrange for the student to make up that work, usually this is done during recess times. Parties My class earns parties. The students earn points when they cooperate in promoting a learning environment. We also recycle aluminum cans and the money we get is used to buy party supplies. I have to say that through the years we have succeeded in having a good number of parties. Parents are always notified, and are, of course, invited. Students bring whatever treats they want, save two items, gum and candy. Outside of those items, let the good times roll. Behavior and Parent contact I have one rule that I explain to both parents and students and that is that students are expected to follow instructions. A student will be given five warnings before I use consequences such as time out, reduction of recess privileges, or referral to the counselor of office. If warnings or these other actions do not have an effect then you can expect that I will call you to let you know, either during the day or later in the evening. If I cannot call or leave a message I do send letters so that you know what is happening. In cases that warrant it, I call parents during the school day so I need phone numbers for you or another adult at home or at work who can talk with the child. Your support is vital to your child's success. If, on the other hand, you need to call me you can always call the office and leave a message or call after school and we can talk, that is the best time. |
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