Hi there my little treasures.
Have a lovely day tomorrow and hope all your wishes come true.
REMEMBER!! An early night to bed otherwise Santa may not have time to deliver your gifts.
Happy Christmas!
HO HO HO
Monday, December 24, 2007
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Saturday, December 15, 2007
Navidad Feliz
Weekly update for week beginning 17th December 2007
Can you believe it? We have completed a third of the school year already, and what a term it has been! We are truly amazed at the level the children are working at and are well on their way to achieving great success. This is not only due to the hard work they are doing in school, but to your commitment to supporting your child and the every child’s enthusiasm for learning. So…it’s a pat on the back all round I think.
We had a fabulous time at the cathedral and Mr Barker was full of praise and admiration for the children. We even got to have our photograph took infront of the nativity scene. I have placed the photograph on the desktop of the Interactive Whiteboard if you want to have a look at it. The Year 6 looked after them very well.
This week is full of fun and frolics. Mmmm…so what’s different from any other week?
This week is goes very quickly but nevertheless action packed with seasonal activities. On Monday, the children will have a some-what normal morning (if it is at all possible to call the foundation Stage 'normal) but then…It’s time to PARTY!!! Yes, the children can come in their frilly dresses, glittery shoes and lip gloss…and that’s just the boys. Seriously, the children can come ready dressed to party. Many thanks for your contributions. Santa has emailed us to say he will be making a very special appearance too. No expense spared for our little treasures! We would like to thank all the parents who acted as santa’s elves last week.
Wednesday – remember those PE kits? Yes, they will come home for a good wash and iron ready for the Spring Term.
Thursday – with the last day being so action packed the children are treated to a toy afternoon. The children are allowed to bring in a toy to play with. We do encourage the children to bring in a toy that the can share with a friend e.g a card game, Buckaroo, Hungry Hippos, etc (I love those!!)
Friday is the carol service and the children have a lovely day. The Christmas Carol Concert will be held in St Joseph’s Church. We will be walking to church so if you are available to escort us then please let one of us know. Thanks. They are finally treated to a pantomime performed in the school hall by our parents. We all have a great laugh! One year I had to do a 'bush-tucker trial' involving jelly and creepy-crawlies. The children love it (and secretly so do the staff). All in all, the children go out on a high and are ready to drive you mental over the Christmas holidays. Ha ha ha!!! Please don't worry for I too have a four year old excited to the point of explosion to contend with over the Christmas break.
Also… clear space in your house for all the spectacular Christmas nick-nacks the children have made for you.
In addition to this, we will be completing our assessments of the children. WOW!!! is the word that comes to mind so far as we collate our information. Please remember to check out your child's diary for information on the letter names, sounds and numbers they need to work on as well as any other additional information we may need to pass on.
After lulling you into a false sense of security, I have found a series of websites which you can use to give your child a 'taster' of what is in store for the New Year. These should keep them busy over the holidays.
www.ictgames.com/letterlifter.html - develops letter recognition and keyboard awareness
www.ictgames.com/phonic_fighter4.html - love it!!
www.ictgames.com/plankgameR.html - remember to keep those high frequency words going.
www.ictgames.com/lcwc.html - type in your own spellings to learn
www.ictgames.com/machine.html - look at the picture then blend the sounds together to read the words and click on the matching one. Remember to use pure sounds.
www.bbc.co.uk/schools/numbertime/games/find_the.shtml - find the number that matches the one under Bill's feathers
www.bbc.co.uk/schools/numbertime/games/snakes.shtml - snakes and ladders for one and two players
www.primaryresources.co.uk/online/numorder.swf - ordering random numbers
www.ictgames.com/caterpillar_slider.html - ordering random numbers
http://pbskids.org/lions/games/ears2.html - hearing the initial and final sounds in words and matching the letter symbol
www.ictgames.com/postletter.html - number recognition game
http://ngfl.northumberland.gov.uk/christmas/santa%20count.html - a little festive counting
http://pbskids.org/lions/games/pounce2.html - using the initial letter to identify words
You may have been aware of Mrs Latham’s absence from the team for the last four weeks. She has been with her family in Ireland and sadly, her father passed away Monday. We are sure you join us in our prayers for Mrs Latham and her family at this very sad time.
Finally….
May I take the opportunity to wish you and all your family a very special, happy, safe and Holy Christmas. Here’s to 2008!!
Take care
Jayne Narraway and The Foundation Stage Team xxx
PS If your little angel gets a little bored of the expensive presents you have trawled the internet and shops for, then you could always occupy them with these Christmas websites. http://www.merry-christmas.com/games/games.htmhttp://ngfl.northumberland.gov.uk/christmas/ Christmas resources from Northumberland Grid for Learning.
http://www.btinternet.com/~tony.poulter/xmas/xmastlinks.htmhttp://members.tripod.com/~newyearseve/
http://www.woodlands-junior.kent.sch.uk/teacher/christmas.htmlhttp://www.star28.net/snow.html hilarious!! the penguin will write your message in the snow - perhaps you could write the high frequency words.
http://dingo.care2.com/cards/new/0422/Do-a-rain-deer.swf play the reindeer noses!!http://www.icq.com/friendship/pages/browse_page_7944.html reindeer band
http://www.bry-backmanor.org/actpag75.html a to z of Christmas book
http://www.northpole.com/ - this is a lovely website with lots of festive activities to enjoy.
http://www.funranch.com/games/tree/index.htm -get those creative juices flowing with a little decorating of the tree.
http://www.kented.org.uk/ngfl/games/snowman_v4.html - a great website for supporting your child’s understanding of size. The children can make a family of snowmen. Encourage them to use the language, taller, shorter and some shape names also.
Have a good one!
Can you believe it? We have completed a third of the school year already, and what a term it has been! We are truly amazed at the level the children are working at and are well on their way to achieving great success. This is not only due to the hard work they are doing in school, but to your commitment to supporting your child and the every child’s enthusiasm for learning. So…it’s a pat on the back all round I think.
We had a fabulous time at the cathedral and Mr Barker was full of praise and admiration for the children. We even got to have our photograph took infront of the nativity scene. I have placed the photograph on the desktop of the Interactive Whiteboard if you want to have a look at it. The Year 6 looked after them very well.
This week is full of fun and frolics. Mmmm…so what’s different from any other week?
This week is goes very quickly but nevertheless action packed with seasonal activities. On Monday, the children will have a some-what normal morning (if it is at all possible to call the foundation Stage 'normal) but then…It’s time to PARTY!!! Yes, the children can come in their frilly dresses, glittery shoes and lip gloss…and that’s just the boys. Seriously, the children can come ready dressed to party. Many thanks for your contributions. Santa has emailed us to say he will be making a very special appearance too. No expense spared for our little treasures! We would like to thank all the parents who acted as santa’s elves last week.
Wednesday – remember those PE kits? Yes, they will come home for a good wash and iron ready for the Spring Term.
Thursday – with the last day being so action packed the children are treated to a toy afternoon. The children are allowed to bring in a toy to play with. We do encourage the children to bring in a toy that the can share with a friend e.g a card game, Buckaroo, Hungry Hippos, etc (I love those!!)
Friday is the carol service and the children have a lovely day. The Christmas Carol Concert will be held in St Joseph’s Church. We will be walking to church so if you are available to escort us then please let one of us know. Thanks. They are finally treated to a pantomime performed in the school hall by our parents. We all have a great laugh! One year I had to do a 'bush-tucker trial' involving jelly and creepy-crawlies. The children love it (and secretly so do the staff). All in all, the children go out on a high and are ready to drive you mental over the Christmas holidays. Ha ha ha!!! Please don't worry for I too have a four year old excited to the point of explosion to contend with over the Christmas break.
Also… clear space in your house for all the spectacular Christmas nick-nacks the children have made for you.
In addition to this, we will be completing our assessments of the children. WOW!!! is the word that comes to mind so far as we collate our information. Please remember to check out your child's diary for information on the letter names, sounds and numbers they need to work on as well as any other additional information we may need to pass on.
After lulling you into a false sense of security, I have found a series of websites which you can use to give your child a 'taster' of what is in store for the New Year. These should keep them busy over the holidays.
www.ictgames.com/letterlifter.html - develops letter recognition and keyboard awareness
www.ictgames.com/phonic_fighter4.html - love it!!
www.ictgames.com/plankgameR.html - remember to keep those high frequency words going.
www.ictgames.com/lcwc.html - type in your own spellings to learn
www.ictgames.com/machine.html - look at the picture then blend the sounds together to read the words and click on the matching one. Remember to use pure sounds.
www.bbc.co.uk/schools/numbertime/games/find_the.shtml - find the number that matches the one under Bill's feathers
www.bbc.co.uk/schools/numbertime/games/snakes.shtml - snakes and ladders for one and two players
www.primaryresources.co.uk/online/numorder.swf - ordering random numbers
www.ictgames.com/caterpillar_slider.html - ordering random numbers
http://pbskids.org/lions/games/ears2.html - hearing the initial and final sounds in words and matching the letter symbol
www.ictgames.com/postletter.html - number recognition game
http://ngfl.northumberland.gov.uk/christmas/santa%20count.html - a little festive counting
http://pbskids.org/lions/games/pounce2.html - using the initial letter to identify words
You may have been aware of Mrs Latham’s absence from the team for the last four weeks. She has been with her family in Ireland and sadly, her father passed away Monday. We are sure you join us in our prayers for Mrs Latham and her family at this very sad time.
Finally….
May I take the opportunity to wish you and all your family a very special, happy, safe and Holy Christmas. Here’s to 2008!!
Take care
Jayne Narraway and The Foundation Stage Team xxx
PS If your little angel gets a little bored of the expensive presents you have trawled the internet and shops for, then you could always occupy them with these Christmas websites. http://www.merry-christmas.com/games/games.htmhttp://ngfl.northumberland.gov.uk/christmas/ Christmas resources from Northumberland Grid for Learning.
http://www.btinternet.com/~tony.poulter/xmas/xmastlinks.htmhttp://members.tripod.com/~newyearseve/
http://www.woodlands-junior.kent.sch.uk/teacher/christmas.htmlhttp://www.star28.net/snow.html hilarious!! the penguin will write your message in the snow - perhaps you could write the high frequency words.
http://dingo.care2.com/cards/new/0422/Do-a-rain-deer.swf play the reindeer noses!!http://www.icq.com/friendship/pages/browse_page_7944.html reindeer band
http://www.bry-backmanor.org/actpag75.html a to z of Christmas book
http://www.northpole.com/ - this is a lovely website with lots of festive activities to enjoy.
http://www.funranch.com/games/tree/index.htm -get those creative juices flowing with a little decorating of the tree.
http://www.kented.org.uk/ngfl/games/snowman_v4.html - a great website for supporting your child’s understanding of size. The children can make a family of snowmen. Encourage them to use the language, taller, shorter and some shape names also.
Have a good one!
Navidad felix
Weekly update for week beginning 17th December 2007
Can you believe it? We have completed a third of the school year already, and what a term it has been! We are truly amazed at the level the children are working at and are well on their way to achieving great success. This is not only due to the hard work they are doing in school, but to your commitment to supporting your child and the every child’s enthusiasm for learning. So…it’s a pat on the back all round I think.We had a fabulous time at the cathedral and Mr Barker was full of praise and admiration for the children. We even got to have our photograph took infront of the nativity scene. I have placed the photograph on the desktop of the Interactive Whiteboard if you want to have a look at it. The Year 6 looked after them very well.
This week is full of fun and frolics. Mmmm…so what’s different from any other week?
This week is goes very quickly but nevertheless action packed with seasonal activities. On Monday, the children will have a some-what normal morning (if it is at all possible to call the foundation Stage 'normal) but then…It’s time to PARTY!!! Yes, the children can come in their frilly dresses, glittery shoes and lip gloss…and that’s just the boys. Seriously, the children can come ready dressed to party. Many thanks for your contributions. Santa has emailed us to say he will be making a very special appearance too. No expense spared for our little treasures! We would like to thank all the parents who acted as santa’s elves last week.
Wednesday – remember those PE kits? Yes, they will come home for a good wash and iron ready for the Spring Term.
Thursday – with the last day being so action packed the children are treated to a toy afternoon. The children are allowed to bring in a toy to play with. We do encourage the children to bring in a toy that the can share with a friend e.g a card game, Buckaroo, Hungry Hippos, etc (I love those!!)Friday is the carol service and the children have a lovely day. The Christmas Carol Concert will be held in St Joseph’s Church. We will be walking to church so if you are available to escort us then please let one of us know. Thanks. They are finally treated to a pantomime performed in the school hall by our parents. We all have a great laugh! One year I had to do a 'bush-tucker trial' involving jelly and creepy-crawlies. The children love it (and secretly so do the staff). All in all, the children go out on a high and are ready to drive you mental over the Christmas holidays. Ha ha ha!!! Please don't worry for I too have a four year old excited to the point of explosion to contend with over the Christmas break.
Also… clear space in your house for all the spectacular Christmas nick-nacks the children have made for you.
In addition to this, we will be completing our assessments of the children. WOW!!! is the word that comes to mind so far as we collate our information. Please remember to check out your child's diary for information on the letter names, sounds and numbers they need to work on as well as any other additional information we may need to pass on.After lulling you into a false sense of security, I have found a series of websites which you can use to give your child a 'taster' of what is in store for the New Year. These should keep them busy over the holidays.www.ictgames.com/letterlifter.html - develops letter recognition and keyboard awarenesswww.ictgames.com/phonic_fighter4.html - love it!!www.ictgames.com/plankgameR.html - remember to keep those high frequency words going.www.ictgames.com/lcwc.html - type in your own spellings to learnwww.ictgames.com/machine.html - look at the picture then blend the sounds together to read the words and click on the matching one. Remember to use pure sounds.www.bbc.co.uk/schools/numbertime/games/find_the.shtml - find the number that matches the one under Bill's featherswww.bbc.co.uk/schools/numbertime/games/snakes.shtml - snakes and ladders for one and two playerswww.primaryresources.co.uk/online/numorder.swf - ordering random numberswww.ictgames.com/caterpillar_slider.html - ordering random numbershttp://pbskids.org/lions/games/ears2.html - hearing the initial and final sounds in words and matching the letter symbolwww.ictgames.com/postletter.html - number recognition gamehttp://ngfl.northumberland.gov.uk/christmas/santa%20count.html - a little festive countinghttp://pbskids.org/lions/games/pounce2.html - using the initial letter to identify words
You may have been aware of Mrs Latham’s absence from the team for the last four weeks. She has been with her family in Ireland and sadly, her father passed away Monday. We are sure you join us in our prayers for Mrs Latham and her family at this very sad time.
Finally….
May I take the opportunity to wish you and all your family a very special, happy, safe and Holy Christmas. Here’s to 2008!!
Take care
Jayne Narraway and The Foundation Stage Team xxx
PS If your little angel gets a little bored of the expensive presents you have trawled the internet and shops for, then you could always occupy them with these Christmas websites. http://www.merry-christmas.com/games/games.htmhttp://ngfl.northumberland.gov.uk/christmas/ Christmas resources from Northumberland Grid for Learning.http://www.btinternet.com/~tony.poulter/xmas/xmastlinks.htmhttp://members.tripod.com/~newyearseve/http://www.woodlands-junior.kent.sch.uk/teacher/christmas.htmlhttp://www.star28.net/snow.html hilarious!! the penguin will write your message in the snow - perhaps you could write the high frequency words.http://dingo.care2.com/cards/new/0422/Do-a-rain-deer.swf play the reindeer noses!!http://www.icq.com/friendship/pages/browse_page_7944.html reindeer bandhttp://www.bry-backmanor.org/actpag75.html a to z of Christmas book
http://www.northpole.com/ - this is a lovely website with lots of festive activities to enjoy.http://www.funranch.com/games/tree/index.htm -get those creative juices flowing with a little decorating of the tree.
http://www.kented.org.uk/ngfl/games/snowman_v4.html - a great website for supporting your child’s understanding of size. The children can make a family of snowmen. Encourage them to use the language, taller, shorter and some shape names also. Have a good one!
Can you believe it? We have completed a third of the school year already, and what a term it has been! We are truly amazed at the level the children are working at and are well on their way to achieving great success. This is not only due to the hard work they are doing in school, but to your commitment to supporting your child and the every child’s enthusiasm for learning. So…it’s a pat on the back all round I think.We had a fabulous time at the cathedral and Mr Barker was full of praise and admiration for the children. We even got to have our photograph took infront of the nativity scene. I have placed the photograph on the desktop of the Interactive Whiteboard if you want to have a look at it. The Year 6 looked after them very well.
This week is full of fun and frolics. Mmmm…so what’s different from any other week?
This week is goes very quickly but nevertheless action packed with seasonal activities. On Monday, the children will have a some-what normal morning (if it is at all possible to call the foundation Stage 'normal) but then…It’s time to PARTY!!! Yes, the children can come in their frilly dresses, glittery shoes and lip gloss…and that’s just the boys. Seriously, the children can come ready dressed to party. Many thanks for your contributions. Santa has emailed us to say he will be making a very special appearance too. No expense spared for our little treasures! We would like to thank all the parents who acted as santa’s elves last week.
Wednesday – remember those PE kits? Yes, they will come home for a good wash and iron ready for the Spring Term.
Thursday – with the last day being so action packed the children are treated to a toy afternoon. The children are allowed to bring in a toy to play with. We do encourage the children to bring in a toy that the can share with a friend e.g a card game, Buckaroo, Hungry Hippos, etc (I love those!!)Friday is the carol service and the children have a lovely day. The Christmas Carol Concert will be held in St Joseph’s Church. We will be walking to church so if you are available to escort us then please let one of us know. Thanks. They are finally treated to a pantomime performed in the school hall by our parents. We all have a great laugh! One year I had to do a 'bush-tucker trial' involving jelly and creepy-crawlies. The children love it (and secretly so do the staff). All in all, the children go out on a high and are ready to drive you mental over the Christmas holidays. Ha ha ha!!! Please don't worry for I too have a four year old excited to the point of explosion to contend with over the Christmas break.
Also… clear space in your house for all the spectacular Christmas nick-nacks the children have made for you.
In addition to this, we will be completing our assessments of the children. WOW!!! is the word that comes to mind so far as we collate our information. Please remember to check out your child's diary for information on the letter names, sounds and numbers they need to work on as well as any other additional information we may need to pass on.After lulling you into a false sense of security, I have found a series of websites which you can use to give your child a 'taster' of what is in store for the New Year. These should keep them busy over the holidays.www.ictgames.com/letterlifter.html - develops letter recognition and keyboard awarenesswww.ictgames.com/phonic_fighter4.html - love it!!www.ictgames.com/plankgameR.html - remember to keep those high frequency words going.www.ictgames.com/lcwc.html - type in your own spellings to learnwww.ictgames.com/machine.html - look at the picture then blend the sounds together to read the words and click on the matching one. Remember to use pure sounds.www.bbc.co.uk/schools/numbertime/games/find_the.shtml - find the number that matches the one under Bill's featherswww.bbc.co.uk/schools/numbertime/games/snakes.shtml - snakes and ladders for one and two playerswww.primaryresources.co.uk/online/numorder.swf - ordering random numberswww.ictgames.com/caterpillar_slider.html - ordering random numbershttp://pbskids.org/lions/games/ears2.html - hearing the initial and final sounds in words and matching the letter symbolwww.ictgames.com/postletter.html - number recognition gamehttp://ngfl.northumberland.gov.uk/christmas/santa%20count.html - a little festive countinghttp://pbskids.org/lions/games/pounce2.html - using the initial letter to identify words
You may have been aware of Mrs Latham’s absence from the team for the last four weeks. She has been with her family in Ireland and sadly, her father passed away Monday. We are sure you join us in our prayers for Mrs Latham and her family at this very sad time.
Finally….
May I take the opportunity to wish you and all your family a very special, happy, safe and Holy Christmas. Here’s to 2008!!
Take care
Jayne Narraway and The Foundation Stage Team xxx
PS If your little angel gets a little bored of the expensive presents you have trawled the internet and shops for, then you could always occupy them with these Christmas websites. http://www.merry-christmas.com/games/games.htmhttp://ngfl.northumberland.gov.uk/christmas/ Christmas resources from Northumberland Grid for Learning.http://www.btinternet.com/~tony.poulter/xmas/xmastlinks.htmhttp://members.tripod.com/~newyearseve/http://www.woodlands-junior.kent.sch.uk/teacher/christmas.htmlhttp://www.star28.net/snow.html hilarious!! the penguin will write your message in the snow - perhaps you could write the high frequency words.http://dingo.care2.com/cards/new/0422/Do-a-rain-deer.swf play the reindeer noses!!http://www.icq.com/friendship/pages/browse_page_7944.html reindeer bandhttp://www.bry-backmanor.org/actpag75.html a to z of Christmas book
http://www.northpole.com/ - this is a lovely website with lots of festive activities to enjoy.http://www.funranch.com/games/tree/index.htm -get those creative juices flowing with a little decorating of the tree.
http://www.kented.org.uk/ngfl/games/snowman_v4.html - a great website for supporting your child’s understanding of size. The children can make a family of snowmen. Encourage them to use the language, taller, shorter and some shape names also. Have a good one!
Friday, December 07, 2007
Ooooh! Didn't they do well?
Hi there!
What a fantastic week we had last week! The performances went without a hitch and weren't the children just amazing considering they have only been in school a mere 11 weeks? We feel a reasl sense of achievement in having boosted the children's confidence so much that they will get up on the stage and have a go. Believe me, I didn't realise how scary it was myself until the mum's panto added a little extra to their performance!
Many thanks to you all for your kind comments and fantastic costumes. A HUGH thanks also goes to all the parents (and Grandparents) who helped to get the children changed. We couldn't have managed without you!
I think it is probably best to go through the diary of events for this week. Here goes...
WEDNESDAY - In the afternoon, the children will be treated to Jack and the Beanstalk. Many thanks for your contribution to this.
THURSDAY - the children will be visiting the Cathedral. The organisers have asked that we do not wrap our gifts this year. Please could any outstanding permission slips be returned as soon as possible. Thanks. We will return back to school by 4pm. You may wait in the school hall. Unfortunately I will be unable to attend the Carol Service myself as I have my own daughter's nativity to attend that afternoon. However, Mrs Higgins and Mr Barker will be chaperoning our little angels.
Lateness
I am just a little concerned that some children are often late arriving into school in the morning. The school doors open at 8.40am for Foundation Stage and school starts at 8.45am. Ideally ALL the children need to be sat on the carpet for registration by 8.50am so we can start our learning promptly. Your support in this would be greatly appreciated.
Now let's get on with what's going to be going on in class this week.
Santa's getting old
Did your child tell you that we received a letter from Eric the Elf? Yes! He asked the children to make some decorations for Timmy Tree who was very sad that all the other trees he knows have decorations. Of course the children obliged and what a 'splendiferous' job they did too! This week we reeive another letter from an elf. This time it is the chief elf 'Doc'. Santa has lost his memory and can't remember where the children live and so they may not get any presents on Christmas morning. Can you imagine their faces? Sounds cruel but it is a way into the children developing their geographical understanding of the local area. It would be helpful if you could help your child to remember their address as we will be locating your street on a map of the area.
Angels and Kings
The children will be creating angel broaches to wear at the cathedral as well as finishing off their fantastic Christmas cards.
The Christmas Story
We have been amazed at how brilliantly the children have picked up the story of the Nativity. This week, we take some children a little out of their comfort zone whilst some will be in their element. We have props and masks galore for the children to act out the story of the First Christmas. I can't wait to see them do it as the collages they have created depicting the events of the story are amazing.
The collages the children have created will be scanned this weekend and used to create a version of the Christmas story by the children. You may wish to keep your child busy by doing this at home if you have a scanner and powerpoint. Alternatively a few pictures and you as a scribe can make a lovely book. Perhaps if you make one you could pop it into school and we could share it too.
ASSESSMENT and REVIEW WEEK
This week is also assessment and review week. This is an opportunity to check the reading and spelling of the high frequency words, and assess the children for the next level in their reading. I will also be checking:
What a fantastic week we had last week! The performances went without a hitch and weren't the children just amazing considering they have only been in school a mere 11 weeks? We feel a reasl sense of achievement in having boosted the children's confidence so much that they will get up on the stage and have a go. Believe me, I didn't realise how scary it was myself until the mum's panto added a little extra to their performance!
Many thanks to you all for your kind comments and fantastic costumes. A HUGH thanks also goes to all the parents (and Grandparents) who helped to get the children changed. We couldn't have managed without you!
I think it is probably best to go through the diary of events for this week. Here goes...
WEDNESDAY - In the afternoon, the children will be treated to Jack and the Beanstalk. Many thanks for your contribution to this.
THURSDAY - the children will be visiting the Cathedral. The organisers have asked that we do not wrap our gifts this year. Please could any outstanding permission slips be returned as soon as possible. Thanks. We will return back to school by 4pm. You may wait in the school hall. Unfortunately I will be unable to attend the Carol Service myself as I have my own daughter's nativity to attend that afternoon. However, Mrs Higgins and Mr Barker will be chaperoning our little angels.
Lateness
I am just a little concerned that some children are often late arriving into school in the morning. The school doors open at 8.40am for Foundation Stage and school starts at 8.45am. Ideally ALL the children need to be sat on the carpet for registration by 8.50am so we can start our learning promptly. Your support in this would be greatly appreciated.
Now let's get on with what's going to be going on in class this week.
Santa's getting old
Did your child tell you that we received a letter from Eric the Elf? Yes! He asked the children to make some decorations for Timmy Tree who was very sad that all the other trees he knows have decorations. Of course the children obliged and what a 'splendiferous' job they did too! This week we reeive another letter from an elf. This time it is the chief elf 'Doc'. Santa has lost his memory and can't remember where the children live and so they may not get any presents on Christmas morning. Can you imagine their faces? Sounds cruel but it is a way into the children developing their geographical understanding of the local area. It would be helpful if you could help your child to remember their address as we will be locating your street on a map of the area.
Angels and Kings
The children will be creating angel broaches to wear at the cathedral as well as finishing off their fantastic Christmas cards.
The Christmas Story
We have been amazed at how brilliantly the children have picked up the story of the Nativity. This week, we take some children a little out of their comfort zone whilst some will be in their element. We have props and masks galore for the children to act out the story of the First Christmas. I can't wait to see them do it as the collages they have created depicting the events of the story are amazing.
The collages the children have created will be scanned this weekend and used to create a version of the Christmas story by the children. You may wish to keep your child busy by doing this at home if you have a scanner and powerpoint. Alternatively a few pictures and you as a scribe can make a lovely book. Perhaps if you make one you could pop it into school and we could share it too.
ASSESSMENT and REVIEW WEEK
This week is also assessment and review week. This is an opportunity to check the reading and spelling of the high frequency words, and assess the children for the next level in their reading. I will also be checking:
Shape recognition
Finding one more and one less than a given number
Number recognition
Pattern Making
Phonic knowledge
Knowledge and understanding of the language of length, weight and capacity in preparation for after Christmas.
Any of the websites from previous blogs are useful as a review exercise. Please find some of them listed below.
http://www.rainforestmaths.com/ - select the more counting picture with the jar of frogs. http://www.wmnet.org.uk/custom/files_uploaded/uploaded_resources/846/Teddynumbersv2.swf - This is such a cute website. The children can select the numbers they wish to work with and then select the number of sweets to feed the teddy as identified by the number given. http://www.priorywoods.middlesbrough.sch.uk/kidsonly/findout/counting/bugz.htm - This is one of my personal favourites! I remember the first time I ever saw it and couldn’t stop laughing. http://www.crickweb.co.uk/assets/resources/flash.php?&file=ftank2 - I really like this one as it helps to develop mouse skills as well as counting skills. http://www.learningplanet.com/sam/cyc/index.asp - A simple but effective website. http://www.little-g.com/shockwave/colorcount.html - Click on the pictures to make them colour. http://www.wmnet.org.uk/wmnet/custom/files_uploaded/uploaded_resources/850/Count&Order.swf - On this website the children must identify the numbers on the leaves and then drag the ladybirds with matching number of spots. They can count the number of leaves on a stem and match the number to it or, order numbered snails and ladybirds. http://www.ictgames.com/caterpillar_slider.html - this game works on ordering the numbers. http://www.ictgames.com/nutty_v3.html - collect the acorns in number order. http://www.bgfl.org/bgfl/custom/resources_ftp/client_ftp/ks1/english/fruits/level2/l2/activity2.html - The children must count the number of pieces of fruit and then click on the matching number. http://www.e-gfl.org/e-gfl/custom/resources_ftp/client_ftp/teacher/other/spark/downonfarm/downonfarm.html - Click on the link Down on the Farm and follow the instructions. http://www.abc.net.au/countusin/games/game5.htm - This one is good. Count the items on the peacocks feathers and drag them to the number. http://www.ictgames.com/duckshoot.html - All the fun of the fair with this one! http://www.priorywoods.middlesbrough.sch.uk/kidsonly/findout/farm/sounds/howmany2.wav http://www.little-g.com/shockwave/jungle.html http://www.learningplanet.com/act/rats/rats1.htm?rats_numbers - This websites needs the children to use the arrow keys on the keyboard. You can select the numbers the children are unsure of and work on them. http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/numbertime/games/find_the.shtml - another great game for developing the children’s number recognition. http://www.ictgames.com/piratenumbers2.html - For those children with number recognition beyond 10. This is a great game for them! Count the barrels in the water and then type in the number. Let’s see if you can sink the ship.
http://ngfl.northumberland.gov.uk/maths/counting/random%20count.html - with this website, you will need to work with your child. They will need to firstly count the fish (they are moveable into a line) and then find one more and one less. http://www.ngfl-cymru.org.uk/vtc/20050208/Mathematicaldev/Earlyyears/Number/Numberrhymes/Introduction/default.htm - this website is great for developing the children’s understanding of one less. As one speckled frog jumps into the pool, there is one less! http://www.priorywoods.middlesbrough.sch.uk/kidsonly/findout/counting/index.htm - these are great for those counting rhymes that involve one less each time.
http://demo.iboard.co.uk/screens/thread_home.htm?thread_id=7# - select the animals sound one and see if you can make a musical pattern with the animal noises.
http://www.ngfl-cymru.org.uk/vtc/simple_patterns/eng/Introduction/default.htm - the children have the opportunity to continue a repeating pattern using colours, shapes and pictures.
http://crickweb.co.uk/assets/resources/flash.php?&file=beads - a string of beads at two levels, one with 6 beads and a second with 10 beads. The children must make repeating patterns using the colour palette provided.
http://www.ngfl-cymru.org.uk/vtc/building_game/eng/Introduction/default.htm - in part two or three of this game the children have the opportunity to make a pattern for themselves.
http://www.kented.org.uk/ngfl/numeracy-explorer/powerpoint/patter.ppt - a great powerpoint to support the children’s learning of how to continue a repeating pattern.http://www.rainforestmaths.com/ - click on the pattern label to enter the correct game. Remember to start on the reception level.
Hope your Christmas shopping is coming along nicely too.
Have a great week!
Jayne Narraway and the Foundation Stage Team xxx
Sunday, December 02, 2007
It's Christmas Time December is Here!!!
Hi there!
How fantastic is it now that we are in December? Already I am humming the Christmas tunes whilst doing my weekly shop and dusting off the Christmas tree. Now that it is officially Christmas time, it is without doubt time to get out the glitter, sequins and baubles and start preparing for the festivities.
As a treat for the children, during the time they are performing their much rehearsed and awaited Christmas Production, the whole week will be dedicated to those little keepsakes to adorn your mantelpiece and Christmas tree. No…there will be no glittered egg boxes which my mum still hangs up every year (much to my dismay). Please be very aware that the children will be very tired this week due to the performances. Tears may happen and reading time may be a challenge. For this reason there will be no homework this week. One thing to look forward to though is an early night to bed on Friday! Mr barker also allows the children to come in by 10.30 on Friday following the evening performance on Thursday. Unfortunately, this does not apply to staff so if you wish to drop your child off at the normal time then that is fine.
Christmas Tree Decoration
The week begins with the children receiving a letter from Timmy Tree. This is actually our class Christmas Tree. He is really sad because all his other Christmas tree friends have decorations and BOO HOO he is bare. Can we solve his problem? Oh yes we can…Oh no you can’t…oh yes we can (sorry couldn’t resist with the panto season and all that!) The children will therefore extend their creative skills and mathematical skills by decorating their very own bauble. This is an opportunity for the children to talk about the properties of the sphere shape of their bauble and reinforce their understanding of pattern making when they stick on the sequins etc.
Christmas Party Hats
On Thursday of this week, the children will have their Christmas dinner in the hall. Not one to miss out on an opportunity to make an occasion out of eating food, an especially Christmas dinner. The children will make their own Christmas party hat. Again, the children will use 3d shapes to print a pattern on their hat. This will give us the opportunity to develop the children’s language associated with 3d and 3d shapes. Please note that due to the demands on the kitchen on Thursday there will be no toast on sale at break time.
Christmas Cards
The Christmas cards the children will be making this year will incorporate the children’s learning in mathematical development and RE. The children will use 2d shapes to create a card depicting the Three Wise Men visiting Baby Jesus in Bethlehem. Whilst making the cards the children will be encouraged to talk about their understanding of the visitors to the stable in Bethlehem. The cards will also provide the children with the opportunity to write their names and those of their family.
A class list will also be sent out via the diaries to help you with any cards your child may which to send.
Nativity Story
The children will have the opportunity to become more familiar with the events of the First Christmas through a range of activities. The aim is that the children become aware of the preparations for the birth of Jesus. Props will be provided for the children to role-play the story and take on one of the characters. The small world table now has the stable scene on it to encourage language and story telling. We will also be opening our interactive Advent calendar and our class one which has little tasks to complete each day. Here are some great websites you can look at with the children to help them remember the story.
http://www.topmarks.co.uk/christianity/nativity/ - this is a e-version of the story for the children to enjoy.
http://atschool.eduweb.co.uk/carolrb/christmas/christmas1.html - find out about the history behind the customs surrounding Christmas.
http://www.ngfl-cymru.org.uk/vtc/ngfl/re/b-dag/ngfl-container/re-unit1-en.html- this is a wonderful website where the children can learn how to sequence the parts of the story for themselves. The children can create a nativity scene for themselves.
http://www.refuel.org.uk/curric/infant_topics/christmas/christmas.html - another lovely book. Perhaps we can make an electronic book as a class.
Christmas Fayre
Whilst we are busily trying to clean the cupboards, get to the bottom of the ironing basket and check on those last minute purchases, this is a great opportunity to get the children out of the house! Our annual Christmas Fayre is on Saturday 8th December. There are gifts that can be bought, face painting and even a Santa’s Grotto. Please come along as our Friends of St Vincent’s work tirelessly to raise funds for our school.
In addition to our Christmas activities the children will still continue with the ‘bread and butter’ of their learning.
Communication, Language and Literacy
This week will be introducing the use of more sound/phonemes. These are: ‘o’, ‘g’, ‘c’ and ‘k’.
By the end of the week, the children:
MUST be able to recognise the letters and say the sounds they represent;
SHOULD be able to hear the sounds at the beginning and end of sounds;
COULD be able to read and write words containing the letter.
You should have received an update on the letters your child is currently working on. I am thrilled with the progress the children are making. Thanks for your support.
Here are some great websites you may wish to visit.
http://www.saintambrosebarlow.wigan.sch.uk/activities.htm - The children are to try to hear the initial sounds in words.
http://www.ictgames.com/phonic_fighter4.html - Look at the letter shown and then select the picture that begins with that letter.
http://www.channel4.com/learning/microsites/H/hoobs/activities/interactiveActivities.jsp?id=letters - This is an amazing website focusing on the initial sounds. Hours of fun why you do your ironing I think!
http://www.little-g.com/shockwave/beginning.html - the children are to focus on the initial sounds of the picture shown and then identify a picture with the same initial sound.
http://www.ictgames.com/phonemeFlop_v4.html - a good website for getting the children to identify the letters of the alphabet.
www.starfall.com - this is a great all-rounder. Remember to encourage your child to use the letters they are unsure of. I will stick this information in your child’s diary this week.
http://www.ictgames.com/phonic_fighter4.html - I love this game!
http://www.channel4.com/learning/microsites/H/hoobs/activities/interactiveActivities.jsp?id=letters - activities 12 and 13 are good for helping with identifying the initial letters.
http://www.ictgames.com/soundBingo.html
http://www.ictgames.com/letterlifter.html
Mathematical Development
This week, we continue our two week block of work looking at shapes and their properties. Your child’s existing knowledge of shapes will determine whether they will be working on 2D shapes (circle, square, rectangle, triangle, star) or 3D shapes (cuboid, cube, sphere, cone and cylinder). The vocabulary related to shape is very important so I hope you found the sheet I sent home in your child’s diary. A good idea is to take a shape walk around your house our local area and see how the world is made up of their shapes.
By the end of the week, the children:
MUST be able to name and describe all the 2d shapes;
SHOULD be able to name the 3d shapes and describe some of their properties;
COULD be able to recognise a 2d or 3d shape from its description.
Here are some good websites also.
http://www.ngfl-cymru.org.uk/vtc/Phase2delivery/Wales/Artanddesign/Keystage1/Making/Shapepictures/Introduction/ - the children review their recognition of 2d shapes and then look for them in pictures. The children also get the opportunity to create their own shape picture on the computer.
http://www.ngfl-cymru.org.uk/vtc/build_it/eng/Introduction/default.htm - a good website for seeing how models are make up of 3D shapes.
http://www.learningplanet.com/act/rats/rats1.htm?rats_shapes - a great website. The children must catch the given shape but no others.
http://www.primaryresources.co.uk/online/simpleshapesort.swf - shape sorting activity according to properties.
http://www.priorywoods.middlesbrough.sch.uk/kidsonly/findout/shape/shapes.htm - a good website to help the children match, find, build and discover the properties of the 2D shapes.
http://demo.iboard.co.uk/screens/thread_home.htm?thread_id=2 - the children can copy shape pictures by clicking and dragging them. They can then go on to create their own.
http://www.ictgames.com/Y1shape.html - parts of a shape are shown and the children have to guess the shape.
http://www.primaryresources.co.uk/online/memory.html - this is a fantastic game to help the children develop their visual memory techniques.
http://www.primaryresources.co.uk/online/shapereveal.swf the children have to guess the shape as it is revealed. They can chose to use 2d or 3d shapes.
http://www.crickweb.co.uk/assets/resources/MatchingPairs3Dshape.swf - 3D shape matching game.
http://www.primaryresources.co.uk/online/longshape3d.html - a good website. The children have to identify the shape that is partially hidden in sand and then click on the correct labelled picture.
http://www.ngfl-cymru.org.uk/vtc/castle_shapes/eng/Introduction/default.htm - identifying 2D and 3D shapes.
http://www.ictgames.com/Y2shape.html - guess the 3D shape.
http://www.rainforestmaths.com/ -by clicking on the shapes label you will be able to make patterns with 2D shapes. If you also click on the space row under 3D and 2D shapes you will have to sort different shapes according to the given criteria.
Finally...
Please can you ensure that you have returned the permission slip to take your child to the cathedral. There are a few outstanding slips.
We have a student teaching assistant starting with us this week who will be working on Mondays and Tuesdays. her name is Mrs Hibbits.
REMEMBER to bring your ticket to the performance as entrance is ticket only.
Ho Ho Ho Have a great week and enjoy the performances.
Best wishes
Jayne Narraway and the Foundation Stage Team x
How fantastic is it now that we are in December? Already I am humming the Christmas tunes whilst doing my weekly shop and dusting off the Christmas tree. Now that it is officially Christmas time, it is without doubt time to get out the glitter, sequins and baubles and start preparing for the festivities.
As a treat for the children, during the time they are performing their much rehearsed and awaited Christmas Production, the whole week will be dedicated to those little keepsakes to adorn your mantelpiece and Christmas tree. No…there will be no glittered egg boxes which my mum still hangs up every year (much to my dismay). Please be very aware that the children will be very tired this week due to the performances. Tears may happen and reading time may be a challenge. For this reason there will be no homework this week. One thing to look forward to though is an early night to bed on Friday! Mr barker also allows the children to come in by 10.30 on Friday following the evening performance on Thursday. Unfortunately, this does not apply to staff so if you wish to drop your child off at the normal time then that is fine.
Christmas Tree Decoration
The week begins with the children receiving a letter from Timmy Tree. This is actually our class Christmas Tree. He is really sad because all his other Christmas tree friends have decorations and BOO HOO he is bare. Can we solve his problem? Oh yes we can…Oh no you can’t…oh yes we can (sorry couldn’t resist with the panto season and all that!) The children will therefore extend their creative skills and mathematical skills by decorating their very own bauble. This is an opportunity for the children to talk about the properties of the sphere shape of their bauble and reinforce their understanding of pattern making when they stick on the sequins etc.
Christmas Party Hats
On Thursday of this week, the children will have their Christmas dinner in the hall. Not one to miss out on an opportunity to make an occasion out of eating food, an especially Christmas dinner. The children will make their own Christmas party hat. Again, the children will use 3d shapes to print a pattern on their hat. This will give us the opportunity to develop the children’s language associated with 3d and 3d shapes. Please note that due to the demands on the kitchen on Thursday there will be no toast on sale at break time.
Christmas Cards
The Christmas cards the children will be making this year will incorporate the children’s learning in mathematical development and RE. The children will use 2d shapes to create a card depicting the Three Wise Men visiting Baby Jesus in Bethlehem. Whilst making the cards the children will be encouraged to talk about their understanding of the visitors to the stable in Bethlehem. The cards will also provide the children with the opportunity to write their names and those of their family.
A class list will also be sent out via the diaries to help you with any cards your child may which to send.
Nativity Story
The children will have the opportunity to become more familiar with the events of the First Christmas through a range of activities. The aim is that the children become aware of the preparations for the birth of Jesus. Props will be provided for the children to role-play the story and take on one of the characters. The small world table now has the stable scene on it to encourage language and story telling. We will also be opening our interactive Advent calendar and our class one which has little tasks to complete each day. Here are some great websites you can look at with the children to help them remember the story.
http://www.topmarks.co.uk/christianity/nativity/ - this is a e-version of the story for the children to enjoy.
http://atschool.eduweb.co.uk/carolrb/christmas/christmas1.html - find out about the history behind the customs surrounding Christmas.
http://www.ngfl-cymru.org.uk/vtc/ngfl/re/b-dag/ngfl-container/re-unit1-en.html- this is a wonderful website where the children can learn how to sequence the parts of the story for themselves. The children can create a nativity scene for themselves.
http://www.refuel.org.uk/curric/infant_topics/christmas/christmas.html - another lovely book. Perhaps we can make an electronic book as a class.
Christmas Fayre
Whilst we are busily trying to clean the cupboards, get to the bottom of the ironing basket and check on those last minute purchases, this is a great opportunity to get the children out of the house! Our annual Christmas Fayre is on Saturday 8th December. There are gifts that can be bought, face painting and even a Santa’s Grotto. Please come along as our Friends of St Vincent’s work tirelessly to raise funds for our school.
In addition to our Christmas activities the children will still continue with the ‘bread and butter’ of their learning.
Communication, Language and Literacy
This week will be introducing the use of more sound/phonemes. These are: ‘o’, ‘g’, ‘c’ and ‘k’.
By the end of the week, the children:
MUST be able to recognise the letters and say the sounds they represent;
SHOULD be able to hear the sounds at the beginning and end of sounds;
COULD be able to read and write words containing the letter.
You should have received an update on the letters your child is currently working on. I am thrilled with the progress the children are making. Thanks for your support.
Here are some great websites you may wish to visit.
http://www.saintambrosebarlow.wigan.sch.uk/activities.htm - The children are to try to hear the initial sounds in words.
http://www.ictgames.com/phonic_fighter4.html - Look at the letter shown and then select the picture that begins with that letter.
http://www.channel4.com/learning/microsites/H/hoobs/activities/interactiveActivities.jsp?id=letters - This is an amazing website focusing on the initial sounds. Hours of fun why you do your ironing I think!
http://www.little-g.com/shockwave/beginning.html - the children are to focus on the initial sounds of the picture shown and then identify a picture with the same initial sound.
http://www.ictgames.com/phonemeFlop_v4.html - a good website for getting the children to identify the letters of the alphabet.
www.starfall.com - this is a great all-rounder. Remember to encourage your child to use the letters they are unsure of. I will stick this information in your child’s diary this week.
http://www.ictgames.com/phonic_fighter4.html - I love this game!
http://www.channel4.com/learning/microsites/H/hoobs/activities/interactiveActivities.jsp?id=letters - activities 12 and 13 are good for helping with identifying the initial letters.
http://www.ictgames.com/soundBingo.html
http://www.ictgames.com/letterlifter.html
Mathematical Development
This week, we continue our two week block of work looking at shapes and their properties. Your child’s existing knowledge of shapes will determine whether they will be working on 2D shapes (circle, square, rectangle, triangle, star) or 3D shapes (cuboid, cube, sphere, cone and cylinder). The vocabulary related to shape is very important so I hope you found the sheet I sent home in your child’s diary. A good idea is to take a shape walk around your house our local area and see how the world is made up of their shapes.
By the end of the week, the children:
MUST be able to name and describe all the 2d shapes;
SHOULD be able to name the 3d shapes and describe some of their properties;
COULD be able to recognise a 2d or 3d shape from its description.
Here are some good websites also.
http://www.ngfl-cymru.org.uk/vtc/Phase2delivery/Wales/Artanddesign/Keystage1/Making/Shapepictures/Introduction/ - the children review their recognition of 2d shapes and then look for them in pictures. The children also get the opportunity to create their own shape picture on the computer.
http://www.ngfl-cymru.org.uk/vtc/build_it/eng/Introduction/default.htm - a good website for seeing how models are make up of 3D shapes.
http://www.learningplanet.com/act/rats/rats1.htm?rats_shapes - a great website. The children must catch the given shape but no others.
http://www.primaryresources.co.uk/online/simpleshapesort.swf - shape sorting activity according to properties.
http://www.priorywoods.middlesbrough.sch.uk/kidsonly/findout/shape/shapes.htm - a good website to help the children match, find, build and discover the properties of the 2D shapes.
http://demo.iboard.co.uk/screens/thread_home.htm?thread_id=2 - the children can copy shape pictures by clicking and dragging them. They can then go on to create their own.
http://www.ictgames.com/Y1shape.html - parts of a shape are shown and the children have to guess the shape.
http://www.primaryresources.co.uk/online/memory.html - this is a fantastic game to help the children develop their visual memory techniques.
http://www.primaryresources.co.uk/online/shapereveal.swf the children have to guess the shape as it is revealed. They can chose to use 2d or 3d shapes.
http://www.crickweb.co.uk/assets/resources/MatchingPairs3Dshape.swf - 3D shape matching game.
http://www.primaryresources.co.uk/online/longshape3d.html - a good website. The children have to identify the shape that is partially hidden in sand and then click on the correct labelled picture.
http://www.ngfl-cymru.org.uk/vtc/castle_shapes/eng/Introduction/default.htm - identifying 2D and 3D shapes.
http://www.ictgames.com/Y2shape.html - guess the 3D shape.
http://www.rainforestmaths.com/ -by clicking on the shapes label you will be able to make patterns with 2D shapes. If you also click on the space row under 3D and 2D shapes you will have to sort different shapes according to the given criteria.
Finally...
Please can you ensure that you have returned the permission slip to take your child to the cathedral. There are a few outstanding slips.
We have a student teaching assistant starting with us this week who will be working on Mondays and Tuesdays. her name is Mrs Hibbits.
REMEMBER to bring your ticket to the performance as entrance is ticket only.
Ho Ho Ho Have a great week and enjoy the performances.
Best wishes
Jayne Narraway and the Foundation Stage Team x
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