Using Raz-Kids

        Before the break, the students were introduced to Raz-Kids.  I sent home information on how to log in before the Holiday Break.  We will be using this tool as a way for students to access more books at their reading level in school and at home.  Raz-Kids can be accessed through a computer, phone, or tablet (Click here to download the app).  Here's directions on how to use Raz-Kids...

1. Go to www.raz-kids.com.  (There is a link from our Student Links page.)
2. Put in our class name (see log-in information).  You will only need to put in our login information the first time you access the site through a new device.
3. Have your child find their name and put in their password.
4. They are set to go!

Here's some helpful information about what you'll see...

When you click on Reading Assignments or Book Room, your child will see a list of books with these options.  (Quizzes are not available on AA Books)...

• Listening - the story will play for students with text being highlighted as it is read.  Students earn stars for each story they listen to.  The points can be redeemed to personalize their avatar or build a rocket ship.
  

• Reading - students may read the text at their own pace.  Students earn stars for each story they read.  

• Recording - When in the Reading window, click on the down arrow.

1. Click the microphone. 
1. It will ask your permission to access the microphone.
2. Then, it will ask you to say your name to test the microphone.
3. Then, it will begin recording.  Use the buttons to stop recording, play, new (redo), or send (to me).

Click on the microphone to record.

Choose record, stop, play, new (redo), or send.

• Students earn stars for each story they record.  I can also reward extra stars after I listen to the recording.

• Quizzes - After listening or reading a story, students may take a comprehension quiz.  They click on letters to answer the question and on the words to have the choices read to them.  Students can earn stars for each quiz they complete.

Click here if you would like to learn more about Raz-Kids.

New Videos and Pictures from December Uploaded!

       I've caught up on uploading videos and photos from special events the week or two before the Holiday break.  If you click on a picture in a post, it will become larger.  Then you'll be able to scroll through all the pictures in that blog post.  Here's the activities I've uploaded...

Gingerbread Hunt
Shape Hunt
Where'd They Go?
Miscellaneous Activities - Centers, Bulletin Board, Holiday Sing Along
Polar Express
Learning How to Use Raz-Kids
Writing Like Scientists

New Website Access - Raz-Kids!

      This week I introduced the students to Raz-Kids.  Log-in information for this site is going home on Wednesday.  A link is posted to the Student Links page on our site.  When you click the link the first time, you will need to put in cmott1 for the class name. After your first visit, your computer/phone/tablet is connected and will only ask for your child's login information.  
Raz-Kids allows students to read, listen to, or record themselves reading books.  Each activity completed earns them stars that they can use to 'buy' things for their robot or space ship.  The Reading Assignments includes leveled books at your child’s independent/instructional reading level.  Once all tasks are completed, students advance to the next level of books.  The On Your Own section allows students to choose any books at or below their current level.  There are also other books they can choose from - ABC, sight words, decodables, fairy tales, etc.  
This tool is for students to have access to more books to read or listen to either at school or at home.  You may also download the app for free to your phone or device! Some of the books I may have used with them in Guided Reading! I can give students feedback or award points for recording stories to me! You can also monitor your child's progress through a parent portal similar to the teacher's portal. To register, have your son/daughter log in. In the top right corner, click on the PARENTS link and follow the directions to activate the parent account.

Reminder: Pajama Day and Early Dismissal Wednesday!

      Just a reminder that Wednesday this week is an Early Dismissal for the Holiday Break.  It is also Pajama Day!  We will be going on a 'train ride' on the Polar Express!

December 21, 2015 Newsletter

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Health - Good Touch / Bad Touch

         Mrs. Yolen was in today for Health to teach us how to be safe, happy, and healthy.  Today's topic was good touch / bad touch.  Mrs. Yolen taught us the difference between good touch and bad touch.

     Last week's topic was learning about strangers and how we shouldn't talk to strangers.

Gingerbread Houses Friday!

       On Friday we will be making Gingerbread Houses!  Please send in peanut/nut free candy by Thursday for us to use to decorate our houses!  I will be getting the frosting and graham crackers!  We could also use some wrapping paper as we will be wrapping our houses so that they make the trip home.  Volunteers are welcome to come help out!  Let me know if you are interested and I will let you know the time!  If you have not filled out a volunteer form, please fill one out and send it in.  Thank you!

Keep Contact Information Up to Date

      Just a reminder that if for some reason your phone, email, or work number changes, please let the office know so that they may update your contact information (or Emergency Contacts as well).  If we need to contact you because your child is sick and needs to go home or there is an emergency, we need to have the appropriate phone number.  Thank you!

Birthday Celebrations

      Mrs. Miner asks that I remind parents that its ok to send in a small treat for students that will be enjoyed during our Snack Time do to our busy schedule and that parents should refrain from coming down to the classroom.

      If you would like to send something in for a celebration, but don't have the time to make something, Food Services offers healthy treats that they will make and deliver to the classroom.  Click here to learn more!

December 14, 2015 Newsletter

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Report Cards

      Report cards came home today (Fri 12/11).  Please sign and return the envelope for us to reuse.  You may keep the papers inside.  NE means its not evaluated at this point in the year.  I included a table for you to see a summary of some of the data we collect through the school year to monitor progress.  You may keep this as well.  Please email me or send a note if you have questions!

December 7, 2015 Newsletter

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Special Holiday Event at Groton City Municipal Building Tonight!