Tree Sunrise Art

Each week we devote 30-40 minutes to working on art in our classroom.  Our current creations outline trees in a sunrise.  As a class we recalled times when we were out early in the morning to see the beautiful colors of the sky and noted the blackness of the trees against the sky.  We used 2 different materials, tissue paper for the sky colors, and construction paper for the trees.  The students also used the technique of tearing the paper to make a more blended look of the sky and to represent the tree trunk and branches.  The pictures show a sequence of steps along with students working.

Fire Station Visit

Last week was Fire Safety Week.  We discussed how to be safe in a fire, having a meeting spot with your family, and checking your fire alarms to make sure they work.  On Friday we visited the Lanesboro Fire Station and took a tour of the station along with their vehicles.  The firemen talked with the class about the tools they use to save people's lives in emergencies.  Thanks so much to the Lanesboro firemen.  It was a great tour for our kids!

Wake Up Work

In 2nd grade we start our day out with wake up work.  The students follow a specific morning routine: turn in take home folder, make milk and snack choice, read the morning message, and then begin our wake up work.  This routine helps create a focused and productive environment as students begin to filter in.  Our wake up work consists of a review of math, phonics, reading, and spelling skills.  After the wake up work is completed, the students are free to make a quiet choice for a few minutes, such as shop for books in our classroom library or read a book with a buddy.