Happy 2013 Kindergarten Families!
I hope you all have been enjoying your time with friends and family and staying warm! :) We have had such a great 2012 school year and I am looking forward to what 2013 brings for our classroom!
Just a reminder that your child does have some homework (I know, I'm a tough teacher!):
* Alphabet project page
* Number writing pages in Everyday Math Journal
* Continue to play number card games
* Continue to play number card games
* Uppercase handwriting review pages
(We have finished learning all uppercase letters!)
When we return to school, we will be preparing to take a national standardized test on the computers. It is called the MAP, which is created as a part of the NWEA (Northwest Evaluation Association). I know what you are thinking... standardized tests in KINDERGARTEN?! The rest of the school took this test in September, but in Kindergarten we take it only in the Winter and Spring. Although there are many pros and cons to standardized tests, I see it as one of many assessment tools for getting a picture of your child's learning and skills. We will also be able to see the growth between the two test sessions.
Here are some resources for you to explore, in order to understand the test:
Home Site
Ann Arbor Public Schools Informative Site
AAPS Parent Toolkit
In Kindergarten, we take 4 different 30 minute sessions on the computers (2 math-based and 2 literacy-based sections). The first time around, we will take a practice section. Once we get the results, you will receive a report, which we can address at that time.
So how can you prepare your child? To be honest, the work that we do with our children day-in and day-out is the most important! Are you supporting your child with homework? Are you reading together at home? Do you have conversations with your child? Are you working on listening skills? Are your encouraging your child to try things for him/herself?
Here are some resources for you to explore, in order to understand the test:
Home Site
Ann Arbor Public Schools Informative Site
AAPS Parent Toolkit
In Kindergarten, we take 4 different 30 minute sessions on the computers (2 math-based and 2 literacy-based sections). The first time around, we will take a practice section. Once we get the results, you will receive a report, which we can address at that time.
So how can you prepare your child? To be honest, the work that we do with our children day-in and day-out is the most important! Are you supporting your child with homework? Are you reading together at home? Do you have conversations with your child? Are you working on listening skills? Are your encouraging your child to try things for him/herself?
However, there are some things that can help your child out during the testing period:
* Talk with your child about the test. Encourage him/her to listen and to think carefully about the questions. Encourage him/her to do his/her best!
* Give your child time on the computer at home. Part of this test involves listening to a question and using a mouse to select answers. The more comfortable your child is using the computer, the better! Remember to visit this blog's Learning Links for Kids page above!
* Make sure your child is getting plenty of rest and a hearty breakfast during the testing periods.
Once I know our testing schedule, I will send that out to you!
As always, if you have any questions, I am here to answer them! :)
Pictures still to come from our December activities! :) One of my goals for the New Year? Post in a more timely manner! :) See you all Monday!
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