Monday, November 18, 2013

Turkey Tales

Be on the look out of our class book coming home in backpacks today!  It is our personal writing on what we would do if we were the Thanksgiving turkey...they are all original thoughts (no help from their teacher).  I love that their little voices shine right through.  Enjoy!

Friday, November 15, 2013

Pulleys!

Yesterday we learned about movable and fixed pulleys.  We learned that pulleys help us move heavy objects by using force to lift things up and down (fixed pulleys) or side to side (moveable pulleys).


Wednesday, November 13, 2013

Puffing Power

Today in science we learned how we can use our breath to create a pushing force.  We experimented with straws of two sizes and found that air is able to have a faster push on our ping pong balls when the straw is narrower.  We found that wider straws do not allow our air to move as fast.  We also experimented with how changing the direction of our air can push or pull our ball in different directions.










NNAT



In December, Parkway School District will administer the Naglieri Nonverbal Ability Test II (NNAT II) to all kindergarten students and students new to the district in first and second grades. The testing schedule is as follows:
Monday        12/2/13     9:30 - K   (Sinnokrak)
                                              10:15 – New students in first and second grade
Tuesday         12/3/13    9:15 - K   (Unwin)
                                              10:00- K   (Wickenhauser)
Thursday        12/5/13   10:00 – Make-Ups
What is the NNAT II?
The NNAT II is a brief, nonverbal measure of a student’s general ability related to scholastic achievement.  “Nonverbal” means that students are not required to read, write, or speak in completing items in the areas of pattern completion, reasoning, and spatial visualization. 
How are results of used?
The results of the NNAT II are used as one source of information regarding each student’s abilities as they begin their school experience.  The assessment will help teachers, administrators, and counselors determine programs and services that are most appropriate to meeting your child’s individual needs. 
How can I help ensure my child is prepared to take the test?
This is not a test that requires any study in advance!  The best way to prepare your child for this test is to be sure he or she is rested, feeling well, not hungry or thirsty, and not anxious.  Taking the NNAT is fun for many children because the test is made up of items that may feel like a “game” or “puzzle.”  Help your child understand that all he/she needs to do is follow the instructions the teacher provides and do his/her best. 
When and how will I receive the results?
NNAT II results are sent via mail to your home during the first few weeks of March.  A report is included that explains your child’s results and score.  If you have additional questions feel free to contact the school.
 Thank you so much for your support.

**If you are concerned about your child talking the NNAT after our holiday break please be sure to contact Kelli Crupper (kcrupper@pkwy.k12.mo.us) to reschedule his/her assessment date.**

Thank you so much!

Tuesday, November 12, 2013

Our new arrival...

Few new arrivals are as eager anticipated as our new meeting place.  Check out our brand new, beautiful classroom carpet!  Please give Dr. Moreton a hug next time you see her...she allowed this new "home base" to be a possibility for the heroes!  My favorite part is the bees...notice they are in a circle?  Perfect for kindergarten conversations and class meetings!


Veteran's Day

Enjoy some pictures from our annual Veteran's Day assembly and parade.  The children looked so patriotic waving their flags as some of our classmates escorted  our veteran's to their reception!











Friday, November 8, 2013

Pendulum Pushes and Pulls

Today we explored force and motion by experimenting with pendulums.  The children learned that their weights were pulled by gravity and pushed by the momentum behind the drop.  They loved building towers and testing the different variables of height and direction when dropping their weights.