North, South, East, West

            Our class is beginning a new unit in our reading program called North, South, East, West. We will read stories and poems about reading maps, making maps, asking and giving directions, and traveling.

            This unit is similar to previous units because it has a reading transition for students.  In the first half of the unit, students will follow along in the Big Book as selections are read.  In the second half of the unit, students will take on the responsibility of reading the main classroom selections using their First Reader.

            Throughout this unit, you may want to take the opportunity to look at maps and globes around your home.  Maps are a way of making our world more accessible.  They help us understand new and unfamiliar places.  If possible, visit the library or look on the Internet for maps of both familiar and unfamiliar places.

Some activities you may wish to try:

As you look at maps together, help your child think about the four cardinal directions: north, south, east and west.  If possible, use a compass to identify the four directions from your home.  Ask your child to decorate letters that represent the four directions.  After discovering the four directions, ask your child to hang the decorated letters N, S, E and W in the appropriate places.

Encourage your child to hide a small treasure somewhere within your home or around the neighborhood.  Ask him or her to draw a treasure map that will lead you to the hidden surprise.

Concept and Question Board:

You may wish to contribute to our unit concept and question board by sending in a map to post.  This can be a road map, a map of a park you have been to or even a state or country map.  If you would like the map returned just send it in with a note so that I am aware.  Thank you for your continued support at home to supplement our learning at school!