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!
