Globe Trot Scott

Hi families,
We had a great day in second grade today!
In Math, we learned that yet another addition strategy that mathematicians use is to add tens and ones on a hundred chart.  This gives us another tool to have in our toolkit, in case we need it.  Obviously, everyone will have a strategy that they feel most comfortable with using... (mine is still the old-school "stacking" that we learned way back when)... this unit is just about showing different ways to improve flexibility.
In reading and writing, we continue to learn all about nonfiction books.  Today we did a reader's response page based on our nonfiction learning... we also practiced paraphrasing the words of other authors.
In social studies, we have started a new mini-unit called "Globe Trot Scott". This unit addresses our curriculum framework regarding customs and traditions from around the world. Scott is a (fictional) word traveler who sends us packages from around the world.  We are learning about different holiday traditions and customs, and where they are practiced.  Today, we learned a little bit about Israel, and the celebration of Hanukkah. 
Students are keeping track of their souvenirs from Scott in a folder "suitcase", and have a map "passport" to mark all the different places he goes.  This way, they can also make the link to the second grade standards of learning about continents and oceans.
Happy Wednesday!