Mrs. Hornsby's K-4 Happenings

2009-05-06T11:47:00.001-07:00

K-4 Happenings
Mrs. Hornsby
May 04-08

For the next two weeks we will continue to review letters, colors, numbers, and sounds. We will work daily in our ABC workbook as well.
The thematic unit for the week will be “Our Senses”. I have several activities planned for this unit. We have completed the units on “Signs of Safety” and “Transportation”. The children seemed to enjoy them both.
We will review phone numbers and home addresses. Please continue to work with them at home as you have done throughout the year.
I am very pleased with the progress of our boys and girls this year! They have worked very hard and I hope that you are happy with their accomplishments as well.

2009-04-14T12:38:00.000-07:00

K-4 Happenings
Mrs. Hornsby
April 13-17

We have completed our alphabet (A-Z). The children have done a great job! We will continue to review the letters until the end of the school year. We will review colors, numbers, phone numbers, days of the week, and months of the year as well.
This week we will review the vowels. Each day a different vowel will be discussed. I have several activities planned for review.
Beginning next week we will focus on thematic units. The first unit will be Signs of Safety. My next newsletter will outline the week in detail. As we begin the units, please ask your child questions each day about what they have learned. I know they will be excited to share with you!
Have A Great Week

2009-04-06T12:22:00.001-07:00

K-4 Happenings
Mrs. Hornsby
April 06-09

This week the students will be introduced to the letter Z. We will begin our week by listing words on the board that begin with this letter. We will practice the sound and we will practice writing the Z. We will create letter Z rhyme books.
For our science activity we will explore zippers. The students will look at different zippers and compare lengths and colors.
For our art activity each student will make zipper rubbings. They will use different crayon colors and plain white paper for this activity.
On Thursday we will have our Easter Party.
The students will decorate Easter eggs and enjoy cookies and juice! Please send a bag of candy for the baskets which I will provide.
Thanks So Much,
Mrs. Hornsby

*Remember- No School On Friday

2009-03-31T12:00:00.001-07:00

K-4 Happenings
Mrs. Hornsby
March 30-April 03

This week the students will be introduced to the letter Y. We will begin our week by listing words on the board that begin with this letter. We will practice the sound and we will practice writing the Y. The class will color the letter Y yellow and glue yellow yarn on it.
For our science activity we will explore a yardstick. The students will learn that a yardstick is used for measuring.
For our art activity each student will make a yo-yo. They will use crayons, markers, paper plates and string.
On Friday we will decorate yellow cupcakes! We will use tubes of decorator frosting and sprinkles.
Have A Super Week,
Mrs. Hornsby

* Please return signed report cards. Also, I would appreciate all Tuesday (red) folders back by Thursday of the same week.

2009-03-16T07:54:00.001-07:00

K-4 Happenings
Mrs. Hornsby
March 16-20

This week the students will be introduced to the letter X. We will begin our week by listing words on the board that begin with this letter. We will practice the sound and we will practice writing the X. The class will create the letter X using construction paper, straws, and glue.
For our science activity we will talk about and explore a xylophone. The students will color a picture of a xylophone.
Our art activity will consist of creating an X butterfly. They will use crayons, markers, craft sticks, and glue.
Our number for the week is “23”. We will review phone numbers and home addresses. We will also build on the letter X using and counting blocks.

2009-03-10T12:03:00.001-07:00

K-4 Happenings
Mrs. Hornsby
March 09-13

This week the students will be introduced to the letter W. We will begin our week by listing words on the board that begin with this letter. We will practice the sound and we will practice writing the W. The class will learn a short song for the letter W. The song is titled, Welcome, little W. The tune for the song is “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star”.
For our science activity we will talk about the wind. I will encourage the class to explore the effects of wind. We will do an experiment using sugar and straws to show wind direction and changes in the force of wind. I will also mention that wind is a form of weather.
Our art activity will consist of painting on wax paper. The children will observe what happens when they paint or color on the paper.
Our number for the week is “22”. We will continue to practice phone numbers and home addresses. Please practice these at home with your child.

2009-02-23T12:07:00.001-08:00

K-4 Happenings
Mrs. Hornsby
February 23-27

This week the students will be introduced to the letter T. We will begin our week by listing words on the board that begin with this letter. We will practice the sound and we will practice writing the T.
February is national dental month, so for our science activity we will talk about treating our teeth like treasure. We will learn a poem and a short song about teeth and the importance of brushing.
For our art activity we will make a mouth using construction paper and mini marshmallows to create teeth. The children will count and record the number of teeth that their mouth has.
Our number for the week will be “21”. We will continue to practice home phone numbers, months of the year, and the days of the week.

Have a Great Week,
Mrs. Hornsby

2009-02-09T11:18:00.000-08:00

K-4 Happenings
Mrs. Hornsby
February 09-13

This week the students will be introduced to the letter S. We will begin our week by listing words on the board that begin with this letter. We will practice the sound and we will practice writing the S. We will create the tactile letter using string.
For our science activity we will talk about the five senses. The students will share their thoughts and ideas about their senses. We will learn a song called, “My Five Senses”.
Our number for the week will be “20”. We will continue to practice home phone numbers, months of the year, and the days of the week.
On Friday we will celebrate Valentine’s Day!
Marble Slab will come and the children will have the opportunity to make their own ice cream sundae. The cost will be $5.00 per child. Please send the money in by Thursday if possible. Also, your child may bring Valentine cards to exchange with each other on Friday. We will decorate our bags on Wednesday.

2009-01-30T11:54:00.001-08:00

K-4 Happenings
Mrs. Hornsby
February 02-06

This week the students will be introduced to the letter R. We will begin our week by listing words on the board that begin with this letter. We will practice the sound and we will practice writing the R. The class will learn a rhyme using the letter as I introduce them to Rodney Raccoon. We will create tactile letter R’s using rice.
For our science activity we will talk about rain. Everyone will have an opportunity to share their thoughts and ideas about rain. I will read a book to the class called “When the Rain Came Down”.
Our number for the week will be “19”. We will continue to practice home phone numbers, months of the year, days of the week, and color words. On Friday, we will enjoy rice crispy treats!

2009-01-20T12:35:00.001-08:00

K-4 Happenings
Mrs. Hornsby
January 20-23

This week the students will be introduced to the letter P. We will begin our week by listing words on the board that begin with this letter. We will practice the sound and we will practice writing the P. The class will learn a rhyme using the letter as I introduce them to Pete Porcupine.
For our science activity we will talk about pets. I will read a book about pets to the class and invite them to talk about their experiences with pets. If they have never had a pet they will discuss what type of pet they would like to have and why? We will also discuss how to take care of pets and responsibility.
Our number for the week is “17”. We will continue to practice the months of the year, days of the week, and phone numbers. On Friday we will share popcorn to complete our week!

Thanks,
Mrs. Hornsby

2009-01-12T11:03:00.001-08:00

K-4 Happenings
Mrs. Hornsby
January 12-16

This week the students will be introduced to the letter N. We will begin our week by listing words on the board that begin with this letter. We will practice the sound and we will practice writing the N. The class will learn a rhyme using the letter as I introduce them to Nora Nurse.
For our science activity we will talk about nests. I will show the class a picture of a nest and I will read a nonfiction book featuring nests.
We will discuss what a nest may be made of and the reason animals make them.
Our number for the week will be “16”. We will continue to practice cutting lines and simple shapes. We will focus on the months of the year and learning home telephone numbers. Please reinforce both on a daily basis if possible. My goal is for every student to know this by next progress report!

Enjoy Your Week,
Mrs. Hornsby

2008-12-15T11:34:00.000-08:00

K-4 Happenings
Mrs. Hornsby
December 15-19

This week we will review the vowels and all the consonants to letter Ll. We will review shapes, colors, and numbers.
We will talk about Christmas and begin to prepare for the holiday using music, games, art, books, and crafts to get into the joyous season.
Our Christmas party will be on Friday during lunch time. I will bring cupcakes and juice for the class. If you would like to send a treat for your child to share that would be great!
The students will not exchange gifts this year. The K3, K4, and the Kindergarten classes will bring a “pet gift” instead. The gifts will be collected and taken to the Montgomery Humane Shelter for pets in need. I will attach a list of needed items to this newsletter for your reference. The gift may be wrapped or unwrapped. Every gift will be appreciated! Please help us share the season with the homeless, loving pets at the shelter.
Have a safe and blessed holiday,

K-4 Happenings
Mrs. Hornsby
December 15-19

This week we will review the vowels and all the consonants to letter Ll. We will review shapes, colors, and numbers.
We will talk about Christmas and begin to prepare for the holiday using music, games, art, books, and crafts to get into the joyous season.
Our Christmas party will be on Friday during lunch time. I will bring cupcakes and juice for the class. If you would like to send a treat for your child to share that would be great!
The students will not exchange gifts this year. The K3, K4, and the Kindergarten classes will bring a “pet gift” instead. The gifts will be collected and taken to the Montgomery Humane Shelter for pets in need. I will attach a list of needed items to this newsletter for your reference. The gift may be wrapped or unwrapped. Every gift will be appreciated! Please help us share the season with the homeless, loving pets at the shelter.
Have a safe and blessed holiday,

2008-12-05T11:08:00.001-08:00

K-4 Happenings
Mrs. Hornsby
December 08-12

This week the students will be introduced to the letter L. We will begin our week listing words on the board that begin with this letter. We will practice the sound and we will practice writing the L. The class will learn a rhyme using the letter as I introduce them to Lenny Lion.
For our science activity we will explore a level. I will show the students a level and explain to them that a level is a tool used to show if something is straight. They will take turns using the level in areas around the classroom.
Our number for the week will be “14”. We will review the triangle shape and the colors green and purple. We will create tape triangles during math.
For our art activity we will create paper loop chains for our Christmas tree!

2008-12-01T12:34:00.000-08:00

K-4 Happenings
Mrs. Hornsby
December 01-05

This week the students will be introduced to the letter K. We will begin our week listing words on the board that begin with this letter. We will practice the sound and we will practice writing the K. The class will learn a rhyme using the letter as I introduce them to Kerry Koala.
For our science activity we will talk about kites. I will invite the students to share any experiences they have had with kites. They will share their ideas on how a kite flies. We will color and cut out a paper kite, and read a story about the box kite. I will share pictures of six different kinds of kites to the class.
Our number for the week will be “13”. We will review the square shape and the colors red and yellow. We will sort red and yellow square blocks during math.
Thanks to all of you for making our Thanksgiving Feast a great success! We had a wonderful time.

2008-11-17T11:48:00.000-08:00

K-4 Happenings
Mrs. Hornsby
November 17-21

This week the students will be introduced to the letter J. We will begin our week listing words on the board that begin with this letter. We will practice the sound and we will practice writing the J. The class will learn a rhyme using the letter as I introduce them to Jenny Jellyfish.
For our science activity we will talk about the jellyfish. I will share a nonfiction book about jellyfish with the class. The students will be given the opportunity to ask questions, and I will point out three important characteristics to them about the jellyfish.
Our number for the week will be “12”. We will review the oval shape and the colors blue and white. We will continue to practice using our scissors as well.
For art the students will create jellyfish puppets using paper plates and crepe paper streamers!
Enjoy your week,
Mrs. Hornsby

2008-11-11T09:00:00.000-08:00

K-4 Happenings
Mrs. Hornsby
November 10-14

This week the students will be introduced to the letter H. We will begin our week listing words on the board that begin with this letter. We will practice the sound and we will practice writing the H. The class will learn a rhyme using the letter as I introduce them to Holly Hippo. We will discuss different types of homes and the students will have the opportunity to talk about their own home. We will use letter H cutouts for art. Each student will color and glue a picture of a home to their letter. Their name and address will make each one unique!
Our number for the week will be “11”. We will review all the shapes and colors that the students have learned this year. We will practice using scissors as well.
For science I will tape a strip of paper to the wall. I will measure each student’s height and write their name beside it. We will discuss how this will change as they become older.
Have A Wonderful Week!
Mrs. Hornsby

2008-11-04T09:02:00.000-08:00

K-4 Happenings
Mrs. Hornsby
November 03-07

This week the students will be introduced to the letter Gg. We will begin our week making our tactile letter using green glitter. We will list and discuss words on the board that begin with the letter. We will practice making the Gg sound and we will practice writing the Gg. The class will learn a rhyme using the letter as I introduce them to Gilbert Goat.
Our number for the week will be “10”, we will review all the shapes and our color will be green. We will make gumball machines for art using colored pompom balls. I will bring a real gumball machine in to share with the class!
Our math activities will include putting assorted items in groups of ten and tossing ten jar lids on the number ten.
For science the students will observe how many cups of water it takes to fill a gallon container.
Thanks,
Mrs. Hornsby

2008-10-27T11:55:00.001-07:00

K-4 Happenings
Mrs. Hornsby
October 27-31

This week the students will be introduced to the letter Ff. We will begin our week making our tactile letter using pieces of fabric. We will discuss what the word fabric means and the students will have the opportunity to look and feel different types of fabric. We will talk about other words that begin with the letter Ff and list them on the board. The class will learn a rhyme using the letter as I introduce them to Farrah Fox.
Our number for the week will be “9”, our shape will be the octagon and our color will be black. We will make fish puppets for art.
Our math activities will include a game called the number nine hop and we will draw octagons using shaving cream.
For science the students will examine fingerprints using magnifying glasses. They will learn that everyone’s fingerprints are different.

Have a fantastic week!

2008-10-20T11:29:00.001-07:00

K-4 Happenings
Mrs. Hornsby
October 20-24

This week the students will be introduced to the letter Dd. We will begin our week making our tactile letter Dd using dog stickers. We will discuss different types of dogs and the students will share stories about their own dog, or a dog they know. We will list as many Dd words as the students can name on the board. The class will learn a rhyme using the letter as I introduce them to Devon Dog.
Our number for the week will be “8”, our shape will be the diamond and our color will be brown. We will create brown paper plate shakers for our art activity.
Our math activities will include matching dots on dominos and exploring dice. We will also make kites using the diamond shape.
On Friday we will continue with “show and tell” and the students will sample a delightful dip using apple slices and strawberries!

2008-10-07T12:21:00.000-07:00

K-4 Happenings
Mrs. Hornsby
October 07-10

This week our class will review the vowels, as well as, letters Bb and Cc. We will review our shapes, numbers, and colors that we have been introduced to this year. We will practice writing and our rhymes that go along with each letter.
For science we will talk about the seasons of the year and will focus on fall. The students will observe leaves which have started to change colors and we will discuss why they change colors. For art we will create leaf shapes using assorted artificial and real leaves.
Our math activities will include counting down from seven and talking about the seven days of the week. We will also create shape collages using construction paper, assorted shapes, and glue.

Enjoy your week,
Mrs. Hornsby

2008-09-29T12:15:00.001-07:00

K-4 Happenings
Mrs. Hornsby’s Class
September 29-October 03

Our letter for this week is “C”. We will start our week by making a tactile letter “C” using coconut. We will learn the sounds that “C” makes and list words on the board that begin with “C”. We will practice writing the letter as well. We will review the A, E, I, O, U, and B. The class will learn a rhyme using the letter as I introduce them to Callie Cat.
For our science activity we will mix colors using food coloring. The students will learn that red and yellow make orange, and that blue and yellow make green. For science we will also clean copper coins (pennies) using vinegar and salt, and we will create coin rubbings using coins, paper, and crayons.
Our number for the week will be “7”, our shape will be a heart and our color will be pink. We will make pink flamingos for our art activity using paper plates and drinking straws. We will color hearts and sort them by shape and size as one of our math activities.
On Friday we will continue with “show and tell” and the students will sample chocolate candy that contains coconut!

Thanks,
Mrs. Hornsby

2008-09-22T11:20:00.001-07:00

K-4 Happenings
Mrs. Hornsby’s Class
September 22-26

Our letter for this week is “B”. We will start our week by making a tactile letter “B” using beans. We will learn the sound that “B” makes and list words on the board that begin with “B”. We will practice writing the letter using shaving cream. We will review the A, E, I, O, and U. The class will learn a rhyme using the letter as I introduce them to Benny Bear.
For our science activity we will make bubble bottles. For this activity we will use plastic bottles, buttons, and beads. The students will predict what actually makes the bubbles form in the bottles. We will discuss bees, butterflies, and birds.
Our number for the week will be “6”, our shape will be an oval, and our color will be orange. We will use orange paint on the number “6” as one of our art activities. We will make a butterfly using orange tissue paper and a bird using bird seed. We will also sort buttons into bowls for math.
On Friday we will continue with “show and tell” and the students will help make and sample banana pudding!

Enjoy Your Week,
Mrs. Hornsby

2008-09-16T11:49:00.001-07:00

K-4 Happenings
Mrs. Hornsby’s Class
September 15-19

This week we will focus on the last vowel in the alphabet the “U”. We will learn the two sounds the vowel makes, as well as, listing and talking about words that begin with the “U”. The students will sing the vowel song that they have learned. We will review the A, E, I, and the O. The class will learn a rhyme using the vowel as I introduce them to Unger Unicorn.
For our science activity we will talk about animals that live underground. We will discuss groundhogs, moles, chipmunks, and armadillos. I will show them pictures of the animals and we will talk about why they live underground.
Our number for the week will be “5”, our shape will be a star, and our color will be yellow. We will use yellow paint on the letter “U” and glitter glue as one of our art activities. We will make an umbrella paper bag puppet.
On Friday we will continue with “show and tell” and we will decorate ugly cookies. We will be using sugar cookies, chocolate chips, and tubes of decorator frosting!

Have A Super Week,
Mrs. Hornsby

2008-09-05T13:15:00.000-07:00

K-4 Happenings
Mrs. Hornsby’s Class
September 08-12

We will begin our week discussing the fourth vowel in the alphabet. We will learn all about the “O”. We will learn the two sounds the vowel makes, as well as, listing and talking about words that begin with the “O”. The students will sing the vowel song that they have learned. We will review the A, E, and I. We will be tracing and writing the “O”. The class will learn a rhyme using the vowel as I introduce them to Ollie Otter.
For our science activity I will read nonfiction books about the ocean. We will discuss what lives in the ocean and I will encourage the students to share their ideas and any experiences they have had with the ocean. We will focus on the octopus and incorporate our art activity around the ocean and the octopus. We will create tactile letter O’s using oats and glue. On Friday we will have oatmeal cookies and talk about the ingredients that are used in the oatmeal cookie recipe.
Our number for the week will be “4”, our shape will be a rectangle, and our color will be purple.

Thanks For Sharing Your Children With Me,
Mrs. Hornsby

2008-08-29T12:25:00.000-07:00

K-4 Happenings
Mrs. Hornsby’s Class
September 01-05

This week the students will be introduced to the third vowel in the alphabet. We will learn all about the “I”. We will begin by learning the sounds the “I” makes. We will be tracing and writing the vowel as well. We will be listing words on the board that begin with “I”. The class will learn a rhyme using the vowel as I introduce Isabel Iguana.
The students will create letter “I” rhyme books for language arts and we will talk about inventors. I will challenge the students to work together to create an invention. On Friday we will have ice cream as our letter “I” recipe activity. We will discuss how ice cream is made and the different flavors that are available.
For science we will perform an ice experiment. The students will discover that by using salt they can pick up an ice cube with a piece of string.
Art activities will include making igloo pictures and tactile letter I’s. Our art will be sent home usually on Fridays.
Our number for the week will be “3”, our shape will be a triangle, and our color will be green.

Enjoy your week,
Mrs. Hornsby

2008-08-29T12:07:00.000-07:00

2008-08-25T07:52:00.000-07:00

K-4 Happenings
Mrs. Hornsby’s Class
August 25-29

This week the students will be introduced to the second vowel in the alphabet. We will learn all about the “E”. We will begin by learning the sounds the “E” makes. We will be tracing and writing the vowel as well. We will be listing words on the board that begin with “E”. The class will learn a rhyme using the vowel as I introduce Evelyn Elephant.
The students will create letter “E” rhyme books for language arts and make craft stick letter E’s. On Friday we will make and sample egg salad for our cooking/math activity.
Our science activity will be all about evaporation. The students will discover that water evaporates into the air a little bit each day.
Art activities will include making eggshell art and tactile letter E’s. Our art will be sent home usually on Fridays.
Our number for the week will be “2”, our shape will be a square, and our color will be blue.

Reminders:
Show and Tell will be every Friday. Items must begin with the letter of the week. Please save your drink/food tabs for us. We have a container for these in our classroom. Also, September 1st is a holiday!

August 18-22

2008-08-15T12:46:00.000-07:00

K-4 Happening
Mrs. Hornsby’s Class
August 18-22

Each week the students will be introduced to a letter of the alphabet. We will begin with the letter “A”. We will move consecutively to the letter “Z”. The same procedure will apply to the numbers. We will work on shapes and colors as well.
This week our letter will be “A”, our number will be 1 and our shape will be the circle. The students will work on tracing as well as writing. The language activity will focus on Alvin Alligator. We will learn the rhyme that goes along with Alvin. The students will create letter rhyme books.
Our science activity will be exploring apples on a balance scale. The students will observe two apples and predict whether they weigh the same or not. Then we will weigh the results.
Art activities will include making fingerprint ants and tactile letter A’s. Our art will be sent home usually on Fridays.
I hope to make Friday’s special by letting the students create recipes with the letter of the week. I plan to let Friday be our show and tell day as well. Students may bring an item from home that begins with the letter A. Please allow them to share items each week pertaining to our letter of the week only. They are not required to participate every week. This will be by choice.

Have A Great Week!

2008-08-08T11:55:00.000-07:00

K-4 Happenings
Mrs. Hornsby’s Class
August 11-15

Dear Parents,
Once again I would like to say WELCOME to a great year at TRA! As you know the first week of school can be very emotional for everyone, especially for our preschool children. This week we will focus on getting to know each other, routines, rules, and procedures. The students will be introduced to group time activities which will consist of songs, the pledge, weather and the days of the week. Everyone will have an opportunity to talk about themselves sharing feelings and likes and dislikes with the class. We will talk about manners and how to be a good friend.
In order for us to become better acquainted with each other and share in the discussions, I am sending two “All About Me” sheets home with each student. Please allow your child to assist you in completing these sheets and return them to me as soon as possible. This will enable us to get to know each other better and will encourage classroom discussion.
I would appreciate you reading to your child for at least ten minutes daily. I am enclosing a reading log sheet for you to keep track of this in their Tuesday folder. Please kindly list the books you read together. When your log is complete return it in the folder so I can reward the reading with a special surprise. Let’s Make Reading Fun!
Spanish will be their elective class for this nine weeks and P.E. will be a continuous elective for the year. I will keep you informed of our schedule and elective changes.
Reminders:
Please make sure your child has a daily snack and lunch.
Nappers and or blankets will be sent home every Friday. They must be returned on Monday. Weekly folders will be sent home on Tuesday beginning on August 19th.

Thanks so much and have a Great Week!

2008-08-05T08:19:00.001-07:00

Supply List for Mrs. Hornsby (K4)

1school backpack (large enough to hold folder)
1 small supply box (no pouches)
2 packs of washable markers (classic colors)
2 packs of crayons (24 count)
1 white T-shirt (2 sizes larger than your child wears)
2 boxes of Kleenex
2 rolls of paper towels
2 glue sticks
1 pack of water colors
2 packs of baby wipes
1 Kid-napper or sleeping bag
1 box of quart or gallon size ziplock bags
1can of Lysol spray
1 container Clorox wipes
*A complete change of clothes in a ziplock bag in case of an accident. (Please put their names on all clothing).

2008-08-05T08:17:00.000-07:00

Parent Newsletter
Mrs. Hornsby
August 04, 08

Dear Parents,
Welcome! I am very excited to be your child’s teacher for this school year. Please feel free to discuss any issues, or concerns which may arise pertaining to your child with me as soon as possible. I believe that communication is the key to your child’s success. I need your support. As we work together as a team, this will be a successful year.
We will be using the A Beka curriculum this year. We will focus on thematic units which will reinforce our letters and numbers, as well as sing songs, make letter booklets, follow simple recipes, play games and incorporate art work into our day. In group time we will discuss the calendar, the weather, the pledge, safety, and holidays.
I believe that in order for children to learn there must be established behavioral guidelines with rules, rewards, and consequences. I will be very fair and understanding as I help your child grow and mature this year. I trust you feel the same way. I hope to see you at TRA for Open House!

2008-08-04T14:04:00.000-07:00