Welcome to the 2019/2020 School Year! 🏫😎 (Blog #1)

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Blog #1-- April 3, 2019-- Grade 2

Welcome back to another school year! I hope you have had some time to relax with your families, and that your children are ready and excited to begin Grade 2!

I wanted to share a little about myself. As many of you may know, I started working at AIS last summer. In just a short time, I've already learned so much about the IB PYP program, and the many great things we can do to improve students' learning experiences at school.

Before moving to Osaka, I was teaching Grade 2 in California, near San Francisco. I was also born and raised in California, and attended university in a town called Santa Cruz. I have worked with kids for over 12 years, and I continue to do so because I love the challenges and joys that come from working with children. Every day is different, and I couldn't be happier with that!

We will be learning a lot together this year. Students will work on differentiated spelling practice each morning when they first arrive at school. They will develop their English fluency through daily reading, writing and speaking activities. They will master math skills in a variety of areas, including number sense, measurement, and data handling. And, last but not least, they will become inquirers and knowledge-seekers throughout our six units of inquiry. First up: taking a look at "Who We Are" by examining how the choices we make affect our health and our well-being.

I will use this blog to update you weekly on the activities and learning that is happening in (and outside of!) our classroom. Keep an eye out for photos and videos of students, as well as important announcements and upcoming dates! Be sure to subscribe to this blog so that you don't miss any important information!

I can't wait to get this year started with the students! 

See you all very soon,
Mr. Derek

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