Reindeer and 3D Shapes

This week we have been learning all about reindeer.  We began our study by checking out some real reindeer on Santa's Reindeer Cam at reindeercam.com.  

We organized all our new learning in our Reindeer Facts books.  

We learned a lot of cool facts about reindeer.  Our favorite one involved their antlers.  We learned that male and female reindeer lose their antlers at different times of the year.  The females always have their antlers during December, while the males do not.  This means that Rudolph is a girl!  Our boys were not to please about this! ;) 

In math this week, we have been learning about 3D shapes.  We learned about spheres, cubes, cones, and cylinders.  We used play-doh to make spheres.  

When talking about cubes, I gave each child gumdrops and toothpicks and challenged them to build a cube.  They did great! 

We also spent some time with that mean old Grinch!  This is one of my favorite holiday books to read.  After reading the story, we used a green marker to describe the Grinch at the beginning of the story.  Then we used a red marker to describe how he was at the end.  We realized that characters actions and feelings can change in a story.  

During writing we brainstormed ways we could make the Grinch grin.  We came up with a great list!  We said we could tickle him, make funny face, give him a hug, give him a present, and much more! 

Next week we will be doing a lot of fun Polar Express themed activities!  I can't wait!