Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD

4th graders kicked off their first unit of inquiry today!  The unit is “My Toes are Tingling!”   

Students thought about 2 questions. What do these pictures make me think? How do the pictures connect to the other pictures I see? They used the thinking skill, analysis, and communication skills of writing and reading as they rotated around the room. One student said, “All these pictures mean something. When you share data with someone, you are giving a message.”

These students used their critical thinking skills to analyze forms of written communication. Another student said, “Morse code was used during the war.” and ”Kids communicate to kids in other countries through letters, emails and texts in different languages.”  When students make  connections in the classroom,  is like a light bulb that goes off and one student raised her hand with enthusiasm and said, “My toes are tingling!!!”

Theme: How We Express Ourselves

Central Idea: Humans use written language to express themselves.

This week the’ kindergarten classes practiced communication skills through partner reading. They are developing and increasing their vocabulary by critically thinking and sharing their thoughts about books.

Growth Mindset + Open-mindedness in Critical Thinking = Good Gator 

Third graders focus on being open-minded! “Anyone can learn anything,” says Ms. Lehman.

When interviewed this 5th grader said, “While I was on safety patrol, I saw a little girl fall down. She hurt her knee. When I saw her face, she looked as if she was about to cry so I decided to help her. I helped her by taking her to the nurse. She told me thank you. She had a big smile on her face. This made me feel helpful. I like helping others. This was a great feeling for me!”

Good Gators are thoughtful, caring students. Thank you for being an excellent role model!

Fourth grade students practice Communication Skills as they reflect in writing after reading a section in the Newbery Honor Book, Tiger Rising, by Kate DiCamillo. These students are well on their way to becoming exceptional readers!

Second grade using their five senses to reflect on what they have observed in their environment.

Parents and teachers of grades pre-kindergarten, kindergarten and first grade all came to the annual Curriculum Night at Good Elementary on August 28. This was an informative night where teachers shared the nuts and bolts about a particular grade level. Good Elementary was fortunate enough to have a community partner present that evening! Children’s Health was available to answer parents’ questions regarding the new innovative teledoc system now possible through schools. Many parents signed up to receive services. This was a great night to learn about curriculum and to continue to build bridges with the community.

Students at Good Elementary, IB World School, are Rockstars! These students started the 2018-2019 school year off celebrating summer reading! Reading helps students become better communicators. One 4th grade student said, “I read everyday, even when I was on vacation in Washington DC.” Building stamina, fluency and volume in reading is key to becoming an “exceptional” reader.

Students at Good are still smiling even on the 3rd day of school!

Good Gators arrived for the first day of school wearing sensational smiles! Enthusiasm, an International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme  attitude, was evident by all.

Students and teachers alike were happy to be back at Good, IB World School.  Have a great year Gators!

View more photos from the students first day back on our Flickr