Week 1: All About Me
Weekly Focus
Children explore their own identities, including their names, physical characteristics, likes and dislikes, and what makes them special and unique.
Week at a Glance
Daily themes for Week 1
- MondayMy Name is Special
- TuesdayWhat I Look Like
- WednesdayThings I Like
- ThursdayThings I Can Do
- FridayI Am Special
Teacher Tip
Learning Objectives
- Recognize and write their own name
- Identify and describe physical characteristics
- Express likes and dislikes
- Understand that everyone is unique and special
- Practice counting and number recognition 1-5
- Develop vocabulary related to self-identity
Key Vocabulary
Materials Needed
- Chart paper and markers
- Mirrors
- Art supplies (crayons, paper, scissors, glue)
- Name cards for each child
- Camera for documentation
- Books about self-identity
- Measuring tape/scale
- Paper plates, yarn, buttons (for face crafts)
Monday: My Name is Special
Focus Question
What makes my name special?
Suggested Books
- "Chrysanthemum" by Kevin Henkes
- "The Name Jar" by Yangsook Choi
- "My Name Is Yoon" by Helen Recorvits
Morning Circle
Introduce the theme "All About Me." Discuss how everyone has a special name. Read the book "Chrysanthemum" by Kevin Henkes or a similar book about names.
Teacher Tip: As you read, pause to ask children how Chrysanthemum feels at different points in the story. Connect to how children feel about their own names.
Literacy Activity
Name recognition and writing practice. Children identify their name cards and practice writing their names using various materials (markers, crayons, finger paint, etc.).
Math Activity
Count the letters in each child's name. Create a graph showing how many letters are in each child's name. Identify which names have the most/least letters.
Extension: For advanced students, calculate the average number of letters in the class names, or sort names by first letter and create a bar graph.
Art Activity
Name art: Children decorate their names using various art materials. They can use fingerprints, stickers, or drawings that represent things they like.
Closing Circle
Share name art and discuss what makes each name special. Sing a name song that incorporates each child's name.
Reflection Questions:
- What did you learn about your name today?
- How does your name make you special?
- What did you notice about other children's names?
Assessment Strategies
Observation
Observe children's participation in activities and document their engagement level.
Work Samples
Collect name writing samples, self-portraits, and "I can" booklets for portfolios.
Documentation
Record children's responses during discussions about self-identity concepts.
Photography
Take photos of children engaged in activities to document their learning process.
Anecdotal Notes
Keep notes on children's understanding of self-identity concepts and vocabulary use.
Home Connection
Family Activity Ideas
Send home a family activity sheet that encourages parents/caregivers to:
- Share the story of their child's name
- Look at family photos together and discuss physical characteristics
- Create a list or drawing of family members' likes and dislikes
- Celebrate their child's special qualities and abilities
Communication Tips
- Send home a brief summary of each day's activities
- Include vocabulary words families can reinforce at home
- Suggest simple extension activities that require minimal materials
- Invite families to share photos or stories about their child