We are going to make
a MAT that has Mr. Smiley on it
a MAT that has Mr. Smiley on it
to use when we make letters together.
This is a HAVE TO because you will be using it lots at home!
Note to parents:
Mr. Smiley is in the top left corner of the chalkboards and mats we use at school when we write letters. It helps children to orient their letters and helps them to:
1) learn directionality: letters (and words) go left to right. They will need and use this knowledge always as they write and read.
2) not reverse letters (common and not concerning at this age, but Mr. Smiley helps to minimize reversals)
3) start letters at the top (which is the most efficient way to write. When you are writing many words you want to be able to do it quickly and efficiently!)
You will need a few things to make your mat:
1. something to use as a mat
It could be a large piece of colored paper, a piece of a cardboard box, a clipboard, a plastic placemat.
**Important note: It should be larger than an 8.5" x 11" piece of paper.
2. paper (white or yellow)
3. flair pen (or black pen),
a yellow marker or crayon,
scissors
4. glue or tape
Here are directions for
how to make your mat:
Now you have a Mr. Smiley mat to use any time you are writing letters.
Find a good spot for it!
