updated on July 23, 2008
Check the Chalkboard for Our Curriculum!
LANGUAGE ARTS
Our program is literature-based, which means that the children will be surrounded by quality literature, both in big book and trade book form. We will also be using selections from the Houghton Mifflin series anthologies. We will be using the thematic approach, so that much of our reading and writing will relate to the current unit of study. Each week we'll also read thematic and seasonal poems which we'll collect in our Poetry Binder. Click below to learn more about poems. Our independent reading and writing activities are done through a balanced literacy approach, which includes guided reading. Click below for detailed descriptions of our balanced literacy program. You'll also find links to learn about our Literature Themes.
Reading & Writing Workshop
More about Poetry
Literature Themes
Our spelling and phonics program has grown out of the Project Read philosophy. The RED words are simple sight words, and first grade spelling skills include short and long vowel sounds, digraphs, blends, endings and vowel combinations. As each new spelling skill is introduced, your child will be expected to use these in his/her writing. This helps to bridge the gap between temporary and conventional spelling. Please know, however, first graders are just learning to write, and you'll still see quite a bit of "phonetic" spelling! We add a basic sight word to our Word Wall each day to be used for writer's workshop. For handwriting instruction, we use techniques from the "Handwriting without Tears" series.
Click here for more about spelling!
Click here for more about Word Walls!
MATH
Our district is currently using the Pearson mathematics program, which consists of a student practice book/blackline masters. We also use an abundance of literature with mathematic connections. Your child will become fluent in the area of addition and subtraction equations through 18, as well as be exposed to concepts such as money, time, measurement, geometry, fractions, double-digit addition and subtraction, problem-solving and others. Be sure to visit Mathstories with your child for some online math fun - the interactive math problems can be found if you scroll down a bit on their homepage!
Mathstories
SCIENCE
Our Science program is centered around thematic units and FOSS science kits. During the first grade year we'll study mammals, nocturnal animals, magnets, amphibians, the rainforest, the Earth, plants and rocks and soil.
SOCIAL STUDIES
Holiday and seasonal events are explored in first grade social studies, with an emphasis on multicultural activities. Beginning in January, we have a weekly "Superkid Self-Esteem" program, where each student is celebrated and is permitted to share with us photos and objects which are special.
Click here to learn more about Superkids!
TECHNOLOGY
Our classroom currently has a PC and projector that is connected to the internet. Under careful supervision, the children and the teacher can explore topics that complement those studied in class. In addition to the classroom computers, children have access to the computer lab located in our Tech Room and use it during their Library related arts class.
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