First Grade

Of course, each child will progress at an individual rate; therefore success is measured not by where they finish, but by how far they’ve come. First Grade is also a year of transition to the more formal learning environment. Students will still have many opportunities to work and play in hands-on activities, but will be involved in independent tasks as well. Direct instruction and hands-on activities that engage the mind provide stimulation while supporting each child’s self-confidence in his abilities.

The First Grade program provides an integrated curriculum with Language Arts at its core. Reading, writing, listening and speaking opportunities help each child develop at his own pace. We use a variety of teaching methods geared towards each child’s learning styles and intelligence levels. We also utilize individual work, collaborative study, cooperative small group projects and whole class activities.

The Math curriculum emphasizes mathematical patterns and relationships to help students view the world mathematically. It focuses on the concrete and pictorial stages, followed by the abstract stage to enable students to learn mathematics meaningfully. This approach encourages the active thinking process, communication of mathematical ideas, and problem-solving. This helps develop the foundation students will need for more advanced mathematics.

Students also experience learning in a variety of special classes such as Music, Art, Library, World Language, Science, and Physical Education. Computers in the classroom and in the Computer Lab support new skills that students acquire across many subject areas. Resources include a reading specialist, opportunities for computer use, individual instruction, and a classroom library.