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First Grade
The first grade classroom is prepared each day to meet the developmental needs of the children as they
 continue to grow. As with all developmental programs, we seek to educate the whole child, not just their intellect. The focus is to provide balanced activities that foster social, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual development, as well as fine motor and gross motor skills. This also includes great emphasis on developing independence, self-discipline, and responsibility. Learning is accomplished through one-to-one, small group, and large group interaction, as well as independent activities. A thematic approach, relevant to the lives of young children, is used to integrate subjects across the curriculum.
Language Arts will involve children using all modes of communication: reading, writing, spelling, speaking, listening, illustrating, and doing. Language Basics, Discovery Spelling, literature, and the Open Court reading series will support this learning. Language Basics and Discovery Spelling are multi-sensory systematic teaching methods that connect language at all levels.
Handwriting Without Tears is a simple, developmentally based program for writing readiness and printing., It also is a multi-sensory method which teaches to all learning styles.
Math Their Way is an activity-centered program using manipulative materials in conjunction with more
traditional paper/pencil activities. Skills developed include patterning, measuring, time and quantity, numeral writing, making and studying graphs, and experiencing counting, numeration, addition, subtraction, problem solving, and place value. This program will compliment our new mathematics series, Harcourt-Brace Math Advantage.
 Science and Social Studies concepts will be explored through various methods as they are integrated into the curriculum. Some units of study for first grade include Families, Five Senses, American History, and the Solar System.
Spiritual Growth is fostered throughout the school and classroom. In addition to attending Chapel twice a week, Bible reading and stories provide a basis for activities and discussions. Students also participate in Religion class once a week.
First graders will also have the opportunity to grow in a number of enrichment classes. Children participate in Art, Computer, Drama, Library, Music, P.E., and Spanish throughout the week.
Later in the year, homework will be given each night except for Friday. This will reinforce concepts introduced in class, in addition to being a new opportunity for responsibility. More information will be sent home, via the Wednesday envelope as the time approaches.
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Our focus is to provide balanced activities that foster social, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual
development.
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