This year, the first graders will be using a program called Fundations. You are likely wondering, "What is Fundations?" Fundations provides a systematic and explicit approach to reading and spelling with phonics. We will combine this instruction with the reading of good literature, which is just as important for your child's development.

Each week, the children will bring home a spelling packet for the week (I typically allot time on Monday and Thursday evenings in our homework schedule to complete this packet.) This packet will include a homework guide that explains how to practice dictating words and sentences with your first grader at home. What's very unique about this program is that it is rule based rather than weekly rote memorization. Rather than me providing a list of words to be memorized, I will teach specific rules and generalizations. By learning and applying these rules in school and at home, we are expecting the students to consistently use strategies that make sense in order to become successful, confident spellers and writers.