1st Grade Curriculum

First grade is a fun, hands on learning year of transitioning to "big kid" school.  In this loving, hands-on classroom, learning is not just about absorbing information; it’s about making connections, exploring the world, and growing in a supportive atmosphere. We strive to bring real world connections to what we are learning. 

STREAM in 1st Grade

First grade STREAM standards focus on introducing students to basic concepts in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through hands-on, inquiry-based learning. Students explore the properties of materials, understand simple forces like push and pull, and engage in basic engineering design challenges, such as building structures. They learn to make observations, ask questions, and conduct simple experiments, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Additionally, integrating technology encourages them to use tools and resources effectively. Overall, the aim is to cultivate curiosity and begin the foundation of understanding how the world works.

Creativity Curiosity

Thinks beyond norms Asks "how" questions

Displays originality in multiple subjects Investigates with tools

Scientific Method Engineering Design Process

Makes and tests a hypothesis Articulates plans in drawings

Organizes data into categories     Brainstorms more than one idea

Records data with guidance Follows rules and constraints

Examples of STREAM Activities and Projects

Leprechaun Traps:  Students plan and design a contraption using a shoe box and other materials to lure and trap a leprechaun.

Focus:  Engineering Design Process and creativity

Hot Chocolate Experiment:  Students form a hypothesis and conduct an experiment to see what happens to marshmallows when placed in liquids of different temperatures.

Focus:  Scientific Method

Georgia O'Keeffe Flowers:  Students explore the interaction of light with different materials and create flowers inspired by the artwork of Georgia O'Keeffe.

Focus:  Creativity and science

Dot Day:  How many ways can we use dots?  Students explore different ways to use dots.

Focus:  Curiosity

Base Ten Pictures:  Using base ten blocks, students create pictures and calculate how many blocks are needed for their picture.

Focus:  Creativity and math

Mardi Gras Floats:  Students build Mardi Gras floats out of boxes and maker space materials and then program Beebots to pull them in a Mardi Gras parade.

Focus:  Engineering Design Process and technology