What to expect in K/1

At Bowman Open Optional we view learning as a social activity. There are many opportunities throughout the day for working in partnerships and small groups as well as play and hands on active learning. In kindergarten our learning is based on a science or social studies theme guided through kindergarten standards and supported with Anchorage School District curriculum. Children have the opportunity to extend their learning through complimentary experiences and lessons. Below are the components of a typical day:

• Playtime: during this time children explore their own interests, independently participate in learning opportunities related to our theme, work with teachers in small groups to complete "star jobs" that can include handwriting, phonics work, artistic expression, baking bread and focused work in other content areas. 

• Literacy workshop: this block of time includes phonics, phonemic awareness, read alouds, writing instruction and reading instruction. 

• Math workshop: This includes Number Corner (calendar-based math activities), a focused math lesson and independent practice through math workplaces and games.

• Social Emotional Learning: SEL includes learning how to communicate and regulate our feelings as well as how to get along and work with others in the classroom setting. We also focus on collaboration and problem solving skills.

• Science and Social Studies are woven throughout the day.

First grade students also have a variety of opportunities each day to work cooperatively with hands on activities to engage their learning. Students will go through 'elder training' prior to the arrival of our youngers, where they will learn to be role models and to help support the learning and transition of their younger partner and others. Learning will align with the first grade standards and focus on specific units that will be learned. A typical day will include the following:

• Playtime: during this time children explore their own interests, independently participate in learning opportunities related to our theme, work with teachers in small groups to complete "star jobs" that can include handwriting, phonics work, artistic expression, baking bread and focused work in other content areas. 

• Literacy workshop: this block of time includes phonics, phonemic awareness, read alouds, writing instruction and reading instruction. 

• Math workshop: This includes Number Corner (calendar-based math activities), a focused math lesson and independent practice through math workplaces and games.

• Social Emotional Learning: SEL includes learning how to communicate and regulate our feelings as well as how to get along and work with others in the classroom setting. We also focus on collaboration and problem solving skills.

• Science and Social Studies are woven throughout the day.