READING
Our structured literacy instruction consists of whole group mentor texts and decodable readers that teach a variety of concepts. Each student will practice at his/her appropriate level. Your child will receive reading instruction in a whole group setting, Daily 5, small reading groups and through literacy activities. The five components of reading are phonemic awareness, phonics, vocabulary, fluency and comprehension.
Math
Students will work with first grade math concepts that emphasize conceptual understanding, skill development, strategies for solving problems, attitudes towards math, and metacognition. District 52 uses the math curriculum Everyday Math to help teach the Illinois Math Learning Standards.
writing
We use a Writer's Workshop approach to teaching writing within the classroom. Teachers model for students and guide them in the steps in the writing process. Students learn about different genres of writing such as Narrative, Informational, and Opinion/Argument. District 52 uses Lucy Calkins' Units of Study Writing Curriculum in Grades K-8 to help students' writing skills transition from one year to the next.
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Handwriting
In Grades K, 1, and 2 our District has fully implemented the Handwriting Without Tears Curriculum. Students are learning letter formation (printing) in a systematic, multisensory, and fun way!
science
We use the curriculum, Mystery Science. We will explore scientific questions and encourage students to explore things that they are curious about. This goal is to create a generation of better thinkers. We also will do many different STEM experiments throughout the year.
social science
Our theme in first grade is Living, Learning, and Working Together. Through the social sciences, first graders will develop skills critical to success in college and careers, including creativity, critical thinking, working in diverse groups to solve complex problems, global awareness, and financial literacy. Most importantly, they will emerge with the knowledge, skills, attitudes, and behaviors necessary to be informed and effective citizens.
Second Step
Second Step is a classroom based social skills program for children that teaches socioemotional skills aimed at reducing impulsive and aggressive behavior while increasing social competence.
Skills for Learning: Children gain skills to help them be better learners, including how to focus their attention listen carefully, and ask for help.
Empathy: Children learn to identify and understanding their own and others’ feelings. Children also learn how to show care for others.
Emotion Management: Children learn how to calm down when they have strong feelings, such as worry or anger.
Friendship Skills and Problem Solving: Children learn how to make and keep friends and solve problems with others in a positive way.
