The transition from kindergarten to first grade is a big step for any child. For students, things are about to get more formal, more structured, and a lot more demanding. Learning English in Kang Chiao, students will be grouped based on their English ability. So they will go to English classes with new classmates from different homerooms. This arrangement can be quite complex for young learners to understand.

　Despite that, one of our veteran first grade teachers said, “Students seem quite calm and mature this year. They know where to go for English class and we haven’t heard much crying compared to the last few years.” From this teacher’s feedback, we see that first graders are already used to the new school environment and schedule.

★ Getting Familiar with the School

　Moving into a new school can be difficult for younger children who are shy or uncertain of new teachers and classmates. Therefore, a seamless transition is extremely important that will help students bridge the gap to this new world, to familiarize themselves with their surroundings, and develop a sense of belonging with classmates.

　Teachers collaborated to design activities for students to explore the campus during Transition Camp in early August. On the first three days, English teachers picked up students from their homerooms and brought them back afterwards. This demonstrated the route between different classes and provided a sense of security to the first graders. Showing where the bathrooms are and leading them there helped keep students in the habit of using bathrooms before lessons, so they seldom ask for bathroom breaks after the bell rings.

★ Refreshing the Basics Concepts

　Being a first grader also means students' responsibility and expectations increase. Teachers will assign more challenging homework, and students are expected to complete more classwork independently. To ensure students have a strong foundation in learning English, teachers went over concepts like phonics and the alphabet. This not only strengthened the basics they have learnt but also gave them opportunities to practice the basic literacy skills like decoding sounds.

　Students enjoyed reviewing spelling and were so eager to learn more that they said they can’t wait to practice more vocabulary using Word Circus! Teachers are amazed that their students are so highly motivated and are able to recognize many words, read simple books independently, and take turns sharing ideas confidently in class.

★ Creating Positive Relationships

　Parents and teachers work together to form a powerful team to help students succeed, both academically and emotionally. Chinese English teachers proactively communicated with parents before the school year started in order to have a greater insight into the child's life at home, so they will be able to best help each student. To make communication more effective and convenient, our e-communication platform and class Line Official groups are recommended for parents.

　It has been a few weeks since school started, and it’s wonderful to see how students have gotten more familiar with their schedules, exploring around, and having adventures at school with new friends. Developing helpful habits and cultivating a positive attitude will lead students on the right track of learning. A positive partnership between parents and teachers will foster students’ success. We are proud of our young learners and hope each child will continue to enjoy school, love learning, and be adventurous!