Curriculum
Math
For math we use Saxon Math and supplement with Singapore Math.
Reading
For reading we use Open Court and also incorporate classical literature, fables, fairy tales, and poetry. We have daily read alouds and follow up with rich conversations for comparing, analyzing and synthesizing ideas from the text.
Spalding
Your child will be taught 72 phonograms in first grade which will enrich their ability in the areas of reading, spelling, and writing.
Shurley Grammar
In Shurley Grammar your child will be taught jingles for each of the parts of speech. We will learn all about the parts of speech, sentence structures and will classify sentences. We will write sentences, write in journals, and write stories in Shurley Grammar.
Social Studies
In first grade, student’s studies are meant to foster curiosity about the world. Geographic knowledge helps them develop a special recognition of the world around them. The topics in first grade build an awareness of spatial sense and life’s physical process, the interactions between humans and THEIR environment, and an awareness between place, region, and culture.
Topics include: Early American Civilizations: Maya, Inca, Aztec, From Colonies to Independence, Early World Civilizations: Mesopotamia and Egypt, A New Nation, Frontier Explorers/Early Explorers and Settlers, Geography, World Religions and Mexico
Science
A child’s development in first grade science centers around asking questions, seeking answers, collecting observations, building off of a phenomenon and looking at their findings about nature. They will study: Sun, Moon and Stars, Exploring Light and Sound, Plant and Animal Survival, Simple Machines and the Human Body.
Music
Music in first grade builds on content with active practice through singing, clapping rhythms, and playing instruments as well as some focus on musical concepts, terms and composers.
Art
The visual arts in first grade centers on the elements of art: line, shape, form, space, light, texture, and color.