Curriculum

Welcome to First Grade!! 

Reading/English Language Arts

At St. Joseph School, our first-grade reading and language arts curriculum is grounded in the Science of Reading.
We use the Wonders reading program for whole group and small group instruction, which provides systematic and explicit teaching in phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, comprehension, and grammar. To support strong foundational skills, we also use Heggerty’s Phonemic Awareness Program, a daily routine that helps students strengthen their ability to hear, identify, and work with sounds in language. These skills are critical building blocks for reading success and are taught in a fun, engaging way each day. Students grow as readers and writers through engaging activities like shared reading, independent reading, journaling, word study, sight word practice, storytelling, and hands-on game. 

Math

We use Sadlier’s Progress in Mathematics to build strong foundational skills in number sense, addition and subtraction, place value, time, money, geometry, and problem solving. Lessons are structured, engaging, and encourage critical thinking. 

Religion 

We use the Sadlier We Believe series to help students grow in their understanding of the Catholic faith.

Through Bible stories, prayer, songs, and discussion, students learn about God’s love, the life of Jesus, the saints, and how we live our faith each day. We also participate in school Masses, prayer services, and seasonal celebrations to deepen our relationship with God and one another. 

Science

In first grade, our science curriculum encourages curiosity and wonder at God’s creation. Using TCI’s Bring Science Alive!, students explore topics like plants and animals, weather, light, sound, and how we can care for the Earth. Hands-on lessons and investigations help students see the beauty and order in the natural world, inspiring gratitude for all that God has made. 

Social Studies

Our first-grade social studies program, TCI’s Social Studies Alive!, helps students understand their place in God’s world. Through interactive lessons, students learn about families, communities, citizenship, maps, and American symbols. We focus on values like kindness, respect, and service to others, helping children grow as thoughtful, compassionate members of society.