Wyndcroft School

|Printer Friendly Version in pdf format|

What’s New in First Grade?

First grade marks the transition from Wyndcroft’s kindergarten grades (EC-K) to our Lower School (1-4). Our first graders feel like “big kids” now! They are becoming independent learners. They sit at desks, work more with pencil and paper, and complete timed tasks. Mathematically, first graders learn numbers up to 1000, complete two minute math fact drills, and learn different ways in which numbers relate to each other. They learn to write sentences, author their own short stories, work on spelling, practice punctuation, and gain skills as readers. In addition, first graders learn Health for the first time as part of a full range of specials. Twice a week, students attend Art, Computer, French, Music, Physical Education, and Science, while once a week, they have Health and Library. Our first graders thrive given these additional responsibilities as the teachers provide a nurturing atmosphere in which to learn and grow.

The following is a typical first grade daily schedule at Wyndcroft:

6 periods with the classroom teacher learning Language Arts, Mathematics, and Social Studies
3 periods with Special area teachers (Art, Computer, French, Health, Library, Music, Physical Education, Science)

Language Arts

First graders learn to read, write, think, and communicate using literature organized around broad themes and various resources such as Literature Works and various trade books. Students practice skills and strategies in reading, writing, grammar usage and mechanics. Using Oral Language, the children are introduced visually and orally to punctuation, capitalization, and usage skills which are maintained through practice and reinforcement. The format of the program gives the children an opportunity to develop and practice proofreading in the course of their daily language. Through weekly spelling words (taught phonetically), the children will listen and pronounce the sounds introduced. They will have the opportunity to apply reading, writing, and comprehension skills to the daily lessons. Through handwriting, using a multisensory approach, first graders develop a correct mental and motor image of the stroke/letter being introduced.

The following are our language arts objectives for first graders:

to understand and express ideas successfully through the reading and writing of words
to increase the ability to read
to develop word attack skills
to analyze words by their vowel patterns and classify words according to their initial, middle, and ending sounds
to identify words that rhyme and have similar and opposite meanings
to increase comprehension and critical thinking skills
to increase communication skills
to develop awareness of sentence and word structure
to develop punctuation, capitalization and usage skills
to develop proofreading skills
to increase and develop vocabulary through weekly spelling words
to apply understanding of the weekly spelling words
to develop dictionary skills
to develop the ability and awareness of a correct image of the stroke or letter being introduced through a multisensory approach

Textbooks: Literature Works, Level 1 (Silver Burdett Ginn), Spelling and Vocabulary, Level 2 (Houghton Mifflin), Oral Language, Grades 1 & 2 (Great Source Education Group), Handwriting, Grade 1 (Zaner-Bloser)

Mathematics

First graders begin by reviewing numbers, patterns, and shapes, then move on to addition of basic facts to sums of 18 and differences to 18-9. Strategies are provided for solving. First graders learn place value as well as read and write numbers up to 100, then to 1000. Two and three digit addition and subtraction without regrouping are introduced. The children explore geometry, graphing, and fractions. The concepts of money and time are introduced and reinforced daily during community time. The series provides strategies, applications, and “Think Tanks” (logic questions) for each lesson. There is a full menu for problem solving skills and strategies, mathematical reasoning, and critical thinking. The “Can-Do” mascot provides confidence building hints.

The following are our mathematics objectives for first graders:

to understand addition and subtraction
to use fact strategies for sums and differences to 18
to understand place value and counting of numbers to 1000
to identify plane and solid geometric shapes
to identify various types of graphs
to identify coins and count amounts to $1.00
to explore 2-digit and 3-digit addition and subtraction without regrouping
to tell time to 5 minute intervals
to recognize and write fractions for halves, thirds, and fourthsto develop problem solving strategies and mathematical reasoning

Textbooks: Mathematics Grade 1 (Harcourt)

Social Studies

First graders focus on the history of the United States as they learn about the flag, holidays, famous Americans, and historical events. Children gain exposure to different cultures through literature and the resource of family sharing of culture. The course also deals with the physical aspects of the world as they relate to geography. This is a multi-disciplinary course in that it includes art activities, literature, and writing. First graders complete projects as short-term assignments.

The following are our social studies objectives for first graders:

to develop knowledge of the origin and significance of the American flag
to garner information on the lives of famous Americans
to understand the significance of various holidays
to become aware of the different cultures in our world
to understand fundamental terminology in geography
to explore maps and globes

Textbooks: Living in Communities (Silver Burdett Ginn), Daily Geography Grade 1 (Great Source Education Group)

Specials:

Art

Following the themes of space, light, and texture, first graders examine the world of art in these areas:

Space: shape
Light: secondary colors
Texture: recognition

The following are our art objectives for first graders:

to reinforce skills and techniques met in previous grades
to use more detail with fabric crayons, scratch art, markers, and drawing
to compose art using more complex models (ex. block cities)
to use wet and dry chalk
to learn proper weaving techniques
to mix and paint with primary and secondary colors
to blend color in a variety of media

Computer

First graders learn basic operations of computer usage, input devices, output devices, and software. They are introduced to networks, keyboarding, and formatting tools.

The following are our computer objectives for first graders:

to use input devices (e.g. mouse, keyboard) and output devices (e.g. monitor, printer) to successfully operate computersto use a variety of media and technology resources for directed and independent learning activities
to communicate about technology using developmentally appropriate and accurate terminology
to use developmentally appropriate multimedia resources (e.g. interactive software, educational software, and writing tools)to support learning
to work cooperatively and collaboratively with peers and others when using technology in the classroom
to demonstrate positive social behaviors when using technology
to practice responsible use of technology systems and software
to create developmentally appropriate multimedia products with support from teachers or student partners
to use appropriate output devices for communication, and illustration of thoughts, ideas, and stories

French

First graders learn more French language and culture through visual, oral, and aural methods of instruction. Although students do not use a textbook, the Vive le Français language program is implemented along with other supplemental material. Students learn conversational skills, new vocabulary, and expressions through the use of flash cards, picture books, videos, charts, cassettes, and puppets. New themes introduced include greetings, the calendar, classroom objects, and the French alphabet. First graders complete written exercises and art projects involving holiday themes. Participation in the French Fête involves work on a special presentation.

The following are our French objectives for first graders:

to reinforce basic French vocabulary, grammar, and culture met in previous years
to introduce new French vocabulary, grammar, and culture
to count in French to 70
to identify and recite colors in French
to memorize the French alphabet
to pronounce French vowel sounds
to use the calendar in French to describe the weather in French
to use French expressions of greeting and courtesy
to identify farm and zoo animals in French
to recite French poetry

Health

The first grade health education program is broad in its scope and utilizes a comprehensive approach. First graders are provided with information concerning physical, emotional, social, and mental development as well as sound practices of safety. Specific educational topics include healthy behaviors; basic hygiene; the five senses; basic nutrition and the food pyramid; visiting the doctor and dentist; bus, bicycle, playground and pedestrian safety; proper rest; manners; respect; poison control; and environmental health.

The following are our health objectives for first graders:

to identify healthy behaviors
to locate school and community helpers
to compare behaviors that are safe to those that are risky or dangerous
to list characteristics needed to be a responsible friend
to express information and opinions about health issues
to develop an awareness and understanding of the senses

Textbooks: Totally Awesome Health (Big Book), Feeling Great (Weekly Reader)

Library

This course focuses on reading comprehension, location skills, parts of a book, listening and viewing skills, evaluation, and selection technologies and literature appreciation.

The following are our library objectives for first graders:

to increase awareness that material in the library has a specific arrangement
to understand how to keep materials in order
to understand the difference between fiction and non-fiction materials
to use both fiction and non-fiction materials
to develop awareness that the library has materials other than books
to learn about magazines of interest to students
to find meaning in an audio-visual presentation
to select books of interest
to select books he/she can read
to identify the cover, spine, spine label, title page, title, author, and illustrator of a book
to attend to the sights and sounds of storytelling
to participate in discussion following a story
to draw the point of the story into personal experience

Music

First graders continue to build on what was learned during the kindergarten year in music class. They develop basic music skills and appreciation of music. The skills covered include basic rhythm and melody. Appreciation includes listening to a variety of music, stories of composers (age-appropriate), and an awareness of the different families of musical instruments.

The following are our music objectives for first graders:

to develop rhythmic awareness (2-4 meter beats)
to differentiate between high-low pitch and melodic direction
to continue to match tones and melodic contours through echo singing
to learn about composers and different musical styles through listening activities and stories
to begin recorder instruction if students show a readiness
to be able to identify and use simple musical notation (staff, measures, rests, and notes)
to use rhythm instruments to help accompany songs
to reinforce basic musical skills through computer work and theory worksheets which are age-appropriate
to participate in the Spring choral concert as featured performers

Textbook: Yamaha Recorder Student, Book I (Alfred)

Physical Education

First graders sharpen their motor movements and skills in physical education. They learn to move from one physical activity to another. Personal and social behavior in a gymnasium setting is also emphasized. In addition, students learn the importance of proper attire for physical activity.

The following are our physical education objectives for first grad

to follow directions
to understand and follow rules inside the gym and on the playground
to choose playmates without disrupting the classroom environment
to develop a need for physical activity on a daily basis
to understand the need for daily physical activity
to enjoy physical activity

Science

The first grade curriculum incorporates all areas of general science. The units are designed to provide students with a brief overview of a scientific concept and introduce new vocabulary to further build upon. Each unit uses various teaching modes and experiments to show the students how these concepts play a role in daily life activities. First graders explore a variety of topics: properties of air, the solar system, basic geology, volcanoes, earthquakes, the properties of matter, insects, bugs, and spiders. First graders enjoy creating model volcanoes and causing them to erupt, and making “goop” which holds two properties of matter at once. For their first unit on air, students take part in an experiment a day to direct their attention and to help explain something that cannot be observed. First graders engage in hands-on activities for each unit in order to gain a better understanding of the concepts being presented.

The following are our science objectives for first graders:

to use techniques and experiments that can be safely reproduced at home
to improve fine motor skills and communication skills both orally and written
to see the relevance of general science concepts to real life situation
to develop an awareness of children’s literature to science concepts and improve reading skills
to understand the terms and principles associated with the properties of air
to learn the nine planets in order and some basic facts about each planet
to identify the shape, color, and luster of rocks
to understand the tectonic plates and terms related to earthquakes
to understand the parts of a volcano and how it works
to list the differences between insects, bugs, and spiders
to understand what a solid, liquid, and a gas are, and to show examples of each
to increase confidence in being able to successfully complete science experiments
to build confidence in the ability to master science concepts
to increase responsibility in discussions and labs
to better understand the relationship that is created in the food chain among plants and animals

Back to the Curriculum Page

Page hosted by Web Tech Associates, LLC

Any problems or questions about this site please contact the Webmaster.