Language Arts

Reading

Students are taught to read using a Reading Workshop approach. Reading Workshop is a model used to teach students strategies to improve their reading, comprehension and vocabulary. Reading Workshop also helps to foster a love of reading and gives students chances to practice reading strategies independently, with a partner, or in a small group.

The various components of Reading Workshop are:

  • a 10-15 minute mini lesson
  • independent reading
  • conferring
  • guided reading
  • response/reflection
  • sharing

    In addition, students have in-class quiet reading time, weekly library sessions, as well as reading buddies.

    Writing

    Writing is an integral part of language arts. First grade uses a Writing Workshop approach that starts with a short lesson, followed by independent writing time, and ending with a sharing opportunity. Types of writing include personal narratives, poetry, letters, non-fiction, and creative stories

    Mathematics

    The Scott Foresman-Addison Wesley enVision math program is used and supplemented with TERC Investigations math program. Focus is on building understanding.

    Students are introduced to:

    • number operations
    • geometry
    • patterns
    • place value
    • money
    • measurement
    • time
    • data and graphs
    • fractions

    Science

    • Oceans
    • Magnets
    • Deserts
    • Solids and Liquids
    • Weather
    • Birth of an Island

    First graders begin the year by learning about the many tide pool animals. Each class has their own tide pool with an assortment of saltwater creatures. Students are fascinated by their rich observations of life in a tide pool. We also study the habitat of the Sonoran desert where there is an abundance of animal and plant life. Through observations, experiments, and readings the children also learn about weather, volcanoes, magnets, and solid and liquids.

    Social Studies/Geography

    Students study Japan as part of a focus on other cultures. The major goal is to experience a culture through a variety of activities. This includes listening to stories, role-playing, using artifacts, making maps, cooking and doing research.