Grade 1 Class

As children gain greater knowledge of language, their enjoyment of reading and writing increases, which, coming full circle, positively impact the knowledge. Interesting, humorous stories draw young students more deeply into the reading. Practical reading comprehension skills are worked on through discovering the main ideas and details. The children learn to identify the characters, setting, plot and theme, while vocabulary is enriched through synonym/antonyms, classification and description exercises. Literary techniques of rhyme, rhythm and dialogue are introduced, revealing the excitement to reading.

Each day, students practice writing through an approach that fosters a natural progression in skill development, coupled with teacher constructive encouragement. Young students feel a sense of ownership over the creation process, and become resolute in their pursuit of skill improvement. The writing process is introduced, involving the children in prewriting exercises, such as discussions and collaboration, in which ideas are discovered and expanded. At this stage, the content of the children’s work takes precedence over form. A portfolio is maintained to document each student’s educational growth, as well as provide an excellent source material from which the child can learn, develop and practice revision techniques. Penmanship and spelling instruction is geared to each student’s level of competency.

Verbal presentation of information is an integral part of our daily lives. Instruction and practice in oral communications are carried out, including public speaking-related activities in the classroom.

First graders continue to accumulate experiences in the world of science as they learn of, and experiment with, fundamental aspects to the physical, life and earth sciences. Concepts for inquiry may include adaptation, movement, transformation and variations. Children investigate such topics as the modes of transportation used in various situations and their consequences, or how life cycles differ between, and within, categories of plants and animals.

The children at this age have begun to notice differences, as well as similarities, among groups of people. The customs and experiences of the students reflect the diversity in their backgrounds. Activities, such as dramatization and discussion, encourage the sharing of information about nationalities, helping the students to learn about various cultures, while providing them valuable lessons in the tolerance of differences and the appreciation of similarities.

The power of visual and musical expression has strong appeal to young learners, and can inspire inquiry into the nature of the creative processes, aesthetic perceptions and critical thinking. Hands-on activities include drawing, painting and viewing art, as well as composing, singing and listening to music. Each year, the elementary school students produce a great variety of visual artifacts, put on stage performances and sing in a school concert. Our many activities encourage students to explore alternative forms of expression such as, drawing, painting, performing and singing. Creative talents are cultivated, leading to the intrinsic satisfaction of being part of an aesthetically enriching experience.

Children require daily exercise that promotes healthy physical, social and cognitive development. Skills acquired and used on the playground are no less important than those learned in class. Practical experiences gained involve learning teamwork, discipline and respect for rules, along with the athletics and games.

Students have ample computer time each week to develop their cybernetic skills. In addition to keyboard practice and Internet searches, children use the latest software that complement and enhance other curricular areas, such as reading and writing, social studies and science. Computer lab develops technical expertise, as well as broadens the students’ knowledge base through a trans-disciplinary approach to learning.