First Grade
RELIGION
First Graders use Blest are We by Silver Burdett Ginn. The students are introduced to the basic teachings of the Catholic Church. We attend Mass weekly. Prayers are taught and said daily.
READING
The First Grade reading program is designed to develop a capability and foster the desire to read. Reading is integrated into every aspect of our First Grade curriculum. Students are introduced to different forms of literature and poetry. A balance between phonics and comprehension is taught. Students participate in shared reading, guided reading, paired reading and independent reading.
WRITING
Writing takes place on a daily basis in First Grade. First Graders learn the writing process. Students are encouraged to focus on sentence structure and correct spelling. First Graders learn through Model Writing, Daily Detective, Build-A-Sentence, Structure Writing, and Journal Writing.
SPELLING
First Graders are encouraged to write words the best that they can, using developmental spelling. As the children develop in spelling and writing skills we move into “book” (traditional) spelling. Wall words are given weekly, beginning with week one of school. Wall words are words that are recognized at sight, read, and are spelled correctly.
HANDWRITING
First Graders learn correct Zaner-Bloser manuscript letter formation through daily exercises and instruction. Students use the Zaner-Bloser First Grade Handwriting book. Students are expected to practice their handwriting both in class and at home. Neatness is stressed.
MATH
First Grades are taught mathematical concepts using the hands on approach. Students learn math by “doing” math. Throughout the curriculum children are engaged in activities that help connect mathematical concepts to real life situations. The textbook used is Harcourt Math. First Graders learn number concepts, computation, critical thinking and problem solving.
SCIENCE AND SOCIAL STUDIES
First Grade incorporates Science and Social Studies through our literature and thematic units. Hands-on exploration while studying Life Science and Earth Science are stressed. In Science, we also use Science by Harcourt. Awareness of the world around us is stressed in Social Studies. Field Trips are taken to support these areas of study.