Every day, we will set aside time for writing.  The children refer to the time for writing instruction as the Writing Workshop. The children will learn to write like published authors.  Like authors the world over, they are usually writing something forsomeone.  They may be writing stories or poems or “how-to” books…and they may be writing for each other or for you.  Like authors, they choose their own topics and write rough drafts, which they revise and edit before publication.  

Your child’s writing will change in dramatic ways across the year.  The sentences will become easier to read as your child leaves spaces between words, learns and uses a repertoire of familiar words, and becomes more skilled with using phonemic awareness and phonics.

The first graders are learning mathematics through a manipulative-based, thematic program. Through guided practice, students are learning to apply problem solving strategies to study:

-Number Sense and Operations

-Addition and Subtraction Facts to 12

-Graphs, Probability, and Numbers to 100

-Geometry, Patterns, Spatial Sense, and Fractions

-Money and Time

-Measurement and 2-Digit Operations

Websites to explore for more math fun are shown below;

http://www.kidport.com/

http://www.iknowthat.com/com

http://www.fun4thebrain.com/

*Many websites allow advertising that changes periodically and, consequently, there is no way to monitor or control the materials on the sites. As some of the material may be inappropriate for young students, it is strongly suggested that parents are present with their children when the children use the internet, even if they access websites that are referenced on this site or from library books.

First Graders are immersed in a variety of lessons and activities that promote social-emotional growth and physical wellness. The children participate in the Second Stepprogram which focuses on Empathy, Impulse Controland Problem Solving, and AngerManagement. In addition, the students take part in the Health Smart program that highlights age-appropriate health and safety lessons. Lastly, all students learn about and discuss the character traits that are emphasized in the district's CharacterEducationprogram. Our goal is for students to become independent problem solvers who can make mindful decisions about their own health and safety.

Here is the list of Character Traits that we focus on monthly in the classroom:

• September:  Courtesy
• October:  Honesty
• November:  Responsibility
• December:  Respect
• January:  Tolerance
• February:  Compassion
• March:  Endurance
• April:  Accountability
• May:  Attaining Pride
• June:  Review of all the Character Traits