Teachers:
Marti Mogensen & Elisa Edwards
Language Arts:
The primary goal of the first grade language arts program is to instill in children the desire to become lifelong readers and writers. Using a variety of literature, children are guided toward reading and writing independently and confidently in a manner that matches their developmental level. Through readers and writers workshops, mini-lessons that support phonemic awareness, word study, spelling, handwriting and small group and individual instruction, students become confident and enthusiastic learners.
Social Studies:
The first grade social studies program focuses on the concept of community. Children read, write, think, and talk about their world and their responsibility to other people. Through theme units they explore their connections to their immediate community, those from other cultures and their own ancestors. Field trips and interactive projects extend student understanding of and involvement in the world around them.
Mathematics:
In the first grade, students continue to sharpen their math skills through a variety of investigation and practical-life based activities. Skills emphasized include problem- solving, patterning, recognition of numbers to 100 and beyond, place value, graphing, estimation, logic, measurement and counting by 2's 5's and 10's.
Science:
Using an I Notice, I Wonder approach, first graders begin to recognize themselves as scientists and understand that science is everywhere. Students learn the value of questioning, observing, making predictions and testing hypotheses while exploring the five senses, weather, plants and life cycles.
Service Learning:
WOOD class students plan school-wide recycling activities that support school recycling programs. In addition, they take an activist role as they Stop Unwanted Mail (S.U.M.) through a letter writing campaign and other activities.