Growing, Changing
Learning to Read/Reading to Learn
Creating independent readers and instilling a love of reading and literature are
primary goals at first and second grades. Our reading program is literature-based,
using leveled texts. Small group instruction focuses on developing sight words,
phonics and decoding, comprehension, and reading strategies. First graders
participate in a book bag program, selecting a book each day to take home and
read aloud to a family member. Second graders discuss literary elements such as
plot, setting, character, and problem and resolution. They select books to read
on their own, sharing their responses with the teachers or the class. By the
end of second grade, students progress from learning to read to reading to learn.
Becoming Mathematical Thinkers
The goal of our math strand is to create mathematical thinkers who can employ a
variety of strategies to solve a problem and who can articulate their thought
processes, methods, and strategies. Using the National Council of Teachers of
Mathematics standards, we weave pattern, estimation, probability, number, data
gathering and analysis, measurement, place value, operations, and number facts
into the curriculum in a developmentally appropriate manner. Students move from
the concrete to the abstract using manipulatives such as coins, rods, Digi-Blocks,
pattern blocks, and Dienes blocks.
Proficiency in both reading and math develops in the context of science and social
studies curricula. First graders measure, draw, and log their observations about
growth and change in the life cycle of the painted lady butterfly. They construct
bridges and tunnels, learn about inventors and their inventions, and become inventors
themselves.
Second graders learn research skills and write reports on endangered species.
They take a yearlong imaginary journey around the world, making stops in each of the
continents. Along the way, they learn map and globe skills and
compare and contrast the geography, culture, and customs in the various countries they visit.
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