First Grade Course Goals
Bible: First Grade Bible focuses on the foundational teachings from the Bible about the nature and character of God, the qualities of His people, and His church. Students are given an overview of the Bible with an emphasis on God’s attributes, biblical characters, the early Church, and what it means to know Jesus Christ and live for Him.
Social Studies: First Grade Social Studies focuses on developing a Christian worldview of the family, community, America, and the world. This course integrates culture, geography, and history. Beginning with the framework of God’s redemptive plan, this course includes an age-appropriate study of responsible citizenship and government, and then covers United States history from Native Americans to the Plymouth Colony. Students will contrast the past and present, noting changes that have taken place in the way we live.
Language Arts: One of the primary goals in first grade is for students to be able to read with proficiency. This goal will be accomplished with a phonics program that reviews vowels, consonants, blends, one- and two- vowel words, and consonant blends as well as teaches recognition and use of all phonics special sounds in reading. The same rules will be used to teach students to spell, increasing their ability and potential for written communication.
Mathematics: First Grade Mathematics will teach fundamentals of math from a Biblical view. Students will develop reasoning and problem-solving skills. The focus will be on building a strong mathematical foundation to prepare them for future mathematics study.
Science: First graders are naturally inquisitive about the marvelous creation that surrounds them. It is our goal to stimulate their interest in science and nature by sharing our discoveries and observations about plants, animals, motion, light, weather, and other wonders of God’s creation.
Computer: Computer lab lessons are designed to teach students about the use of technology. Students will use a variety of applications throughout the year. The digital curriculum utilized is Keyboarding Without Tears, a row-based approach to teaching the keyboard. Applications and topics of study include computer awareness, internet safety, ABC Mouse, and Kid Pix. To create the most effective learning environment for the students, lessons and online games are integrated with classroom units to enhance learning in the core subject areas.
Music: Students will learn to praise God through music. Students will memorize Bible verses, learn simple math concepts, develop coordination through music and movement, and learn Bible principles. Students will learn age-appropriate music theory and be given opportunities to play classroom instruments. Students will complete non-graded music worksheets for the teacher to check for understanding. Students are required to participate in school wide programs.
Physical Education: In Physical Education, students acquire the knowledge and skills for movement that provides the foundation for enjoyment, continued social development through physical activity, and access to a physically active lifestyle. In grades K-2, children learn fundamental movement skills and begin to understand how the muscles, bones, heart, and lungs function in relation to physical activity. Students are engaged in activities that develop basic levels of strength, endurance, and flexibility. In addition, students learn to work safely in group and individual movement settings.
Spanish: Students will learn the Spanish language via repetition. Each week, lessons will include Greeting and Roll Call, Circle Time, Story Time, Art Time, and Good-bye. Circle Time consists of singing songs with motions to learn conversational Spanish. Story Time will allow students to connect to authentic Spanish.