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| Grade 1 Curriculum
Visitation first graders have busy hands, busy minds and are the perfect “busy” learners. First graders are naturally curious and fascinated by new languages, science methods, math computation, reading strategies, friendships, and all encompassing love of learning in a fun, safe and nurturing environment.
Formal reading instruction begins in first grade, where our balanced literacy approach surrounds each student with his/her own instructional need. In first grade we strive to maintain a high level language art skill-base, including writing mechanics, fluency, spelling and vocabulary, speaking, and listening. First graders work at their instructional level daily and are always moving forward with their fluency and comprehension by participating in choral reading, drama, vocabulary study, and strong literature. Our integrated reading and language arts program helps first graders build understanding of literacy in the world, providing opportunities to develop and strengthen love of literature and the creative use of language.
The first grade math curriculum highlights the development of numeration, exploring data, geometry, fractions, money, estimation and real life story math problems. First graders will use part of math time each day in “hands on” exploration, in order to take the lesson of the day to the next level.
The first grade social studies units emphasize the geography of the United States, communities that surround us, friendships and dynamics of families. A weekly Scholastic News supplements the text, guiding youngsters with the current news in our country.
The science program at the first grade level is a “hands-on approach” where our units include: Weather; Magnets, Motion and Balance; Plants. We take advantage of our Outdoor Classroom, with our planting unit, and enjoy the beauty of our “green” surroundings.
Grounded in our Salesian Spirituality, our community supports the student’s process of life long formation. Our religion curriculum is designed to assist the student in the development of a positive self-concept, respect for oneself and each other, and the responsibility of maturing as Christian. Students grow closer to God through discussion, prayer buddies, Bible stories and the celebration of the Sacraments.
Visitation first graders are fortunate to participate in 3 different world languages (Spanish, French and Chinese) weekly, plus visit specialists in art, physical education, music, computer, and library. We truly believe in educating the whole child, providing a solid foundation from which to grow and develop into global citizens.Return to Lower School |
