In first grade, students take learning into their own hands through the workshop approach and individualized instruction. We believe in hands-on learning, small group instruction and cooperative learning groups, as well as whole group instruction. These teaching strategies allow for us to best meet the needs of each child.

The step from kindergarten to first grade is significant. New responsibilities are expected from each child. Some responsibilities the children learn include:

* demonstrating self control
* demonstrating respect for others
* managing class time effectively
* managing a home folder
* being responsible for library books and home readers
* maintaining a clean work area and managing school supplies

Management of self and respect for others is a year-long goal. We believe the Lifeskills are extremely important in the social development of all children, and they are stressed continuously throughout the year.

Language Arts

First Grade’s approach to reading and writing is though a balanced literacy program. 

A daily routine in language arts consists of the following:

* shared reading and poetry
* guided reading
* independent reading
* shared writing
* interactive writing
* journals/writer’s workshop
* handwriting
* spelling
* literacy work stations

We have a spelling test every Friday.  A list of spelling words is sent home on Monday on the back of the 1^st grade newsletter.  Please help your child prepare for the test by practicing every night. 

It is also very important for your child to read 20 minutes every day.  This will help to build fluency.  After reading, ask your child questions about the book to monitor comprehension. 

Math

Six strands are taught in SBISD.  In first grade math, problem solving, graphing, and patterning is taught throughout the day.  The key word in math is “concepts” which makes concrete learning with manipulatives vital in first grade.  Concrete learning allows a student to experience true understanding and build strategic problem solving skills for math to become internalized.  The following strands are taught in a logical way, building concepts for further learning:

Science & Social Studies

We integrate science and social studies into our language arts curriculum.  The following are themes taught during the year: