First Grade Curriculum

Grammar

Text is Shurley Grammar Level 1. The Shurley method uses repetition, fun student-teacher interaction, and a concrete set of questions about each word in a sentence in order to teach students parts of speech and give them an understanding of how all the parts fit together.

Spelling and Vocabulary

Text is Wordly Wise 3000.

Reading

Students are taught plot, character development, and story resolution through the reading of classical texts, such as Blueberries for Sal, The Ugly Duckling, and The Courage of Sarah Noble.

Writing

Students write on a daily basis, using varied methods to produce a well-written paragraph, a biography, and a research report. Students draft and revise personal narrative and poetry through writing workshops.

Math

Text is Singapore Math Primary Math U.S. Edition Level 1A and 1B. 

Science

Text is Purposeful Design, lab-based, hands-on, experiential learning covering the subjects of light and sound, oceans and weather, as well as matter, animals, and habitats.

History and Geography

Focus is on early American history and New York State history, including the American Revolution and George Washington, in addition to the cultural richness of New York City. Students learn the geography of New York City and New York State and review their understanding of continents and oceans.

French

Text is Alex et Zoé et Compagnie by CLE International. Focus is on increased fluency with basic French vocabulary. Continued emphasis on conversations in French.

Bible

Study of the Westminster Confession of Faith and the attributes of Jesus.

Music

First Grade students build on the concepts taught in Kindergarten and begin to read rhythmic and melodic elements through the means of rhythm names and solfa syllables. They also begin notating music on the five-line staff and create their own musical compositions.

Visual Arts

Emphasis is placed on perspectives and proportionality related to animals and people, continued use of other mediums.

Physical Education

Development of locomotor and non-locomotor skills; understanding of rules and basic skills of elementary games.