Curriculum
Reading
Each morning, we have Reading Workshop. During this time, we use a balanced literacy approach including phonics, work work, shared reading, shared writing, guided reading groups, and instruction in reading strategies.
Students read from their own individual reading bags containing books that are “just right” for them.
No other grade level demands the amount of growth in literacy that is expected in first grade.
Thus, it is so very, very important for the beginning reader to have the maximum amount of time to practice new skills in order to achieve proficiency in reading.
Science
Aquarian students study the Science units of the Anchorage School District.
The first grade units of study include Alaskan Animals, Balancing and Weighing, and the Power of Water.
All of the units are very hands-on and enjoyed by the students and the teacher!
Math
Each new student is assessed for placement in the proper Saxon Math level. Some students will move to other classrooms for their math instruction during math blocking from 10:00 AM to 11:15AM.
Writing
Daily, we have Writing Workshop including practice with journalling, grammar, and traits of the writing process.
We integrate literacy into all the subject areas, including Social Studies, Science, and Health.
