Integrated Language Arts First Grade is an exciting time in student growth. Students are building upon their kindergarten experience to become increasingly proficient in their literacy skills. Our literacy program is literature-based, meaning we teach skills in the context of engaging children's stories. Students learn to use a variety of strategies to decode (figure out) text, including phonics. First graders are also moving towards reading texts for understanding as opposed to just figuring out the words. They have daily opportunities to write and are exposed to a variety of writing genres. An important focus of first grade is on conveying meaning in a way that others can understand. As a result of this focus, first graders work toward organizing their ideas in a coherent way, using specific vocabulary to accurately convey meaning. They use conventions of writing that allow their text to be read and understood by others. They also learn to take a piece of their writing from the beginning stage of brainstorming a small moment idea to the final phase of the writing process, which is publishing. Our spelling program will begin at the end of October. The students will be expected to spell their spelling words correctly not only for their weekly spelling test, but also in their daily opportunities to write. Additionally, research has shown that student achievement levels improve greatly when parents are involved in their child's education. I encourage parents to READ to and with your child every night. It's important to check your child's take-home folder to check for homework assignments and also to review the school day's work each evening.

Math Our math curriculum, called Everyday Math, allows students the opportunity to build their skill base through hands-on activities that lead to true understanding of the mathematical concepts rather than mere memorization. The curriculum spirals, which means students revisit previous learning at an increasingly complex level throughout the year. The students will also have many opportunities to construct and create their own sense of mathematical meaning through problem solving opportunities. These opportunities are tailored to their mathematical readiness. We work hard at developing good number sense and emphasize the importance of sharing the strategies we used to solve problems. Sharing our strategies encourages flexibility when thinking about numbers and solving problems. First graders learn many math skills through realistic problem solving which allows them to see the purpose of math in day-to-day life.

Science/Social Studies/Health We study science and social studies units throughout the year including learning about our country, citizenship, material objects, plants and organisims. We integrate our science and social studies themes with math and language arts. Throughout these units students broaden their knowledge and understanding of their surrounding world. Many times these units serve as a motivating context within which they can apply literacy and mathematics skills.

I am very happy to be your child's first grade teacher. I believe all children can learn and be successful. School is a place for learning, but also a place to have fun. My hope is that by the end of your child's first grade year, they will have developed a love for learning. Let's have a great year together!