LANGUAGE ARTS
Literacy is developed by inviting children to take an active role as emerging readers and writers. Children are encouraged to learn how the printed word carries meaning. Listening skills are emphasized as children spend a good deal of their language arts time listening and responding to chants, poems, songs and stories.
Children are encouraged to experiment with reading ( recreating story from memory, developing story sense from picture clues, dramatization, etc.) and writing (drawing, using non-conventional symbols and/or developmental spelling) to communicate knowledge and ideas. Instruction is based on developmental readiness and individual need. Children are exposed to a wide variety of authors and illustrators.
MATHEMATICS
The goal of the kindergarten program is to have children become aware of their surroundings, to ask questions, to make observations, and to apply mathematical reasoning. Kindergarten classroom investigations include exposure to the concepts of patterning, sorting, classifying, estimation, numeration, collecting and recording of data, geometry, and the use of nonstandard measurement.
Numbers are introduced as a means to record information, and students are encouraged to use counting as they begin understanding number operations. Strategies and skills that proficient problem solvers use are modeled on a continuous basis.
Science
In kindergarten, children learn to observe, discriminate, and describe, using objects and organisms in the classroom and outdoors. These early experiences help them develop language and participation skills and contribute to their growing understanding of science. Classroom investigations can include seasons/weather, seeds, the five senses, colors, the human skeleton, nutrition, shadows, and animal habitats.
SOCIAL STUDIES
Kindergartners are learning beginning level skills and content in geography, history, and civics. Through literature based thematic units, which can include Families, Houses and Homes, and Bread, kindergartners are encouraged to become aware of surroundings, to ask questions, to make observations, and to be respectful of themselves and others. Project Self-Esteem and Friend of the Week are special programs that include parent participation.
TECHNOLOGY
Students begin their computer instruction in the classroom by being exposed to a variety of curriculum-related software. Instruction continues in small groups in the computer lab. Learning experiences may include: interactive CD-ROM books, operation of the robotic turtle, and exploration of integrated programs.
MUSIC
Students study musical concepts including beat, high and low sounds, loud and soft, fast vs. slow, and form in music. The singing component includes familiar songs and new songs. Children practice spatial awareness through movement, dance, and play-party games. They listen to classical pieces and begin playing small percussion instruments that are developmentally appropriate, including the hand drum, rhythm sticks, wood blocks, and tambourines.
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