WM 1st Grade Curriculum Update
April 2018
Reading and Writing
Reading
We are continuing our character unit in the month of April which focuses on character studies and life lessons. Children will also learn how to formulate opinions about books they’re reading.
Writing
During Writer’s Workshop, we will spend time studying realistic fiction. Children will be using their imaginations to develop characters, setting, and problem/solution.
Math
We are continuing to work through unit 6. We will be focusing on the relationship between addition and subtraction and solving story problems with numbers up to 20. We will be using a variety of strategies such as thinking ten (6+4, 7+3, etc) and writing fact families.
During Number Corner, we’ll be looking at fractions of a whole and why a shape may or may not have symmetry.
Social Studies/Science
During the month of April, we will be kicking off our insect unit! We will observe the life cycles of mealworms and butterflies. We will also learn the general characteristics of an insect.
Also this month, some classes will be studying schools long ago in Social Studies.
LMC - Library
We’ll be using Makerspace materials to work together to solve problems and meet challenges. Through these experiences, we’ll learn about teamwork and communication!
Music
Mrs. Spahn’s classes will be working on: Continuing the exploration of musical opposites including Staccato/Legato, Accelerando/Ritardando and Crescendo/Diminuendo.
Ms. Soltis’ classes will be working on: exploring the differences between accelerando and ritardando, solo and ensemble, crescendo and decrescendo.
Technology
Students are using tools in the program Kidspiration to create webs and a variety of graphic organizers.
Art
How do math and art connect? How does art teach us about the world? How can you tell if something is art? (Architecture Collage)
PE
Our Jump Rope for Heart Event will be April 5th & 6th during your child’s PE class. We are fundraising and jumping to bring awareness to and support the American Heart Association. We will also be doing Spring Fitness testing, our, Track & Field Unit, and trying to get outside as much as possible.
Guidance
We are finishing our Bullying Prevention Unit. Students are learning how to refuse bullying by using an assertive voice to say, “Stop it. That’s bullying.” They are also learning how to use their bystander power to help stop bullying when they see it happen to someone else.