WM 1st Grade Curriculum Update
March 2020
Reading and Writing
Reading
We are wrapping up the unit on how to be the boss of your reading. Students practiced stopping at the first sign of trouble, trying several strategies to get the job done and checking to see if the words sound right, look right and make sense.
We will be moving into a character unit in March which focuses on the power of story. Children will learn empathy, imagination, envisionment and prediction.
Writing
During Writer’s Workshop, we will spend time studying and writing poetry. Children will learn to look at the world around them with poet’s eyes.
Phonics
We are busy becoming word builders! Our big focus is using vowel teams to make bigger and longer words. We'll also continue to add more and more snap words to our wall!
Math
We are wrapping up our unit on shapes (both 2D&3D). We will be starting Unit 6 which focuses on addition and subtraction story problems and fact strategies to 20. In Number Corner, we’ll be learning time to the half hour and collecting dimes, nickels and pennies.
Science
Social Studies
During the month of March, some classes will focus on Balance and Motion in Science while others will study schools long ago in Social Studies. Please make sure to check your child’s classroom newsletter to see what other topics that will be covered throughout the month.
LMC - Library
We’ll be exploring story structures, character traits, and more detailed genres this month. First graders are becoming more and more familiar with library procedures and organization; they’re often able to find what they’re looking for independently!
Music
Mrs. Spahn’s classes will be working on: Musical opposites Staccato and Legato and The Surprise Symphony by Joseph Haydn
Ms. Soltis’ classes will be working on: The William Tell Overture by Gioachino Rossini. We will learn about the story of the William Tell opera, discuss the form of the piece, and put it all together with a fun, rhythm stick routine!
Technology
Students are navigating educational math websites. They are locating and recognizing website buttons on new educational websites.
Art
How do artists invent new styles of art? How do artists use pattern? How do artists use texture? How do artists change the way you see the world? (Flower Power Still-Lifes)
PE
We just finished up with our basketball unit and students enjoyed participating in our Hoops for Heart event days, that took place on Feb. 28 and March 1. Thank you to all who helped fundraise for this event and for supporting The American Heart Association! All donations must be made online or turned into Mrs. Johnson by Fri. March 15, thank you!
The month of March is filled with some awesome units. We will be training for the Ninja Warrior! Students will explore different fitness activities through fitness stations and games. By the end of the month, they will be ready to compete in our WM Ninja Warrior course.
Guidance
We are finishing up our emotion management unit. We used our three calming down tools (belly breathing, counting and positive self talk) to calm down strong feelings such as anger and worry. We will begin our Problem Solving unit right before spring break.