First Grade

Science Exploration

Children in preschool, kindergarten, and first grade work together to explore the scientific studies of physical, life, earth, and space. We focus on age-appropriate exercises that employ the five senses, seasons, life cycles, hypothesizing, and identification. Our children study environmental responsibility and learn how to care for the environment through the application of the sustainability life cycle (reduce, reuse, recycle). They watch in wonder as they witness, firsthand, the lifecycle of a live animal in their classroom. Interwoven through our marquee experiences are stand-alone STEAM topics including the water cycle, animal habitats, plant growth, simple machines, and color mixing.

Mathematics

First grade math builds a strong foundation in number sense, problem solving, and mathematical thinking. Students begin by counting, comparing, and working with basic addition and subtraction. They explore relationships between operations and learn strategies to make problems easier using properties of numbers. Throughout the year, they measure and compare lengths, deepen their understanding of place value, and use it to add and subtract with greater confidence. Students also learn to identify and describe shapes by their attributes, all while continuing to build key skills in addition, subtraction, and number composition. Aligned with the New York State Learning Standards, first grade mathematics emphasizes conceptual understanding, computational fluency, and the ability to communicate mathematical ideas with confidence.

Religion

Our weekly lessons are based on the Sunday gospel. Our religion curriculum helps children build an understanding of God and His message. Activities that aid in the delivery of the message in an age-appropriate manner include Bible stories, payer, and dramatic play. Children learn the importance of prayer; they begin each day with the Lord's prayer and say grace before meals. Religious themes are interwoven throughout our days by instilling a strong moral foundation in our children. In celebration of the Christmas season, we host an all-school Christmas concert and live nativity in St. Francis de Sales Church.

Art and Baking

Children engage in a classroom art project or baking a recipe from scratch, with the close guidance and supervision of their teacher.

• Art: This fun exploration of different art styles and concepts allows students to practice using a wide array of mediums in a safe, creative environment. 

• Baking: To bring books to life, we tie our baking or cooking project into our literary theme of the week. For example, we will read Stone Soup and prepare homemade stone soup and biscuits.

Art and baking activities alternate weekly. 

Music

Children are introduced to the world of music through singing, sensitivity to beat, and expressive movement through various activities. Children work on their fine motor coordination with handheld instruments and unrestrained movement with scarves provides students with fun, attention-holding activities and helps them find their natural rhythm. Music lessons are created and led by certified music teacher and children's song composer Joanne Kucerak.

Dramatic Play

Children explore, enjoy, and share new ways of self-expression through movement, pantomime, storytelling, puppetry, improvisation, and small and large group performances. Students develop public speaking skills as they practice the art of storytelling and have the opportunity to perform live in front of their classmates and families in our marquee celebrations, including our Thanksgiving Finger Food Festival, Christmas concert, Easter performance, Mother's Day Tea, and graduation ceremony.

Library

When children visit the library, the engage in an intimate, traditional story time circle where they feel comfortable and safe and develop their love for books. The emphasis is put on physical books rather than screen time. Rhymes, songs, and felt shapes bring the stories to life. Children select and check out a library book weekly.

Physical Education

Physical Education in first grade focuses on developing gross motor skills, coordination, and a love for movement. Through fun games, group activities, and skill-building exercises, students practice running, jumping, throwing, catching, balancing, and teamwork. PE classes also emphasize the importance of fair play, following directions, and being a kind and respectful teammate. In a small school setting, the supportive environment encourages every child to participate, try new things, and build confidence while staying active and healthy.