First Grade Curriculum

The general objectives for first grade students are to:

• give the child security in learning
• teach the child to think independently
• develop self-reliance and stamina
• develop good study and work habits
• awaken the student to the pleasure in learning

The specific objectives for first grade students are:

Reading:

• teach the child with the tools and skills necessary to enjoy reading
• develop a habit of reading for both information and pleasure
• establish rhythmic reading skills for the purpose of comprehension
• enhance the child’s reading and speaking vocabulary through exposure to fine literature
• expose the child to the beauty of reading and reciting poetry

Spelling:

• equip the child to spell words through the development of the Carden vowel chart
• foster independence and accuracy in spelling through dictation

Writing and Composition:

• develop a basic understanding of grammar as it applies to composition forms and comprehension
• encourage the child to write original stories and poems

Penmanship:

• to print lower and upper case letters with an emphasis on neatness, accuracy, and speed

Mathematics:

• develop accuracy and understanding in counting, reading, writing, and ordering numbers 0 to 100
• calculate sums and differences to 20
• make and solve word problems using appropriate skills and strategies

Social Studies:

• explore the traditions and customs of various people, past and present

Science:

• Physical: explore matter and how it undergoes changes and how it is classified
• Earth: receive an introduction to the changing earth
• Life: study plants, animals, and insects

Art and Art Appreciation:

• familiarize the child with a variety of techniques and materials in a supportive environment
• sharpen perception with an explanation of pictorial organization
• develop observation skills in and out of classroom
• introduce elements of line and color

Music:

• value music by actively listening, singing, and playing instruments
• identify and imitate: various rhythms and tempos; descending, ascending, and repeated melodies

French:

• discover French culture and build basic vocabulary through songs, games and poems
• learn every-day greetings and expressions
• learn numbers 0-31

Motor Development:

• experience rhythm activities that develop coordination and concentration skills
• continue to develop agility and basic locomotor skills

Physical Education:

• demonstrate full range of motion in arm and leg swings and stretches, basic locomotor skills and good posture
• practice safe use of playground equipment
• participate in physical activities and demonstrate good sportsmanship

Computer:

• become familiar with the basic skills needed to navigate the computer
• typing name, changing fonts, learning paint, math, and reading programs
• click here to view computer classes

We encourage you to learn more about our curriculum by grade level:

• Kindergarten
• First Grade
• Second Grade
• Third Grade
• Fourth Grade
• Fifth Grade
• Sixth Grade
• Seventh Grade
• Eighth Grade
• Computers
• Art

If you not familiar with Miss Carden and the Carden Method, we encourage you to review the information we have prepared.