Kindergarten Teachers

Mathematics

Kindergarten students are using the Singapore Math program. Singapore Math has a success-oriented program that emphasizes manipulative and mental math. It addresses the multi-sensory approach to teaching. Children develop a solid foundation in the language and basic concepts of all areas of mathematics. Concepts are practiced over a long period of time in order for mastery and long-term retention. The concepts are presented in carefully sequenced increments. All areas of mathematics are integrated so that children see the interrelationships. The presentation of concepts is not in “units” but is gently spread out over a considerable period of time.

• Compare and order numbers
• Identify and extend patterns
• Understand 10's and ones
• Picture and name fractions
• Measurement, weight and capacity
• Tell time to the hour and half hour
• Count pennies, nickels, dimes, and quarters
• Identify geometric solids
• Recognize number words
• Addition and subtraction
• Story problems

Social Studies

The social studies curriculum used in Kindergarten is the Core Knowledge Series. It encourages students to work both independently and cooperatively to explore the world around them while learning to interact appropriately with others. In addition to the units of study, core values are integrated into the curriculum throughout the year. Through the experiences and activities provided, the students are given the opportunity to make personal connections to the world they live in and to build on their prior knowledge of each concept.

• Oceans and continents
• The First Americans
• American Patriotic Symbols and Holidays
• Christopher Columbus
• Pilgrims and Thanksgiving
• Presidents - Washington, Lincoln, Theodore Roosevelt and Jefferson
• Map skills
• Seasons
• Friendship
• Holiday traditions
• Global Awareness

Language Arts

Kindergarten students use The Superkids Reading Series. Superkids uses a multi-sensory approach to teach reading. It introduces children to encoding and decoding words.

• Handwriting the capital and lowercase letters
• Blending sounds into words, sentences and stories
• Decode and encode words
• Phonemic awareness
• Punctuation usage
• Spelling words and writing sentences
• Memorize sight words
• Journal writing

Special Area Classes

Art: Individuality is emphasized as students are exposed to various artists and art styles. Art history is explored on our timeline and students expand their skills and confidence through the use of various materials, 3-D concepts, and paper techniques.

Computers: Each class is equipped with a complete computer system. The students visit the computer lab once a week for 30 minutes. Individual computer use reinforces basic terminology and the use of the mouse and keyboard. The use of educational software is used to develop problem solving abilities and reinforce concept presented in the mathematics literacy skills, science and social studies.

Library: Students develop an understanding of library check-out and return procedures, and they participate in stories and activities in the library.

Music: The Kindergarten students meet with the music specialist once a week. They engage in dance and movement activities, sing, and play rhythm instruments and xylophones. They also participate in a musical production in the spring and perform for assembly programs.

Physical Education: Students learn the importance of physical fitness. Formal exercises are introduced. Aerobic fitness begins with the “Olympic Club.” Students learn to work with physical education apparatus both alone and in a group. Ball handling skills are reinforced and practiced. Small group games increase confidence and develop positive attitudes about physical activity.

Spanish: Each kindergarten class has Spanish twice a week. Classroom instruction is offered in both Spanish and English. Age-appropriate reading, songs and hands-on activities are used to reinforce each unit. The children will learn greetings, colors, numbers 1-10, body parts, animals, classroom objects, adjectives and a number of commands.