1st Grade Curriculum Guide
Mathematics
SGCS utilizes The Math Learning Center’s Bridges in Mathematics and Number Corner as the instructional resource for mathematics.
- Aligns with the mission, vision, and core values while providing K-5 students with authentic, rigorous, hands-on mathematical experiences.
- Developing students’ deep understandings of mathematical concepts, proficiency with key skills, and ability to solve complex and novel problems.
- Blends direct instruction, structured investigation, and open exploration.
- Taps into the intelligence and strengths of all students by presenting material that is as linguistically, visually, and kinesthetically rich as it is mathematically powerful.
The Bridges in Mathematics and Number Corner programs address the PDE State Standards for Mathematics.
In 1st Grade, students study the following concepts:
- Addition and subtraction within 20
- Whole number relationships and place value
- Linear measurement in non-standard units
- Reasoning with shapes and their attributes
Language Arts
SGCS utilizes Calkins & TCRWP Units of Study for Reading and Writing as an instructional resource for ELA.
- Through writer’s and reader’s workshops, students receive whole and small group instruction through a differentiated, engaging approach
In 1st Grade, students study the following units:
- Writing Units:
- Small Moments: Writing with Focus, Detail, and Dialogue
- Nonfiction Chapter Books
- Writing Reviews
- From Scenes to Series: Writing Fiction
- Reading Units:
- Building Good Reading Habits
- Learning About the World: Reading Nonfiction
- Readers Have Big Jobs to Do: Fluency, Phonics, and Comprehension
- Meeting Characters and Learning Lessons: A Study of Story Elements
The Calkins & TCRWP Units of Study for Reading and Writing resources are used to meet the PDE State Standards for English Language Arts.
EIC Units of Study
First grade curriculum revolves around three integrated units of study. Each unit has our students using the local community and environment to further explore natural and social systems to develop an understanding that the components and processes in these systems are interdependent. Each unit culminates with an environmental service-learning project based on the natural and social systems interactions discoveries during the unit and student voice.
Me and My Pond
Students identify and describe the natural components of a pond environment, including water, plants, and animals. Students recognize patterns, such as life cycles and seasons that occur and reoccur in nature and they explain how natural systems influence one another. During the unit, students measure, collect, and track pond life, weather, and water data over time. They also identify the living things in our local pond system and how weather affects the pond components. Students make a presentation describing actions that can adversely and positively impact wetland habitats as a way to to promote a healthy and thriving pond system.
Wild Weather
The focus of this investigation is to explore weather in the local community. Students explore what weather is, how it is created and how it affects our daily lives. Students become familiar with elements of a weather report and how forecasting is helpful in making plans. Students create and use various types of weather monitoring and measuring tools, discuss why forecasts can be inaccurate, and determine what meteorologists do to make more accurate predictions. Students are introduced to severe forms of weather, including floods, blizzards, tornadoes, hurricanes, and droughts. Students will identify the ways in which the weather impacts local social and natural systems. Students explore how weather is a global occurrence and how conditions in one place can affect conditions in other parts of the world.
Adventures in Agriculture
The focus of this investigation is an exploration of agriculture, what agriculture is, and how it affects and is affected by the natural and human social systems that are parts of our daily lives. Students identify and describe the natural and social components of farm systems. Through visits to multiple local farms, students investigate local crops, raw products, and goods derived from each type of farm. As students explore how social systems affect farms, they also learn how farms affect natural systems, and how agriculture can affect different groups in our society. First grade maintains and sustains the organic gardens they built on campus and supply food to our school and local community.