"The more you read...the better you write...and the more you write...the better you read!"

Writing is an extremely important part of each school day.  As a student, I struggled with writing.  I think this is why it has become such an important part of the curriculum and daily happenings in my classroom.  Reading and writing go hand in hand.  Students are able to apply what they have learned about reading to writing, and writing to reading.  In 1st grade, students will learn about the writing process; however, not all phases will be learned about this year.  Your child will have a Writer’s Notebook that will house a collection of their writing this year.  It will reflect the growth and progress that they show as a writer.  Take time to look at occasionally throughout the year.  Sharing is a vital component of writing.  Our Author’s Chair, publishing events, and writing lessons will give students many opportunities to share their work.  In addition, Young Author’s Days will be scheduled throughout the year so that students have an opportunity to showcase their work.  Ultimately, writing instruction will guide students in realizing that the purpose of writing is to communicate with others.

1st Grade Writing Activities:
Daily Journal Writing
Collaborating on Class Books
Creating a Class Vocabulary Notebook
Writer’s Workshop
Classroom Post Office
Publishing Events
Math Problem-Solving Journals
Literacy Centers
Reading Choice Journals
Ticket-Out-the-Door Activities
 

During 1st grade, your child will begin transitioning
from inventive to traditional spelling.  Weekly spelling tests will be given to assess your child’s word study knowledge. Practice at home and school will help prepare each student.  Please remember that spelling words the way they sound is the best strategy for your child to use at this point in his/her young life.  The focus of our writing in Kindergarten was on good
content.  In 1st grade, I will be encouraging a balance between content and correct spelling.  I am looking forward to watching each student’s writing ability continue to develop.  Writing and spelling takes practice and growth.  Below you will find a table listing fun, creative ways for practicing spelling words.

First grade students also begin Accelerated Reading.  Accelerated Reader is a computerized reading program.   Students select books to read at their individual reading level and take computerized tests that measures their comprehension. The Accelerated Reader program seems to motivate children to read.  Remember - the more children read, the better reader they become! Students are awarded points based on test scores.  Our Media Center has an AR store monthly.  In addition, your child will be awarded a special prize from our classroom.
 

Math skills will be developed through calendar and daily math lessons.  Harcourt Math is the program used in our 1st grade.  Whole group, small group, and partner work will be utilized during math instruction.

Science and Social Studies will be taught in units throughout the year.  Harcourt Horizons is the Social Studies program used at our school.  In addition, we will have special “Science Friday” or “Thursday Themes” activities.  Your child will really enjoy these times.  Their natural curiosity will promote their understanding of these standards.  Volunteers could serve in many ways during these times.