Mathematics
The goal of mathematics instruction at the first grade level is to develop an understanding of concepts, patterns, and relationships. We work toward this goal in many ways.
McGraw-Hill My Math is the formal curriculum used in the classroom. In addition to this, we emphasize hands-on experiences to explore and discover. Learning stations are often used to give children experiences in manipulating concrete objects which enhance both computational skills/concepts and organizational ideas needed for problem solving. Manipulatives may include pattern blocks, beads, shells, colored cubes, and buttons. We try to utilize real world materials so students are working with familiar objects.
We encourage students to use their communication skills to explain their findings. This helps them interalize how they solved the problem and gives other students new ideas for ways they can attack problems.
McGraw-Hill My Math is the formal curriculum used in the classroom. In addition to this, we emphasize hands-on experiences to explore and discover. Learning stations are often used to give children experiences in manipulating concrete objects which enhance both computational skills/concepts and organizational ideas needed for problem solving. Manipulatives may include pattern blocks, beads, shells, colored cubes, and buttons. We try to utilize real world materials so students are working with familiar objects.
We encourage students to use their communication skills to explain their findings. This helps them interalize how they solved the problem and gives other students new ideas for ways they can attack problems.