Class News - Spring 2010
First Grade
Once across the rainbow bridge the curriculum is simple
but rich. A mainstay, the Fairy Tale, meets the
developmental needs for the first grader as it fills the
student with wonder and respect for the characters and
the challenges they confront within each tale. The
affirmation that the good and simplistic prince will be
brought to power, simply because he is good (as well as
simple) is comforting to the child. Students learn to face
their own fears alongside the characters. They journey
with the hero with the good will and faith that justice
will prevail. As first graders are very much concerned
with what is fair, they listen in silence, meeting the
patiently awaited resolution with relieved sighs and
smiles, and sometimes even resounding cheers.
The alphabet is introduced in conjunction with the Fairy
Tales. From the stories, images arise that can resemble
the letter of the alphabet selected by the teacher. The
letter is first introduced (or hinted at) graphically as an
image from the tale (i.e. the “Bear” takes the form of the
letter “B”) and then the letter is drawn carefully on the
opposing page in connection with the picture.
In math the children “count on” by 2’s, 3’s, 4’s, 5’s, and
10’s using their bodies, rhythm sticks, bean bags, and
counters. They learn rhymes and play games that
demonstrate the various qualities of numbers. Form
drawing helps to develop a sense of body awareness,
balance, spatial/depth perception, hand-eye
coordination, and will. After experiencing the form in
the largest possible scale (i.e., tread in fresh snow), we
continue to practice, gradually bringing it down to the
very smallest gesture before practicing on paper.
We play music every day and begin our day with
singing. As well, the students are learning how to play
the pentatonic flute. They must concentrate on many
things at once to play their instrument. The flute
requires calm, controlled breathing as well as careful
fingering. Music visibly lifts the mood in the classroom,
and a joyful spirit is maintained all day long.
Laura Bradley
First Grade Teacher |
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