Elementary > Classroom Pages > Kindergarten

Kindergarten Curriculum Summary

Reading

Beginning to Read, Write and Listen: McMillan-McGraw-Hill Publishers
Primary Readers, “Max” Series; Modern Curriculum Press, Inc.

Through the use of our reading readiness program, the Primary Plus Kindergarten child learns how to phonetically sound out and read new words and sentences. Our students practice reading comprehension through discussion of the stories they have read and are able to make reasonable predictions about new stories based on the context.

Language Art

Beginning to Read, Write and Listen: McMillan-McGraw-Hill Publishers
Big Books, Scholastic Books, Inc.

Using an integrated language arts program the students at our schools begin using spelling, handwriting, grammar and punctuation as a means of becoming competent language user. They learn beginning penmanship through daily handwriting instruction in which they are taught how to form letters and numbers properly. The student further develops prewriting skills using story mapping, story starters, group language experience and oral and visual expression. Through formatting sentences, the Primary Plus Kindergartner composes original stories, poems and books, becoming budding authors.

Mathematics

Mathematics-California Edition, McGraw Hill Publishers

Activity based learning is the focus of our beginning mathematical skills. Students learn early math concepts such as patterning, sorting, classifying and graphing through the use of manipulatives and curriculum activities. Development in Kindergarten math skills includes an understanding of cardinal numbers to 100, geometric shapes, addition, subtraction, and an introduction to measuring, telling time and money recognition.

Social Studies

Adventures in Time and Place; McGraw Hill Publishers

The Kindergarten social studies focus is based on learning from the child’s environment at home, school and in the community. The goal of the program is to build skills needed to develop self- confidence, critical thinking and increase their observation skills.
 

Science/Health

Kindergarten Science Curriculum; McRuffy Press
“Spring” into Math and Science, series; AIMS Education Foundation

Using thematic instruction and hands-on activities, Kindergartners at Primary Plus begin learning science concepts and related vocabulary as they complete class investigations in life, earth and physical science. Physical wellness, nutrition and other topics related to a beginning understanding of healthy habits are all introduced during the Kindergarten year.

Enrichment Curriculum

• The visual arts curriculum challenges and encourages students to actively participate in the arts. Students develop an appreciation for artistic representation they and their friends create. Specific instruction occurs in color, texture, design and spatial relations.
   
• Our Music Curriculum develops a general knowledge of music vocabulary, movement, beat, interpretation and rhythm which allows them to develop sensitivity to musical experiences.
   
• Physical education instruction is used to develop large muscle skills, awareness of one’s own body and cooperative play skills. Children may also participate in additional after school activities.
   
• Computers are used to supplement the curriculum through software which enhances our math and language program. Students also learn, basic keyboarding skills and develop an interest in technology.
   
• A sense of community is created through our “LifeSkills” curriculum. The five “Lifelong Guidelines” provide consistent parameters and expectations of conduct not only in our classroom, but in our world.
   
• Spanish Class is presented to our students weekly. They develop basic vocabulary skills and an understanding of other cultures. The development of skills in Kindergarten is reflected in the year’s collection of: Progress Reports, Weekly folders and Report Cards, provided to parents throughout the Kindergarten year.

September 2009