Reading
SuperKids Reading Program; Rowland Reading Foundation
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 Arts
SuperKids Reading Program; Rowland Reading Foundation
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
Big Ideas Math: Modeling Real Life; Cengage Learning
Mathematics Their Way; Center for Innovation in Education
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
Let’s Find Out Magazine; Scholastic Inc.
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
Let’s Find Out Magazine; Scholastic Inc.
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.
STEAM/Enrichment Curriculum
STEAM principles promote critical thinking, asking questions, observation and exploration through hands-on, real-world problem-solving activities.
- Science – Focus on hands-on activities to promote collaboration and cooperation, incorporating science, technology, and engineering utilizing lab experiments, planting, gardening, and learning about the world around them.
- Technology – Focus on project based experiences incorporating technology with engineering and science and utilizing typing programs. Classroom iPads and AppleTV/projectors used to enhance curriculum and reinforce skills.
- Engineering – Practical, hands-on design and construction with a variety of materials, such as, but not limited to, Legos, Magna Tiles, Blocks, K’Nex, Connectors, and Lincoln Logs.
- Arts – The visual arts curriculum challenges and encourages students to actively participate in the arts. Students do an Artist of the Month study and develop an appreciation for artistic representation that they create, in addition to the pieces their classmates 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 students to develop sensitivity to musical experiences. This is accompanied by a Composer of the Month study where students are introduced to various types of music.
- Mathematics – Focus on hands-on activities to promote collaboration and cooperation, using manipulatives, sorters, counters, and various other classroom materials to supplement the adopted grade level curriculum. Students have access to an individualized computer math program that assists them with strengthening core skills at their independence level.
Physical Education Curriculum
All Junior Kindergarten through Fourth Grade students at Primary Plus Elementary School are learning to move and moving to learn. This document outlines the skills and concepts presented throughout the year during our Physical Education classes.
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.
