First Grade Curriculum
Bible
Biblical Choices of a New Generation is our Bible curriculum. It teaches God’s love for us, from His creation through the patriarchs ending with the life of Jesus. Practical application for each child is woven into the lessons. They learn to “hide God’s Word in their heart” as they memorize selected Bible verses. Each week students attend a school chapel service. Each day begins with devotions and prayer. Sharing from God’s Word is intertwined throughout the day.
Reading
In first grade the students learn to read! We build a love and joy for reading through the Bob Jones Reading curriculum. First graders begin by reviewing the sounds letters make, blending sounds to form words, and building a sight work vocabulary. Students read in small, ability groups to practice their skills. They do this by working through six books filled with exciting stories poems and plays. We want to instill a life long love for reading. Reading daily with their parents is also encouraged.
Phonics/English
First graders use the Bob Jones English curriculum, which introduces writing readiness through listening, speaking and thinking activities. Students begin with letters and words, and work up to sentences and an introduction to the parts of speech. The Phonics and English curriculums are integrated which adds layers to their learning.
This curriculum reinforces the sounds and letters learned for reading. Students study all consonant and vowel sounds at the beginning, middle and the end of words. Learning to decode words helps make reading easy and fun.
Writing
Students are encouraged to write regularly. Writing is integrated throughout the day and intertwined in many subject areas. Each year students are led through the entire writing process from brainstorming to rough draft and finally to a longer published story. Students are asked to write and illustrate many short stories each year. These stories are shared with the class and posted for parents and others to read.
Spelling
Bob Jones First Grade Spelling is used to increase vocabulary and transfer spelling skills to writing assignments. Weekly test are given with spelling words used in a sentence. This reinforces listening skills and encourages good sentence writing. Challenge words are also included each week.
Mathematics
In ACSI First Grade Mathematics students learn the basic concepts of addition and subtraction. They develop problem solving skills as well as skills in geometry, fractions, graphing, money, time, measurement, and finally two digit addition and subtraction. Skills are practiced daily with the use of many math manipulatives. We also use ICSP (Individualized Computational Skills Program) once a week.
Science/Health
Students use FOSS Science Kits covering three large units each year. First graders learn about wind and weather, new plants, and solids and liquids. These kits include many hands-on activities and opportunities for science journaling. Other units studied include the five senses, space and dental health.
Social Studies
We use the Heritage Studies for Christian School curriculum. Students learn about their world…past and present, through a series of mini-units including Pilgrims & Native Americans, Famous Americans, and a study of maps, globes, continents and oceans. Each month students receive a copy of God’s World News. This publication is full of current world events that are read about and discussed in the classroom.
Art
Students have art instruction each week. The focus of the art program is not only to teach students the elements of art, but to also foster creativity. Students also learn an appreciation of art through this creative experience regardless of their level of artistic ability.
Field Trips
Students go on field trips that are related to units and learning activities in class. Each fall, first graders walk to Lake Sacajawea to gather leaves, seeds and other fall treasures. Each winter we love to attend a play at the Columbia Theater. In the spring, students travel to a garden center to learn about plants. Field trips add that extra, first-hand experience to learning.