Primary

Grades 1-3

Reading skills are taught through a combination of sight recognition of words and phonics. Phonics is gradually replaced by more whole language, or in-context, work in grades 2 and 3. Manuscript handwriting is taught through grade 2, and cursive in grade 3. Language skills are reinforced through process writing on topics of interest, research and report writing. Children read from a variety of texts including children’s literature, informational books and biographies. Students are also read to daily.

We use manipulatives for math instruction, such as connecting cubes, counters and place value blocks. Students are introduced to computational skills of two digit numbers, number theory, problem solving, measurement, place value, time, and elementary geometry in grade 1. In grades 2 and 3 skills previously learned are reinforced. Multiplication, 3-digit numbers and division are introduced in grade 2 and reinforced in grade 3. Problem solving is an integral component of the primary math curriculum. As early as grade 1, students learn strategies for problem solving. In grades 2 and 3 students apply the strategies learned and write problems for others to solve. Research, data-gathering and hands-on activities to produce visual aids such as charts, graphs, and models are part of every subject in the curriculum.