Kindergarten Curriculum Summary

The Kindergarten year begins with many opportunities for children to discover the joy of reading in an environment that fosters a wonder about words and writing. During the first trimester students become familiar with the structure, routines and expectations of the literacy program that includes interactive read alouds, shared reading, guided reading, independent reading, shared writing, guided writing, independent writing, and participating in collaborative discussions. Numerous literacy experiences involve speaking and listening, spurring children on to reading and writing.

A main focus in Kindergarten is counting, which is the basis for understanding the number system and for almost all the number work in the primary grades. Students hear and use the counting sequence in a variety of contexts. They have many opportunities to connect the number names with the written numbers and with the quantities they represent. As students count sets of objects and make equal sets they begin to see the importance of counting each object once and only once, and of having a system for keeping track of what has been counted and what still remains to be counted. Students engage in repeated practice with counting and develop visual images for quantities to 10.

A rich kindergarten science program supports the development of certain attitudes and dispositions that are important in all areas oflearning. These include curiosity, seeing oneself as a “scientist,” respect for living things, willingness to take risks, perseverance, and a willingness to collaborate. As a result of science experiences in units on Geology, the Senses, Organisms, Sorting & Properties, and Weather students develop their abilities to raise questions, use tools to extend their observations, and engage in simple investigations.

The social curriculum helps build a learning community within the classroom and the school. The Responsive Classroom Approach promotes social and academic goals for all learners. Kindergarten Social Studies units include All About Me, Our Caring School, and the Family. Basic concepts are revisited throughout the year, allowing for personal development over time.