First Grade Curriculum

Language Arts

Reading is the foundation for all first grade curriculums.  At CCS we use the phonics approach in teaching reading.  We believe that combining strategic and skill based instruction along with a strong knowledge base of high frequency sight words will provide students with the necessary tools for reading success. Spelling is taught along with reading comprehension and creative writing.

Reading groups and writers workshops are established.  Daily reading logs are maintained to provide extended reading opportunities outside the classroom, to provide ongoing communication between parent and teacher, and to establish good homework habits.  Journals are kept ot provide written responses to lessons and or text and serve as an informal assessment of student progress.

Math

Students in first grade establish routine that include calendar activities, weather and temperature routines, working in small groups and exploration of manipulatives.  Students discover the everyday use of numbers through hands on applications such as, telling time, counting and exchanging money, and measurement.  Other concepts and skills covered are visual patterns, number patterns, place value, number stories, geometry, fractions, and basic facts.

History and Geography

First graders discover their wonderful America.  They learn about the flag, the symbols of America, and the freedoms that we enjoy as Americans.  They also learn about some great leaders, simple geographic terms and landmarks of our Great America.

Science

In the fall, health and human biology helps students discover themselves.  The students gain a deeper understanding of the Godly design of their own bodies.  They learn about energy by discovering gravity, force, and friction.  In the spring semester, they discover the animal and plants kingdoms and discuss how seasons play an important role in the rhyme and reason of nature.

Bible

Bible is the most important subject of a first graders day.  It is taught as a subject even though biblical truths are integrated in all subjects throughout the entire day.  Teachers at CCS are committed to mentoring students in their faith, through intimate daily prayer time and biblical instruction.  Each grade is taught through themes.  First grade Bible theme is the God of Impossibilities.  In the fall semester lessons are from the Old Testament covering God’s new world and God’s covenant with Abraham’s family.  In the spring semester lessons are taken from the New Testament covering Jesus, the son of God (parts 1 and 2).