Grade School
Grade 1
The first grade is a bridge between the Early Childhood program and the grades. The loss of the milk teeth, and the stretching of neck, torso and limbs are signals that a certain stage of completeness has been attained in the formation of the physical body, and that the children are ready to begin to work with memory and thinking in a more concentrated way. The children still carry within them much of the imaginative consciousness of early childhood, but are becoming more aware of the world around them, still in a holistic, somewhat dreamy, fairy tale mood.
The year begins with the awareness of the fact that behind all shapes are two basic forms. Straight and curved lines are combined in various patterns, as the subject of form or dynamic drawing. These drawings train motor skills, awaken powers of observation, and provide a foundation for the introduction to the letters, and the later study of geometry.
The children are introduced to the letters of the alphabet through fairy tales and other stories, and out of a transformation from picture to symbol. In this way, the letters become actual characters to which the children have a relationship, rather than abstract symbols. Sound/symbol relationships are practiced, and after the majority of letters are introduced, the children practice writing short sentences they know by heart.
The children first experience the qualities of numbers before learning arithmetical operations. The four processes are introduced as four characters in a story. After considerable practice with manipulatives and mental math, the written symbols for the four processes and the equal sign are introduced.
Language Arts
- Writing
- Phonetic Introduction to Letters
- Reading Approached through Writing
- Speech Formation/Dramatics
Mathematics
- All Four Processes
- Geometric Movement
Natural Sciences
- Nature Study
Social Sciences-Prehistory
- Folk Tales, Ancient Legends
Foreign Languages
- German
- Spanish
Fine Arts
- Painting, Drawing, Modeling
Handwork
- Knitting
Music
- Recorder, Singing
Eurythmy Physical Education
- Games