Ryan Academy Curriculum Grade 1
Integrated Language Arts - The Grade 1 Reading and English program promotes effective oral and written communication. The program is based on the writing process with all grammar, usage, mechanics, and spelling skills introduced, practiced and reviewed in the context of writing. Writing skills are taught through writing workshops and conferences. Reinforcement is provided through pre-writing, drafting, revising, editing, and publishing activities. Daily formal and informal speaking opportunities develop oral language skills. Manuscript (printing) skills are introduced with emphasis on legibility and consistency of letter formation and spacing.
Math - First graders move from the concrete to the symbolic level of basic math concepts and operations. Key areas of study include numeration (cardinal and ordinal numbers), addition, subtraction, measurement, using non-standard units, time, money, shapes and fractions (halves and fourths). Problem-solving strategies include using sorting, patterning, graphing, and simulating daily life, such as solving problems involving play money and telling time to the half hour.
Science - In science, special emphasis is placed on the research process in all grades. This includes making decisions about the generation and testing of ideas; prediction, measurement, data collection and representation; evaluation of sources of information; collaborative investigation; interpretation and communication of findings; evaluation and verification of findings and considerations relating to the social context of research. First graders plan simple experiments to investigate scientific phenomena, and draw conclusions based on data collected. Measuring is done in standard and nonstandard units.
Social Studies - Students will learn to recognize basic map symbols and to construct a simple map of a familiar area. The students will identify selected American individuals who have worked to improve the lives of American citizens. Students will learn to apply the traits of a good citizen and recognize that communities in Virginia include people who have diverse ethnic origins, customs, and traditions, who make contributions to their communities, and who are united as Americans by common principles. They will learn about citizenship and democratic heritage.
Spanish- Exploratory Spanish for first grade students is designed to explore the language and culture of Spain and American Latin countries. Students learn Spanish vocabulary in various units through a traditional classroom setting. Students become aware of the Spanish culture through exploring Spanish customs and Spanish celebrations and by participating in classroom games and activities.
Art- First graders will be introduced to the elements of art with a concentration on line, color, shape, form and value. Students will further develop these skills by using their imagination, creativity, studies of artists and different artistic styles for inspiration.
Compute- Students use up-to-date technology in all aspects of the academic program at all grade levels. Computers are used to reinforce and enrich skills in math, geography, science and language arts. Problem solving and logical thought skills are reinforced through the use of appropriate software. Word processing, graphic and desktop publishing programs are used to design and publish documents.
Library- At Ryan Academy all students visit the library weekly for selection of books for course work and independent reading. They learn library organization, proper care of books, and age-appropriate library skills.
Physical Education- The students will demonstrate an understanding of movement that fosters cooperation and sportsmanship. The students will be encouraged to give their best effort at all times.
Independent Project- At Ryan Academy all students all students grade 1 and up follow the steps to complete a research paper. They formulate an outline; find materials both print and electronic, complete note cards, a rough draft and a final copy. For the Independent Project, you should choose something you have not researched before. The project contains three parts.
1. Written Report (50%)The written report will include: a Title page, an Introduction, Answers to the Project Questions, a Conclusion, and a Reference Page.
2. Creative/Artistic Component (30%)This is your opportunity to create an artistic piece, which supports your project. The possibilities for this component are endless. Some suggestions are: a play, poetry, a hand-constructed model, a painting, or drawings. A minimum of 3 hours of work is needed to create & refine a quality piece of work. This piece should be fun to do! It should help us to see how important this topic is to you. It is NOT a visual aide such as a poster or power point presentation.
3. Share & Teach: Oral Presentation with Visual Aide (20%) Each student will present their findings to the class. Care should be given to construct a presentation that is interesting and teaches other students about your topic. INVOLVING the class in your presentation is a good way to ensure they are learning. A visual aide, such as a poster or power point presentation, is required.
Integrated Language Arts - The Grade 1 Reading and English program promotes effective oral and written communication. The program is based on the writing process with all grammar, usage, mechanics, and spelling skills introduced, practiced and reviewed in the context of writing. Writing skills are taught through writing workshops and conferences. Reinforcement is provided through pre-writing, drafting, revising, editing, and publishing activities. Daily formal and informal speaking opportunities develop oral language skills. Manuscript (printing) skills are introduced with emphasis on legibility and consistency of letter formation and spacing.
Math - First graders move from the concrete to the symbolic level of basic math concepts and operations. Key areas of study include numeration (cardinal and ordinal numbers), addition, subtraction, measurement, using non-standard units, time, money, shapes and fractions (halves and fourths). Problem-solving strategies include using sorting, patterning, graphing, and simulating daily life, such as solving problems involving play money and telling time to the half hour.
Science - In science, special emphasis is placed on the research process in all grades. This includes making decisions about the generation and testing of ideas; prediction, measurement, data collection and representation; evaluation of sources of information; collaborative investigation; interpretation and communication of findings; evaluation and verification of findings and considerations relating to the social context of research. First graders plan simple experiments to investigate scientific phenomena, and draw conclusions based on data collected. Measuring is done in standard and nonstandard units.
Social Studies - Students will learn to recognize basic map symbols and to construct a simple map of a familiar area. The students will identify selected American individuals who have worked to improve the lives of American citizens. Students will learn to apply the traits of a good citizen and recognize that communities in Virginia include people who have diverse ethnic origins, customs, and traditions, who make contributions to their communities, and who are united as Americans by common principles. They will learn about citizenship and democratic heritage.
Spanish- Exploratory Spanish for first grade students is designed to explore the language and culture of Spain and American Latin countries. Students learn Spanish vocabulary in various units through a traditional classroom setting. Students become aware of the Spanish culture through exploring Spanish customs and Spanish celebrations and by participating in classroom games and activities.
Art- First graders will be introduced to the elements of art with a concentration on line, color, shape, form and value. Students will further develop these skills by using their imagination, creativity, studies of artists and different artistic styles for inspiration.
Compute- Students use up-to-date technology in all aspects of the academic program at all grade levels. Computers are used to reinforce and enrich skills in math, geography, science and language arts. Problem solving and logical thought skills are reinforced through the use of appropriate software. Word processing, graphic and desktop publishing programs are used to design and publish documents.
Library- At Ryan Academy all students visit the library weekly for selection of books for course work and independent reading. They learn library organization, proper care of books, and age-appropriate library skills.
Physical Education- The students will demonstrate an understanding of movement that fosters cooperation and sportsmanship. The students will be encouraged to give their best effort at all times.
Independent Project- At Ryan Academy all students all students grade 1 and up follow the steps to complete a research paper. They formulate an outline; find materials both print and electronic, complete note cards, a rough draft and a final copy. For the Independent Project, you should choose something you have not researched before. The project contains three parts.
1. Written Report (50%)The written report will include: a Title page, an Introduction, Answers to the Project Questions, a Conclusion, and a Reference Page.
2. Creative/Artistic Component (30%)This is your opportunity to create an artistic piece, which supports your project. The possibilities for this component are endless. Some suggestions are: a play, poetry, a hand-constructed model, a painting, or drawings. A minimum of 3 hours of work is needed to create & refine a quality piece of work. This piece should be fun to do! It should help us to see how important this topic is to you. It is NOT a visual aide such as a poster or power point presentation.
3. Share & Teach: Oral Presentation with Visual Aide (20%) Each student will present their findings to the class. Care should be given to construct a presentation that is interesting and teaches other students about your topic. INVOLVING the class in your presentation is a good way to ensure they are learning. A visual aide, such as a poster or power point presentation, is required.