In first grade we use a variety of different approaches to teach reading.  Our instruction is based on the three-book approach where each child has access to a leveled reader for personal reading, books at their instructional level, and a class book for listening enjoyment.  A combination of phonics and whole language activities are used to build on students’ vocabulary and fluency rate.  We work in large groups as well as small groups in order to meet the needs of all students.  The children are also engaged in active learning workstations.

Throughout the year, we use the Writer’s Workshop approach to teach writing at a differentiated pace.  Writer’s Workshop incorporates grammar, editing skills, handwriting, and the writing process into each day’s lesson.  First Grade is using the Handwriting Without Tears program to build on the handwriting instruction that students received in kindergarten.  Students are taught correct posture, pencil grip, and letter and number formation.  We begin the writing process by forming complete sentences using correct punctuation and capital letters.  The children are excited to use their writing skills in many types of literature based writing project.