Kindergarten Curriculum

Language Arts

The language arts program at the kindergarten level provides a rich variety of language experiences. Multiple activities incorporate opportunities for listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Wide exposure to print and to developing concepts about it is emphasized. A literacy-rich environment featuring big books, storytelling, songs, chants and poems is created for children to engage independently, in small groups, and in whole class activities in reading and writing.

Developmental differences in children require a program that meets the needs of beginning readers as well as fluent readers. We believe children learn best when learning is meaningful, interesting and functional.

A writing workshop occurs each day. Mini-lessons focus on the concepts of print. The WIS students will grow as communicators, using ideas with confidence.

Mathematics

The goal of the kindergarten mathematics program is to help students develop an understanding of and gain insight into mathematical concepts through the use of concrete materials. Math manipulatives facilitate inventing, creating, communicating, negotiating, sorting, counting and community building. After initial exploration of materials, the manipulatives are gradually used for more structured tasks.

Thematic units of study allow children to have many opportunities to connect mathematics with real-life problems in the areas of science, social studies, and health. The children handle data, measure, work with space and shape, find patterns, describe functions, and model number relationships during theme activities. Calendar mathematics activities may include skip counting, looking for patterns, keeping a tally, beginning place value activities, and group problem solving.

A daily math workshop is a time when specific topics and ideas are explored. Mini lessons are led by the teacher.

Science and Social Studies

Experience-based science and social studies activities are provided through thematic units of study for kindergarten students. Hands-on experiences develop the children's powers of informal observation, discrimination, and description. New concepts develop through class discussion, field trips, live animals, videos, books, and experiments.

Through thematic units the students develop beginning research skills, which incorporate language arts, math, music, art, and other areas of the curriculum. Moreover, students move toward a deeper understanding of themselves and their place in the world. Choice is a main component of our program as students are encouraged to become active learners and eagerly share what they have learned with their peers and families.

Mandarin or Spanish

Simple stories, songs, rhymes, and plays are the core of the Mandarin/Spanish program with emphasis placed on the communicative skills of listening and speaking. A great deal of repetition of conversational expressions and thematic vocabulary is used in an enjoyable way to allow for student success. Songs, games, and stories from the target culture establish the cultural connections of the program and provide a basis for developing global citizenship.

Art

Studying artists and cultural arts are two ways that students learn about art. By learning about various artists, using their techniques, and having class critiques, students learn how to problem solve, communicate their ideas and feelings, and respect the work of others. Art lessons are often integrated with classroom instruction and reflect the interests of the children.

When children study the art of various cultures, they begin to gain insight into the beliefs and origins of their own culture.

Music

Music in kindergarten is designed for students to “learn through play.” Singing is a vital part of the program, and instrumental activities use speech, body percussion, and elementary pitched and unpitched instruments. Strong ties to literacy and concepts in rhythm are an emphasis. An emphasis on learning how to be an active listener, one who is able to describe what they hear, is an important part of the music experience in kindergarten. The development of a lifelong love and appreciation for music is one of the major goals.

Physical Education

Movement education is the primary focus at the primary level (Preschool-2) which includes activities to develop locomotor, non-locomotor, perceptual-motor, rhythmic, manipulative, fitness and body management skills. Many different kinds of developmental games and activities are planned to provide students with opportunities to work together to improve social and cooperative interaction skills. Students are introduced to basic health-related fitness concepts.

Technology

The goal of technology instruction is to enable students and teachers to effectively use the computer and other technology tools to enhance, support and extend students’ learning across the curriculum. Through whole and small group as well as individual instruction, the children develop a vocabulary of basic terminology, learn proper use and care of computers and other tools with increasing independence, and use developmentally appropriate software. This allows them to work on developmentally appropriate multi-media projects, gather information, and explore programs that reinforce skills being learned in the classroom.

Library/Research Skills