Lower School
Learning, No Boundaries
Lower School: Grade 1
Grade 1 students meet in two classes with no more than 17 students in each class. Both sections have a certified teacher and a shared assistant.
The core curriculum at this level includes Barton reading and spelling methods, and phonics work in conjunction with the Words Their Way word study program. Flexible reading groups use the Harcourt Brace series with the Accelerated Reader program as an enrichment tool. The Step Up to Writing program continues at this level. Hands-on math readiness groups use Touch Math. The Handwriting Without Tears program and various science and social studies topics round out the academic aspects of the Grade 1 program. Students also visit the science lab once a week for hands on experience with the inquiry-based FOSS kits.
Grade 1 students visit the computer lab weekly, and have Library and Guidance once a week as well. Students continue instruction in Physical Education three times a week. Students also enjoy Music and Art classes twice each week.
First graders participate in the once a week assembly with their Lower School peers, and take several field trips throughout the year. A Grade 1 highlight is the annual field trip to the Baltimore Aquarium. First grade produces a play every year in addition to performing in the Winter Holiday and Grandparents Day programs.