Kindergarten General Studies


    "I like kindergarten because we learn a lot. We learn about the Torah, math and other fun stuff!"
Language Arts
The kindergarten's language arts program is based on the Houghton-Mifflin Reading series, which uses quality literature to teach all the skills needed to be a successful reader and writer. The emergent literacy skills that develop in kindergarten are taught in a manner that creates a positive, enjoyable outlook towards reading and writing. Phonics skills are taught in conjunction with a print rich environment and an abundance of shared reading experiences. In addition to reading books, we also write and illustrate our own! Kindergarteners are proud to be able to create their own class books. These books are then circulated to all the families of the students. Kindergarten students are known to exclaim, "Yea, I got a class book!" This is just one of the many ways we are guiding our children to the love of reading. Our year-end goal is that all students will be reading or have all the skills needed to take that glorious step into literacy.

Math
The math curriculum is based on a program called Everyday Mathematics. This program emphasizes conceptual understanding while at the same time builds a mastery of basic skills. All major mathematical strands (numeration, geometry, operations, etc...) are introduced in kindergarten. This allows children to achieve higher-level thinking as they revisit key concepts numerous times. In kindergarten, math is not confined to just a specific part of the day. It is applied throughout, from counting at snack time, to experimenting weight and volume at center time. There is a set time to introduce new topics but newly learned skills are put to use throughout the day.

Science and Social Studies
Kindergarten is filled with a wide variety of activities. Curricula subjects are interwoven so that a science and language arts lessons can be tied into one activity. Students are given time to explore the world around them, with many different opportunities to experiment. The life-cycles unit is a favorite among the kindergarteners, as they watch the hatching of both butterflies and chicks. Socialization is another primary focus for our students. We strive to create a community of learners, with a respectful and caring attitude towards one another. Not only are we guiding our students toward a bright academic future, we are opening doors for them to be better people!