First Grade ... where childhood is a journey not a race.
TEACHERS
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Head Teacher: Craig S. O'Connell
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| Assistant Head Teacher: Jocelyn Freeman |
Reading
Teaching our children to read is a core component of what we do at St. Thomas's. We believe in a teacher directed reading program using sequentially designed materials that include phonemic awareness, phonics and comprehension. We read a great deal of books aloud to children and children read to one another. Independent reading and writing are encouraged and a love of literature is instilled.
Math
First graders explore spatial relations ... here a group is exploring spatial relations using pattern blocks as a cooperative learning activity. Our math program is based upon the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics Standards and incorporates the use of many hands-on manipulatives while engaging children in thought provoking concrete activities.
Science
First graders are actively engaged in creating simple machines using Duplo blocks. Pulleys, levers, gears and other mechanical devices are explored. There is a close integration of science and math.
Jazz, arts, poetry and writing are integrated into the teaching of everyday skills. find out more information about our nationally award winning jazz curriculum by clicking here .
Writing Partners
First graders meet regularly with their fifth grade buddies who, in their role as weekly writing partners, also serve as friends, role models and mentors for our younger children.
This is some creative art by one of our first graders using a computer math program.
Some of Our Field Trips
Our trip to the New Haven Public Library in downtown New Haven
Our trip to the Hamden Firehouse. Children learn all about fire safety from our firefighter friends. The trips are also a lot of fun!
First Grade takes over a dozen field trips each year. This photo shows a child concentrating on building her own wooden train at the Eli Whitney Museum, just walking distance from our school.
Brrrr ... It's cold. But that doesn't stop us from taking a trip to this Christmas Tree Farm in Shelton. And what better way to enjoy it than with hot chocolate and a hayride!
To learn more about First Grade at St Thomas's Day School CLICK HERE.
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- Last Updated: 09-26-2011