
Grade 1
$1,545
Curriculum
Schola Grade 1 provides the foundation for the eventual mastery of reading, writing, and math. Students will develop skills of listening, observation, and narration in a gentle atmosphere that “tills the soil” of young minds and hearts. They will explore great music and art while developing their own skills in these areas. They will also be introduced to key events and people in world history, learn basic geography concepts, and take a big picture look at the Old and New Testaments.
Description
- Language: Language instruction at the primary level trains the student to be attuned to the sound and structure of well-crafted language. Schola Primary classes use time-tested methods that build skills and habits of attention and excellence:
- Reading Comprehension: Rich reading selections feature folk tales, poems, and simple, wholesome stories with a focus on phonics, word usage, and simple story elements.
- Narration: Developing the skill of narration fosters skills in listening, thinking, and speaking as well as attention to detail and organization.
- Writing: Copy work fosters fine motor skills, handwriting, facility with language and grammar, and attention to detail. Short dictation exercises foster listening skills as well. Daily spelling practice gives students writing confidence.
- Memorization: Developing the skill of memorization trains the mind to focus attentively, thereby paying dividends in every area of learning. Poetry and scripture provide rich content as well as sophisticated vocabulary and structure that become part of the student's language skills.
- Math: Consistent practice of math facts (addition and subtraction) on campus and home days builds speed and accuracy, providing an indispensable foundation for further progress in mathematics.
- Nature Investigations: The classroom teacher will introduce topics such as seasons, seeds, wildflowers, weeds, trees, mammals, insects, songbirds, and the celestial bodies. Students learn to observe patterns carefully in order to appreciate the simple beauty of nature and recognize God as the creator. Students will keep a nature journal with their observations.
- History and Geography: The campus teacher will begin laying the groundwork for studies in history and geography as students explore timelines, directions, maps, and more. The campus teacher will also provide suggestions for further optional exploration of the weekly topic.
- Bible: On campus days, students will take a big picture walk through the Old and New Testaments. Recognizing that the Word of God is the ultimate foundation of all truth and knowledge, students will memorize portions of scripture beginning on campus days with practice at home.
- Music: On campus days, students will listen to and discuss great music, exploring such concepts as tempo and dynamics. They will develop their own musical skills through singing, clapping, and movement.
- Art: On campus days, students will have the opportunity to feast upon age-appropriate, beautiful artwork while exploring line, color, and perspective. They will also develop their own drawing and other artistic skills with hands-on projects.
Collaboration
- The role of K-3 parents is Co-Teacher. Responsibilities include:
- Using the lesson plans provided by the Campus Teacher to teach assigned lessons in core classes.
- Using the lesson plans provided by the Campus Teacher to guide students in completing at-home assignments.
- Providing direct instruction in math using the recommended program or a program of your choice.
- Monitoring student’s academic progress including the timely completion and submission of all assignments.
- Helping student develop habits of completion and excellence.
- Communicating with Campus-Teacher regarding absences.
Prerequisites
- Students must be six years of age by September 1st.
- Students should be able to:
- Read at a 1st-grade level or above
- Demonstrate basic handwriting skills
- Sit at a table in a classroom environment
- Follow instructions
Texts & Materials
Texts
- The Elson Readers Book 1
- Writing With Ease Level 1, Workbook, Well Trained Mind Press
- Spell to Write and Read:
- W.I.S.E. Guide for Spelling (Note: a new edition of the guide was released in 2024 with minor changes; parents are welcome to purchase either the updated version or the older version)
- ISBN 9781880045213
- One per family
- ISBN 9781880045015
- One per family
- One per student
- Christian Light Mathematics: (or math program of your choice)
- 106-110 LightUnits (Last five units of Grade 1)
- Our Father's World by David Arwine & Michael McHugh
- 2nd Edition
- Nature Reader: Book 1, Christian Liberty Press
Materials
- One package of lined index cards