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Lower School (K - 5th)
Language Arts
Kindergarten
In kindergarten language arts is designed to prepare students to read. Students learn that speech can be written down, that there are special vocabulary and sentence structures for writing and that there are different types of literature. Kindergarteners are exposed to a print-rich environment and are encouraged to comprehend the meaning of stories.
First Grade
Reading instruction in first grade is supported by activities in listening, speaking and writing so that students can develop competence in all the language arts. Students also learn basic grammar such as the major parts of speech and basic punctuation and capitalization rules. Spelling is introduced, as well, at this grade level. Students practice some form of writing daily and develop creative expression through poetry, plays and role-playing.
Second Grade
The language arts program for grade two is divided into five major areas:
Strategies, Comprehension, Language, Study of Literature, Word Skills
Each unit is presented in a cluster form revolving around a particular theme. A multisensory approach to language arts is used. Novels and shorter reading selections are essential to this program.
Third Grade
Students concentrate on strategies that develop reading skills such as word recognition and comprehension, language and usage skills, literature study and word skills.
Through the use of thematic units students continue to develop reading and writing skills. The formal study of research skills begins in this grade.
Fourth Grade
More complex grammar and punctuation and spelling rules are now introduced as students write longer compositions on a broad variety of topics. A rich sampling of literature is introduced as part of the reading and writing program.
Jewish Studies
Kindergarten
Students learn about Jewish Holidays and traditions through joyful experiences. All holidays are taught each year in a sequential approach and by hands-on activities. Bible study also includes activity oriented units incorporating, drama, music, arts and crafts.
First Grade
Students begin their Torah study with the study of the first Parashat Beraishit. They study each unit utilizing varied approaches which incorporate all their senses. They also review the weekly sedrah (Torah Portion).
They also continue their study of prayers and blessings by practicing their use in real situations and in daily prayer. Holidays are studied and celebrated in their season.
Second Grade
Students continue their Torah study with parshiyot Noach, Lech L’chah and Vayerah. Drama, art and music are incorporated into these lessons. The daily class services grow as students add the Amidah and blessings before and after the Shmah. Holidays are observed in class in preparation for the students’ observance at home. Conversational Hebrew
Beginning in first grade, students are immersed in a Hebrew language program learning to speak Hebrew through a myriad of activities. Students learn to listen, think and speak in Hebrew using their environment and personal experiences as their textbook.
Third and Fourth Grade
The study of Torah continues as students learn the remaining sections of the Book of Genesis in its original Hebrew. Grade four begins the study of Prophets in its original with its first book, Yehoshu’a (Joshua). Halacha is often learned through actual practice. Grades 2-4 follow the Yeshiva University Torah Department Halacha Curriculum. Hebrew conversation is studied through varied interactive units based on the Tal Sela series. Students are placed in different level classes based on their Hebrew facility. Traditional morning services are conducted daily led by students.
Math & Science
Kindergarten
Mathematics in kindergarten is very hands-on. Students study the following eleven mathematical strands: Numeration, counting, measurement, time, money, graphing, operations, calculators, problem solving and functions, relations, attributes and patterns.
Science is fully integrated with the curriculum. By exploring the world, students develop the concepts of time, space, measurement and also increase their knowledge of plants and animals
First Grade
First graders become actively involved with manipulative materials for the purpose of seeing math in “real-world” situations.Major goals include building a strong foundation in basic facts and skills which are used for problem solving.
In science, experiments and other hands-on activities help to develop organizational skills and the power of observation.
Second Grade
Real-life situations requiring critical thinking and problem-solving skills are part of every class. Each student is provided with a math “tool kit” consisting of counting materials, dice, playing cards, measuring tape, and calculator. Second graders begin more formal study of science with units in life, earth and physical science as well as in the study of the human body.
Third Grade
Manipulative materials give real meaning to mathematical concepts. Critical thinking and problem solving are taught using real-life situations. Basic skills are honed with particular emphasis on multiplication facts.
Fourth Grade
Students continue developing critical thinking and problem solving skills as they study more complex math concepts. Fractions and decimals are introduced, as are algebraic and geometric concepts.
Fifth Grade
Units in logic add to the more in-depth study of geometry and algebra. The study of fractions and decimals are refined as students move on to higher math concepts.ScienceThe study of life, physical and earth sciences continue with units ranging from the study of the environment, to space and astronomy and the human body.Field trips are an integral part of our science curriculum.
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