First grade at Columbian is an exciting place to be. We are a phonics based classroom and our readers and writers develop great skills in word recognition, reading fluency, comprehension, writing and spelling. We use a multisensory approach to learning because not every child learns in the same way. We use Everyday Math and build strong math skills, including counting, number recognition, addition and subtraction, and comprehension and analytical math.
 
For writing, we follow the Denver Literacy plan and strive to meet the individual needs of each student.Vocabulary development is also a primary goal, including words above first grade level.  We also concentrate on penmanship (letter formation).  We make our own books throughout the year, including fiction (narratives), nonfiction, and poetry. Science is currently about the weather and we will have a classroom science project in January, for the Science Fair. In first grade we sing all the time, with accompaniment from the piano and guitar and occasionally sing for school assemblies. We incorporate music in literacy and math. We learn poems and do readers' theatre; such as story retells with puppets or acting out stories. In first grade we also have P.E., Art, Library, Technology, Music on a rotating schedule.
 
Homework is an expectation in first grade. Homework is given out on Mondays and due back on Fridays.We have literacy block and music in the mornings. Math, Science, and Specials are in the afternoon. We are busy all day but we have great joy in learning. Please come join us!