Reading and Writing (Language Arts)
The kindergarten language arts curriculum is built on standards directed toward fostering students’ understanding and working knowledge of foundational reading and writing skills. Kindergartners will learn beginning reading skills relating to letter identification and the alphabetic principle, phonological awareness, phonics and word recognition, concepts of print, reading for meaning, exploring a variety of types of texts, and reading comprehension strategies. Kindergartners will also participate in daily writer’s workshops which will encourage students to write for pleasure, while also teaching students correct letter formation and basic conventions of the English writing system. Instruction in the kindergarten classroom will be differentiated and will strive to build upon each individual student’s strengths, learning styles and skill levels to ensure optimal student growth.
Mathematics
In Kindergarten a consciousness of numbers, number concepts, and number terms is built. An understanding of patterns, addition and subtraction, basic geometry and measurements is developed throughout the year. In addition, math skills are enhanced by a variety of hands-on experiences.
Science & Social Studies
Five and six year olds are very inquisitive. They like to look, smell, touch, and listen. Activities in kindergarten stimulate these senses. They find out what things are, why they are here, and how they operate. Students are taught about our world and the people in it in a manner which is appropriate for kindergartners. We strive to bring these subjects to life with use of engaging character teachers, such as “Dr. Science” who comes in full “mad scientist” costume to teach kids about science concepts through fun, hands-on experiments.
Technology & Computer Education
St. Peter’s has a lab with thirty computers as well as computers in every classroom. Kindergarten uses iPads and iPods daily. We use them during morning literacy centers and also in Math Stations daily. Through classroom work and free time integral computer skills, programs and concepts are taught at all levels.
Social Skills
Proper school behavior, listening skills, following directions, and sharing are practiced daily along with other appropriate social skills essential for success in school and in life. Through play and practice your child learns to share responsibility, gain patience, and discover empathy.
Physical Education
Kindergartners need large muscle activity. They learn to control body movement through running, climbing, jumping, and skipping. Physical education is taught twice per week. We believe physical development is essential to learning.