What to Expect in First Grade
“Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.” Mark 10:14
Classroom Curriculum
BIBLE: Teachers introduce students to the pattern of creation, fall, redemption, and restoration within the Bible and our world. They study Bible stories rich in characters and events that show God’s glory and goodness. Students also learn Red Star Scripture passages and recite them from memory.
HISTORY: Teachers introduce students to Texas symbols, Spanish and French explorers, Spanish missions, and Texas Independence. Our studies culminate with a Texas Independence Day performance and celebration in the spring.
READING: Students learn to read through daily phonics lessons and practice reading using leveled books. Teachers incorporate reading aloud and shared reading to model and teach excellent reading and comprehension skills. They also integrate classic literature during small and large group instruction and introduce students to many genres, including fiction, fairy tales, myths, non-fiction, and poetry.
LANGUAGE/WRITING: Students continue to practice handwriting and spelling. They are introduced to grammar concepts, beginning sentence structure, and the writing process.
SCIENCE: Students participate in hands-on experiments to study the properties of water, the water cycle, plants, animals, and sound.
MATH: Students use models to manipulate numbers up to 100; compare and order items; use the order, grouping, and zero properties to develop addition and subtraction fact strategies; add and subtract up to two-digit numbers with and without regrouping, and use mental math strategies to add and subtract. They learn to tell time, use a calendar, add equal groups to introduce multiplication, explore plane and solid shapes, and collect and organize data using tally charts, pictures, and bar graphs.
Enrichment
PERFORMING ARTS: Students are provided the opportunity to explore and showcase their God-given gifts and talents in the areas of music performance, movement, drama, and worship. They are taught fundamental concepts of reading music, music theory, and acting and speaking skills to help them cultivate an appreciation for the arts.
SPANISH: Students learn practical and developmentally appropriate Spanish. They listen to books and Bible stories in Spanish, memorize Bible verses, and study Spanish-speaking countries and their cultures.
ART: Students study various artists, different cultures, as well as the elements of art and principles of design while exploring different types of media and techniques to create their artwork. They focus on the Native American civilization, plants, and animals.
STEM: Students integrate Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics through engaging, hands-on projects with a biblical worldview. They learn to be creative problem solvers by exploring the Engineering Design Process. Cooperative and purposeful teamwork helps students listen, improve, and succeed.
TECHNOLOGY: Students learn to be safe digital natives in our technology enrichment classes, and they learn grade-level appropriate computer and keyboarding skills. As they progress through lower school, students learn various aspects of Google Software for Education that help prepare them for middle school and beyond.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION: Students have P.E. each week. They learn the basics of a myriad of sports and engage in activities that promote character and good sportsmanship.
LIBRARY: Students visit the library media center weekly. They are provided lessons to enrich their reading skills and promote a desire for life-long reading and are given time to browse and check out books for independent reading.
CHAPEL: Our vision is to transform new generations of students who use their minds, hearts, hands, and feet to be culture makers for Jesus Christ. We focus on developing winsome Christian character and strong biblical knowledge.
RECESS: Students have recess daily.
Special Events
Special events include Speech Meet, Camp Watermelon, Thankful for Dads, Mother’s Day celebration, and singing at Hill Country’s annual fine arts event – An Evening of Truth, Beauty, and Goodness. Students also participate in service projects such as a visit to a nursing home and Operation Christmas Child.
Our field studies enrich the curriculum and may include visiting the Austin Nature and Science Center and the State Capitol.