Math: First grade math is all about hands on exploration and investigation. Young learners gain knowledge through experiencing the world using all modalities. This approach builds a strong foundation of number sense and vocabulary as well as fostering curiosity and confidence.

Reading: One of the most important parts of first grade is learning how to read. Here at Aiken it is our top priority. Our goal is to create readers who use strategies to decode and understand text. We want them to have strong phonemic, and comprehension skills. We also want all kids to learn that reading is a magic gate to wonder, joy, and adventure.

Music: In first grade we use music to explore all subject areas. We sing songs about everything from chunking words to the life of historical Native American cultures. Young minds bloom to new ideas as explored through music, movement and rhythm.

Natural Forces: Using a simplified scientific method of hands on exploration, the children will learn the properties of magnetic fields. They will learn to record data in many formats and learn new vocabulary to express their new knowledge.

Kenya: We will "fly" to Kenya on safari to learn  about another culture.   The children will learn about Kenyan culture, by speaking Swahili, singing African songs, reading folktales, playing games, studying history, and  geography and so much more! This will foster an appreciation for the similarities and differences of all people.

Phys Ed: In order to promote good health and well developed coordination and cooperative participation the children will engage in physical activities, such as games, sports, rhythmic movement and gymnastics. Through play they will be healthy students and show good sportsmans ship skills.

Insects: The children will raise a variety of insect life and learn to compare and contrast their life cycles, physical features and their habitats. The children will learn to care for our world by caring for microenvironments for each critter.

Writing: The children study the techniques and skills used by authors to create books. They then apply these techniques in the creation of stories of their own. They learn the joy of being author/illustrators.

Art: Through the use of hands on exploration and the study of historical examples, students will learn to appreciate, evaluate, and produce works of art. You'll be amazed at the beautiful, and talented art our first graders create under Mrs. Cogan's expert teaching.

Maps: Throughout the year students will learn to understand what maps are and how to read and use them. We create both two and three dimensional maps as parts of many of our Social Studies units.