Judaic Curriculum
The Judaic Studies program at The Hebrew Academy is designed to foster excitement, love and security in a child’s identity as a Jew. It provides the required skills, understanding and knowledge of how and why to live as a productive Jewish citizen in our society.
In order to reach these objectives, the curriculum is tailored and individualized for The Hebrew Academy students. Our detailed and comprehensive program is revised and updated each year to meet current needs, the advancement and growth of individual classes and the unique strengths of its teachers.
The following represents a summary of Judaic Studies for Grade One.
Secular Curriculum
At The Hebrew Academy we think first grade is a very important year! First, it is a primary year, the foundation for each child’s school career. We want to develop good work and study habits and to encourage a positive attitude toward school and learning in each of our children. We have high expectations in work and behavior and stress good character traits, respect for others, and responsibility. Our strongest emphasis is on reading, writing, and math. In writing we begin moving from “inventive" spelling to conventional spelling during the year. In math we move from concrete to abstract, with emphasis on problem solving and reasoning skills.
First grade is an exciting, joyful and challenging year as children make the transition to the larger world of formal learning. Although still in a nurturing, protective environment, first graders are expected to become more independent and responsible in managing their social lives and their work.
Taking turns, listening and speaking in a group setting, as well as hearing and following multi-step instructions are goals for Grade One. Wherever possible we employ a theme approach, integrating math, reading, social studies, and other subjects so that our students learn to recognize interrelationships.
Seeing the point of view of another is a major first grade step, while playing cooperatively becomes crucial in learning how to work as a team. Boys and girls interact comfortably with each other at this age. In general, first graders are interested and enthusiastic. They are busy acquiring basic skills in all areas; firmly laid foundations at this age can greatly influence their future success.
Social Studies:
First grade work in social studies focuses on children and the community around them. A lot of their work centers on interdisciplinary themes such as oceans, rain forests, dinosaurs, and creepy crawlies.
First graders begin to develop map skills. They study their immediate neighborhood and their environment in general. Through books, class discussions, field trips, creative writing and stories, they explore the concepts of cooperation and communication. Social studies and reading are well integrated through the use of major themes, and we incorporate current events into their experience of their world.