Course Description

In first grade, both science and social studies content will be covered at co-op each week.  Age appropriate math facts and sight words will also be practiced weekly. The children will rotate through learning stations in small groups to maximize learning time.

Social Studies component: In first grade, we will focus on learning about U.S. History using Our Star-Spangled Story Part 1. This book has 45 lessons beginning with life in America before Europeans came and continuing through the late 1800s. Students will learn about history from a Christian worldview through hands-on activities, songs, and dances. Notgrass curriculum company recommends eight works of literature to read along with the lessons in Our Star-Spangled Story.  The UHC teacher does not have time to read these books aloud in class but we highly recommend that families read through them at home with their students.  Each book gives your child a richer perspective on a certain time period. The student has 3-5 weeks to read each book.

The following literature books are recommended for Part 1, which is covered in 1st grade at UHC:

• • Benjamin West and His Cat Grimalkin by Marguerite Henry (Units 1-4)
  • Toliver’s Secret by Esther Wood Brady (Units 5-9)
  • Freedom Crossing by Margaret Goff Clark (Units 10-12)
  • Farmer Boy by Laura Ingalls Wilder (Units 13-15)

Science component: In first grade, we will also complete Life Science unit studies about the human body, animals, insects, and plants based on the Magic School Bus series, enabling great flexibility as we explore a wide variety of science while integrating other subject areas. Students will participate in various hands-on activities and projects to further reinforce scientific methods of discovery.

Students also enjoy Music and Art class once weekly as part of their class day.

• Music Class: Students will attend music class once a week. The students will enjoy experiencing music in a variety of ways. We explore music through a repertoire rich in folk songs, nursery rhymes, and traditional singing games. We learn about music through imitation, movement, listening, visualization, improvisation, finger play, and rhythm instruments. Seasonal music activities are incorporated throughout the year.
• Art Class: Students will attend art class once a week.  K4-2nd grade students’ study of art will encourage them to better see and appreciate God’s own artistic brilliance in His lavish creation.  Quality children’s literature will be used to teach various art elements such as shape, line, texture, color, value, form and space.  Students will put their learning in action by completing an art project each class day using a variety of media and hands-on learning.