Class Mission: Always work toward being "good neighbors" through mutual respect, active listening and giving appreciation. We are the Bellevue Bears!

Mrs. Gerringa, Mrs. Backus, Mrs. Slotten & Dona Jacquelyn Welcome You!

Academics for Young Learners

Reading for Kindergarten:

• Students are exposed to a balanced literacy approach, which focuses on reading, writing, speaking and listening.

• Students are exposed to effective reading strategies through read-alouds and shared reading.  Guided reading takes place in small groups depending on the student's readiness.

• Phonics and whole language are integrated as the students study the alphabet.

• The students are exposed to sight words throughout the year.

• Writing strategies are modeled through guided writing and practice in kindergarten journals.

• The program is an introduction to reach the objective that all students will recognize all letter names and sounds quickly as well as being able to  apply them to their reading and writing.

• Students are also introduced to the mechanics of writing, including letter formation, punctuation, word spacing and word families.

• The most important aspect of the language arts program is to create an environment where children develop a love of reading and writing.

Mathematics for Kindergarten:

• Kindergarteners enjoy a hands-on approach in their development of mathematical concepts.

• Students are introduced to math manipulatives they will be using throughout their elementary school years.

• Units and concepts include developing number sense, time, money, basic geometry, patterns, graphing, comparisons, sorting, classifying, critical thinking, and basic addition and subtraction.

• The calendar is taught and reviewed daily throughout the year, as well.

• Students will focus on problem solving strategies using manipulatives to master specific skills.

Science and Social Studies Themes for Kindergarten:

• These curriculums are taught through thematic units, integrating reading, writing and mathematical concepts.

• Some of the units include: Me, My Friends, and Self Esteem, The Weather, Holidays, Plants and Animals, The Five Senses, Living and Dead Through Extinction, Community Helpers and Transportation.

Motor Skills for Kindergarten Age Students:

• Many of the Kindergarten activities are focused around building the students fine motor skills as well as building on academic skills.

• Research supports that development of fine motor skills in young children is directly linked to complex brain functions such as language skills.  It is important to monitor those skills as they mature and build progress by playing games and activities that contribute directly to that area of development.

• We encourage parents to practice building these skills with clay, cushy balls, tearing paper, pushing across the floor with hands and such activities that build the muscles in the child's hands and upper body.

Social and Learning Skills for Kindergarten:

• Students learn to become good listeners and take turns talking.

• Students learn to work together cooperatively.

• Students learn to follow school rules.

• Students learn to be responsible and respectful of others

Fine Arts for Kindergarten Curriculum:

• Art Class  - Mrs. Elmore

• Technology Class - Mrs. Jones

• Physical Education Class - Mr. Grose

• Computer Education Class - Mrs. Leslie

• Music Class - Mrs. Rountree

• Library Class - Mrs. Yager

The students participate in each of these special classes 30 minutes each week.  Dual Immersion class has Computer classes in Spanish as well as English.

Snack Time:

Parents are expected to provide healthy snacks for kindergarten.  High protein snacks are highly recommended.  These high protein snacks should have 4 or more grams of protein and contain little or no sugar.  Here are a few ideas to get you started:  cheerios, protein bars, granola bars, cheese, and yogurt.  Let your creativity soar!

Websites for you and your Kindergartener:

www.whitehouse.gov/kids/whlife/index.html

www.nationalgeographic.com/kids

www.missoandfriends.com

www.handwritingprojects.com

www.hello-world.com

We look forward to working together in partnership with your kindergartener!