Elementary 1-2
Mrs. Mahoney and her first grade class
Our Grades 1 and 2 teachers are: Ela Alexander, Sari Greenberg, Sabrina Mahoney, Kristal Miles, Robin York and Karen Wagshul.
Mathematics
In grades 1 and 2, Wornick establishes the foundation of mathematics through our Singapore Math
curriculum. Unlike horizontal math curriculae such as Everyday Math, which build incrementally each year upon the same concepts, Singapore Math is oriented around in-depth study and mastery of concepts through use of manipulatives and visual learning with clear progression from concrete to abstract. The results is the world's top ranked math program. First and second graders will develop number fluency and basic arithmetic skills.
Science
The Wornick grade 1 and 2 science programs leverage our commitment to differentiation in the classroom as we teach science experientially. Our first and second graders study through physical experience and observation. They learn through living the scientific method and making hypothesis that they can test and observe as they study nature (plants, insects, animals), the human body (nutrition, motion and hygiene), earth science and astronomy.
Language Arts
Grades 1 and 2 are the pivotal years for learning to read and developing reading fluency. It is also the time to instill a love of reading and creative writing in our children. Our master teachers use a variety of techniques to teach reading in order to build confidence and success in every child - including phonics, whole language and small reading groups. Language Arts at Wornick includes class and school presentations and speaking as our 1st and 2nd graders learn to present to their classmates and the school.
Social Studies
First and second graders at Wornick study the world around them in Social Studies. They learn map-reading skills and the functions of cities and towns. They engage in building a community within their class, school and community - including selecting and fulfilling class tzedakah (service) projects.
Hebrew Language
In first and second grade, we continue our Hebrew immersion and use the Tal Am curriculum. By the end of first grade, students name and identify the letters and vowels of the Hebrew alphabet. They recognize and write them in print and script. They decode simple words, and strategize sounding out multi-syllabic words. The students recognize a variety of sight words that aid in reading and comprehending stories. They formulate simple sentences and short paragraphs about directed topics. Students can ask original questions and can answer with simple responses. Singing, drama, artwork and play activities enrich the curriculum.
In second grade, students expand their vocabulary and can write simple sentences. They learn masculine and feminine forms. They practice reading aloud to each other and to the class. A special part of our programs included children calling each other in the evening and conversing in Hebrew. In second grade, they write little stories about themselves and by the end of the year, they publish a short book of their stories. Games, songs, artwork and other activities are used to increase oral and reading skills.
Judaic Studies
First and second graders are studying prayers and holidays, Bible stories and Israel. First and second graders complete the year with the spiraling knowledge of core Hebrew prayers and their meanings. They learn the basic familiarity of the layout of the siddur (prayerbook) and have the ability to recite increasing number of prayers while following in the Hebrew text.
Children study the Parshat hashavuah (weekly Bible portion), cycles of holidays and their customs, laws and histories through artwork, songs and drama and relating the holiday and Bible stories to their own lives. Students celebrate Shabbat each Friday through song, stories and traditional prayers.
There is a special connection between the students of Wornick and the students of our sister school, The Reali School in Haifa. Students exchange letters, photographs and artwork with their Israel peers. Teachers share curricular units, such as reading the same book and sharing the children’s views about the books or units. Social Studies units have common points, such as geography units.
Technology
- Keyboarding and Mouse skills
- Computer-generated Art
- Basic Computing Functions
Arts
- Music, Songs and Rhythm
- Arts and Crafts
Service Learning and Leadership
- Year-long Class Service Project
- Hands-on Community Service (Coats, food, supplies collections)
- Leadership beginning with self-responsibility
Physical Education
- SPARK curriculum - Spark PE is a unique program designed to help teachers lead activities that are inclusive, highly active, and fun for all students. Instructional units are designed to develop students' motor, cognitive and social skills, and promote lifelong wellness. Students will have more opportunities to participate across levels of moderate to vigorous physical activity.
- Use of the PJCC's Byer Athletic Facility including indoor and outdoor pools
- Nutrition, Healthy lifestyle, Safety and Sportsmanship
