Course Description and Objectives

Mathematics:

Students entering first grade are developing strategies that will enable them to comprehend grade-level texts of appropriate complexity and communicate effectively both in writing and in speaking. First grade (1st grade) mathematics content regularly incorporates the 8 Mathematical Practices, the Statistical Reasoning Framework, and the Mathematical Modeling Framework through four big ideas: (1) Numerical Reasoning, (2) Measurement and Data (Statistical) Reasoning, (3) Patterning and Algebraic Reasoning, and (4) Geometric and Spatial Reasoning. Students in first grade will extend the count sequence, develop place value understanding, use part-whole strategies to add and subtract, create and describe patterns to develop algebraic reasoning, reason with measurement of time and objects, reason with shapes and their attributes, and answer real-life questions using data and statistical reasoning.

Language Arts:

Students will learn more advanced phonics skills and build a bank of sight words. They read, listen to, and discuss more complex stories, make connections between what they read and hear and their experiences. They monitor and self-correct their reading, retell stories identifying key details, and describe characters and settings. First graders will understand text features such as glossaries and will be able to identify the main topic. Students’ analytical skills will extend to identifying the central message/lesson/theme, understanding character and plot development, and evaluating the impact of word choice. 

Science:

The First Grade Georgia Standards of Excellence for science engage students in raising questions about the world around them and seeking answers by making observations. First graders use whole numbers to analyze scientific data. They identify how magnets pull on all things made of iron and either attract or repel other magnets. First graders create drawings that correctly depict something being described. The students are asked to plan and carry out simple investigations to understand patterns (shadows, sound, weather, and daily needs of plants and animals) observed in the world around them and make predictions based on these investigations.

Social Studies:

In the first grade, students continue their introduction to United States history through the study of selected historical figures. In the history strand, students study the important contributions each historical person made. In the geography strand, students learn about where these historical people lived and explore important basic geographic concepts. The civics strand provides a study of the positive character traits exhibited by these important historical figures. The economics strand continues the introduction of basic economic concepts. 

Course Assessment Plan

Students will receive a variety of assignments designed to enhance their learning. If a student is absent, the student is responsible for the missed assignment. Students who have an excused absence will be allowed five days to turn in the missed assignment. No work will be accepted after five days.

Evaluation  (Schoolwide Grading Policy)

All Subjects are graded on a 1-4 Rubric Scale: 

ND- Not Demonstrated

NA- Not available

1-Developing

2-Approaching

3- Mastered

4- Exceeds

Classroom Procedures & Expectations

The overarching expectation in this class is RESPECT: respect for yourself, respect for other students, respect for the teacher/or any individual in authority, and respect for any guests that may enter our class. Although this encompasses all other expectations, I will outline several others for the sake of clarity.

1. Always Try YOUR BEST!!!  I will not settle for anything but your best!! 
2. Have the “I can do it” attitude!  Stick To It and Don’t Give Up!
3. Remain SEATED and PREPARED at all times. 
4. Bring ALL materials to class DAILY.
5. Every student is responsible for helping to maintain a clean, safe learning environment.  Your area must remain CLEAN at all times.  The floor should be clear of trash, paper, and personal belongings. 
6. Adhere to all policies, rules, and regulations outlined in the student handbook, and W.S. Hornsby  Norms.
7. Listen to the teacher at all times

My contact information:

Email: varneel@boe.richmond.k12.ga.us

706-823-6928 

Resources:

GaDOE Inspire

GA Inspire Math

Ready Math

SAVVAS MyView Literacy

Georgia Studies Weekly (Social Studies)

Georgia Science (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt)