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Kindergarten Division[ Language | Math | Theme Studies | French | Phys. Ed. | Arts | Technology ]
Phonics We are very excited about the tremendous success of our fast paced and innovative phonics programme. This systematic phonics method has proven to be a highly effective and enjoyable introduction to letter sound associations. The early introduction of letter combinations and the blending of sounds provide our young students with the confidence and skills to apply their phonetic knowledge to their reading and writing activities quickly and successfully. Reading Our Kindergarten Reading Programme provides each child with a variety of strategies to decode the written word. Rhyming skills, context cues and the development of a useful sight vocabulary are a few of the tools that are integrated with our Phonics Programme to assist beginning readers. Emphasis on reading comprehension skills and related activities are an essential component of our Reading Programme. Writing Writing skills are encouraged and guided through the many stages of writing sevident during the Kindergarten years. Students utilize phonetic skills and their growing sight vocabulary to develop spelling strategies, as well as, resources for standard spelling. Creativity in story writing is fostered through a number of whole class and individual activities. At Glenburnie, we recognize that the best way for children to learn and retain the often complex concepts of mathematics is through integrated, dynamic and hands-on experiences. Our students are encouraged to use their imagination and creativity in order to find solutions to problems and to further develop their understanding of basic mathematical concepts. Through the integration of mathematical activities with other areas of the curriculum, children are better able to understand that mathematics is a fundamental part of the world around them, and not simply an abstract subject matter. Theme related units of study are an ongoing component of the Kindergarten year. Mini-units are designed to integrate with all areas of the curriculum, including Science, Technology (Information and Design), History, Geography and Economics. These integrated activities give children a variety of opportunities to develop many important skills, such as inventing, relating, communicating, researching, experimenting, estimating, comparing, and synthesizing to name just a few. Through an active learning environment involving French songs and movement, games and role-playing, Kindergarten students develop strong verbal skills based upon the monthly themes of the Kindergarten programme. Key French phrases are introduced, including greetings, the expression of feelings, and seasonally related vocabulary. This enriched programme also introduces our Senior Kindergarten students to reading and writing in French. Our Kindergarten Physical Education programme provides young students with the encouragement and opportunity to develop and maintain a high level of fitness as well as improve their gross motor / movement, thinking and ball-handling skills. Cooperation and communication skills are extended through the use of large and small group activities. Music The Kindergarten Music programme is based upon the philosophy of composer Carl Orff. This philosophy takes an holistic approach to music. By integrating speech, song, movement, instrumental play and improvisation, students are encouraged to develop a greater understanding of beat, rhythm, melody and harmony. Ultimately, each student will use these skills in his or her own creative way, building confidence, self esteem and paving the way to independent musicianship. Visual Arts The objective of the Visual Arts programme is to offer students the opportunity to problem solve, think critically, work creatively and to take risks. Skills are developed sequentially using a variety of tools, materials and techniques. Kindergarten students are introduced to concept development in activities such as: painting, drawing, design, clay, textiles, collage and murals, mixed media, sculpture masks and puppets and printmaking. Drama Drama, as an integrated component of the Language Arts Programme, gives students the opportunity to acquire new language, use body movement to assimilate new ideas from previous experiences, and develop and extend imagination and empathy. In consultation with our Drama Specialist, our Kindergarten teachers incorporate Drama as a vehicle in the development of confident oral language skills and the application of cooperative problem solving skills. Computer / Multimedia Technology Glenburnie School has implemented technology as an additional tool - an adjunct to our curriculum. Technology applications enhance learning opportunities, including teacher presentations. Our full-time Computer Facilitator works with the Homeroom Teacher to introduce students to new skills that build upon previous learned technologies. Students learn how to acquire information and to communicate responsibly in the global community. Through various software programs and lab time, students acquire many transferable computer skills - skills that we will continue to develop through their elementary years. Acquiring practical knowledge of computer and multimedia technologies is an ongoing learning curve. We believe that the earlier the student is exposed to modern computer skills, the more fluent and comfortable they will become with this advancing technology. Within the Kindergarten programme specifically, technology instruction focuses on:
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