1st & 2nd Grade
1st & 2nd Grade at Calhoun
In first and second grades, our goal is to actively engage students in their own learning process. We emphasize hands-on experiences that take into account individual interests and learning styles, and keep class sizes small so that teachers can cater to the needs of each child. We place great value on self-discovery, incorporating open-ended activities that foster skill acquisition and creative expression.
Calhoun students are encouraged to become contributing members of their community. Children learn to listen and show respect for others, demonstrate compassion and empathy, and cooperate with peers. Teachers are guides and role models within a safe, loving and inspiring environment.
1st & 2nd Grade Program Highlights
1st Grade Community & Relationship Building
Group and partner work are frequently integrated into the first-grade classroom, and classes also engage in conversations about the communities and neighborhoods we live and work in.
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1st Grade Language Arts
Language arts work in 1st grade includes guided reading, word work, handwriting and more.
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1st Grade Math
Daily math work includes a focus on number sense, place value, geometry and more.
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1st Grade Science
First grade students visit Calhoun’s Discovery Lab, which offers a STEAM-based program of both independent and collaborative activities on topics such as recycling, machines, design, farming and more.
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1st Grade Social-Emotional Learning
In first grade, teachers create learning opportunities that help children see beyond themselves, take accountability for their actions, and understand that they are part of a larger community.
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1st Grade Social Studies
Social studies work in 1st grade encompasses four areas of study: identity unit, the pocket person unit, mammal study and a changemakers unit.
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2nd Grade Community & Relationship Building
Teachers support community building through group shares and activities, as well as by creating moments to share or celebrate challenges and achievements.
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2nd Grade Language Arts
Language arts work in 2nd grade focuses on reading, writing, handwriting and more.
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2nd Grade Math
Second graders discover mathematical relationships using manipulatives, learn multiple strategies for problem-solving, and practice demonstrating how a solution was reached.
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2nd Grade Science
Second grade students visit Calhoun’s Discovery Lab, which offers a STEAM-based program of both independent and collaborative activities on topics such as rocks and minerals, magnetism, weather, engineering and more.
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2nd Grade Social-Emotional Learning
In second grade, students work on building social-emotional competencies such as self-awareness, accountability, flexibility, respect for and appreciation for others, intrinsic motivation and leadership skills.
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2nd Grade Social Studies
The second grade social studies curriculum focuses on the theme of community, with topics including community structures, maps, history and more.
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Physical Education
Some of the key competencies that are emphasized in the P.E. program include balance, flexibility, coordination, reaction time, rhythm and orientation.
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Spanish
Students meet regularly with a Spanish teacher that helps them acquire language skills through fun and meaningful activities.
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Student Support
Our student support team provides resources to boost development of key academic and social-emotional competencies.
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World Music
In Lower School—Early Childhood, children receive an introduction to music through studies with a World Music specialist.
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Related Story:
![Student shows off work at Mammal Museum]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1559767235/calhoun/rcmdupgl9znzj7uabhui/61478775_10156190791463053_3304351153810046976_o.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1559767235/calhoun/rcmdupgl9znzj7uabhui/61478775_10156190791463053_3304351153810046976_o.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1559767235/calhoun/rcmdupgl9znzj7uabhui/61478775_10156190791463053_3304351153810046976_o.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1559767235/calhoun/rcmdupgl9znzj7uabhui/61478775_10156190791463053_3304351153810046976_o.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1559767235/calhoun/rcmdupgl9znzj7uabhui/61478775_10156190791463053_3304351153810046976_o.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1559767235/calhoun/rcmdupgl9znzj7uabhui/61478775_10156190791463053_3304351153810046976_o.jpg","width":2025}])
First graders become researchers through an interdisciplinary study of mammals. Students then share their knowledge with the Calhoun community during the annual Mammal Museum—a special display of their detailed work.