Academics

Wonders, a McGraw-Hill Education product, is designed to help students meet high academic standards and prepare them for future success. Teachers will use Wonders to help your child:

• Master foundational skills of phonics, vocabulary, spelling, and word study

• Engage in close reading of complex text and find text evidence

• Become proficient in academic writing

• Take part in daily academic conversations with peers

What will your child experience in class?

In class, your child will be close reading, writing analytically, and practicing foundational skills using Wonders books and support materials.

Your child’s teacher will use a gradual release of responsibility learning approach. First, the teacher will clearly explain and model the week’s skills and strategies, then provide guided practice opportunities before prompting children to either work independently or to collaborate with their classmates.

Students will read and reread short, complex texts in the Reading/Writing Workshop. They will learn to take notes, ask and answer text-dependent questions, and cite text evidence. Then, students will apply what they have learned to longer texts in the Literature Anthology and Leveled Readers.

 

How Will My Child Learn Math This Year?

Your child’s classroom will use Bridges in Mathematics second edition, a comprehensive curriculum for grades K–5. Bridges is a rigorous program designed to address the new math standards in a way that’s enjoyable and accessible to all learners.

The curriculum focuses on developing in students a deep understanding of math concepts, proficiency with key skills, and the ability to solve new and complex problems. Learning activities tap into the intelligence and strengths all students have by presenting mathematically powerful material alive with language, pictures, and movement.

Students in a Bridges classroom talk about math, describe observations, explain methods, and ask questions. They are encouraged to find multiple ways to solve problems and show different ways of thinking. This is a vital way to help students build more flexible and efficient ways to solve increasingly complex problems. Hands-on activities engage them in exploring, developing, testing, discussing, and applying mathematical concepts.

How Is the Program Structured?

Bridges features a combination of whole-group, small-group, and independent activities that are problem centered.

Problems & Investigations

Problems & Investigations often begin with a problem posed to the whole class. Students think and work independently or talk in pairs before sharing and comparing strategies and solutions as a whole class. The teacher monitors and guides the class discussion to make sure that students understand important mathematical concepts.

Work Places

Work Places are engaging math exploration activities that reinforce key skills. The teacher observes and interacts to address students’ need for support and enrichment.

Number Corner

Number Corner is a skill-building program that revolves around the classroom calendar and gives students an active role. They receive daily practice as well as steady encounters with broader mathematical concepts.

Homework

Home Connections assignments are sent home at the discretion of your child’s teacher. At times, your child may bring home math games or activities for you to enjoy together, but the main role for parents is not to teach but to guide your student and take an interest in their work. You’ll be receiving Unit Overviews throughout the year that explain the math concepts the class is currently focused on and suggest specific ways you may support your child.