The first grade curriculum will encompass an interdisciplinary approach focusing on all academic areas. Students will have opportunities to work both independently and collaboratively with their peers in the classroom to enhance learning. Students become problem solvers and critical, independent thinkers who strive for challenge. This application of learning focuses on all aspects of self-motivation which promotes life long learning.

The Silver Burdett Ginn reading series is a program which promotes the use of thematic units. Thematic units integrate curriculum areas so that children are not only learning how to read, but are experiencing connections to other academic areas. For instance, the first theme in the program is "Here I Am", which focuses on the child. Silver Burdett Ginn offers activities which connect curriculum areas such as social studies, math, science, health and safety.

The "Recipe For Reading" Program  enhances phonemic awareness allowing the children to make the connection between sound and symbol. This system of phonics will tie in nicely with our existing reading program. In addition to this program children will be reading books from the  Literacy Closet in guided reading groups.

The Norwell Public School's math program is  called  Everyday Mathematics, published by The University of Chicago School Mathematics Project. This program draws its philosophy from current thinking about the teaching of mathematical concepts. Everyday Mathematics, is a K-6 mathematics curriculum that embraces high standards for all children. The curriculum emphasizes conceptual understanding and helps to build a mastery of basic skills. The mathematical skills at the first grade level will include: numeration, operations and computation, data and chance, geometry, measurement, patterns, functions, and algebra.

Science concepts will be taught throughout the curriculum. Students will learn the importance of observing, collecting data and sharing results. Children will be encouraged to investigate and question problems presented to them during lessons from our Scott Foresman science series. Animals, plants, weather, the sky, light, sound heat, the five senses, and health will be covered through thematic units.

The social studies curriculum covers community helpers, famous American citizens and their contributions, current events, important holidays, fire safety , geography, and local history. Included in the hands-on activities are three local field trips to the Fire Station, Post Office and the Library.

Social and Physical Health/Safety is included weekly in the curriculum.  Other lessons developed in the past few years include learning the importance and care of our body. Children will also participate in a monthly Magic Circle run by the guidance department. They will focus on subjects such as teamwork, good citizenship, and problem solving.

The Vinal School implemented a program entitled "The Responsive Classroom". The program stresses our school core values of respect, responsibility  and risk taking. Additionally, the students will be responsible for following directions, organizational skills, neatness of work, appropriate use of time, and  encouraged to become independent thinkers. In all of our academic, social and physical goals we encourage your support. As a team we will foster successful life long learners.