Length:

10 months

Subjects:

Module Names:

Foundation modules 1-10 (first full uninterrupted year at school)

Equivalent school years

Australian years 1 / New Zealand years 1-2

Maths

This level begins at the very foundation with the understanding of numbers up to 100. What they look like, how to write them and a concept of size. Practical resources such as counters and beads are used to introduce counting forwards and backwards in sequential order. Once able to recognise and read two-digit numbers then basic addition and subtraction are introduced with the use of tens frames. The introduction of pattern comes through musical poems with drum beats to emphasise counting in 2’s, 3’s and 5’s. This is then followed by grouping numbers into sets and sharing counters equally between friends. Basic shape recognition and measuring are also covered

English

This level introduces numerals and the letters of the alphabet written in both upper and lower case. These are learned through story, song, poem and movement and practiced in sand trays and on chalk boards prior to being written in books. There is emphasis on the phonetic sounds of each letter and how those sounds combine into simple blend combinations. Once the sounds have been learned, they are then combined into diagraph blends (sh, th, ch etc) and simple rhyming consonant – vowel – consonant (CVC) words are introduced (cat, mat, fat). Pencil grip, letter sizing and correct spacing are also covered. Early reading is learned through this writing method as the child reads back the words they are learning.

The Arts

All subjects are delivered with an artistic approach to learning. Stories are told and pictures, paintings and models are created to retell the story by the children. Daily movement activities balance the body and awaken the brain and poems are learned by heart to build memory capacity and clear drama speech. There are daily music lessons, beginning with rhythm and beat patterns before the introduction of the recorder instrument.

Science

In the early years the focus for science is around observation of the natural world. This includes things such as the weather, seasons, insects, animals and plants. There is no formal science instruction at this age, more a growing awareness of phenomena around the children and the ability to ask questions and draw conclusions.

Technology

In the early years there is the need to develop finer motor skills in order to be able to complete delicate and complex tasks later on. To do this the finger muscles are strengthened through many different activities including; knitting, sewing, painting, gluing, cutting and working with modelling clay or wax. Each of these activities requires concentration and the use of unique finger muscles to manipulate a tool. These activities also require logic and reasoning to problem solve and to commitment to start and finish a project.

Language

The majority of the course is delivered in English, however basic greetings, instructions, directions, simple words and praise are also delivered in Te Reo Maori and New Zealand Sign Language. In the early years, this is done primarily through song.