Welcome to St. Mark Kindergarten!

English Language Arts:

Students in K-2 follow the Amplify Core Knowledge Language Arts (CKLA) curriculum. Amplify CKLA is a literacy curriculum grounded in the Science of Reading body of research. The ELA block consists of two parts each day, the Skills Strand and the Knowledge Strand. The Skills Strand focuses on decoding, encoding, grammar, handwriting, and the writing process. The Knowledge Strand uses complex texts and read alouds to help students build background knowledge and vocabulary.

Students in K-2 are assessed at the beginning of each trimester and are progress monitored throughout the year. Assessment data is used to plan instruction and to form intervention and small groups. 

Religion:

In Religion, Kindergarten students will utilize the Christ Our Life series to explore God’s love as they are introduced to God’s goodness shown through words, actions, feelings, people, places and things. Learning, growing, sharing throughout and celebration provide the foundation for each chapter. Additionally, Kindergarten students will attend school masses from September to June. 

Math:

In Math, kindergarten students will use the NYS Math Modules focusing on two critical areas. 1.) Representing and comparing whole numbers, initially with sets of objects. 2.) Describing shapes and space. Students use numbers, including written numbers to represent qualities and solve quantitative problems. During center time, we will reinforce these skills using hands on manipulatives.

Science/Social Studies:

In Science and Social Studies we will work collaboratively on a variety of topics. In the fall, our students will develop a greater understanding about citizenship, families, the four seasons, community helpers, the five senses and holidays around the world. In the spring, our students will dive into exciting topics such as day and night, living and nonliving, dental health, weather and seasons, map skills and matter.