Here are the specific learning goals we aim to achieve:

Spelling Proficiency:

Recognize and correctly spell targeted words each week, totaling over 20 first-grade level words across the month.
Differentiate between words with similar letter combinations.
Understand the basic phonetics and sounds associated with the spelled words.
Vocabulary Expansion:

Add over 20 new vocabulary words to their lexicon by the end of the month.
Use these words contextually in sentences.
Appreciate the richness and variety of the English language.
Grammar Fundamentals:

Construct simple, grammatically correct sentences.
Identify the basic parts of a sentence, such as the subject and predicate.
Understand the foundational rules of sentence formation.
High-Frequency Word Mastery:

Recognize and read over 20 high-frequency words introduced over the month.
Incorporate these words effortlessly in daily communication.
Dive into Realistic Fiction:

Develop a love for reading through exposure to age-appropriate realistic fiction.
Identify the basic elements of a story, such as characters, setting, and plot.
Express personal opinions and emotions in response to the stories read.
Interactive Engagement:

Actively participate in games, crafts, and activities related to the weekly themes.
Collaborate with peers during interactive sessions, fostering teamwork and social skills.
Demonstrate understanding through game-based test reviews at the end of each week.
Creative Expression:

Showcase creativity through weekly crafts and art activities, related to the stories and themes.
Engage in imaginative storytelling, inspired by the readings.

With over a decade of experience in the educational field, I've dedicated my career to fostering a love for learning in young minds. Here's a brief overview of my expertise:

Educational Tenure: I have been a teacher for over 10 years, working primarily with early elementary school students. This has equipped me with a deep understanding of the developmental stages, learning styles, and pedagogical approaches most effective for this age group.

Specialization in Reading and Language Arts: Much of my teaching experience centers around Reading and English Language Arts. This has given me a comprehensive understanding of curriculum standards, effective teaching strategies, and ways to make reading enjoyable and accessible for all students.

Interactive Teaching Techniques: Recognizing the importance of engagement in the learning process, I've integrated a wide array of interactive techniques into my teaching. From games to crafts, my classes aim to be dynamic, fun, and participatory.

Homework Offered
Reading Assignments:

Students will be provided with short, engaging stories related to the week's theme. These will be 1-2 pages long, with vibrant illustrations to maintain interest.
Estimated reading time: 10-15 minutes.
Spelling and Vocabulary:

Learners will receive a worksheet that encompasses the week's spelling and vocabulary words. This could be in the form of crossword puzzles, fill-in-the-blanks, or simple word matches.
Estimated completion time: 10 minutes.
Craft and Drawing:

Once a week, students will be asked to draw or craft something related to the story they've read. This is more about creativity than precision. They can use the art materials listed for the class.
Estimated crafting time: 15-20 minutes.
Assessments Offered
Recognizing the age group and the focus of our class, our assessment strategy aims to be encouraging, positive, and developmentally appropriate. Here's how we will assess learner progress:

Game Test Review:

At the end of each week, the class will engage in a game-based review session. This will serve as a fun, non-stressful way to gauge the students' understanding of the week's material. Through the game, the instructor can identify areas of strength and areas that might need further reinforcement.
Participation & Interaction:

Observation of student participation during class activities, discussions, and games will offer insights into their comprehension, enthusiasm, and areas of interest or challenge.
Homework Review:

The instructor will review the students' homework for completion and understanding. Feedback will be given in the form of encouraging remarks, stickers, or even virtual badges to motivate the learners further.
Craft & Drawing Showcase:

During the weekly craft and drawing sessions, students will have the opportunity to show and explain their work. This offers a chance to assess their comprehension of the story, vocabulary, and creativity.
Informal Check-ins:

Throughout the course, the instructor will have one-on-one moments with each student, asking questions about the stories, words, or activities to gauge understanding in a casual, non-test-like environment.
Feedback to Parents:

Instead of traditional grades, parents will receive a brief, informal report . This report will highlight their child's areas of strength, participation level, and any areas that might benefit from additional support or practice.
The primary goal of our assessments is to foster a love for reading, boost confidence, and ensure that each student feels celebrated for their unique contributions and progress.
Grades Offered

Curriculum:

"Wonders" by McGraw-Hill Education. This comprehensive English Language Arts program serves as the primary guide for the course and covers various aspects of the first-grade curriculum.
Supplementary Reading Materials:

"Rules at School" and "Jack Can", both short stories selected from the Wonders curriculum for first graders.
Interactive Activities:

Inspired by articles and teaching strategies from Reading Rockets, a national multimedia project offering information and resources on how young kids learn to read.
Vocabulary and Spelling Games:

Adapted from ideas on Education.com's First Grade Resources.
Craft Ideas:

Inspired by First Palette, an online resource offering a myriad of craft ideas suitable for kids.
It's essential to note that while these sources provide foundational material and inspiration, all class content has been tailored specifically for this course to ensure an interactive, engaging, and age-appropriate learning experience.