Centerville Kindergarten teachers believe in a balanced literacy approach. For example, we balance reading books, with phonemic awareness and phonics instruction. In the beginning of school and throughout the year, we read many fiction and nonfiction books to create an enthusiasm for reading! Through the use of reading nonfiction books we enhance an understanding of science, social studies, and math concepts. We start to notice print, letters, and sounds together. The children learn to read their names and environmental print fairly early. Throughout the year we do shared reading, guided, independent, and buddy reading. In addition, we model reading strategies during whole group and small group settings. We provide a print enriched classroom and varied language experiences. During language experience activities, guided and shared reading, we teach about print awareness. Kindergarten teachers play phonemic awareness games and activities. We model the writing process and create fun, engaging writing activities. Kindergarten teachers teach children vocabulary, beginner punctuation, and model comprehension strategies. In math, we explore and develop number sense through the use of manipulatives. We believe in taking the child from concrete concepts to the abstract as they progress. Our philosophy is to take the child where they are, and progress them as far as they can go in their reading, writing, math, social studies, and science development.

Sincerely,
Kindergarten Teachers