May 2019 LM

Play ... cont’d.

As students prepare to leave kindergarten with a better understanding of key concepts and learning standards, District #146 has also began enhancing its strategies, practices and curriculum for grades 1–8. We believe inquiry and play can be just as effective in subsequent grade levels. We intend to do some action research on this idea. For more information including videos and parent testimonials, visit district146.org/kindergarten .

Quick Facts ... cont’d.

• Number sense

—Concrete application of number sense (in kitchen, restaurant and construction areas). —Comparing quantity with blocks, action figures and tiles. —Shapes and patterns are practiced using magnatiles, blocks, tiles and art areas. —Pictures are created to represent problems and solutions. —Students explore problem solving using different tools and strategies. —Patterns are produced with blocks and tiles. —Estimation is practiced using various items in the room. —Students use toys and other items to describe less than, more than, and same as. With thisprogram: • Students have the active role and foster their natural curiosity and wonderment. • Students are immersed in a topic to gain a deeper understanding. • Student curiosity is encouraged and nurtured. • The lessons are interest-driven. • Student-led inquiry leads to asking questions and seeking answers. • Student-driven interests stem from nonfiction books, open- ended activities, real life specimens in the classroom, and creative questioning. • Use of discovery areas where students explore and question is prominent in classrooms. • Math • Blocks/construction area —Students plan and evaluate their plan, work collaboratively, create and problem solve.

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LM May 2019