PRATTVILLE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY FI RST GRADE
First grade at PCA is a year of exploration of learning. Many opportunities are opening up as the children grow from kindergarten to first grade. They are becoming more independent and are able to do many activities that encourage that independence. First graders become readers and writers and are eager to share their creations. We have writer's workshop during which our youngsters can explore their creativity as authors. Reading proficiency grows at each reader's pace with our many leveled books and we watch them move from baby steps to confident and independent readers. Our reading curriculum encourages reading great children's literature around which we plan units of integrated learning with science and social studies. First grade students learn first hand with many hands-on lessons from our environment. We visit the zoo, a farm, museums, even go into a pretend hospital! We explore real trains and planes and plant trees and flowers. We care for our class pets and have interesting animals visit us. At PCA everything we do is from a Biblical worldview and our young children learn a lifestyle of trusting Jesus in all areas of life.
FIRST GRADE CURRICULUM
Bible: Bible classes are taught with the Christian Schools International curriculum: God's Plan. The curriculum emphasizes the truth that God has a purpose for his chosen people, which continues throughout history. The emphasis in on Old Testament times. 
Reading/Language Arts/Spelling: McGraw Hill Treasures curriculum is used for the Reading classes. The focus in first grade is to give students a foundation in reading and writing independently. Students will develop a deep understanding in phonemic awareness, spelling/vocabulary, and grammar. Material for students is differientiated according to their learning needs and will be taught with both whole and small group instruction. Reading instruction is supplemented with trade and chapter books. 
Environment: Science and Social Studies are taught through the use of thematic units. The students will be engaged in a variety of authentic and meaningful learning projects and activities to stimulate their learning in these areas. 
Math: Mathematics are taught using Pearson Envision Math curriculum. The course is taught through the use of student workbooks, visual aids, charts, games and literacy stations.
FIRST GRADE TEACHERS
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Marsha Blankinchip Mrs. Blankinchip teaches first grade at PCA. She graduated from AUM with a degree in Elementary Education and then from Troy University Montgomery with a Masters in Elementary Education.She is orginally from Escambia County, AL and has lived in Greenville for the last 8 years. She is married and they have two girls. Mrs. Blankinchip enjoys decorating and trying new recipes. She also like to sew and shop with her mom and sister. Marsha likes working at PCA because of the atmosphere. She syas the staff is nice and extremely enjoyable to be around and work with. Her favorite Bible verse is Micah 6:8, "He has shown you what is good. ANd what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercifully and to walk humbly with the Lord your God." |
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Amy Hightower Amy Hightower is a first grade teacher at PCA. She graduated from Auburn University Montgomery with a B.S. in Early Childhood Education. Amy lives in Montgomery with her husband and three children. She enjoys reading,baking, and spending time with her family. Amy loves being able to share God’s word with the children. She also loves the family atmosphere where everyone knows everyone. Luke 1:37 is her favorite Bible verse. “For nothing is impossible with God.” |