Gan Israel Preschool and Day-School

Curriculum Overview

Jewish Studies

The younger children are introduced to simple prayers, blessings, and songs. They learn stories, customs, and songs surrounding the holidays and Torah readings following the yearly cycle. The nursery class also learns to recognize the names and sounds of Hebrew letters and masters a small Hebrew vocabulary. The kindergarten children learn to read and translate Hebrew in their siddurim and chumashim (prayer books and Torah). They are taught a wide range of Hebrew vocabulary and prayers. In addition, the children learn to integrate Biblical teachings into their daily conduct.

Reading and Language Arts

The children in the nursery school are introduced to many types of literature through picture books, stories, tapes, finger play, dramatic play, and role taking. Pre-reading visual and auditory skills are stressed. Children who are reading are given ample opportunity to continue their reading and writing progress. The kindergarteners are taught to read and write using a combined phonics and whole language approach. There are many opportunities for reading and creative writing during each day.

Math

The mathematics curriculum provides an introduction to numbers and mathematical concepts including numerical representation, ordering, relative sizes, equivalence, and geometric shapes. Recognizing and writing numerals as well as simple addition and subtraction concepts are introduced when developmentally appropriate. The kindergardeners grades utilize math books as well as hands-on manipulatives to enhance understanding.

Social Studies

For young children, learning to participate in a group is an important developmental accomplishment. The program provides activities that encourage cooperative learning
and group social skills. Units of study focus on the family, the home, friends, and the community.

Science

The science curriculum emphasizes direct experience with the physical world. Units of study include animal and plant life, the physical universe, weighing and measuring, household tools, and the seasons.

Art

Our children have a wide range of activities available. They learn to work with a variety of media and to express themselves creatively, to sharpen their sensory perceptions and to make decisions.

Music

Music activities are part of our daily program. The children learn concepts in all curricular areas through songs and movement. They experience the joy of making music together, dancing, listening, and creating their own songs.

Physical Development

The children play outdoors almost every day. Large muscle skills are developed through running, jumping, balancing, climbing, digging, and cycling. The small motor skills and hand-eye coordination essential to reading and writing are developed through the use of the manipulative materials in the classroom. For young children, learning to participate in a group is an important development accomplishment. The program provides activities that encourage cooperative learning and group social skills.