

Kindergarten
Our Kindergarten Curriculum
At Carden Academy of Whittier, we consider nothing more important than to help each student learn and grow at their best pace. We have constructed our kindergarten program with the benefit of all of our students in mind. Our small class sizes allow our dedicated teachers to provide an accelerated curriculum and individualized instruction that benefits all of our students. Our teachers are able to provide additional support in academic areas to foster the learning pace and needs of our students through daily small group work sessions.
When you choose Carden Academy of Whittier, you ensure that your child will be exposed to a wide and varied curriculum filled with all of the skill sets necessary to help guide their development thoroughly. We offer instruction in classical literature, math, physical education, music, foreign languages, art, and advanced academic programs such as STEM. We believe a child’s development is not just cognitive, but also social, creative, and physical. We are committed to supporting the development of the whole child at every grade level.
Schedule a tour to learn more about our kindergarten program!
Kindergarten Objectives
To Give Each Child:
Security in learning, the ability to think, self-reliance, understanding of what he/she is learning and knowledge of the purpose of that learning, good study habits, love of reading and math, and a pleasurable learning experience.
Reading:
Introductory steps using play names of letters
Real names and sounds of letters and blends
Reading simple sentences rhythmically
Beginning controls
Word groups
Simple spelling lessons
The workbooks are worked independently and corrected daily
Reading is taught in groups of 4 students around a teaching table
Sight words
Math:
Basic number sense: one-ness, ... nine-ness
Grouping objects and counting them
Pattern: building the ones and the boxes (1-9)
The number line (1-9)
Developing the mental image; numbers before and after
Simple oral word problems with addition and subtraction
Working number needed story problems
Counting by 2's, 5's, 10's and every other one
Counting aloud and writing numbers to 100
Simple work with time, money, and the calendar
Written addition and subtraction problems (1-3)
Math is taught in groups of 4–6 students around a teaching table while the other group of children work independently
Language:
Questions answered: Who? (subject); Doing? (verb)
Identify them in a sentence
Create sentences following this pattern
Ask and answer the questions in writing
Parts of the sentence: separate sentences into the two main parts, Who? and Doing? (subject and predicate) with a line under the subject
Verbs: beginning oral work on present and past tense forms
Punctuation: Sentences begin with capital and end with a period, question marks.
Science:
Develop concepts and vocabulary for earth, life, and physical science and the ability to perform appropriate experiments.
Social Skills:
Ability to interact appropriately with peers and adults; ability to communicate ideas, feelings, and knowledge.
*Reading Log:
Second semester.
*Simple Book Reports
Second semester.
Poetry:
The appreciation of poetry and the ability to memorize various poems.
Handwriting:
The ability to print clearly.
Art:
Appreciate 6–8 well-known paintings and the artists.
Music:
Two musical program performances per year; learn numerous historical songs and fun age appropriate songs.
Geography:
Skill reading maps (neighborhood and the United States).
Computer Skills:
Ability to use a computer for educational games and IXL.
Attitude Development:
We discuss Standards of Living and help students to be confident and comfortable in the presence of adults and classmates. Our students practice patterns of acceptable behavior and have a sense of security in learning. Our students are taught to maintain strong values and show appreciation for all that is good.
Books for the Pupils
Reading:
Book 1 I See
Book 2 Joan
Book 3 The Red Book
Workbooks:
Cutting and Pasting
Vocabulary seat work for the Red Book
Red Book Workbook
Pre-Primary Workbook
The Farm Workbook
Daddy's Garden
Classics:
Marshmallow
One is for the Sun
Johnny Crows New Garden
Play with Me
Minnikin, Midgie and Moppet
Extracurricular Activities
Field Trips:
Thursday, February 8, 2024 - Centennial Farm
After-School Clubs:
Mondays: Cheer
Wednesdays: Dance (Ballet) & Train Children Chess Club
Thursdays: Spanish Club
Fridays: Cheer & Dance (Hip Hop)