Academics -What to expect

Kindergarten - English

Goals for Kindergarten are to teach the children organizational skills, social skills, as well as peer to peer conflict resolution. On a daily basis we work to improve fine motor skills through the use of manipulatives. One of the benefits of this is better hand and finger dexterity which helps to improve handwriting skills.

 

Academically, the children experience reading readiness and learning to read using a balanced literacy approach - phonics instruction along with sight words. Our unique approach is very structured and is easy and fun for children to learn and for teachers to teach.  Children are taught writing skills using an innovative method called “Writing Without Tears.”  Mathematics is introduced though the use of hands-on explorations focosing on number sense and using pattern and number recognition which helps students to visualize single digit addition and subtraction., in addition to many other math concepts.

 

Science and Social Studies are everywhere in our class from volcanoes and experiments to American holidays and community helpers!  We never miss a chance to appreciate the wonderful world around us!

 

We include numerous hands-on arts and crafts projects which are not only fun and challenging but also enhance and complements the subject matterthe children learn in class.

 

 

Kindergarten - Hebrew


         Kindergarten at YBH is a truly inviting environment for each and every studetn to learn.  Our motto is "learning through play." We bring the outside world into our classroom, and much of our learning is achieved through play.  We re-enact Noah's Ark and the Mabul. We tech the importance of Hachnasat Orchim and Avraham by inviting our own guests into our own ""tent."  Songs for each holiday are sung, brochot are learned and Brochot Bees are played.

 

         Hebrew is introduced in an enjoyable and inviting way with our friends from aleph-Bet Land.  Each letter has words that start with that leter. Vowels are intorduced and many chilrfen are reading by the endo fo the school year.  Tefilla is part of our everyday routine and they even learn Brochot Hashachar and Asher Yatsar.

 

         The enhancement of fine and gross motor skills are aachieved through writing, drawing, scissors skills, gluing, painting and cutting by means of arts & crafts and hands-on work for each Aleph-Bet letter.   

 

         Hanukkah is lit up with songs, plays and latke making.  Purim is acted out with costumes and hands-on fun. A beautiful Hagaddah created by the students is presented at the Seder table for all to admire, so that questions about why we were slaves can be answered and the miracle of our freedom

 

First Grade - English

 

A major goal in the first-grade classroom is to extend students’ abilities to work independently and in groups. These important life skills are taught in the context of the classroom community as children are working independently, learning in new ways, organizing their daily work and assuming initiative to seek help when needed.

 

First grade is the gateway to literacy. As the year progresses, first graders read with more fluency and write with more confidence, moving into conventional spelling as they gain experience as readers and writers. During this year of exploration, first graders also develop a mathematical number sense, an understanding of the scientific process and an appreciation of the culture of the world around them.

 

The first-grade student will learn to read and write with accuracy by means of basic sight vocabulary words, using phonics, grammar and context clues to decipher and understand new words.

 

They will learn comprehension strategies to recall facts and information, predict outcomes, identify main ideas, make inferences and draw conclusions.

 

In first grade, mathematics instruction will focus on developing understanding of and strategies for addition and subtraction, patterns, basic geometric shapes, and more. The children will develop an understanding of whole number relationships and place value, including grouping in tens and ones. They will be introduced to measurement and data such as length units, how to tell and write time as well as units of currency.

 

Science education will encourage an attitude of inquiry in the world around us, excite an interest in the nature and process of science and explore the relationship of science to society, technology, mathematics and other disciplines.

 


First Grade - Hebrew

 

First grade is a wonderful year, full of new beginnings.  From the moment your child enters our classroom it is our responsibility to ensure that each child has a positive, warm, and educational year.   While building our students positive outlook to learning they are being introduced to many new concepts and skills that will help them throughout their school years and the rest of their lives. Learning is always fun in first grade.  

 

The following are skills that we cover:

 

Kriyah:

One of the most crucial skills taught in first grade is Kriyah.  Students enter first grade knowing the basics of the Alef Bet and vowel decoding.  We build upon this knowledge ensuring that each child becomes a confident and fluent reader.  After assessing our students to find their current reading level, we begin by reviewing the letters followed by the vowels.  We then move on to specific reading rules such as tricky, similar letter, silent letters, special syllables, and Shva rules.  All this is taught with fluency in mind.  Kriyah is taught by using all the modalities in order to reach all different types of learners.  Visual aids, hands-on games, and songs, help ensure that our students leave first grade reading and loving it.

 

Ktiva:

Script letters, the most common form of writing, is taught in first grade using a multi-sensory approach.  Time is spent making sure that each student learns how to form each letter correctly.  We also focus on the proper way to hold a pencil and paper while writing.  The smiles on our students’ faces when shown their work from the beginning of the year compared to the end of the year is indescribable.

 

Lashon:

Lashon is an exciting part of our day as well.  The Hebrew language comes alive while mastering Poalim (action words), Zachor and Nekava (male and female), sentence structure, the different seasons, Chagim (holidays), Parsha etc.  It is amazing to see the growth in our students when they leave first grade knowing how to write complete paragraphs in Ivrit.

 

Tefilla:

A highly anticipated time of the year is when our students receive their very own Siddur. Every student gets a chance to shine in our Siddur play.  Tefilla is an integral part of a Jew’s life and we wish to instill this into our students' hearts while they are young.

 

Our students are taught the proper respect they must have for Tefilla, the meaning of the Tefillot and how they apply this to their lives.  Time is spent reading from their Siddur as they become familiar with the Tefillot we say each day.  We are so proud to hear how beautiful our students pray even when they are outside the classroom setting.

Second Grade Hebrew

 

Second and Third Grade in YBH are classes of learning, fun, and give our students a warm environment where they enjoy coming to class daily.

 

The Hebrew studies teacher focuses on Tefillah as an essential part of the day. It is done together as a group. A major goal in Tefillah is for our students to be able to know the entire Tefillah including Tefillat Amida. Our goal is for each student to be able to create their own personal connection with Hashem.

 

Our teaching method is based on a Hebrew speaking environment, where the students are able to familiarize themselves with the Hebrew language. The students will engage daily in what we call conversational Hebrew, the students get to converse to each other in Hebrew, this gives each student the opportunity to enhance theie Hebrew vocabulary.

 

Dikduk is taught using the laws of the Hebrew language. Our goal is for students to develop proper speech In the Hebrew language. The students will be able to form theie own sentences in Hebrew, using the correct spelling, and grammar, and have a clear understanding of what they are writing and speaking.

 

Literature is conducted each day in a group setting where each student reads a paragraph of a story, at the end of each story each student will have a clear understanding of what they read, and be able to answer several questions based on the reading. They will be able to answer the questions in full sentences in the Hebrew language.

 

Jewish holidays and Shabbat are taught according to the laws of the Torah. Stories and visual examples are used to enhance their understanding of what each Holiday and Shabbat consist of. For each holiday, students are given a story to read to better understand what is done during  that particular  holiday. They then are given a set of questions to answer.

 

Parashat Hashavuah is taught using stories, and answering questions. To give the students a better understanding of that week’s Parashah the students engage in class projects, and are able to understand it through various videos. The children then get to show off what occurs at their house during Shabbat.

 

The importance of Middot Tovot is a top priority in our class.  Eeach student leaves first grade with a clear understanding of what it means to have proper Derech Eretz according to the Torah.

 

 

Second Grade English

 

Our second graders take on more responsibility in Science and Social Studies.  Their individual State Reports is one of their favorite grown-up projects. In science, testing their hypotheses in each of their experiments is another favorite. By the time our school-wide Torah and Science Fair begins, our second graders are at “the top of their game!”

Reading and reading comprehension skills are paramount in every grade.  Our reading choices include fiction and non-fiction as well as biographies and realistic fiction.

Math concepts are introduced before each math skill. From the initial mathematical concept we move to recognizing “MATH” all around us.  Then, there is the skill itself. If you’re looking for a great example of seeing MATH EVERYWHERE around us, check out the book, Math Curse by Jon Scieszka.

 

Third Grade Hebrew

 

Second and Third Grade in YBH are classes of learning, fun, and give our students a warm environment where they enjoy coming to class daily.

 

The Hebrew studies teacher focuses on Tefillah as an essential part of the day. It is done together as a group. A major goal in Tefillah is for our students to be able to know the entire Tefillah including Tefillat Amida. Our goal is for each student to be able to create their own personal connection with Hashem.

 

Our teaching method is based on a Hebrew speaking environment, where the students are able to familiarize themselves with the Hebrew language. The students will engage daily in what we call conversational Hebrew, the students get to converse to each other in Hebrew, this gives each student the opportunity to enhance theie Hebrew vocabulary.

 

Dikduk is taught using the laws of the Hebrew language. Our goal is for students to develop proper speech In the Hebrew language. The students will be able to form theie own sentences in Hebrew, using the correct spelling, and grammar, and have a clear understanding of what they are writing and speaking.

 

Literature is conducted each day in a group setting where each student reads a paragraph of a story, at the end of each story each student will have a clear understanding of what they read, and be able to answer several questions based on the reading. They will be able to answer the questions in full sentences in the Hebrew language.

 

Jewish holidays and Shabbat are taught according to the laws of the Torah. Stories and visual examples are used to enhance their understanding of what each Holiday and Shabbat consist of. For each holiday, students are given a story to read to better understand what is done during  that particular  holiday. They then are given a set of questions to answer.

 

Parashat Hashavuah is taught using stories, and answering questions. To give the students a better understanding of that week’s Parashah the students engage in class projects, and are able to understand it through various videos. The children then get to show off what occurs at their house during Shabbat.

 

The importance of Middot Tovot is a top priority in our class.  Eeach student leaves first grade with a clear understanding of what it means to have proper Derech Eretz according to the Torah.

 

Third Grade English

 

 Looking ahead,students in both the third and fifth grades will learn strategies to help them develop and master their skills in Reading fluency, Reading Comprehension, Writing, Math, Science, and Social Studies.  Furthermore, students will be taught organizational skills, structure and personal responsibility.  Most importantly, all this is accomplished in a comfortable and supportive learning environment that will help maximize every child’s potential and foster their personal growth into a focused, confident, and caring individual.

 

Who said Grammar is boring???   

 

Not at YBH!  Our students actually like Grammar and believe it or not, enjoy it and learn a lot.  We even make our own Mad Libs!  

 

 

          Every school year is an exciting one for the children of both the third and fifth grades.   The students work on developing their communication skills and learn the meaning of teamwork by working together in groups building 3D models of the Eiffel Tower and the leaning Tower of Pisa in the third grade, and the Lincoln Memorial, Brooklyn Bridge and NASA space shuttle in the fifth grade.  Additionally, they work on science experiments that introduce them to the fundamentals of chemistry and physics.  In this interactive learning process, students are exposed to history, science and architecture in a fun and meaningful way. 

Fourth Grade Hebrew

 

Our goal in fourth grade Hebrew is to have our students be comfortable in Reading, Writing, and understanding Biblical and Conversational Hebrew.  We read stories and compose our own compositions, using correct grammar, gender and tense. 

 

Some of our students have returned from trips to Israel and shared stories with the class, how they spoke in Hebrew to Israelis, understood conversations on Egged busses and even ordered a meal in a restaurant... ALL IN HEBREW!

 

We learn Humash, Navi, the Jewish holidays and Shabbat, and focus on davening correctly and with kavanah.  Our students learn beautifully, make their parents proud in shul and participate in the Seder with their families and shine!

 

We instill a life-long love of Torah, Israel and the Jewish People.

 

 

Fourth Grade General Studies 

 

 

          Our 4th graders are always very busy.  Our days are filled with math, science, social studies, vocabulary, grammar and spelling.  Whew!  These students can never say there is nothing to do.  In addition to all of that, the students choose a daily “idiom.”  Idioms are a great tool with which to learn the subtleties and the abstract nature of the English language.  By the end of the year, they’ll have their own Idiom Books bound and created by themselves.

 

          The 6th Grade encompasses many areas in math and science throughout the school year.  In math, the students begin with reviewing place value concepts with multiple digits, double and triple digit multiplication, division, decimals, algebra, fractions, geometry and much more.  We work on study skills, research and note taking in science along with many hands-on fun filled science experiments on numerous scientific concepts.  The students learn to take notes and highlight important facts. 

 

We instill not only knowledge of science but an appreciation of the intricacies of the world around us.

 

5th Grade General Studies

 

          Looking ahead,students in both the third and fifth grades will learn strategies to help them develop and master their skills in Reading fluency, Reading Comprehension, Writing, Math, Science, and Social Studies.  Furthermore, students will be taught organizational skills, structure and personal responsibility.  Most importantly, all this is accomplished in a comfortable and supportive learning environment that will help maximize every child’s potential and foster their personal growth into a focused, confident, and caring individual.

 

Who said Grammar is boring???   

 

Not at YBH!  Our students actually like Grammar and believe it or not, enjoy it and learn a lot.  We even make our own Mad Libs!  

 

 

          Every school year is an exciting one for the children of both the third and fifth grades.   The students work on developing their communication skills and learn the meaning of teamwork by working together in groups building 3D models of the Eiffel Tower and the leaning Tower of Pisa in the third grade, and the Lincoln Memorial, Brooklyn Bridge and NASA space shuttle in the fifth grade.  Additionally, they work on science experiments that introduce them to the fundamentals of chemistry and physics.  In this interactive learning process, students are exposed to history, science and architecture in a fun and meaningful way. %th 

 

5th Grade Hebrew

 

Humash

Our in-depth course of study focuses on developing foundational skills such as basic vocabulary words and shoroshim recognition.  Classroom participation is enhanced by encouraging students to ask questions and provide answers.

We cover many Rashis, especially the ones that address questions that were raised by the students.  Appropriate visual presentations are provided to enhance the learning.

 

Parasha

The main topics and points of the parasha are covered in a stimulating fashion. Stories, parables and midrashim are presented in a way that the students are anxious to share with parents and family.  Students are encouraged to share how the parasha is associated with daily actions in their lives.  Parents appreciate the opportunity to review the parasha with their children and take pride when they see the results of the weekly parasha test.

 

Navi

We learn the basic text of Yehoshua and Shoftim.  The psukim are mostly read by the students who give a brief summary of what they read at the end of each pasuk, providing reinforcement in their kriya skills and reading comprehension.  The text provided is enhanced by beautiful footnotes which lead to stimulating classroom discussions about ethics and history from a Jewish perspective.

 

Mishna

We begin with the first book of Mishna  מסכת ברכות (masechet berachot). Students are excited to learn a masechet that covers topics that are so relevant in their daily lives such as Kriyat Shema, Tefilla and Berachot.  Every Mishna is introduced with detailed sources and background in order to ensure full understanding of the material.  Written work is intended to give a solid foundation in the methods of the proper learning of Talmud and analytical skills.

 

Halacha

We cover the halachot and customs that pertain to our students’ daily lives including the laws of Shabbat and holidays.  The halachot are explained in great detail with utmost clarity bringing meaning and excitement to the observance of the halachot.  Children show pride in their heritage by sharing customs from their community.

 

Tefilla

Tefilla is very popular in our class. Various tunes are frequently introduced and we end our daily prayers with a short story or parable which greatly enhances the davening experience.  We also have a weekly Tefilla lesson where we delve into the background and reasoning behind the beautiful words and customs of prayer.

 

Lashon

New words and shorashim are introduced weekly and are tested accumulatively.  The curriculum begins with words that are commonly found in Humash or in the Siddur.  The students are encouraged to point out words in the above texts which they have already accumulated from Lashon class.  The curriculum is individualized for those who need it. It is a source of pride when students who have struggled mightily in the past are able to master over 200 words and shorashim.

 

6th grade Hebrew

 

Humash

Our in-depth course of study focuses on developing foundational skills such as basic vocabulary words and shoroshim recognition.  Classroom participation is enhanced by encouraging students to ask questions and provide answers.

We cover many Rashis, especially the ones that address questions that were raised by the students.  Appropriate visual presentations are provided to enhance the learning.

 

Parasha

The main topics and points of the parasha are covered in a stimulating fashion. Stories, parables and midrashim are presented in a way that the students are anxious to share with parents and family.  Students are encouraged to share how the parasha is associated with daily actions in their lives.  Parents appreciate the opportunity to review the parasha with their children and take pride when they see the results of the weekly parasha test.

 

Navi

We learn the basic text of Yehoshua and Shoftim.  The psukim are mostly read by the students who give a brief summary of what they read at the end of each pasuk, providing reinforcement in their kriya skills and reading comprehension.  The text provided is enhanced by beautiful footnotes which lead to stimulating classroom discussions about ethics and history from a Jewish perspective.

 

Mishna

We begin with the first book of Mishna  מסכת ברכות (masechet berachot). Students are excited to learn a masechet that covers topics that are so relevant in their daily lives such as Kriyat Shema, Tefilla and Berachot.  Every Mishna is introduced with detailed sources and background in order to ensure full understanding of the material.  Written work is intended to give a solid foundation in the methods of the proper learning of Talmud and analytical skills.

 

Halacha

We cover the halachot and customs that pertain to our students’ daily lives including the laws of Shabbat and holidays.  The halachot are explained in great detail with utmost clarity bringing meaning and excitement to the observance of the halachot.  Children show pride in their heritage by sharing customs from their community.

 

Tefilla

Tefilla is very popular in our class. Various tunes are frequently introduced and we end our daily prayers with a short story or parable which greatly enhances the davening experience.  We also have a weekly Tefilla lesson where we delve into the background and reasoning behind the beautiful words and customs of prayer.

 

Lashon

New words and shorashim are introduced weekly and are tested accumulatively.  The curriculum begins with words that are commonly found in Humash or in the Siddur.  The students are encouraged to point out words in the above texts which they have already accumulated from Lashon class.  The curriculum is individualized for those who need it. It is a source of pride when students who have struggled mightily in the past are able to master over 200 words and shorashim.

 

6th Grade General Studies 

 

 

          Our 4th graders are always very busy.  Our days are filled with math, science, social studies, vocabulary, grammar and spelling.  Whew!  These students can never say there is nothing to do.  In addition to all of that, the students choose a daily “idiom.”  Idioms are a great tool with which to learn the subtleties and the abstract nature of the English language.  By the end of the year, they’ll have their own Idiom Books bound and created by themselves.

 

          The 6th Grade encompasses many areas in math and science throughout the school year.  In math, the students begin with reviewing place value concepts with multiple digits, double and triple digit multiplication, division, decimals, algebra, fractions, geometry and much more.  We work on study skills, research and note taking in science along with many hands-on fun filled science experiments on numerous scientific concepts.  The students learn to take notes and highlight important facts. 

 

We instill not only knowledge of science but an appreciation of the intricacies of the world around us.

 

 

Language Arts

 

Our language arts program is skills-based and includes the subject areas of literature, grammar, vocabulary, spelling           and writing.  Our literature program includes reading selections  from novels, short stories, fiction, non-fiction, poems and plays.  Class discussions include responses to the context of reading units, which encourage students to move beyond literal elements, and actively engage their prior knowledge and experiences.  Finding main ideas, drawing conclusions, and understanding cause and effect help develop critical thinking and encourage understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures and human conditions.

 

 

Social Studies

          The goals and objectives of our Social Studies curriculum are to:

 

  • interpret tables, charts, maps and graphs.

  • understand different political parties.

  • participate in discussions of current events.

  • understand the far-reaching influences of ancient civilizations and different cultures, with special regard to medieval Europe.

  • examine the world-wide consequences of World War I and World War II

  • gain an understanding of the Cold War and modern times.

 

 

7th Grade

 Language Arts and Social Studies

 

English Language Arts

 

          To acquire the necessary skills in English Language Arts, students will:

 

  • read a myriad of literary pieces, including fiction and non-fiction.

  • produce skills-driven written reports and responses.

  • answer higher order thinking questions.

  • practice writing skills including syntax and vocabulary, in addition to particular attention to writing mechanics.

  • develop the ability to learn both independently and cooperatively. 

 

 

 

 

Social Studies

 

          To acquire the necessary skills in Social Studies, students will:

.

  • study American History.

  • relate the lessons of history to their own life with analytical thinking.

  • develop the ability to research using primary and secondary sources on information about different countries and cultures, with the inclusion of current events.

 

 

 

 7th Grade Hebrew Studies

 

In 7th grade we introduce the study of Talmud (Gemara) with a emphasisThe study
.ofpharses in learning key words and chumas with main Rashi is and related Medrushim help connect the

written

torah with the Or Torah.

7th and 8th grades learn Halachathat deal with power of speech. This is brought together with the famous Friday schmooze, 

lecture sharing ten people liked according to the standard of Torah

 

 

 

Seventh Grade English

 

Language Arts skills are carefully sharpened through novels, essays, literature excerpts, historical diaries, short stories, poetry and more.  Critical thinking skills are crucial at this age and for a successful high school experience. Vocabulary is not taught as a separate subject area.  On the contrary, vocabulary is organic to reading in all disciplines. Writing too, evolves naturally from all academic disciplines.

Science involves critical thinking and observations skills especially in preparation for our 8th grade fascinating dissections.

Math is very sophisticated at this point.  Practicing and reviewing personal math skills is a must for “math fluency” and “flexibility of mathematical reasoning”.   

The social studies program “incorporates geography as well as economic, social, and political trends. The course content is divided into eight Key Ideas, tracing the human experience in the United States from pre-Columbian times until the Civil War”—with some limited focus on people, events, and place in New York State, where relevant.

8th Grade

Language Arts, Literature and History

 

Language Arts

     To acquire the necessary skills in English Language Arts, students will:

  • write personal narratives, short stories, biographies, and persuasive essays using the writing process.

  • use correct grammar and spelling conventions.

  • understand plot, character develpment, story structure and symbolism.

 

 

Eighth Grade English

 

We begin with Reconstruction in our Social Studies program and we end with present day.  The 8th grade course is divided into nine Key Ideas.  The first seven begin with Reconstruction and run to the end of World War II.  The last three Key Ideas examine different themes in United States and New York State history from the post-War period up to the present day—A Changing Society, Word War I and the Roaring 20s, Foreign Policy, and Demographic Change.

Primary sources are central for understanding historical thinking and viewpoints history and historical point of view.  We read President Lincoln’s own words, the writings of the founding fathers themselves and the Constitution, interviews with Steve Jobs, and Ted Talks by individuals with their own “take” on things that matter to them.

A document-based question (DBQ), also known as data-based question, is an essay or series of short-answer questions that is constructed by students using one's own knowledge combined with support from several sources.

Communication is very important in 8th grade, both verbal and written communication—expository, persuasive, narrative, and descriptive.  Our students practice public speaking and learn to defend their own ideas and opinions.

Math is very sophisticated at this point.  Practicing and reviewing personal math skills is a must for “math fluency” and “flexibility of mathematical reasoning”.  

Science includes everything they learned from the early grades.  All that knowledge comes together as they dissect a cow’s eye, a pig’s heart and a sheep’s brain.

 

 

8th grade Hebrew

 

The 8th grade goes much more in depth with Rashi to learn the method of Talmudic thinking to develop power of reasoning. This helps '

"ALL" students relate to the ideas learned to himself to help stimulate personal growth.

8th grade has intergraded Hebrew vocabulary words and Hebrew language building skills, To help prepare them for high school.