INTEGRATED THEMATIC CURRICULUM
The Learning First curriculum follows a Thematic Integrated Approach to learning.
This approach allows for learning to take place in a seamless manner without being
bound by compartments of subjects. It allows literacy to grow progressively, with
vocabulary linked and with spelling and sentence writing being frequently, yet
smoothly, reinforced. It guides connected ideas to follow on easily.
It is, after all, how we, as adults, learn new things. Don’t we start at a point of interest
and branch out from it like ripples from a stone thrown in the water? Research has
shown that this greatly enhances learning because it integrates different intelligences
and topics into a single lesson which mirrors how children actually learn. It
meaningfully links different disciplines so that students can develop deeper
knowledge about a few ‘big ideas’ rather than a superficial knowledge of several
topics learnt in isolation.
A common theme keeps students focused on a broad concept while touching on
specific knowledge and skills throughout. Thematic units, very simply, integrates
content areas in a way that makes sense to children and helps them establish
connections of the knowledge they acquire and apply it in a meaningful way. Themes
chosen are those which are very close to children and with which they can easily
relate to. It provides ample opportunities for the child to explore, read, write, apply
and construct learning.
A complete phonics program is introduced in these classes so that children learn the
language by getting familiar with the rules governing it. This program takes care of all
kinds of learners---be it kinaesthetic, visual or auditory so that all the students benefit
from it