Unit of Work - Starting school

Literacy, Numeracy, Science

Subjects covered	Activities	Resources	Differentiation
Literacy	Reading storybooks about starting school Writing and drawing about their first day of school Playing letter recognition games	Storybooks about starting school Pencils, crayons, and paper Letter recognition games	Provide additional support for struggling readers Offer extension activities for advanced readers Use visual aids for letter recognition games
Numeracy	Counting and sorting school supplies Matching numbers to quantities Creating number patterns	School supplies (e.g., pencils, erasers, crayons) Number cards Pattern blocks	Provide manipulatives for counting and sorting Offer different levels of difficulty in number matching activities Encourage students to create their own number patterns
Science	Exploring different materials used in school Observing changes in the environment during the school day Investigating the properties of water	Various school materials (e.g., paper, glue, scissors) Weather chart Water containers and objects to test floating/sinking	Provide hands-on experiences with different materials Encourage students to make observations and record findings Offer additional guidance for conducting investigations

Arts Subjects

Subjects covered	Activities	Resources	Differentiation
Visual Arts	Create self-portraits using pencils, crayons, and paper Make collages with pictures of their families and friends Paint pictures of their favorite things about school	Pencils, crayons, and paper Pictures of family and friends Paints and brushes	Provide different levels of support based on individual abilities Encourage creativity and self-expression Offer a variety of materials to cater to different preferences
Music	Sing songs about starting school Play simple rhythm instruments to accompany songs Create a class song about their first day	Lyrics of school-related songs Rhythm instruments (e.g., tambourines, shakers)	Provide visual aids with song lyrics for visual learners Offer a range of instruments for students to choose from Adapt songs and activities for students with different abilities
Drama	Act out scenarios of their first day at school Create a small play about starting school Improvise dialogues between students and their teachers	Props and costumes (e.g., school bags, uniforms) Role-play materials (e.g., puppets, masks)	Provide clear instructions and prompts for students with different language abilities Allow students to choose their roles based on their interests Support students in developing confidence and creativity through drama
Dance	Create simple movements and gestures to represent starting school Learn a basic dance routine to a school-themed song Explore different ways of moving to express emotions related to starting school	Open space for movement activities Music with a school-related theme	Provide visual demonstrations and step-by-step instructions for students Allow students to adapt movements to their own abilities Encourage students to express their own ideas and emotions through movement

Station Ideas

Stations for Starting School:

Role-play area with school uniforms, backpacks, and pretend school supplies
Reading corner with books about starting school
Writing table with pencils, crayons, and paper for practicing writing their names
Art station for creating drawings or paintings of their first day of school
Mathematics station with counting blocks and number puzzles
Sensory table filled with different textures and materials to explore
Science area with magnifying glasses and objects to examine, like leaves or insects
Dramatic play corner with a toy kitchen and dolls for acting out school scenarios
Block area with building blocks to construct a school or classroom
Gross motor skills station with hula hoops, balls, and jump ropes for physical activity
Music station with musical instruments for singing and dancing activities
Computer station with age-appropriate educational games and activities

Story Time

Once Upon a Time at School

It was a sunny morning in the little town of Storyville. The birds were chirping, and the flowers were blooming. It was a special day because it was the first day of school for all the children.

In a cozy classroom, the teacher, Miss Lily, was excitedly waiting for her new students to arrive. She had decorated the room with colorful balloons and had placed a big welcome sign on the door.

As the children entered the classroom, they saw their names written on little desks. There was Tommy, Emma, Mia, James, and many other boys and girls. They were all a little nervous but also very excited.

Miss Lily gathered all the children around and said, "Welcome, my little friends! Today is a special day because we are starting our amazing journey of learning. We will have so much fun together!"

The children smiled and looked at each other. They were happy to be in this new place with new friends.

Miss Lily showed the children different areas of the classroom. There was a cozy reading corner with lots of books, a colorful art station with paints and brushes, and a play area with lots of toys.

Tommy was excited about the art station. He loved painting and creating things. Emma loved the reading corner and couldn't wait to explore the magical world of books. Mia was excited about the play area and couldn't wait to make new friends.

Once everyone had settled in, Miss Lily began the day by reading a wonderful story about a little bunny who loved going to school.

After the story, Miss Lily gathered the children in a circle and they played a fun game to get to know each other. They took turns saying their names and something they loved to do.

Tommy said, "My name is Tommy, and I love painting!"

Emma said, "My name is Emma, and I love reading!"

Mia said, "My name is Mia, and I love making new friends!"

Everyone clapped and smiled. They were starting to feel more comfortable and happy.

Throughout the day, the children had different activities. They learned to write their names, draw pictures, and sing songs. They laughed and played together.

At lunchtime, all the children sat together and shared their delicious snacks. They talked and giggled, and soon they felt like they had known each other forever.

As the day came to an end, Miss Lily gathered the children one last time. She said, "My dear little friends, today was a wonderful day. We laughed, played, and learned together. I am so proud of all of you."

The children smiled and hugged each other. They couldn't wait for the next day of school.

And so, in the little town of Storyville, the children began their journey of learning, friendship, and lots of fun!