Grade 1 Explores the Building Blocks of a Neighborhood
Grade 1 students kicked off their neighborhood unit this month by exploring two key questions: "What makes a neighborhood?" and "How are people's needs and wants met in a neighborhood?" In class, students shared what they already knew and what they were curious to learn more about.
This lesson is part of the Grade 1 social studies curriculum, which focuses on community and covers topics such as what it means to be a neighbor, how neighborhoods are planned for safety and accessibility, what essential services are needed in a community, and more.
To begin their exploration, the first graders went on a walk through the Hilltop neighborhood. With iPads in hand, they took photos of key neighborhood features like stop signs, mailboxes, fire hydrants, trash cans, parks, schools, houses, and transportation. Back in the classroom, the students sorted their photos into the categories: "Safety," "Cleanliness," "Recreation/Fun," "Buildings/Businesses," and "Other." This activity helped them understand the purpose of these elements and how they contribute to the overall function of a neighborhood.
To begin their exploration, the first graders went on a walk through the Hilltop neighborhood. With iPads in hand, they took photos of key neighborhood features like stop signs, mailboxes, fire hydrants, trash cans, parks, schools, houses, and transportation. Back in the classroom, the students sorted their photos into the categories: "Safety," "Cleanliness," "Recreation/Fun," "Buildings/Businesses," and "Other." This activity helped them understand the purpose of these elements and how they contribute to the overall function of a neighborhood.
Next, first graders took a similar walk through their own neighborhoods with their families. Afterward, they returned to school to compare and contrast their experiences, sharing what they noticed and how it differed from or matched their walk through Hilltop.
As the unit continues, students will create maps of their ideal neighborhoods based on everything they've discovered. Great job, Grade 1!
Graland Country Day School
Graland Country Day School is a private school in Denver, Colorado, serving students in preschool, kindergarten, elementary, and middle school. Founded in Denver in 1927, Graland incorporates a rich, experiential learning approach in a traditional classroom setting, emphasizing the development of globally and socially conscious leaders who excel academically.
