We begin the year with a theme designed to grab the
children’s interest and one in which all can experience
success in an early reading activity. An engaging and enjoyable
theme makes for a successful transition to fi rst grade.
Continuing themes are often based on calendar events (winter
holiday traditions around the world, presidents, seasons). In
choosing themes, I also look at the school district’s fi rst grade
curriculum topics (Water Creatures and Their Environment,
Animal Families, Care of the Earth, and more). Learning
through themes responds to children’s interests and provides
opportunities to integrate multiple content areas.