Learning Areas

Primary Block

Learners in Kindergarten through Grade 2 develop many ideas before they enter the Primary Block. They are curious, and have individual interests, abilities, and needs. They possess varying histories, funds of knowledge, life experiences, and cultural and socio-economic backgrounds. Learning in the Primary Block nurtures individual interests and engagement while connecting background knowledge with new experiences. Investigating objects, events, local environment, their own physical changes, and unique characteristics is a key part of learning in this block.This may be the first time that a Primary Block learner has entered formal learning spaces and must follow a daily schedule. Primary Block learning is embedded in everyday activities, such as playing, reading, making, and storytelling. Curiosity is fostered when learners are engaged in meaningful and culturally relevant activities.

Learners in the Primary Block are:

becoming independent and making friends outside of family groups.
developing important skills in fair play and learning how to cooperate.
encountering family units and routines different from their own.
making sense of their environments through observations and interactions at home and in their communities.

Primary Block learners need:

to have their basic needs met before they are ready to learn.
validation and affection from educators and peers.
to feel safe and appreciated in order to learn.
to communicate and reason so they have the necessary resources to observe, explain ideas, and negotiate with families and friends.

Primary Block learners experience:

opportunities to practice and explore a variety of areas to nurture identity, foster learning and increase engagement.
learning collaboratively during various experiences within their households and close contacts.
collaborative learning and exploration of their interests
looking for patterns, observing using their senses, engaging in reciprocal communication, and working towards shared goals.
positive and consistent affirmation of expressed identities and needs.

Primary Learning Areas

Program Blocks

Resources

Fry Bread

This resource bundle uses Fry Bread to help students explore the significance of food in their families and communities. Students will reflect on their favorite foods, connect with the concept of a knowledge keeper, and draw parallels to the Fry Bread Lady in the story. By preparing their own fry bread and sharing its meaning, students deepen their understanding of cultural traditions and personal connections through food.

Grade 2

A Map into the World

This resource bundle, centered on the theme of identity, follows Paj Ntaub and her Hmong family as they navigate life in Minnesota after surviving the Vietnam War’s “Secret War” in Laos and years in refugee camps. Through lyrical storytelling and visuals inspired by Hmong traditional stitching, the book invites readers to explore themes of immigration, belonging, grief, and empathy. Paj Ntaub’s experiences offer a thoughtful lens into the complexities of adapting to a new home while honoring cultural heritage and connections.

Grade 2

We are Water Protectors

Students will learn about the different uses of water and the importance of protecting water sources. They will explore how pollutants enter water systems and the negative impacts of water pollution. Additionally, they will examine the connections between water, living organisms, and human communities, while recognizing the consequences of water scarcity. Finally, students will identify actions they can take to protect water, emphasizing the importance of both individual and collective responsibility.

Grade 2