Wildfire Prevention Conducting School Programs Guide - National ...

Primary grades
(Kindergarten through second grade)
What you should know
Children in the primary grades (kindergarten through second grade)
are usually active 5- to 7 -year-olds. They are alert, keen observers
with vivid imaginations. They learn best by participating and being
involved in activities with their hands, feet, and body.
The primary-grade child is a pretender and imitator who is easily
influenced by the behavior of adults. The image that is portrayed can
make a lasting impression on him or her.
Attention spans among age groups vary considerably. Plan the
program length, class size and course content accordingly. Do not try
to present too many ideas at one time. Use one or two simple themes.
Kindergarten and first-grade children require short, easy lessons no
longer than 10 to 15 minutes in length. Second graders may accept an
interesting, well-illustrated program of no longer than 25 minutes.
Indoor programs should never go beyond one school period for any
primary class.
The ideal group size is 20 to 30 children. This should be the rule for
kindergarten and first grade. Sometimes, to accommodate tight school
schedules, it may be necessary to combine classes. However, avoid
mixing grade levels if possible.
The language used must be appropriate to the age level being taught.
A 7-year-old second grader can grasp the meaning of some words that
are foreign to the 5-year-old kindergarten student.
Observe the children when speaking. If they do not understand a
concept, try using different words or relate an example in another
way.
8 – Primary Grades CONDUCTING SCHOOL PROGRAMS –GUIDE