The K-4 program will use the Virginia Foundation Blocks for Early Learning as the baseline standard for this age group. These standards address the areas of Literacy, Mathematics, Science, History and Social Science. To review the Virginia Foundation Blocks for Early Learning, visit this site.
Reading, Writing, Handwriting, Spelling – Riggs Institute & Wilson Reading Method
Student Materials: optional phonogram cards & tape
The following Riggs Institute information is taken from it’s website: The method of instruction by the Riggs Institute entitled The Writing & Spelling Road to Reading & Thinking, begins by teaching manuscript letter formation through dictated instructions (no copying or tracing), together with a sufficient set of sound/letter relationships to accommodate the Webster-Oxford collaboration that “standardized” English spelling in the early 1860′s. This spelling system is virtually unchanged after 140+ years. These phoneme/grapheme relationships are taught together as “explicit” phonics, “in isolation” (without key words, pictures or letter names) as recommended in the federal synthesis of reading research done by the nation’s leading reading professors, 1985′s Becoming a Nation of Readers (BNR).
The Wilson Method incorporates a multi-sensory approach to language learning where students learn by hearing sounds; manipulating color-coded sound; syllable and word cards; performing finger tapping exercises, writing down spoken words; reading aloud and repeating what they have read in their own words, and hearing others read as well. All skills and knowledge are reinforced through visual, auditory, kinesthetic and tactile senses.
Science & History
Students are given an opportunity to experience Science & History concepts in a hands-on interactive way. All Virginia Foundation Blocks of Early Learning are addressed in this course, which include science topics such as Force, Energy, and Motion; Matter; Living Systems, and resources as well as history topics including Good Citizenship and Community Workers.
Physical Education – Spark P.E. program
The following information is taken from the SPARK program website:
The SPARK (Sports, Play and Active Recreation for Kids) Programs began studying elementary physical education in 1989, and today, the name SPARK represents a collection of exemplary, research-based physical activity/nutrition programs. The original SPARK study was initially supported by the Heart, Lung and Blood Institute of the National Institutes of Health.
The SPARK Physical Education program is designed to encourage maximum participation during class time. Active participation and practice in a positive, non-threatening atmosphere, are the means for improving children’s physical skills, fitness, social development, and personal enjoyment.
Math – Everyday Math
Everyday Mathematics (Everyday Math, aka Chicago Math) is a K-6 curriculum developed by the University of Chicago School Mathematics Project (UCSMP) and published by Everyday Learning Corporation, now part of SRA McGraw-Hill.
This website, gives parents and teachers insight into Everyday Math’s goals as well as ideas for enhancing the curriculum. Taken from the aforementioned website are Everyday Math’s goals for all of its students:
- Real-life Problem Solving:
Everyday Mathematics emphasizes the application of mathematics to real world situations. Numbers, skills and mathematical concepts are not presented in isolation, but are linked to situations and contexts that are relevant to everyday lives. - Balanced Instruction:
Each Everyday Mathematics lesson includes time for whole-group instruction as well as small group, partner, or individual activities. These activities balance teacher-directed instruction with opportunities for open-ended, hands-on explorations, long-term projects and on-going practice. - Multiple Methods for Basic Skills Practice
- Emphasis on Communication:
Throughout the Everyday Mathematics curriculum students are encouraged to explain and discuss their mathematical thinking, in their own words.
Bible – ACSI curriculum
Student Materials: Student workbooks
Familiar Bible stories are presented which emphasize God’s love towards us and His help in our daily lives.
Music, Art, & Spanish
These three areas focus on activities which encourage students to become actively involved in the learning process.