|
|
|
Subject Areas
Communication
Oral language is the foundation for reading and writing development. Oral, visual, and technological communication is developed through conversations, discussions, presentations, performances, and visual representations to connect reading, writing, and word study in a variety of forms.
Language Arts
All language processes are interrelated, interdependent, and reciprocal. One area of language has impact in another by supporting, reinforcing, and enriching existing concepts. A balanced literacy program includes direct instruction of reading, word study strategies, and writing. The goal of a sound literacy program is to weave these processes together providing the students with the skills to interpret, analyze, and communicate information and thoughts.
Reading
Reading is an essential and personal art; as well as a set of skills. The abilities to understand the implications of the text, and its style and meaning, constitute the true art of reading. Learning to read is not an end in itself, but rather, a beginning. To a large extent, all other learning is dependent on the ability to comprehend what is read.
Vocabulary
Vocabulary is integral to reading. An important part of comprehending is quick, fluent access to word meanings. Every word has a social history that attaches meaning to it.
Vocabulary development is enhanced through active involvement via teacher directed and independent activities. Repetition, relevance, and use of visual imagery are the key components of this development.
A combined definition and contextual approach that is integrated through conceptual relationships and prior background knowledge is essential for meaningful processing.
Spelling
Spelling is developmental in nature and interrelated with all strands of language arts. Direct instruction in a systematic process with frequent practice through active engagement is important. Specific spelling strategies implemented via a positive, thoughtful attitude, assist in application to new words in any context, and are the basis for learning how to spell instead how to memorize.
Writing
Effective writers conceptualize a message, story, or topic, and express it in language that is used with clarity and voice to communicate meaning. The ability to write for different purposes and different audiences with appropriately organized text structure and word choice is essential for effective written communication. By organizing a student's thoughts into a cohesive plan the students are then able to generate a variety of writing that exhibits these traits and communicates the student's ideas.
Social Studies
Social studies is the study of people relating to and interacting with other people in a variety of past and present situations. Facts, concepts, and generalizations are utilized to promote and maintain informed and responsible citizens. This is accomplished through study of political systems, geography, economics, cultures, current events, and history. Through a respectful balance of multiple perspectives, natural and cultural environments are compared and contrasted.
Mathematics
Mathematics involves comprehending information, estimating, mentally and graphically calculating, and developing a sense of measurement and spatial relationships. Knowing when, how, and why to utilize certain skills and strategies is essential to developing mathematical reasoning ability.
Students need to be able to deal with mathematical situations in their lives with assurance, competence, and accuracy. Real life problem solving engages students in a process that encourages students in the exploration and application of developing mathematical knowledge.
Learning transitions from concrete to abstract over time and as the developmental stage of the child increases. Working within a child's knowledge base, interest level, and developmental stage ensures that an appropriate fundamental understanding is used to support more abstract learning and concepts.
Science
From a very early age, children interact with their environment, ask questions, and seek ways to answer questions. Scientific inquiry is a way in which to study the natural world and propose explanations based on evidence. It includes activities through which students develop knowledge and understanding of scientific ideas, as well as an understanding of how scientists study the natural world. Understanding is significantly enhanced when ideas are anchored to inquiry-based experiences.
Knowledge, understanding, and an appreciation of people who have contributed to the development of science build an awareness of historical and cultural contributions. Through these venues, students grow to use scientific processes and principles to make decisions, engage intelligently in public debates regarding the environment, economy, and individuals in society.
Spanish Language and Culture
In order to learn a language students need to understand the culture. Music, cooking, art and lots of creativity are used to give students a unique experience as a basis for understanding the Spanish language.
Music
Music is an applied art form using ideas, techniques, and problem solving in the creative process of analysis and performance. Activities are used to introduce, apply, and extend the concepts using a kinesthetic style of learning. Students engage music theory through their interpretation of a variety of musical genres.
Art
An exploration of the various forms of art and the techniques used to give each form its uniqueness. Students also express ideas, moods and feelings through art and evaluate how well a work of art expresses one’s intent. In addition, students begin to understand how art can reflect the environment and personal experiences within a society or culture, and apply to one's own culture.
Physical Wellness
Physical Wellness activities are taught as five week block units using community facilities and qualified community members. Swimming lessons at the McMinnville Aquatic Center, ballet at Marchant Dance Studio, and personal fitness are an integral part of our Physical Wellness program.
|
|
 |
