{"id":84,"date":"2023-07-23T14:42:00","date_gmt":"2023-07-23T14:42:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/acdspatriots.net\/wordpress\/?page_id=84"},"modified":"2023-07-30T12:55:37","modified_gmt":"2023-07-30T16:55:37","slug":"curriculum","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/acdspatriots.net\/wordpress\/index.php\/curriculum\/","title":{"rendered":"Curriculum, Scope &#038; Sequence"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<style>#sp-ea-354 .spcollapsing { height: 0; overflow: hidden; transition-property: height;transition-duration: 300ms;}#sp-ea-354.sp-easy-accordion>.sp-ea-single {border: 1px solid #e2e2e2; }#sp-ea-354.sp-easy-accordion>.sp-ea-single>.ea-header a {color: #444;}#sp-ea-354.sp-easy-accordion>.sp-ea-single>.sp-collapse>.ea-body {background: #fff; color: #444;}#sp-ea-354.sp-easy-accordion>.sp-ea-single {background: #eee;}#sp-ea-354.sp-easy-accordion>.sp-ea-single>.ea-header a .ea-expand-icon.fa { float: left; color: #444;font-size: 16px;}<\/style><div id=\"sp_easy_accordion-1690734906\"><div id=\"sp-ea-354\" class=\"sp-ea-one sp-easy-accordion\" data-ex-icon=\"fa-minus\" data-col-icon=\"fa-plus\"  data-ea-active=\"ea-click\"  data-ea-mode=\"vertical\" data-preloader=\"\" data-scroll-active-item=\"\" data-offset-to-scroll=\"0\"><div class=\"ea-card  sp-ea-single\"><h3 class=\"ea-header\"><a class=\"collapsed\" data-sptoggle=\"spcollapse\" data-sptarget=#collapse3540 href=\"javascript:void(0)\"  aria-expanded=\"false\"><i class=\"ea-expand-icon fa fa-plus\"><\/i> EC3<\/a><\/h3><div class=\"sp-collapse spcollapse spcollapse\" id=\"collapse3540\" data-parent=#sp-ea-354><div class=\"ea-body\"><p><strong>Language Arts<\/strong>: Language objectives in Early Childhood Three include helping children learn to follow simple directions, increase their listening skills, and expand their vocabulary.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Language development depends on our ability to draw children into dramatic play, discussion\/conversation, stories, songs, and group activities.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>We teach new vocabulary words everyday in the use of stories, songs, and fingerplays.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>All of these activities are integrated across the curriculum.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Math: <\/strong>Math fun in early childhood three is everywhere!... recognizing basic shapes, counting objects, and naming numerals.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>In the three year old program, children are beginning to distinguish sizes and proportions; they are replicating simple patterns and learning calendar concepts.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>We have many developmental materials that help to teach math concepts to children and we encourage them to select and play with these manipulatives.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Science:<\/strong> The purpose of Science in the early childhood three program is to further develop the curiosity and inquisitiveness with which young children are born.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>The children are introduced to seasons and seasonal changes through exploration inside and outside of the classroom.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>They will learn about the basic needs of people, animals and plants.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>The children will learn the rudimentary rules for caring for our environment.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Hands-on activities help the children identify their five senses while learning how those senses enhance their daily lives.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>Social Studies:<\/strong> Social Studies in early childhood three promotes an awareness of the uniqueness of each individual child.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>We also explore the similarities of the children and their familial relationships.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Learning cooperative play and work with the classroom \u201cfamily\u201d of children is paramount.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Appreciating the rights of others and being accepting of suggestions and directions is an important goal.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>The children will learn new responsibilities as a member of a classroom peer group.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>They begin to understand where they fit in at Aylett Country Day School.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"ea-card  sp-ea-single\"><h3 class=\"ea-header\"><a class=\"collapsed\" data-sptoggle=\"spcollapse\" data-sptarget=#collapse3541 href=\"javascript:void(0)\"  aria-expanded=\"false\"><i class=\"ea-expand-icon fa fa-plus\"><\/i> PreK-4<\/a><\/h3><div class=\"sp-collapse spcollapse spcollapse\" id=\"collapse3541\" data-parent=#sp-ea-354><div class=\"ea-body\"><p><b>Language Arts:\u00a0<\/b>Language Arts in Pre-Kindergarten Four provides readiness activities for the areas of reading, writing, and auditory discrimination.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Development of skills is integrated across the curriculum.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>These include: following directions, increasing vocabulary and using expressive language; listening to stories, and predicting words and actions that come next in a sequence; being introduced to upper case letter names and consonant letter sounds; using crayons, scissors, and pencils in a variety of teacher directed activities, and maintaining journals<\/p>\n<p><b>Math:\u00a0<\/b>Pre-Kindergarten four mathematics provide students with a diversity of materials to explore the basic concepts of math that are used in everyday life.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Children work independently; one on one with a teacher; in small groups, with and without teacher guidance.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Mathematics is integrated across the pre-kindergarten four curriculum in thematic units.<\/p>\n<p><b>Science:\u00a0<\/b>Pre-kindergarten four science allows children to explore the basic needs of human life, animal life, and plant life.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>The children use critical thinking skills to question, compare, and contrast the needs of humans, animals, and plants with experiments, exploration, individual and small group activities, and field trips.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Science is integrated across the pre-kindergarten four curriculum in thematic units.<\/p>\n<p><b>Social Studies:\u00a0<\/b>Social studies in the pre-kindergarten four program encourages the student to become aware of his\/her place in the world as an individual, a member of family, and as a citizen of the classroom and school community.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Having a daily classroom job, being responsible for one\u2019s personal belongings, participating in the development of class rules, and accepting responsibility for one\u2019s actions prepares a student to function in a socially acceptable manner.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"ea-card  sp-ea-single\"><h3 class=\"ea-header\"><a class=\"collapsed\" data-sptoggle=\"spcollapse\" data-sptarget=#collapse3542 href=\"javascript:void(0)\"  aria-expanded=\"false\"><i class=\"ea-expand-icon fa fa-plus\"><\/i> PreK-5<\/a><\/h3><div class=\"sp-collapse spcollapse spcollapse\" id=\"collapse3542\" data-parent=#sp-ea-354><div class=\"ea-body\"><p><strong>Language Arts:<\/strong> The pre-kindergarten five language arts program encourages enthusiasm for the spoken and written word.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>The program provides activities that enhance the normal development of a young child\u2019s language and lead to the development of critical thinking and problem solving skills.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Integrated themes of study encourage the relationship between reading and writing.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Students are introduced to a variety of literature through the classroom and school.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>They are read to daily, and they participate in activities which include recalling details, sequencing events, predicting outcomes, identifying main ideas, recognizing rhyming patterns, and drawing inferences.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>The students engage in daily activities that develop fine motor control, such as an introduction to handwriting skills.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>The confidence in acquiring language readiness skills is the basis for a life of independent learning. <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>Math:<\/strong> The pre-kindergarten five mathematics program allows children the opportunity to explore mathematical concepts and skills.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Children are introduced to these concepts across the curriculum.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>The program stresses concepts of shape, pattern, ordination, one-to-one correspondence, numeral, counting, graphing, sorting, comparing, spatial reasoning and categorizing at different levels.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Teachers encourage the use of math vocabulary and problem solving techniques.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Manipulatives, teacher designed activities, the daily calendar, puzzles, and games provide a diversity of experiences for children of different ability levels.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Students are encouraged to work both cooperatively and independently.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Science:<\/strong> The pre-kindergarten five science curriculum is based on the premise that children possess a natural curiosity.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>The program allows children to explore and investigate their surroundings both inside and outside of the classroom.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Through observation, simple experiments, making nature crafts, and a variety of hand-on activities, children discover the characteristics and needs of human, plant and animal life.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>The children develop an increased awareness of an ever-changing environment as they observe both daily weather and seasonal changes.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Large and small group activities encourage communication, sharing of ideas, sorting and classifying.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Field trips reinforce and enhance learning.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>The pre-kindergarten science curriculum reinforces the value of active participation in reducing waste, pollution, and reusing materials in the world around them.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Social Studies:<\/strong> The social studies curriculum in pre-kindergarten five builds upon the child\u2019s knowledge of the world around them.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Units are integrated across the curriculum.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>These units build upon the child\u2019s understanding of himself as an individual, as a member of a family group, and as a citizen of a community.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>A positive attitude towards good citizenship is nurtured as teachers help children to understand the need for rules.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Citizenship skills are reinforced as children are encouraged to accept responsibility and consequences for their actions.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Children expand their appreciation of their heritage through the study and celebration of holidays and individuals who have directly and indirectly influenced their lives, as well as recognizing the importance of inclusion and diversity among their peers. The pre-kindergarten social studies program creates a foundation on which students can begin to acquire the attitudes and critical thinking skills the need in order to function in an ever-changing world. <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"ea-card  sp-ea-single\"><h3 class=\"ea-header\"><a class=\"collapsed\" data-sptoggle=\"spcollapse\" data-sptarget=#collapse3543 href=\"javascript:void(0)\"  aria-expanded=\"false\"><i class=\"ea-expand-icon fa fa-plus\"><\/i> Kindergarten Experience<\/a><\/h3><div class=\"sp-collapse spcollapse spcollapse\" id=\"collapse3543\" data-parent=#sp-ea-354><div class=\"ea-body\"><p><strong>Language Arts:\u00a0<\/strong>Our kindergartners are immersed in a print rich environment which encourages an appreciation for reading. Students receive explicit instruction in reading skills and strategies.\u00a0Students also develop oral language skills, phonological awareness, vocabulary and comprehension. Other skills taught include sight word vocabulary, letter recognition and formation, and spelling concepts.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Phonics instruction is based on the Orton Gillingham method which uses a multi-sensory approach. <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Throughout the year, teachers implement whole group, small group and individual instruction for guided reading and writing.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>Math:<\/strong><span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0<\/span>The kindergarten math curriculum is designed to provide students with hands-on opportunities to explore math concepts. Units taught include number sense, computation, attributes of two dimensional shapes and three dimensional figures, graphing, patterns, and measurement.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Our students discover that math is everywhere, through practical application and by applying problem solving skills.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>Social Studies<\/strong>:\u00a0The kindergarten social studies curriculum focuses on community.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Students are challenged to see their role as a citizen in both the classroom and the larger ACDS community.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>There is an emphasis on citizenship, patriotism and the importance of valuing others.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Students<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>develop an awareness of historical events and figures that have made a notable impact. <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>Science:<\/strong>\u00a0Curiosity about the child\u2019s world is expanded upon in kindergarten science through a basic study of the environment with teacher made, hands-on units.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>These units include seasons, life cycles, senses, and animal habitats. <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Students make observations, collect data, and conduct simple experiments to investigate the world around them.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"ea-card  sp-ea-single\"><h3 class=\"ea-header\"><a class=\"collapsed\" data-sptoggle=\"spcollapse\" data-sptarget=#collapse3544 href=\"javascript:void(0)\"  aria-expanded=\"false\"><i class=\"ea-expand-icon fa fa-plus\"><\/i> 1st Grade Experience<\/a><\/h3><div class=\"sp-collapse spcollapse spcollapse\" id=\"collapse3544\" data-parent=#sp-ea-354><div class=\"ea-body\"><p><strong>Language Arts:<\/strong>\u00a0In first grade, students work toward a goal of becoming independent readers and writers.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>There is an emphasis on a phonetic approach to reading using the Orton Gillingham method in conjunction with the practice of basic sight words.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Students are immersed in a literature-rich environment and encouraged to use listening and speaking skills.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Teachers use whole class, small groups, and individual instruction to strengthen fluency and build comprehension skills.<\/p>\n<p>Students work toward the goal of constructing complete sentences, using rules of capitalization and punctuation.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>The writing process is introduced as students brainstorm, create graphic organizers, and combine sentences into paragraphs.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Students are encouraged to express themselves clearly and concisely using oral presentations.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Math:\u00a0<\/strong>The first grade mathematics program is based on a foundation in basic addition and subtraction facts (0-20), number sense including place value, skip-counting by 2\u2019s, 5\u2019s, and 10\u2019s, recognition of numbers (0-200), problem solving, estimating, geometry, measurement (money, time, length, weight, volume), graphing, fractions, sorting and patterning.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Math vocabulary is introduced and emphasized.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Students are engaged through kinesthetic and interactive activities and use manipulatives to demonstrate their understanding of concepts taught.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>Science:<\/strong>\u00a0The first grade science program begins with a study of the child\u2019s everyday world and how science affects it.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Teachers build upon a child\u2019s natural curiosity about the world around them.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Students investigate by making observations, collecting data, and participating in experiments.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Topics include animals, plants, matter, Earth and space systems, cycles in nature, and natural resources.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Emphasis is placed on relationships among objects and their interactions with one another (sun and Earth, seasonal changes, and plant\/animal activities).<\/p>\n<p><strong>Social Studies:<\/strong>\u00a0The first grade social studies program introduces an awareness of one\u2019s self as an individual, family member, and citizen in a larger community. Students study holidays, symbols, traditions, famous Americans, the state of Virginia, the continents and oceans. Teachers engage<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>students<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>through the use of maps, charts, globes, and current events. <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"ea-card  sp-ea-single\"><h3 class=\"ea-header\"><a class=\"collapsed\" data-sptoggle=\"spcollapse\" data-sptarget=#collapse3545 href=\"javascript:void(0)\"  aria-expanded=\"false\"><i class=\"ea-expand-icon fa fa-plus\"><\/i> 2nd Grade Experience<\/a><\/h3><div class=\"sp-collapse spcollapse spcollapse\" id=\"collapse3545\" data-parent=#sp-ea-354><div class=\"ea-body\"><p><strong>Language Arts:<\/strong>\u00a0The second grade literacy program encourages a love for and appreciation of reading.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Students are immersed in a print rich environment and exposed to both fiction and nonfiction texts.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Teachers use a variety of methods including whole group, small group, and interactive read alouds.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Novel studies are used to improve fluency and build comprehension.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Students engage in daily journal writing and are given many opportunities to write creatively. Language concepts developed include parts of speech, types of sentences, and word tense. Each week student\u2019s focus on a different spelling feature or pattern as well as high frequency words.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Students also work on mastering legible print and begin making the transition to cursive writing.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>Math:\u00a0<\/strong>The development of mathematical concepts and basic arithmetic skills is accomplished through the use of manipulatives, technology, interactive games and classroom instruction. Students extend previously learned skills in order to deepen their understanding of number sense. Students continue to develop their problem solving skills in order to become more independent thinkers.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>The curriculum also focuses on addition and subtraction, measurement, graphs, money, time and building math vocabulary.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>Social Studies:<\/strong>\u00a0The second grade social studies curriculum focuses on the history of the United States through the study of historical figures as well as diverse ethnic origins, customs and traditions.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Emphasis is placed on the contribution of others who helped to improve the lives of the American people.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>Science:<\/strong>\u00a0A broad range of science skills are introduced through the second grade program.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Students are given opportunities to make detailed observations, draw conclusions and explore the world around them.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Units of investigation include matter, life cycles, weather patterns, and<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>plant and animal habitats.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Students collect data in order to make real world connections. These connections foster students\u2019 curiosity about the natural world. <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"ea-card  sp-ea-single\"><h3 class=\"ea-header\"><a class=\"collapsed\" data-sptoggle=\"spcollapse\" data-sptarget=#collapse3546 href=\"javascript:void(0)\"  aria-expanded=\"false\"><i class=\"ea-expand-icon fa fa-plus\"><\/i> 3rd Grade Experience<\/a><\/h3><div class=\"sp-collapse spcollapse spcollapse\" id=\"collapse3546\" data-parent=#sp-ea-354><div class=\"ea-body\"><p><strong>Language Arts:<\/strong> The third grade language arts curriculum continues to focus on developing literacy skills. In small groups, students use novel studies to strengthen fluency and comprehension, as well as expand vocabulary. The students are exposed to a variety of nonfiction and fiction texts. The classroom teacher uses the Orton Gillingham approach to build upon previous word analysis skills. The approach utilizes multisensory, sequential and systematic phonics instruction. Throughout the year, students compile a portfolio that demonstrates use of the writing process. This includes various types of writing. In addition, students have daily practice with cursive writing.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Math:<\/strong> The third grade math curriculum places an emphasis on hands-on learning, problem solving skills, and strengthening mental math. Practical scenarios are created for students to apply learned concepts and vocabulary. The curriculum focuses on multiplication and division through 10 x 10, comparing, and representing fractions and mixed numbers. In addition, students will create and solve single and multi-step word problems. Lastly, properties of geometrical shapes are explored and students will identify, combine and subdivide polygons.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Social Studies:<\/strong> The third grade social studies curriculum includes project-based learning and cross curricular instruction. It begins with an introduction to the heritage and contributions of the peoples of Ancient China, Egypt, Greece, Rome, and the West African Empire of Mali. Students continue developing world map skills as well as basic economic and civic concepts.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Science:<\/strong> The third grade science curriculum expands on content learned in previous grades. Earth science, life science, and physical science fosters students' natural curiosity and equips them with the information and tools to apply science concepts to real world problems. Students<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>engage in project-based learning, experiments, and simple investigations to apply their scientific knowledge. Topics included are animal adaptations, various ecosystems, and the water cycle.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"ea-card  sp-ea-single\"><h3 class=\"ea-header\"><a class=\"collapsed\" data-sptoggle=\"spcollapse\" data-sptarget=#collapse3547 href=\"javascript:void(0)\"  aria-expanded=\"false\"><i class=\"ea-expand-icon fa fa-plus\"><\/i> 4th Grade Experience<\/a><\/h3><div class=\"sp-collapse spcollapse spcollapse\" id=\"collapse3547\" data-parent=#sp-ea-354><div class=\"ea-body\"><p><strong>Language Arts:<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><em>Reading:<\/em> Students in the fourth grade read a variety of novels designed to strengthen student\u2019s fluency and comprehension skills, while fostering a love of literature. Inquiry-based instruction in whole-group and small-group settings is student-centered and discussion-based. Students learn to: recognize features of a variety of literary genres; identify examples of figurative language; and apply higher-level thinking skills such as inferring, predicting, analyzing, and synthesizing information from the written text.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><em>Writing: <\/em>The fourth grade writing curriculum focuses on effective oral and written communication skills.Teachers focus on elements of effective writing including: pre-writing, drafting, editing and proofreading.Students learn to craft well written paragraphs that include a topic sentence and supporting details. Oral communication skills are strengthened through opportunities to present information in a clear, concise manner.<\/li>\n<li><em>Word Study: <\/em>Spelling and vocabulary concepts are taught throughout the year to improve writing structure and clarity. Students broaden their vocabulary using the Wordly Wise program. This program focuses on things such as multiple meanings, word tense, root words, prefixes, and suffixes. Students are challenged weekly with spelling words that focus on a different spelling feature or pattern.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Math:<\/strong> The 4th grade math curriculum focuses on mental math, computational fluency, real-world problem-solving, and logical reasoning skills. In addition to place value and basic operations with whole numbers, fractions, numerical patterns, data analysis, and probability are studied extensively using a variety of instructional methods, manipulatives, and hands-on activities.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Science:<\/strong> The fourth grade science curriculum aims to foster and enhance students\u2019 knowledge and curiosity about the physical and natural world. Students will experience three different science domains; physical science, life science, and earth and space science.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Students work independently, in small groups, and in large groups to use the scientific method as a means to explore new concepts. Teachers encourage students to ask questions, apply prior knowledge, and to use problem-solving skills learned in other disciplines to learn more about the world in which they live.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>Social Studies:<\/strong> Through a range of sources and mediums, fourth graders learn about Virginia\u2019s geography, economy, government, and history from the time of her early Native American inhabitants to the first European settlement, to the post-Civil War Era. Instruction is designed to provoke thoughtful analysis and contextual understanding of Virginia's history, cultures, features, and peoples from a range of diverse perspectives.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"ea-card  sp-ea-single\"><h3 class=\"ea-header\"><a class=\"collapsed\" data-sptoggle=\"spcollapse\" data-sptarget=#collapse3548 href=\"javascript:void(0)\"  aria-expanded=\"false\"><i class=\"ea-expand-icon fa fa-plus\"><\/i> 5th Grade Experience<\/a><\/h3><div class=\"sp-collapse spcollapse spcollapse\" id=\"collapse3548\" data-parent=#sp-ea-354><div class=\"ea-body\"><p><strong>Language Arts:\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><em>Reading:<\/em> The fifth grade reading curriculum includes explicit instruction in reading skills and strategies.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Skills included, but not limited to, are main idea, theme, summarizing, inferencing, comparing and contrasting, and cause and effect.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Teachers use small group instruction based on a student\u2019s instructional reading level.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Novel studies are used to improve fluency and build comprehension. <span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0<\/span>This provides students an opportunity to expand their vocabulary and demonstrate comprehension of both fiction and nonfiction texts.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Achieve 3000 is used as an ongoing assessment tool to determine a student\u2019s Lexile level and target individual learning goals.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Cross curricular projects are used as another tool to enhance background knowledge and improve reading skills.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><em>Writing:<\/em> The writing program is designed to improve both written and oral communication skills. Written skills are developed through the steps of the writing process which includes brainstorming, drafting, revising, editing and publishing. Grammar and mechanics are improved by focusing on specific writing techniques each month. Students use various writing styles such as narrative, poetry, descriptive, and expository. Oral communication skills are strengthened through demonstrating comprehension of a research topic by presenting the research to others.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Presentation styles include speeches, slide shows, and interviews.<\/li>\n<li><em>Word Study:<\/em> Spelling and vocabulary concepts are taught throughout the year to improve writing structure and clarity.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Each week students focus on a different spelling feature or pattern.\u00a0Students broaden their vocabulary skills using the Wordly Wise program.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>This program focuses on things such as multiple meanings, word tense, root words, prefixes, and suffixes.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Math:<\/strong> The fifth grade math curriculum encourages students to be independent thinkers and apply problem solving strategies to real life situations.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Teachers use a hands-on approach to make connections.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>This includes using modeling, representations, and various math tools to enhance understanding.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Students extend their knowledge of whole numbers through order of operations and problem solving with all operations.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>The relationship between fractions and decimals is examined.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Students also explore computation and estimation using fractions and decimals. A unit of measurement focuses on area, perimeter, volume and metric conversions.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Students build on previous knowledge to develop a deeper understanding of geometry.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Students will collect and analyze data with statistical measures of mean, median, mode and range as well as create and analyze graphs.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Social Studies:<\/strong> The fifth grade social studies curriculum focuses on US Geography.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Students extend their knowledge of map skills.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Physical features throughout the five regions are explored such as natural resources, bodies of water, mountains, landmarks and attractions. Students compare and contrast the geographical features and climate of the five regions.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>A culminating \u201cNational Park Road Trip\u201d project involves planning a trip across the country to visit national parks.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Students will choose parks and plan all aspects of the journey.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>This allows students to demonstrate their knowledge of the history, culture and nature of that region.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Science:<\/strong> The fifth grade science curriculum is designed to encourage students\u2019 curiosity of the physical and natural sciences while providing them with tools and information designed to foster interest and to promote stewardship. Students are challenged to think critically and creatively and to apply skills and concepts learned in other disciplines to the scientific world.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Students explore topics such as force, motion, energy, matter and earth\u2019s resources and constant changes.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"ea-card  sp-ea-single\"><h3 class=\"ea-header\"><a class=\"collapsed\" data-sptoggle=\"spcollapse\" data-sptarget=#collapse3549 href=\"javascript:void(0)\"  aria-expanded=\"false\"><i class=\"ea-expand-icon fa fa-plus\"><\/i> Middle School English<\/a><\/h3><div class=\"sp-collapse spcollapse spcollapse\" id=\"collapse3549\" data-parent=#sp-ea-354><div class=\"ea-body\"><p>Middle School English concentrates on the following areas: literature, grammar-usage and mechanics, vocabulary, and writing. Because writing is a life-loong activity and because writing calls to play the use of many skills and concepts (main idea, details support, logical organization, critical thinking) different forms of it (descriptive, expository, narrative, creative) are practiced and honed throughout the year.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p>A major emphasis is placed on grammar - \u201cthe basics\u201d. Because the student will write more and more as the year progresses, it is essential that he has a solid foundation on which to build and create.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>Sixth Grade Literature:\u00a0<\/strong>An active reader, the student will identify and explain: character, setting, plot, conflict, theme, mood, perspective - as well as predict, infer, analyze, summarize, and evaluate. Reading materials will include a variety of literary excerpts, short stories, folklore, poetry, non-fiction, and works such as Pawana\u2019s Journey and The Watsons Go to Birmingham - 1963.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>Seventh Grade Literature:\u00a0<\/strong>The seventh grade literature curriculum is designed to be a transitional course between the sixth grade introduction to literature and the more challenging eight grace course. Seventh graders focus on reading for details and writing about the literature. They become familiar with a list of literary terms that are their \u201ctools\u201d for analyzing the genres. Students participate in class discussion, group work, and opportunities to share reading through \u201cbook talks\u201d. Students learn to fine-tune their written responses by using pre-writing strategies and a paragraph model that can be useful in essay writing across the curriculum. They are also introduced to reading strategies such as highlighting and annotating for improved comprehension.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>Eighth Grade Literature:<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0<\/span><\/strong>The eighth grade literature curriculum is a survey course that is designed to prepare the eighth grade student for the more in-depth study found in a high school curriculum. It is taught as a separate class from the English class in order to give the students an intense course in analyzing and interpreting literary works. Students read and analyze short stories, mysteries, classical literature, and the novel. Students hone their skills in highlighting and annotating to ensure upper level comprehension. Student led book discussions are a focus of the program.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"ea-card  sp-ea-single\"><h3 class=\"ea-header\"><a class=\"collapsed\" data-sptoggle=\"spcollapse\" data-sptarget=#collapse35410 href=\"javascript:void(0)\"  aria-expanded=\"false\"><i class=\"ea-expand-icon fa fa-plus\"><\/i> Middle School Math<\/a><\/h3><div class=\"sp-collapse spcollapse spcollapse\" id=\"collapse35410\" data-parent=#sp-ea-354><div class=\"ea-body\"><p><strong>Math 6\/7:<\/strong> This is a course in basic operations, decimals, fractions, percent, solving equations, problem-solving, number theory, geometry, and measurement.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>It is taught using a sixth grade level textbook where it is highly structured for students to master basic mathematical skills and given an introduction to algebraic concepts.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Students who complete the course will take Pre-Algebra in the next level.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Pre-Algebra:<\/strong> The Pre-Algebra math curriculum continues to emphasize the foundations of algebra.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Students who successfully complete Pre-Algebra should be prepared to study Algebra I in the next level.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Topics in Pre-Algebra include proportional reasoning, integer computation, solving multi-step linear equations, and recognizing different representations for relationships.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Students will apply the properties of real numbers in solving equations, solve inequalities, and use data analysis techniques to make inferences, conjectures, and predictions.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>Algebra I:<\/strong> If students excel in Pre-Algebra, they can be placed in the accelerated Algebra I course.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>The course will cover topics in linear equations and inequalities, systems of linear equations and inequalities, solving and graphing quadratic equations and inequalities, simplifying radical expressions, and reviewing geometric applications.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Students should be helped to make connections and build relationships between algebra and arithmetic, geometry, and probability and statistics.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Connections also should be made to other subject areas through practical applications. Students who successfully complete this course can advance to Geometry or Algebra II in ninth grade.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Geometry:<\/strong> This class is the final course on the accelerated math program in the middle school if students have successfully completed Algebra I in the 7th grade.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>The course includes, among other things, properties of geometric figures, trigonometric relationships, and reasoning to justify conclusions.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Methods of justification will include two column proofs, indirect proofs, coordinate proofs, algebraic methods, and verbal agreements.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>A gradual development of formal proof will be encouraged.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Inductive and intuitive approaches to proof as well as deductive axiomatic methods should be used.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>The curriculum includes emphasis on two and three dimensional reasoning skills, coordinate and transformational geometry, and the use of geometric models to solve problems.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>A variety of applications and some general problem-solving techniques, including algebraic skills, should be used to implement those standards.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Calculators, computers, graphing utilities (graphing calculators or computer graphing simulators), dynamic geometry software, and other appropriate technology tools will be used to assist in teaching and learning<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"ea-card  sp-ea-single\"><h3 class=\"ea-header\"><a class=\"collapsed\" data-sptoggle=\"spcollapse\" data-sptarget=#collapse35411 href=\"javascript:void(0)\"  aria-expanded=\"false\"><i class=\"ea-expand-icon fa fa-plus\"><\/i> Middle School Science<\/a><\/h3><div class=\"sp-collapse spcollapse spcollapse\" id=\"collapse35411\" data-parent=#sp-ea-354><div class=\"ea-body\"><p><strong>6th Grade:<\/strong>\u00a0This course covers basic principles and concepts of life science, physical science, and earth science in a way that corresponds with different learning styles.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>This includes, wherever possible, words, hands-on, minds-on, visual experiences, and applications in an effort to provide an opportunity for students to learn <i>their<\/i> way.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>It includes a strong emphasis on experimental design and incorporates writing, research, and a field trip.<\/p>\n<p><strong>7th Grade:<\/strong>\u00a0This is an in-depth course in life science that continues to build cognitive, laboratory, and research skills acquired in sixth grade.<\/p>\n<p><strong>8th Grade:\u00a0<\/strong>The eighth grade physical science course offers the students a chance to learn about the laws that govern our physical world.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>The students learn to make observations, hypotheses, and conclusions based on experiments.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>This course draws on mathematical concepts and gives the student some real-world applications for the math they have learned.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Special group and individual projects give the students opportunities to discover basic theories of physics and chemistry.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"ea-card  sp-ea-single\"><h3 class=\"ea-header\"><a class=\"collapsed\" data-sptoggle=\"spcollapse\" data-sptarget=#collapse35412 href=\"javascript:void(0)\"  aria-expanded=\"false\"><i class=\"ea-expand-icon fa fa-plus\"><\/i> Middle School Social Studies<\/a><\/h3><div class=\"sp-collapse spcollapse spcollapse\" id=\"collapse35412\" data-parent=#sp-ea-354><div class=\"ea-body\"><p><b>6th Grade:\u00a0<\/b>The sixth grade social studies program is a study of the first half of United States history. The course begins with the migration of native peoples and continues through the Jeffersonian era. In addition, a unit on the American Civil Rights Era is completed in January or February, to coincide with the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday and\/or Black History Month. Each unit is viewed from political, economic, and social perspectives and includes concepts of geography and civics. The history of the US is explored through a chronological and thematic approach, and integrates social studies and critical thinking skills. Ongoing attention is given to current events.<\/p>\n<p><b>7th Grade:<\/b>The seventh grade social studies program is a survey of United States history from political, economic and social perspectives. Beginning with a study of the Jacksonian Era, the course covers units such as westward expansion, the American North and South, and new social movements, including abolition, women\u2019s rights, and immigration. The course concludes with an examination of the American Civil War. Each unit is viewed from political, economic, and social perspectives and includes concepts of geography and civics. The history of the US is explored through a chronological and thematic approach and integrates social studies and critical thinking skills. Ongoing attention is given to current events.<\/p>\n<p><b>8th Grade:\u00a0<\/b>The eighth grade course covers the study of Civics. Students learn and analyze principles of the United States\u2019 constitutional democracy with a focus on the history and creation of our government. Topics include respect for the rule of law, civic duty, and political tolerance. Geography and\/or current events are given ample focus in conjunction with each unit to show relationships between past and present and to shed light on current world issues. Students are continuously challenged to use problem-solving and decision-making skills during the learning process.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"ea-card  sp-ea-single\"><h3 class=\"ea-header\"><a class=\"collapsed\" data-sptoggle=\"spcollapse\" data-sptarget=#collapse35413 href=\"javascript:void(0)\"  aria-expanded=\"false\"><i class=\"ea-expand-icon fa fa-plus\"><\/i> Middle School Spanish<\/a><\/h3><div class=\"sp-collapse spcollapse spcollapse\" id=\"collapse35413\" data-parent=#sp-ea-354><div class=\"ea-body\"><p><b>6th Grade:<\/b><i> <\/i>The sixth grade Spanish focuses on basic, everyday vocabulary and phrases appropriate to age and grade level. Thematic units based on topics such as the school classroom, places in the community, animals, seasons, holidays, and weather are used to introduce concepts. Students learn vocabulary, conversational elements, simple grammar, and points of cultural interest.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>7th Grade:<\/b>The seventh grade Spanish class is the first half of the high school-level Spanish I course.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Through successful completion of both seventh and eighth grade Spanish, the student has the opportunity to earn highschool credit.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Thematic units are used to introduce vocabulary, grammar, and culture. The course offers an oral, auditory, reading, and written language study. Points of cultural interest increase awareness of cultural differences.<\/p>\n<p><b>8th Grade:<\/b>\u00a0The eighth grade Spanish class is the second half of the high school course, Spanish I.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Through successful completion of both seventh and eighth grade Spanish, the student earns high school credit.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>The course offers immersion into a complete oral, aural, reading and writing language study.<span class=\"Apple-converted-space\">\u00a0 <\/span>Points of cultural interest increase awareness of cultural differences.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"","ast-site-content-layout":"","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"default","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"ast-content-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-84","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/acdspatriots.net\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/84","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/acdspatriots.net\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/acdspatriots.net\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/acdspatriots.net\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/acdspatriots.net\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=84"}],"version-history":[{"count":8,"href":"https:\/\/acdspatriots.net\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/84\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":357,"href":"https:\/\/acdspatriots.net\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/84\/revisions\/357"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/acdspatriots.net\/wordpress\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=84"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}