The approach in reading and language arts is constructed to immerse the student in a language-rich environment. Students are frequently exposed to examples of good writing, reading, speaking, and listening; students are expected to learn to use language proficiently, while making use of approximations during the learning process as a tool; students receive frequent and appropriate feedback and are engaged in real language use for real purposes through reading quality literature. The 6 + 1 Trait Writing curriculum provides a tool to clarify one’s own thinking and successfully communicate with a variety of audiences.
The Third Grade mathematics approach enables students to both demonstrate ease in using mathematics to solve everyday problems and address higher-level logical thinking. Gaining proficiency in problem solving is a priority. We place a strong emphasis on the development of self-reliance, verbal precision, and a questioning attitude about how math solutions are achieved. Students learn to use critical thinking and inductive reasoning to lead them to logical and rational decisions. Because of the importance of quantitative thought and understanding, computational skills occupy an important place in the curriculum. Students will become adept, with all computational methods – mental arithmetic, paper and pencil algorithms, and the use of the calculator and computer.
The areas of emphasis in our Social Studies curriculum are government and civics including the economics and politics of a city, Native Americans with an emphasis on The Columbian Encounter, pioneers, and states, all laid over a year-long study of our country.