Elementary curriculum

Art of Problem Solving Math offers a comprehensive online self-paced mathematics program for elementary students in grades K through 5, laying the groundwork for mathematical proficiency.

Entering the realm of Art of Problem Solving leads to a world of mathematical exploration that allows students to navigate concepts at their own pace. Supported by over 1000 instructional videos and real-time assessments, students receive immediate feedback and comprehensive solutions.

Intriguing narratives captivate students as they tackle complex challenges. Complete Practice Books are available for flexible exploration, allowing students to delve into sections at their leisure or swiftly navigate to relevant sections while honing their skills.

The program diverges from conventional elementary math programs by fostering deep problem-solving and logical reasoning, nurturing a profound understanding that transcends rote memorization of procedures and formulas, and encouraging creativity and innovative thinking.

Detailed reporting enables easy tracking of student progress, facilitating tailored learning experiences. Employing an app-based educational approach grants our Guides the time to connect authentically with students and provide one-on-one support as needed.

Reading, Spelling, Vocabulary:

Adaptive online spelling, vocabulary, and language arts programs such as Lexia (for literacy, grammar, and spelling) and Typing Club allow learners to progress through literary skills at their own pace, moving from Level 1 to Level 5 during their Elementary Journey.

We are a reading community. Alone and together, stories are shared each day. Young learners absorb the truth that learning to read brings joy, freedom, and power.

Drop Everything And Read (DEAR) builds on the culture of sharing stories and is a ritual based in the ES studio as much as it is a learning experience.

Writing / Communication:

Writing is taught through:

1) the self-paced Writing A-Z comprehensive program, which includes both online work and hands-on activities, and

2) hands-on Writer’s Workshops and Comms curriculum developed by Acton Academy and delivered by our Guide.

We utilize the Berean Builders' Science Curriculum for grades K through 6, which employs a historical perspective to teach science. This method breathes life into learning! By following the footsteps of great scientists throughout history, students encounter science concepts in the sequence of their discovery, all the while being reminded of the Creator behind the marvels they explore.

Unlike the conventional topical approach, where students focus on one aspect of science at a time (such as weather) before moving on to another topic, Berean Builders’ five-volume Science Through HiStory series takes a different route, guiding students through a chronological exploration of science.

Through this approach, students delve into the progression of scientific discovery, leading to frequent changes in topics. For instance, within the initial 15 lessons of Science in the Ancient World, students delve into diverse subjects like measurement, fire, music, atoms, and medicine. Despite the variety, the unifying factor lies in the historical context and the evolving nature of scientific inquiry.

Why opt for a chronological approach to teaching science? Here are three compelling reasons:

1. Students gain insight into the significant role Christianity played in the development of science. Contrary to common misconceptions, Christianity has been pivotal in shaping the scientific landscape. Through observing the historical trajectory of science, students come to realize this fundamental truth.

2. Students acquire a realistic understanding of the scientific process. Science primarily involves trial and error, with each mistake serving as a stepping stone towards greater understanding. Unlike brief overviews provided in other curricula, our approach offers detailed accounts of scientific evolution, allowing students to witness the progression of ideas firsthand.

3. Enhanced retention through regular review. By revisiting science topics within a narrative framework, students engage with the material repeatedly, albeit from different perspectives. This narrative-driven method not only makes science more captivating but also ensures longer-lasting retention compared to the topical approach.

The purpose of History/Civilization (“Civ”) in the Elementary Studio (ES) is to:

• Spark a deep curiosity about the history of the world, the human experience, and geography.

• Help build a basic framework for time periods, significant events in history, and cycles within the human experience in order to make connections from the past to the present and predictions for the future.

• Discover heroes and “get in their shoes” to experience decision-making during challenging situations.

• Practice Socratic Discussion skills and Rules of Engagement with diligence and intention.

• Have fun while learning alongside fellow travelers.

The Big Questions

The big questions asked repeatedly over years in ES:

• Who are the heroes?

• What tough choices did they make?

• How did families like yours live, learn, and play in this time period?

• What did the families eat and wear in this time period?

Curriculum

We teach using The Story of the World curriculum, a four-volume series covering all of human history, with each book focusing on a different time period and place to help students understand the past better. It's designed to make learning history and geography enjoyable. Additionally, as a bonus, students complete Continent Portfolios toward the end of the school year, selecting a continent to research, study, and then present their findings to their parents during the final exhibition.

Learning about the Bible shouldn't be dull or challenging. It should be enjoyable, stimulating, and leave your children eager for more. That's why our students both adore and genuinely benefit from our Self-Paced Bible curriculum, developed by Veritas Press. This curriculum offers automated grading, captivating games, and engaging videos featuring animated biblical figures. It follows a chronological timeline of historical events, promoting interactive learning experiences. This curriculum has received accolades, incorporates music to aid memorization, and appeals to multiple senses.

Designed for students in grades 2 through 6, our self-paced Bible curriculum equips them with the tools and knowledge to establish a solid foundation in their faith. For Pre-Kindergarten through 1st grade, we offer Bible stories and other Christian literature.

Additionally, weekly gatherings bring our families together for fellowship, where we reinforce biblical truths, nurture character development, and foster worship through shared meals.