English Language Arts
Spelling
Kindergarten - Sixth Grade will utilize the BJU Press Spelling curriculum. This curriculum teaches children to build words beginning with word families and working up to prefixes, suffixes, synonyms, homonyms, base words, tenses, etc. This method of spelling allows students to better generalize the spelling concepts they learn and teaches them how spelling is a part of so many other subjects. Click image to the left to visit the curriculum's website. |
Vocabulary Seventh Grade and up will utilize the Wordly Wise 3000 Vocabulary curriculum. This curriculum teaches the meanings of various words, how they are used in sentences, and how to apply what they learn about each word in writing, reading, and other subjects. Click image to the right to visit the curriculum's website. |
Phonics & Reading
Phonics and Reading are taught utilizing an eclectic teaching method. Some curricula, websites, and materials utilized are Hooked on Phonics, Abeka Phonics, Dick & Jane readers, Education.com, Teachers Pay Teachers, materials created my Mrs. Andrea, etc. We attempt to make phonics and reading as individualized as possible to ensure that each child learns in the way that is best for him or her.
Phonics and Reading are taught utilizing an eclectic teaching method. Some curricula, websites, and materials utilized are Hooked on Phonics, Abeka Phonics, Dick & Jane readers, Education.com, Teachers Pay Teachers, materials created my Mrs. Andrea, etc. We attempt to make phonics and reading as individualized as possible to ensure that each child learns in the way that is best for him or her.
Reading & Literature Reading is not always a favorite subject for children and teens, so we desire to make it as fun and relevant as possible. We try to find books that will peak the students' interests and encourage reading! Elementary students will be going through a Shakespeare study using children's versions of 13 of Shakespeare's works. We will study the various genres, metaphors, moral lessons, etc. found in each of these books. We will also study Shakespeare himself. Middle school students will be going through the Chronicles of Narnia series. We will study the various metaphors, moral lessons, and religious parallels found in each book. We will also study the author C. S. Lewis. High school literature will be more individualized. Students will have a specific genre/theme each month, and they will choose their own book (must be approved as age/level appropriate for each student) to read and study. They will also research the author and complete a research project for each book and author. |
Grammar & Writing
Grammar and writing are also not always popular subjects. In order to help students see the importance of writing, all grammar and writing projects will be pulled directly from the Gather 'Round unit studies. This allows students to write about what we are learning. They take the knowledge they gain through Gather 'Round lessons and turn it into some form of writing project. Throughout the year, students will learn important grammar concepts and will immediately begin applying what they are learning by completing the writing process for each 5 week unit. This also allows them the opportunity to demonstrate their understanding of what they are learning in a more productive way than simply answering questions on a test. |