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Back to Curriculum Guide |
Lower School
First Grade It is in the first grade that a child learns to read and apply reading and language skills across the curriculum. Numbers take on more concrete value through both the use of manipulatives and pencil/paper activities. The main integrated theme of first grade is community. Students study their individual family’s heritage, and then move into a study of how a community develops and what is required to form a community. Students in first grade take field trips specifically designed to coordinate with the curriculum. Destinations include places of interest in the local community, Alliance Theatre, Fox Theatre, Center for Puppetry Arts, and the Shenandoah Science Center. Language Arts The language arts program for first grade builds independent reading through balanced instruction in phonics, literature, and writing. Direct phonics instruction encourages the development of sound and spelling knowledge through a variety of multisensory activities and components. Open Court Collections for Young Scholars offers an anthology of award winning literature and nonfiction selections for the beginning reader. Chapter books and other trade books supplement the program as the student’s readiness warrants. The skills addressed at this level include: •print awareness •reading strategies •elaboration through description, providing specific facts •identifying genres – expository text, fable, fairy tale, fantasy, folk tale, play/drama, poetry, realistic fiction •indicators of place/location and time/order •setting •understanding headings and captions •capitalization •complete and incomplete sentences •end punctuation •kinds of sentences •possessive nouns •writing and punctuating dialogue •phonics and decoding •vocabulary •compound words •homophones •synonyms and antonyms •contractions •alphabetical order •parts of a book – culminating in publishing student writing for an Author’s Tea •journal writing Math First graders learn mathematics through a combination of manipulatives and practical lessons that seek to relate math to real world experiences. Student proficiency with addition and subtraction math facts to 18 is a goal. Math Their Way concepts are used with manipulative instruction. The following skills are part of first grade mathematical instruction:•one-to-one correspondence •fact families •numbers through 100 •two-digit addition and subtraction •place value •geometry •estimation •patterns •word problems •money values to a dollar •time to the ½ hour •calendar •graphing •word problems •introductory calculator Science
Social Studies The social studies curriculum is the cornerstone for all Lower School integrated curriculum. The first grade theme is developed around community. At this level, the students make a comparison between Newnan, which grew from a railroad stop, to Peachtree City, a planned city. Classes take specific field trips around the area to study how a community develops and grows. The year culminates with the building of a box city, representative of what the students have learned that is required in forming a vibrant, living community. Topics covered in association with the development of these concepts are:•map skills •family and ancestry •neighborhoods •community planning and development •Christmas customs around the world Specials First grade students have specials in art, computer, French, Library, music and physical education. When appropriate, the Specials teachers integrate their lessons with the primary theme in first grade.Second Grade Second grade students are immersed in a period of time that explores the Pilgrims, Colonials, Native Americans of the Woodlands, and the Revolutionists. The second grade program is rich in the integration of this essential theme with other aspects of study. Hands-on activities and simulations are key to a child’s understanding at this age. Classroom teachers use stories, songs, games, craft and art activities, drama and writing activities to teach concepts. Students take field trips to supplement and enhance the curriculum. Destinations may include: the Cobb county Youth Museum, Catalpa Herb Farm, Fernbank, the Center for Puppetry Arts, and Shenandoah Science Center.Language Arts Through the language arts curriculum in second grade, students develop decoding strategies, comprehension, writing, and critical thinking skills. Teachers use a transition and review program to bridge the gap between the phonics instruction of first grade and the application/decoding strategies of second grade. Open Court Collections for Young Scholars provides an anthology of award-winning literature and corresponding lessons that delve into writing skills and provide reading practice to develop fluency and comprehension. Second graders vary in their levels and speed of language development. The reading and writing curriculum adapts to meet individual needs of the students. Students are taught in both large and small groups settings. Discussions and questioning teach students to develop concepts and answer their own questions through reading. Supplemental trade books and teacher read-alouds are important facets of this program. To encourage independent critical thinking, the classroom teachers use journal writing as a response to literature. Second grade builds on the skills introduced in first grade and adds the following skills:•reading and writing strategies •editing •elaboration through lists, examples, explanations, definitions, problems and solutions •figurative language •understanding the genres – biography, autobiography, historical fiction, legend •persuasive writing •plot •point of view •process description •suspense and surprise •topic sentences and writing good beginnings •variety in writing •writing paragraphs •writing about personal experiences •compound sentences •parts of speech •parts of a sentence •pronoun/antecedent agreement •using adjectives and adverbs •using commas in a series •using possessive pronouns •using prepositions and prepositional phrases •verb tense •adding prefixes and suffixes •learning frequently misspelled words •regular and irregular plurals •spelling generalizations and exceptions •phonics and decoding •basic research skills: choosing a source, formulating questions and answers, interviewing, making and using a timeline, note taking, observing and recording details, organizing information, using an encyclopedia, using maps/globes/atlases, using the internet •handwriting using the D’Nealian format – cursive writing introduced Math The curriculum develops mathematical skills and the ability to apply these skills to problem solving. Students build structured thinking related to addition, subtraction, and introductory multiplication. There is an emphasis on mental arithmetic and estimation as well as on concrete application and computation. Manipulatives and hands-on activities are used as part of math instruction. Problem solving and critical thinking become an integral part of each unit. Math skills covered at the second grade build on the first grade foundation and include:•addition and subtraction facts to 18 •addition and subtraction of two-digit numbers, and three-digit numbers •place value to 1000 •measurement •money •time to the minute •multiplication through the 5’s •introduction to division •geometric shapes •fractions Science Science in second grade is an exploration through hands-on activities and study using topical trade books. Science lessons are integrated with other subject areas when logical and appropriate. AIMS activities are added to enhance the science and math components of the second grade curriculum. Science topics covered at this level are:
Social Studies Second graders tour the world through their study of the continents and oceans. They learn map skills with the help of directional activities designed to acquaint them with world geography. Students develop an understanding of the “unknowns” facing the early colonists.Second grade social studies involves many hands-on lessons and role-playing through a Pilgrim identity and later, a revolutionary colonist. Students “pack” a sea chest for the New World and experience the trials and tribulations of those earliest settlers and later colonists. Native Americans of the Woodlands are studied and villages are constructed, reflective of the concepts learned. Lessons incorporating this theme include role-playing, simulations, drama, crafts, structures, and reproductions of these historical periods. Teachers encourage students to seek relationships between facts and ideas, and form and defend opinions based on the knowledge gained. Students use many books about colonists and Native Americans as resources throughout this area of study. The topics covered at this level include:
Resources and Supplemental Reading Trade books and novels used at this level and in conjunction with this curriculum are:•Dinosaurs Before Dark •Dinosaur Research Guide •Twister on Tuesday •Twisters and Other Terrible Storms •Thanksgiving on Thursday •Revolutionary War on Wednesday •American Revolution Research Guide •Flat Stanley •Knots on a Counting Rope •If You Sailed on the Mayflower •On the Mayflower •If You Lived in Colonial Times •The Courage of Sarah Noble •Sarah Plain and Tall •Sea Critters (National Geographic) Titles may be added as new titles become available that will enhance the students’ work. Specials
Third Grade An emphasis on developing independence in the student characterizes the third grade curriculum. Students begin formulating their own opinions and become responsible for their studies with less teacher/parent support. Students learn introductory study skills in all facets of the curriculum. Third graders become more independent readers capable of extrapolating information and ideas from material read. The key social studies theme revolves around westward expansion and United States geography. Teachers employ hands-on activities, simulations, models, research, games and songs as curriculum-enhancing teaching practices.Language Arts Third graders increase their reading fluency through reading of chapter books, primary sources, research resource, and selections from award winning authors and illustrators found in the anthologies of Open Court Collections for Young Scholars. Teachers encourage students to grow beyond the basics and learn inside and outside the classroom. Students explore quality literature for significant topics that encourage them to read, think critically, raise questions, explore, discover, and learn. Students learn to respond to literature and make connections across the curriculum. Supplemental trade books, teacher read-alouds, and literature circles are important facets of this program. Teachers emphasize planning, organizing, and reporting accurately in research. Writing is a key component in third grade. Students collect and refine writing done in a variety of formats. They use journal writing to respond to literature and as a vehicle for reflecting independent thought. Poetry writing is developed in third grade, culminating with a poetry slam. Clear, concise verbal communication is emphasized at this age. Third grade is a year in which students utilize the skills learned in the earlier grades. They build on those skills and work on more mature skills, requiring a level of independent, critical thought. Such skills are:•reading and writing strategies •editing •reading for meaning as well as for pleasure •predicting outcomes and making inferences •understanding the genres – legend, historical fiction, poetry, realistic fiction •figurative language •writing that stays on the subject to completion •develop fluency and fluidity as a reader •understanding of plot, setting, characterization •understanding grammar rules and their application, especially re: noun, verb, adjective, subject/predicate •developing an ordered writing with multiple paragraphs, strong main ideas, and supporting details •take a piece of writing through the writing process •strengthen writing content through organization, unity, clear central idea, and elaboration •develop style through selective, descriptive vocabulary •spelling generalizations and exceptions •phonics and decoding •basic research skills: choosing a source, formulating a questions and answers, note taking, observing and recording details, organizing information, using an encyclopedia, using maps/globes/atlases, using the internet •handwriting using the D’Nealian format – cursive writing •apply punctuation rules Math The curriculum develops mathematical skills and the ability to apply these skills to problem solving. The primary emphasis is on application of math skills and mastery of addition, subtraction, and multiplication as operations. Simple division is introduced. There is an emphasis on mental arithmetic and estimation as well as on concrete application and computation. Manipulatives and hands-on activities are used as part of math instruction. Problem solving and critical thinking are integral parts of each unit. Math skills covered at the third grade include:•addition and subtraction fact application •multi-digit addition and subtraction •place value to millions •measurement •money •time to the minute, including lapsed time •multiplication facts through 12 •division •geometry •decimals •graphing •fractions Science Science in third grade utilizes exploration through hands-on activities and study using topical trade books and a text. Science lessons are integrated with other subject areas when logical and appropriate. Science topics studied in depth at this level are:•desert and plains as habitats •Earth beneath your feet – rocks, minerals •spiders •moon, stars, sun, planets •pushes and pulls – simple machines Social Studies Third graders engage in a study of the states and regions of the United States. Major rivers, mountain ranges, and the Great Lakes are included in the study. They study the influence of geography on development of the nation and the regional differences created by geography and early settlement. The primary theme of the third grade social studies curriculum is Westward Expansion and the pioneers. Students “pack” a covered wagon, assume the identity of a pioneer, combat the trials of the trail, and settle in a previously uninhabited area. A life-size covered wagon provides an awareness about the way in which the pioneers traveled. Third graders study Native Americans of the Plains and the Southwest, comparing and contrasting them with each region as well as the Woodlands. Students construct a tepee and pueblo as part of their study.Resources and Supplemental Reading Trade books and novels used at this level and in conjunction with this curriculum are:•Charlotte’s Web •The Family Under the Bridge •If You Traveled West in a Covered Wagon •If You Lived with the Sioux •Grasshopper Summer •Annie and the Old One •Indian School •If You Were a Pioneer on the Prairie •The Gold Cadillac •selected tall tales Titles may be added as new titles become available that will enhance the students’ work. Specials Third grade students have specials in art, computer, Spanish, Library, music and physical education. When appropriate, the Specials teachers integrate their lessons with the primary theme in third grade.Fourth Grade Fourth grade marks the year in which students apply their independent skills to all areas of study. The teacher serves as a facilitator and guide to learning, but the student is expected to question, study, research, discover, and think critically about the topics introduced for study and discussion. Reading becomes an activity that is both for knowledge and for pleasure. Students apply study skills across the curriculum as they expand their abilities, vocabulary, and basic knowledge.Language Arts Through Open Court Collections for Young Scholars, students hone their reading fluency and skills while reading from anthologies that include time-honored literature selections as well as contemporary titles. Students are exposed to a variety of literature and are invited to read, think, raise questions, explore, discover, and research through literature. Supplemental trade books, teacher read-alouds, and literature circles are important facets of this program. Teachers emphasize planning, organizing, and reporting accurately in research. The selections correlate well with the social studies curriculum. Journal writing is an important aspect of the fourth grade curriculum. Fourth grade is a year in which students work on more mature skills, requiring a higher level of independent, critical thought. Such skills are:•reading and writing strategies •elaboration through background and providing opposing points of view •reading for meaning as well as for pleasure •predicting outcomes and making inferences •understanding the genres – legend, historical fiction, poetry, realistic fiction, adventure •formal versus informal language •writing that stays on the subject to completion •using quotations in writing •understanding grammar and punctuation rules and their application, especially re: noun, verb, adjective, adverb, subject/predicate •developing an ordered writing with multiple paragraphs, strong main ideas, and supporting details •develop style through selective, descriptive vocabulary •spelling generalizations and exceptions •basic research skills: choosing a source, formulating a questions and answers, interviewing, making and using a timeline, note taking, observing and recording details, organizing information, using an encyclopedia, using maps/globes/atlases, using the internet, using a thesaurus, using primary sources •handwriting using the D’Nealian format – cursive writing Math The fourth grade math student adds to the basis that has been laid in previous years. Math should be a logical operation that is applied to daily living with skill and ease. Math facts for addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division should become cemented at this stage. Math topics covered at the fourth grade include:•numeration, place value, whole numbers •problem solving •addition, subtraction, multiplication of whole numbers •measurement [standard and metric] •time to the minute, including lapsed time •multi-digit multiplication •division facts •long division •geometry •decimals •graphing •fractions Science Science in fourth grade utilizes exploration through hands-on activities and study using topical trade books and a text. Science lessons are integrated with other subject areas when logical and appropriate. Science in fourth grade revolves around four major topics: oceans, air and weather, matter and electrical energy, and simple machines. Specific science concepts studied in depth at this level are:•uses and movement of water •water cycle •salinity •ocean floor •pollution •wind •atmospheric layers •clouds •climate/weather •storms •weather instruments •properties of matter •mass, weight, volume, density •elements, atoms, molecules •static electricity •magnets •circuits •energy Social Studies Social studies in the fourth grade focuses on these major topics: land formations with relation to geography, the American Civil War, and the Industrial Revolution. It is the last year in lower school for developing in-depth, hands-on experiential learning in social studies. Fourth graders explore, research, think critically, role play, and participate in simulations to broaden their thinking. Areas of study included at this grade level are:•map and globe skills •United States geography and the state capitals •Vikings and explorers •The American Civil War •Reconstruction •The Industrial Revolution Resources and Supplemental Reading Trade books and novels used at this level and in conjunction with this curriculum are:•The Battle of Bull Run •Selections about the Civil War •The Mixed Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankenweiler •Sign of the Beaver •Island of the Blue Dolphins Titles may be added as new titles become available that will enhance the students’ work. Specials Fourth grade students have specials in art, computer, Spanish, Library, music and physical education. When appropriate, the Specials teachers integrate their lessons with the primary theme in fourth grade.Lower School Art Program
First Grade Exploration is still strongly emphasized as lessons become more complex. A number of artists and famous works are introduced along with new concepts. Examples include a lesson on overlapping shapes inspired by “I and the Village” by Marc Chagall and the concept of foreground and background using “American Gothic” by Grant Wood. Lessons on drawing houses integrate with social studies themeSecond Grade The study of color is one central focus of second grade. The concept of warm and cool color is introduced and reinforced throughout the year. Complimentary and analogous color is introduced. Students explore new techniques at this level including stitchery and symmetrical designs using cut paper. A strong integration with social studies themes is emphasized, specifically creating false faces in conjunction with Native American studies, and drawing endangered animals in combination with classroom research projects.Third Grade Elements and principles of design are introduced at this level. Students begin to apply knowledge and engage in analysis of their work based upon learned concepts. Critical thinking is a strong emphasis. Lessons in third grade explore line, balance, composition, texture, contrast, and color value. Art vocabulary is expanded. Study of human proportion and physical movement is explored in an assignment based on the human skeleton.Fourth Grade Fourth grade students are challenged to pull together all areas of emphasis from their elementary school years. Students begin work on human anatomy with specific emphasis on the face. They learn to express the figure in motion. Art vocabulary is the language of the classroom. Techniques and application of materials become more advanced as students explore color mixing, color blending and the various properties of a variety of media. Photography as an art form is introduced in conjunction with study of the Civil War area. Highlights of the fourth grade year include a culminating art exhibition of student work in the spring. Students also take a field trip to The High Museum of Art.Lower School Language Program The Lower School foreign language program emphasizes exposure to the language mores, customs, art, and traditions of French and Spanish-speaking people. The objective of the introduction of these concepts is to familiarize the students with the language and culture and to motivate them to realize the importance of learning more about our “shrinking” world. Beginning as early as Kindergarten, students are exposed to the music, art, dress, food, and traditions of other countries. Focusing on French and Spanish, the Lower School students are introduced to basic vocabulary and phrases through exercises and games. Students in Kindergarten, First, and Second grade are taught French. Students in Third and Fourth grade study Spanish. Students are introduced to the language spoken by children their age. Where appropriate, the foreign language teacher will correlate to the lessons being taught by the classroom teacher.Kindergarten In Kindergarten, students are exposed to a different culture and a language of different sounds. The program is based on introductory conversation and is taught with an emphasis on a variety of subject/content areas: greetings, alphabet letter sounds, the numbers 1-31, colors, classroom objects, animals, the date, days of the week, parts of the body, family members, clothing, and traditions. Lessons are taught using a variety of teaching techniques such as songs, games, poems, and drawings.First Grade In First Grade, French lessons expand on the basic introduction to a different culture and the sound of the language through formal lessons, songs, games, poems, drawings, books, skits, and instructional videos. Major topics covered are: greetings, alphabet, numbers, colors, clothing, calendar activities, animals, classroom objects, locations, weather, parts of the body, names of professions, foods, family, shapes, and important French holidays. In addition, the students will create a French village model in the classroom.Second Grade In Second Grade, French is utilized with language, customs, songs, poems, plays, and literature. To complement the classroom curriculum theme, students learn the geography of France to include major rivers, bodies of water, and mountains. Adding to the lessons of First Grade, Second Graders learn the numbers 1-100, feminine colors, verbs, adjectives, negatives, noun plurals, accents, names of common foods, the practical application of developing the vocabulary to read and create a simple menu, to order foods, the calculate the cost of the food order, and convert the total from French currency to American currency.Third Grade This course is an introduction to everyday vocabulary and expressions. It is also an introduction to the aspects of the Spanish and Latin American cultures. The teacher places emphasis on speaking, pronunciation, and listening comprehension. Teaching tools include repetition, games, songs, and role playing. Students cover alphabet/letter sounds, numbers, colors, calendar, family, clothing, foods, objects in the classroom, and greetings.Fourth Grade The objective of the Fourth Grade Spanish program is to create a positive, relaxed and enthusiastic attitude toward foreign language. During this second year of Spanish in Lower School, students review the concepts learned in third grade and add to their expanding knowledge of the Spanish language and its associated cultures. The curriculum again emphasizes speaking, pronunciation, listening comprehension, and expanding vocabulary. Units studied this year include: food, weather/seasons, adjectives, more classroom objects, the house, the city, animals, and verbs.Lower School Library Program The primary goals of the Library Media Center are to motivate students to read as well as provide the skills and confidence needed that will enable students to access and evaluate information for life-long learning. It is the goal of the media specialist to collaborate with classroom teachers to provide the skills, knowledge, and access to all resources available in the Media Center and encourage reading for pleasure.Library skills are taught in Language Arts as well as in the Media Center. All information skills will be reinforced and developed as students progress through school. The Media Specialist and teachers collaborate to promote the use of the Media Center and its many resources. The Library Media Center of The Heritage School services grades PK-12. The center is equipped with books, visual materials, periodicals, computers, internet service, electronic databases, video editing capabilities, and an automated card catalog. Faculty, administration, parents, and students are actively engaged to help make material selections and acquisitions that best meet the needs of the school. The Library Media Center adheres to an “open door” policy where all students and faculty may use the facility throughout the day as schedules permit. Prekindergarten Through a weekly storytime and check-out period, students will learn to:•maintain an attention span for an appropriate activity •become familiar with the Media Center •use appropriate listening skills •locate and check out a book •properly care for library materials •develop a positive feeling about books, reading and the Media Center Kindergarten Through a weekly storytime and check-out period, students will learn to:•maintain an attention span for an appropriate activity •become familiar with the Media Center •use appropriate listening skills and follow directions •locate and check out a book •properly care for library materials •develop a positive feeling about books, reading and the Media Center Through group discussions and other activities, students will: •learn to select library books •compare and contrast stories, characters, and illustrations •formulate personal reactions to readings •learn to distinguish between author and illustrator •be introduced to award- winning books First Grade Through a weekly story time and check-out period, students will learn to:•use appropriate listening skills •distinguish between fiction and nonfiction books •recognize works of selected authors and illustrators •locate books on their reading level and interests •demonstrate proper care of library materials Through group discussions and other activities, students will: •learn to identify and use the parts of a book •compare and contrast literature elements •predict outcomes and draw conclusions •utilize ABC order •learn to appreciate a variety of literature genres and award winning books •locate information from resource materials Second Grade Through a weekly literature period and group discussions, students will:•demonstrate appropriate library behavior •follow directions •demonstrate the ability to compare/contrast, use analogies, and understand different literature genres •identify literature terms (character, setting, problem) •formulate personal reactions to literature Through integrated structured information skills lessons: •recognize terms such as title, spine, publisher, copyright, author, illustrator, electronic database, and internet •use the automated card catalog •utilize the media center’s resources, including electronic databases •use dictionaries and guide words •understand the organization of the media center Third Grade Through a weekly literature period and group discussions, students will:•distinguish between fact and opinion •identify and distinguish fictional and informational materials •understand the elements of literature (plot, characterization, setting) •be able to identify and use the parts of a book to access information •develop and expand literary skills and appreciation Through open access to the library media center, group discussions, and structured integrated skills lessons students will learn to: •identify literary genre (biography, fantasy, folklore, historical fiction, informational, poetry, play, and realistic fiction) •formulate personal reaction to readings •utilize parts of a book to access information ( glossary, index, table of contents, guide words) •recognize literature from diverse ethnic and cultural traditions •understand the organization of the media center •utilize technology to access information and create research documents Fourth Grade Through open access to the library, group discussions and structured skills integrated skills lessons, students will:•identify literary genre (biography, fantasy, folklore, historical fiction, informational, poetry, play, mystery, and realistic fiction) •formulate personal reaction to readings •identify author’s purpose •recognize literature from diverse ethnic and cultural traditions •utilize the Dewey Decimal System to locate materials •compare/contrast print and electronic resources •learn to navigate the internet as a resource •evaluate informational resources •be introduced to periodicals and newspapers as a resource of information •learn to cite resources •develop word processing skills to cut, paste, and insert pictures to create research documents |
