Curriculum

Social Skills and Community Building
Daily class meetings, based on The Morning Meeting Book by Roxann Kriete and The Caring Classrooms Curriculum, a new 4j adoption. Good stuff.

Reading
Houghton-Mifflin, 4j adopted curriculum: Whole group core instruction with small break-out groups to focus on specific skills and differentiated reading levels. Supplemented with novel studies and targeted intervention as needed.

Math
Investigations, 4j adopted curriculum: A blend of hands on math investigations with basic skill instruction and practice. There is a focus on students communicating their mathematical thinking and strategies verbally, in writing, and in picture form.

Writing
In class journaling, based on discussions from classroom meetings. Creative writing using a variety of modes; descriptive, narrative, imaginative, expository, and persuasive.

Science
Three science based units: 1) Organisms: observe and compare plants v. animals;  2) Salmon: hatch, raise, release; and 3) Sandy Beaches–our 2nd grade streams-to-ocean theme.

Social Studies
Integrated into the reading curriculum.

Art
Parent led “Meet the Masters” program. Integrated into all subjects, with a focus on learning the elements of art.

Health
Michigan Model Health, 4j adopted curriculum: Learning about good nutrition, safety, and reinforcing positive social skills.