Elementary Curriculum Overview
Pre-Kindergarten
A wide variety of activities are planned that simply introduce children to the school environment. Pre-kindergarten children are surrounded by language through speaking, listening, and pre-writing activities. The children participate in these language lessons on an individual small and large group basis. Learning activities are planned daily to reinforce letters and the theme of the week. Whole language and pre-Spalding methods are used to provide a smooth transition to kindergarten. Pre-kindergarten children are exposed to a variety of math concepts and skills. Math concepts, such as patterns, shapes, measurement, numbers, sorting and classifying are taught in daily learning centers. Themes discussed weekly include science and social studies concepts. Some themes of interest include dinosaurs, community helpers, space, and our country/state, weather, transportation, the five senses, nutrition, plants, and winter. Field trips are taken throughout the year to enhance our curriculum. Pre-kindergarten children attend a Spanish class once a week for thirty minutes.
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Kindergarten
The kindergarten children have the privilege to discover that learning can be fun. The curriculum strives to meet the physical, emotional, social, and intellectual needs of each child.
Literacy by Design and Spalding enhance the Cedar Creek School curriculum. This is a comprehensive research based reading and writing approach taught to meet student’s literacy needs. Whole group and small group strategic reading are integrated to support students reading ability. Literacy skills are integrated with science and social studies topics. The program follows the writing process providing instruction in the four key elements of writing. Through this approach to reading, the children learn that speech, writing, spelling, and reading all work together. Students are immersed in a variety of good literature throughout the school day.
The children learn math concepts of sorting and classifying, shapes, patterns, size, graphing, more or less, measuring, time and money, adding, taking away, fractions, and numbers to 100. They explore interpreting data, planning, estimation, solving and checking problems. Everyday use of numbers is taught throughout the day.
The students have the opportunity to develop physically by attending a planned P.E. class each day. They also have the opportunity to develop in the fine arts area by attending art and music classes each week. Kindergarten students also attend computer, library, and Spanish classes. The children perform in programs during the year.
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First Grade
In the first grade curriculum, reading, writing and mathematics are still the basic subjects. By using The Writing Road To Reading, first graders understand the decoding process and develop a large vocabulary for both reading and writing. Many opportunities for using these newly acquired skills are provided as children read together in small groups, independently, and in other subject matter areas such as science and social studies. During Writer’s Workshop, first graders are encouraged to write sentences and original stories. Students are immersed in a variety of good literature throughout the school day. The Accelerated Reading Program is an important part of the reading curriculum. The students choose appropriate library books to read for enjoyment, and are computer tested on each Accelerated Reader.
Math encourages the first grade children to learn with understanding. The student will use objects, pictures, and number sentences to relate to real life situations using addition and subtraction facts to 12. Reasoning and problem solving as individuals and with groups is one of our main goals. Communicating in mathematical terms is emphasized. Students use strategies for learning addition and subtraction facts. The use of blocks, play money, counters, and other manipulatives allows a hands-on approach to learning. Working cooperatively with partners or in small groups instills a love of math in the children and gives them a feeling of success.
Social studies units are developed throughout the year and help to build an awareness of the geography and rich history of our country. Science units about animals, plants, weather, matter, light and sound make the children aware of our beautiful world and the responsibility that we have to preserve our earth.
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Second Grade
The second grade expands the basic skills and concepts taught in kindergarten and first grade. The second grade language arts curriculum includes reading, language skills, spelling, and writing.
The student will apply fluency skills in reading and model comprehension skills using age appropriate text. The student will use the development process to write a paragraph using proper structure. Through reading, writing and spelling, we continue to revisit the Spalding. The Accelerated Reading Program is an important part of the reading curriculum. The students choose appropriate library books, read for enjoyment, and are computer tested on each Accelerated Reader Book. Records are kept so that each student can see the progress that they have made.
The course purpose for second grade math is for students to demonstrate accuracy and fluency of addition and subtraction facts to 18, and to demonstrate addition and subtraction of two-digit numbers with or without regrouping. Second grade children experience math through the use of manipulatives, sometimes working in small groups or with partners. They also develop an understanding of various concepts in graphing, patterns, time, money, geometry, place value, and fractions.
In science, the student will explore and investigate the world around them using appropriate tools and resources to demonstrate their knowledge of plants, animals, measurement and preserving the world around them.
The student will identify and describe their heritage and those of our state in social studies. The student will compare different communities in terms of their geography, governments and jobs. The student will apply their knowledge of basic economic terms and mapping skills through hands-on on projects and activities.
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Third Grade
The third grade curriculum focuses on the academic and social needs of the eight and nine-year-old child. Our ultimate goal is to develop within the child a desire for learning and sense of responsibility to self, school, community and society.
The language arts program consists of reading, writing, language, spelling, and speaking. Children read many types of stories, poems, plays and informational articles. Lessons stress reading comprehension and various other language and reading skills. The writing experience emphasizes creativity, revising, editing, and sharing original pieces orally with the class. The language program is based on learning the fundamental rules of grammar and applying these rules in reading and writing. The spelling program is a phonetic spelling method with an emphasis on spelling rules and phonograms. In addition to the core spelling lists the third grade also incorporates frequently used words from other subject areas. The Accelerated Reading Program is an important part of the reading curriculum. The students choose appropriate library books, read for enjoyment, and are computer tested on each Accelerated Reader. Records are kept so that each student can see the progress that they have made.
In third grade math the student will compare and contrast the concepts of multiplication and division, demonstrate accuracy and fluency of multiplication and division facts 0 through 10, and apply all four basic operations in solving “real-life” problems. The program incorporates many hands-on experiences with manipulatives and stresses number sense and thinking skills. Graphing, geometry, fractions, estimation, telling time, counting money, and measurement are equally a part of the curriculum.
The third grade social studies program focuses on Louisiana. Geography, history, culture, civics, economics, and map skills are all taught in context of the state of Louisiana. Students are allowed to research topics of interest to them as they participate in the Elementary social studies fair. The social studies curriculum is complemented with special guest speakers, field trips, and a “Louisiana Night” Program.
The science program in third grade involves several different emphases. The students use the scientific method and grade-appropriate measurement procedures to investigate the basic forces and simple tools, the solar system, weather conditions, human nutrition, and digestion system. Students are actively involved by doing experiments, research, and field trips. Every student also may participate in the Elementary Science Fair at Cedar Creek School.
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Fourth Grade
The fourth grade curriculum is directed toward helping each student become an independent learner and thinker. Students are able to integrate many of the skills they have learned in previous grades, while using their imagination and originality to build on these skills.
The language arts program consists of reading, language, spelling, and creative writing. Reading is based on children’s literature emphasizing fantasy, realistic fiction, non-fiction, and poetry. The reading program is designed to capture the students’ imaginations, interest them in reading for enjoyment, increase their knowledge, and motivate them to write. Comprehension, vocabulary, and the ability to express one’s understanding in spoken and written form are some of the many skills stressed. The Accelerated Reading Program is an important part of the reading curriculum. The students choose appropriate library books, read for enjoyment, and are computer tested on each Accelerated Reader. Records are kept so that each student can see the progress that they have made. The language program emphasizes grammar and creative writing. The fourth grade curriculum in language builds on punctuation and word usage lessons taught in the lower grade. It consists mainly of a thorough teaching of the eight parts of speech. The writing program develops good creative writing skills and encourages the students to write more often, use their imaginations, and be confident in their writing ability. Spelling in the fourth grade continues the Spalding Spelling methods taught in the lower grades while coordinating spelling with our reading program.
The students will solve mathematical problems using multiplication and division skills and demonstrate addition and subtraction of decimals to the hundredths. Problem solving will be emphasized in both and individualized as well as group learning situation. Graphing, place value, numeration, estimation, prime and composite numbers, decimals, geometry, and measurement are some of the concepts that will be taught in fourth grade.
The social studies program emphasizes on land, resources, and people of the United States. The students will participate in many map activities, including learning the states and capitals of the U.S. Each student is encouraged to participate in the school's social studies fair. The students will also study our government, the history of our nation's capitol and the
importance of being a good citizen. All students will participate in the school's White House Dinner after completing this unit.
The Science Program’s goal is to develop thinking skills that will enable the students to make intelligent, deductive decisions in order to become a better problem solver. A variety of hands-on and learning activities will be used to teach the scientific method, human body, water cycle, energy, matter, measurement, and geology. Fourth grade students will have the opportunity to participate in the annual science fair further enriching their learning of the scientific method and utilizing their research skills.
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Fifth Grade
The fifth grade program is a departmentalized setting where the children are involved in math, science, language arts and social studies. This allows for small group instruction during math and reading. Students also participate in P.E., music, Spanish, and art. The library is available for the students' use. However, each class is designated a specific time weekly for library skills and checking out books.
The reading programs' goal is to have students apply a variety of strategies in analyzing stories for their elements. The school wide Accelerated Reading Program encourages independent reading. We engage in oral and silent reading in class using the Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Series. We also engage in literature circles. Novels which are used come from the suggested list of the Scholastic Book Club; these novels have been approved. Groups of students read, discuss, record information, present a book review, and take an AR test. Book reports are required for fifth graders; some are written and some are oral. All written book reports will be done in class. We also engage in vocabulary enhancement outside of the reading series through a program known as Wordly Wise.
One of the goals of our language program is to have the student demonstrate use of information literacy skills to produce a multi paragraph, two page research paper. Our language program is a strong one, also of the Houghton Mifflin Harcourt series which compliment the reading program. Grammar and creative writing are emphasized. The fifth grade curriculum builds on punctuation and work usage lessons taught in fourth grade. The student will use writing skills which have been mastered by fifth grade. There are several major writings to be done through out the year: personal narrative, how to compare/contract, persuasive, etc. The writing of a research paper will introduce students to the basics and give them experience in researching a given topic.
The goal of the math program is to ensure that students have a command of the basic skills of mathematics and that they know how to apply problem-solving skills in their everyday lives. Emphasis is placed on the mastery of computation, problem solving, mental math, and estimation. The instruction includes the use of manipulative and involves students in small cooperative groups and independent individual work.
The social studies program emphasizes the development of the Unites States as a country. Students will analyze the various historical periods of the Unites States to build awareness of the rich history of our nation. All students are required to participate in the school's social studies fair, as well as Pioneer Day.
The science program’s goal is to develop thinking skills enabling students to make intelligent deductive decisions and to become better problem solvers. Students are involved in learning activities including hands-on learning experiences, cooperative learning, and guided research through various resources. Topics cover chemistry, physical science, physics, earth science, and life science. Every student is required to participate in the Science Fair focusing on the scientific method, using research skills, and evaluating outcomes. The use of resource persons, supplemental reading materials, and internet resources enriches topics being taught.
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Advanced Honors
Cedar Creek School follows state guidelines set forth in Bulletin 1508 regarding the identification of students for gifted programs. Students are recommended on the basis of achievement scores and performance. With parental permission, students are tested by an independent testing agency, whose recommendation is followed by the school.
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Computer
The elementary computer program is committed to providing a variety of computer experiences, which encourages students to build confidence and to develop necessary skills. In addition to the recently updated computer lab of 20 PC machines, grades 1 – 5 are equipped with two or more computers located in the grade areas.
Children in K – 5 learn operational parts of a computer and associated terminology. Computer software and the Internet are used to supplement and reinforce the daily curriculum. In the 3rd grade, students are introduced to keyboard skills. Development of keyboard skills continues through 4th and 5th grades. In addition to the keyboard skills, the upper grades learn word processing, spreadsheets, including making charts and presentation applications. The elementary computer group uses Microsoft Office 2007 for these programs. The skills are integrated into the classroom through creative writing and special projects completed on the computer.
The elementary building is networked for Internet use. Cedar Creek uses a filter at the server for the student’s protection of unwanted sites. The elementary lab is available for classroom use at least one day a week.
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Art
The elementary art program provides each child an opportunity for creative growth and development. It includes the knowledge of the elements of art and design. Students will be introduced to the works of art of many artists and become aware of the social and historical contexts in which art is created. Your child will have the opportunity to use many types of media in the creation of his art work. Most work will be mounted for display.
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Library
The elementary library is automated for book circulation, catalog search, and inventory. There are catalog search computers available to students in the library, computer labe, and in the 4th and 5th grade reading classrooms.
Participation in the Accelerated Reading program is encouraged in grades 1 – 5. Reading quizzes are networked throughout the elementary building. Cedar Creek School upgraded its commitment to the Accelerated Reading Program by entering the Enterprise Program providing acces to all AR Test to our students. Students and parents can find these tests on the internet at www.arbookfind.com. Students achieving individualized goals are rewarded with a lunchtime dessert party. For those making their yearly goal, a swim party is held in May. All students get to spend their AR points at the AR store each 9 weeks.
The goals of the elementary library include the following:
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Music
Music education is part of an aesthetic education. Through experiences with music, the learner will be increasingly capable of feeling, creating, discovering, performing, learning, and thinking. The elementary music class is designed to enhance the learning experience in the following ways:
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To develop the child's voice by use of appropriate techniques of singing and appropriate literature
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To increase the students' desire to learn new music by the use of music history, music theory,and an introduction of new literature on a regular basis
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To allow and encourage student performance in large groups, small groups, and individually,within the classroom and in assembly settings as well as for adult audiences, this increasing the child's self-concept
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Physical Education
Level 1 (Grades K - 3)
The lower elementary program is based on educational movement. Fundamental locomotor, non-locomotor, and manipulative skills, games, and creative play are designed to allow each child to develop motor skills on an individual level. In level 1 classes students are introduced to as many physical and cognitive experiences as possible to allow the individual child to experiment and to find success in movement. The program is designed to offer something for everyone, to make every child a "winner" and to promote a positive self-image. Students begin participating in the President’s Challenge Fitness Program. This program encourages a healthy life-style and a positive attitude toward physical activity (exercise). The Cougar Mile is one highlight of an exciting year in P.E. Students are able to compete against classmates in a mile run. Parents attend this festive and exciting event.
Level 2 (Grades 4 & 5)
The Level 2 program is extended to become more challenging, allowing for improved hand-eye and motor coordination, interest in sports and group play, development of social consciousness and the introduction of more physical contact in games and activities. Students continue to participate in the President’s Challenge Physical Fitness program.
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Spanish
The Elementary Foreign Language Program is an exploration of Spanish as a second language. Students are exposed to Spanish through games, sounds, hands-on activities, dialogues and role play situation. Opportunities to learn about Spanish-speaking countries and their cultures are included as part of the unit of study. The exposure to Spanish provides a beginning for communication skills in Spanish and creates a foundation for continued language learning.
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