Elementary Curriculum

 

First Grade & Second Grade Curriculum

Curriculum Overview

Bible (Bob Jones) – The first grade Bible curriculum teaches students to know the Bible through a thematic, chronological study of Creation, the life of Noah, Abraham, Moses, David, Jesus, and Paul. Weekly Bible verse memorization is included as well as a hymn of the month. Our goal is to reach each the child’s heart for Christ.

Math (Bob Jones) – This is a hands-on, concept oriented, problem solving series that utilizes manipulatives for understanding. It enables students to develop a solid foundation in the language and basic concepts of mathematics: addition and subtraction facts to 18, place value to 3 digits, addition and subtraction of 3 digit numbers, fractions, counting by 2′s, 5′s, and 10′s, measurement, hours and half-hours of time, geometry, money, estimation, statistics and graphs. Readiness skills for algebra, multiplication and division are also taught.

Phonics, English (Bob Jones) – This program emphasizes intensive phonics as the key to word recognition. Phonics and writing activities clearly teach the concept that words relay messages which sets the stage for comprehension-centered reading. Creative writing skills are taught in a natural progression from teacher modeling to a five step writing process.

Reading (Bob Jones) – Our reading class reinforces and expands on the skills taught in Phonics and English. It emphasizes comprehension with activities structured to focus on literal, interpretive, critical and appreciative levels of comprehension. Reading also includes vocabulary, study skills, literature, word recognition and oral and silent reading. Reading instruction is differentiated to meet the needs of each child.

Spelling (Bob Jones) – Spelling is taught from organized lists of word families helping the student to begin to make generalizations of spelling patterns. Spelling also includes application through dictation sentences, comprehension of words used in context and dictionary skills. Much more than memorizing words, this simple approach introduces students to an effective method of study.

Handwriting (Bob Jones) – First graders are taught PreCursive letter formation using a correct pencil hold, paper position, posture and spacing. Correct letter formation is practiced with words, sentences, Bible principles and poems.

Music – Our music class focuses on fundamentals of vocal and instrumental music. Appreciation of different musical genres and musical theory are also taught. Each student participates in at least two opportunities for performance throughout the year.

Science (Bob Jones) – First grade science starts students on the path of scientific inquiry with an introduction to the sense, heat, sound, animals, and heavenly bodies. Using numerous labs and demonstrations, our first grade science presents God as the creator of all things.

History/Social Studies (Bob Jones) – Studying Early America (pre-1000 to 1683) our study of history also includes geography, world history (Vikings and other explorers), government, economics, and culture. Projects are included to increase understanding and appreciation of this period of history.

Physical Education – Our first grade PE focuses on development of physical skills and knowledge of sports. We participate in the Presidential Physical Fitness testing to encourage and track physical improvement.

Art – Our art instruction includes art appreciation, art techniques, creativity and appreciation. Art is taught once per week.

 

 

 

Third/Fourth Grade

CURRICULUM OVERVIEW

BIBLE- Following Christ (BJU) Students will discover more about God through the thematic and chronological study of the Old and New Testaments. Themes such as sin and salvation, why Jesus came, and choosing friends are covered. The chronological study covers Cain and Abel, Elijah, Peter, Jesus, and Nicodemus. Bible study skills of using the table of contents, glossary, and cross references are introduced. Two missionary novels supplement the text by showing students their need for Christ as their Savior. Weekly Bible verses corresponding to the lesson are memorized.

READING- Once Upon An Open Book, Not So Very Long Ago (BJU) Reviewing phonics skills and building comprehension skills is accomplished while students enjoy character building stories that demonstrate biblical truths and virtues. Supplemental novels are used to increase vocabulary and comprehension skills through enrichment activities.

MATH- (BJU) Building on the foundation of place value, addition, and subtraction, students develop multiplication, division, fraction, decimal, and measurement skills. This involves the use of manipulatives and fact reviews. Problem solving skills are strengthened through story problems and interpreting charts and graphs.

SCIENCE- (BJU) This text is designed to increase knowledge of the world God has made. Units include the classification of animals, cells, photosynthesis, sound, rocks and minerals, and motion. Science processing skills are developed by participating in hands-on activities and projects.

HISTORY- (BJU) History is reviewed with a biblical perspective of our growing nation from the Constitutional Convention through the Civil War and westward expansion. Folktales, legends, and fables as well as the music and celebrations of this time period are explored. Geography is reinforced by the use of maps of the world and the regions of the United States. World history is introduced with a study of the French Revolution.

ENGLISH- (BJU) Grammar skills including parts of speech, capitalization, and punctuation are incorporated into the writing units. The guided writing process begins with planning activities before drafting the assignment. Writing conferences are used in the revising and proofreading stages. Finally, projects such as friendly letters, persuasive essays, and research reports are published. Study and reference skills are also included.

SPELLING- (BJU) This program teaches spelling by applying generalizations to word families. Extensive practice is geared toward adding suffixes. Spelling skills are applied by adding dictation sentences to weekly tests. Dictionary skills are expanded by learning more about guide words, entry words, word forms, and sample sentences.

HANDWRITING- (BJU) Building natural, fluid writing skills is the goal of this text. A transportation theme is provided to give a variety of practice activities such as coping Scripture, poetry, diaries, quotations, and hymns. Handwriting skills are carried over into all areas of the curriculum.

 

 

Fifth Grade Curriculum

 

Bible – Bible Truths: Living in God’s Love (BJU) Biblical fundamentals are the foundation to the introduction to more abstract Biblical concepts. Students learn and understand God’s grace, His holiness and sanctification. Bible study skills such as cross-referencing, use of concordances and Bible dictionaries are reinforced on a regular basis. In addition to memorizing scripture each week that pertain to the topic of study, the passage is discussed daily and personal application is sought.

Reading – Pages in My Head (BJU) Students will read several selections from a variety of genres: biography, fable, folktales, realistic, historical and science fiction, and non-fiction. Vocabulary enrichment through the study of definition, Greek and Latin word parts, antonyms, synonyms and analogies is integrated into each lesson. Comprehension skills are strengthened by emphasizing critical thinking, determining cause and effect summarizing and drawing conclusions. Components of literature such as setting, plot, mood, conflict and solution are identified, and the students gain exposure to the use of figurative language. Study skills such as Bible study; using the card catalog and the Dewey decimal system; and resource reading (atlas; encyclopedia; dictionary; glossary; cross-references; charts; graphs, etc) are introduced.

Math – (BJU) This curriculum provides instruction and practice in various mathematical operations to increase students’ procedural and problem-solving skills. Operations to be studied include addition, subtraction, multiplication and division of whole numbers, decimals, fractions and mixed numbers, customary and metric measurement systems, geometry, place value, estimation and rounding and interpreting data from graphs.

Science – (BJU) Earth, Life and Physical sciences are examined in this text. Specific areas of study are the layers of earth and its atmosphere, space, fossils, biomes and ecosystems, atoms and molecules and the physical changes of matter. Hands-on demonstrations and labs are incorporated to further student understanding.

History – Heritage Studies 5 (BJU) An overview of the 20th century will be presented, and the students will look at our country’s history from an economic, cultural, geographical, and an inter- and intra-national perspective. Specific areas include map awareness, the invention of the automobile and airplane, World War I, the Roaring Twenties, the Depression and World War II. Students will learn the location of the 50 states and their capitals. Literature such as Bernice Bobs Her Hair and Number the Stars will be incorporated to give further insight into their respective time periods. A state research project will provide a chance to apply research and writing skills introduced in reading and English.

English – (BJU) Students will work to improve both the content and conventions of their writing. Curriculum provides instruction and practice in recognizing parts of speech, proper sentence combinations and word usage skills, and correct punctuation placement. Writing projects will include a compare-contrast essay; persuasive business letter, various styles of poetry, a personal narrative; and a book review. Opportunities to develop listening and presentation skills are plentiful.

Spelling – (BJU) Weekly spelling lists promote the recognition of various spelling patterns. Other activities include dictionary skills, vocabulary building, syllable identification and dictation.

Handwriting – (BJU) Maintaining good penmanship is the focus of this text. Students review proper techniques, and will copy good cursive models that include Scripture, hymns, newspaper articles, information forms, and poetry.

 

 

 

Sixth Grade Curriculum

Bible – Redemption: God’s Grand Design (BJU) Biblical themes of study include: God’s covenant, God’s providence, the Incarnate Word, and the book of Revelation.
Bible study skills such as cross-referencing, use of concordances and Bible commentaries and dictionaries are reinforced on a regular basis. In addition to memorizing scripture each week that pertain to the topic of study, the passage is discussed daily and personal application is sought.

 

Reading – As Full as the World (BJU) Students will read several selections from a variety of genres: biography, fable, folktales, realistic, historical and science fiction, and non-fiction. Vocabulary enrichment through the study of definition, Greek and Latin word parts, etymologies, antonyms, synonyms and analogies is integrated into each lesson. Comprehension skills are strengthened by emphasizing critical thinking, determining cause and effect, determining between fact and opinion, and drawing conclusions. Components of literature such as setting, plot, mood, conflict, theme and crisis and denouement are identified. Students learn to identify and appreciate the use of flashback and foreshadowing in literature. Study skills such as Bible study; using the card catalog and the Dewey decimal system; and resource reading (atlas; encyclopedia; dictionary; glossary; cross-references; charts; graphs, etc) are practiced.

Math – (BJU) This curriculum provides instruction and practice in various mathematical operations to increase students’ procedural and problem-solving skills. Operations to be studied include addition, subtraction, multiplication and division of whole numbers (positive and negative), decimals, fractions and mixed numbers, customary and metric measurement systems, geometry, place value, estimation and rounding, interpreting data from graphs, and solving algebraic expressions.

Science – (BJU) Earth and Life sciences are examined. Some specific areas of study are volcanoes and earthquakes, physical and chemical weathering, natural resources, cell/animal/plant classification, and the immune system. Hands-on demonstrations and labs are incorporated to further student understanding.

History – Heritage Studies 6 (BJU) A study and comparison of various ancient civilizations from 3000BC – AD 1500 to our modern region is the curriculum’s focus. The archaeological findings, economy, government, language, religion, art and daily life are among topics studied within a civilization. A country research project will provide a chance to apply research and writing skills introduced in reading and English.

English – (BJU) Students will work to improve both the content and conventions of their writing. Curriculum provides instruction and practice in recognizing specific types of all general parts of speech, proper sentence combinations and word usage skills, and correct punctuation placement. Writing will be done in proper stage order, and projects will include a personal narrative; newspaper editorial; instructions; research report; a compare-contrast essay. Opportunities to develop listening and presentation skills are plentiful.

Spelling – (BJU) Weekly spelling lists promote the recognition of various spelling patterns. The names of over 100 countries will be included in weekly lists. Other activities include dictionary skills, vocabulary building, syllable identification and dictation.

Handwriting – (BJU) Maintaining good penmanship is the focus of this text. Chancery cursive will also be introduced and practiced. Students review proper techniques, and will copy good cursive models that include Scripture, hymns, newspaper articles, information forms, and poetry.