Academic Curriculum

The major portion of every school day is spent studying the four core academic areas of English, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies. Units are planned according to requirements established in the Virginia Standards of Learning. To read these objectives, click on the appropriate link below.

Kindergarten First Grade Second Grade Third Grade Fourth Grade Fifth Grade

Textbooks used for Language Arts instruction include Trophies published by Harcourt School Publishers. A variety of classic as well as contemporary literature is covered. Supplemental grammar and spelling lessons are suggested for each selection. Each grade level also has several sets of trade books available to integrate into their language curriculums. Many of these books reinforce concepts being studied in Science and Social Studies.

Harcourt Language published by Harcourt School Publishers is used in grades 2-5 for grammar skills and writing skills. Each grade level integrates creative writing as much as possible. Writing portfolios are maintained for each child throughout his elementary school experience. The Zaner-Bloser Spelling Connections series is also available for spelling instruction. High frequency writing words are often integrated with spelling lessons.

The Mathematics, The Path to Math Success series by Silver Burdett Ginn is used for math at all grade levels. Manipulatives, CD-Roms, and SOL practice books are used to introduce and reinforce concepts.

As much as possible, science is taught using hands-on materials such as Foss kits. Trade books such as the Magic School Bus series books and videos are frequently used to supplement lessons. Third through fifth grade also use the Harcourt Brace Science Series.

Much of Social Studies is covered using trade books, videos, charts and maps, and teacher generated materials and ideas. Third, fourth, and fifth grades use the Scott Foresman Social Studies series which reinforces the Virginia SOL's.

In addition to the above mentioned textbooks, a wide variety of materials is available at each grade level for review and reinforcement of required Virginia Standards of Learning.