Lower School
At the heart of the Carden Instructional Method is a vital educational philosophy with proven teaching techniques. Our elementary program, first through fifth grades, ensures that each child receives a well-developed and articulated program.
Small class sizes, even smaller instructional groups, additional support staff, and specialist teachers enable us to provide each student with a thorough instructional program.
Kindergarten
The kindergarten experience:
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Is based on the understanding that young children learn best by meshing their academic experiences with play and concrete experiences.
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Is oriented to individual developmental patterns and learning styles.
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Emphasizes the interrelationships between reading, language development, listening, and thinking.
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Is provided by Carden trained faculty dedicated to maintaining a quality program that nurtures and develops the whole child, giving attention to all areas of development: physical, emotional, social, and intellectual.
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Integrates the Carden curriculum and philosophies with developmentally appropriate activities.
Specific Objectives by Subject:
- Language Arts
- Mathematics
- Science
- History & Social Studies
- Art & Art Appreciation
- Music
- Motor Development & Physical Education
- World Languages
Language Arts
The Carden Method teaches students to read and write through the use of proven teaching techniques that provide a natural development of each child’s mind. Smoothly graduating steps take students from basic consonant sounds to an analysis of all the sounds each vowel makes in different words, ultimately leading to the development of the Carden Vowel Chart and reading with fluency, rhythm, and complete comprehension.
English Grammar:
- Identify recent and past verb tenses
- Learn and use proper sentence structure
Spelling:
- Executes dictations of sounds and words
- Learns two-vowel rule and vowel-alone rules
- Develops proficiency with Carden controls and vowel pitches
- Applies Carden vowel chart to express controls
Oral Language:
- Identify who, doing, what, Carden terms for parts of speech
- Demonstrate comprehension skills (main idea, details, sequence, cause/effect, draw conclusions, predict outcome
- Increase vocabulary
Reading:
- Identify consonants, blends, and vowels to decode words by applying Carden vowel chart rules
- Participate in guided exercises to develop a mental image
- Utilize comprehension questions to analyze sentence structure
Literature:
- Enhance listening skills by increasing vocabulary
- Compare story elements (setting, characters, events, plot, and theme)
- Make inferences and draw conclusions
- Hear stories which emphasize valuable character traits and moral behavior influencing the heart of the student
Poetry:
- Use poetry for sequencing, mental image, vocabulary development, and rhythmic reading
- Engage in group oral recitation
Speaking:
- Develop group communication skills
- Express thoughts in complete sentences
- Articulate and enunciate when speaking
Writing and Penmanship:
- Print upper and lower case alphabet
- Use proper punctuation and capitalization
- Print numerals and mathematical equations
Mathematics
Our goal is to instill a solid foundation with a functional concept of numbers which will enable the student to express numerical relationships in words. The use of manipulative and exploration are stressed so that the child experiences understanding before proceeding to the numerical symbols and more abstract thinking. Vocabulary is developed through the “Language of the Blocks” as students discuss and record their experiences. Pupils then begin to acquire an understanding of the properties of addition, subtraction, measurement, time, and the use of a calendar.
Logic and Reasoning:
- Classify objects by size, shape and texture
- Identify spatial positions using appropriate vocabulary: inside, outside, middle, top, bottom, left and right
- Solve word problems using appropriate skills and strategies
- Give reasonable or logical conjectures and conclusions
- Make and read graphs and charts
- Identify, reproduce, and extend simple patterns
Geometry:
- Identify and draw basic geometric shapes
Measurement:
- Understand comparison terms: more than, less than, greater than, fewer, etc.
- Recognize and identify fraction parts: whole, half, quarter, and third
- Demonstrate an understanding of time (morning, noon, evening, yesterday, etc)
- Understand the use of measuring tools, (clocks, scale, calendar, mean, ruler, etc)
- Recite days of the week, months, seasons
- Measure items using standard and non-standard units
- Recognize coins
- Compare length, width and height of various objects
Number Functions:
- Count, and recognize numerals 0 - 100
- Use ordinal number identification
- Recognize mathematical symbols
- Add and subtract whole numbers
- Experience place value on the 1’s and 10’s place
Science
Kindergarten lessons focus on scientific processes to explore the premise that there are observable changes in the world around us. Through hands-on activities, the students investigate physical earth and life science by observing, comparing, classifying, order, and recording data.
- Identify stages of plant life
- Identify vegetables, fruit and ornamental plants
- Use the Five Senses to examine and observe things in the world around them
- Identify living and non-living things
- Investigate habitats and life cycles of familiar insects and animals
- Experiment with matter and be able to identify solids, liquids, and gases
- Observe changing seasons and daily weather conditions
- Discuss and practice good nutrition
History & Social Studies
Kindergarten students develop social skills by working in groups, sharing objects and space, taking turns, and following directions. Using concrete experiences such as dramatic play, art projects, and field trips, students develop an understanding of and appreciation for self, family, the community, and the world.
- Develop a sense of history while studying traditions and the origins of holidays
- Develop an appreciation for other cultures
- Understand and identify land and water areas on a globe and on a map
- Participate in classroom management and conflict resolution by developing problem solving skills
- Develop respect for rules and the rights and property of others
- Learn patriotic songs
- Learn the Pledge of Allegiance
- Identify the qualities and virtues of fictitious characters and how those qualities are emulated in real life situations
- Begin to develop a sense of time: present, past and future
- Share important events and people in their own lives
- Learn about other cultures through music, food, holiday traditions, dress, etc.
Art & Art Appreciation
Kindergarten students will apply artistic processes and skills using a variety of materials to create original works of art. Using art media to develop perceptual and fine motor skills students will also increase their awareness and appreciation for the elements of art and art appreciation. By acquiring the vocabulary, kindergarten students will be able to analyze and make judgements as they communicate and express themselves through art.
- Become acquainted with the use of basic art tools: scissors, brushes, paints, markers, pencils, and crayons
- Make personal choices in artistic expression
- Identify colors, textures, line, shape, and space
- Explore the historical and cultural context of sample works of art
Music
The music program for kindergarten focuses on learning the lyrics, origin and meaning of songs. Students learn to identify various musical instruments by sight and by sound. Primarily a vocal program, music is the vehicle for many cultural and thematic units.
- Learn songs related to our country, seasons, and holidays
- March, clap, and dance while listening to music and use unpatched rhythm instruments to copy simple rhythm patterns emphasizing steady beats and rests
- Participate in classroom music and play presentations and in an all school music presentations
- Develop appreciation for different genres of music
Motor Development & Physical Education
Kindergarten students participate in fitness activities that focus on the development of gross motor skills, manipulative movement, spatial/body awareness, balance, and social group behavior. Through a variety of cooperative games, rhythms, movement exploration activities, and manipulative activities, the students are able to meet the class objectives and develop the components of health-related fitness that will be the basis for a lifetime of healthy habits.
- Experience rhythm activities that develop coordination and concentration
- Develop agility, balance, and basic gross motor skills
- Develop ability to follow directions
- Experience and learn structured playground games
World Languages
This class is designed to strengthen the interest and proficiency in a foreign language and culture. The teaching is primarily oral, focusing on listening and speaking skills. Lessons in French, Spanish and American Sign Language build everyday vocabulary, expression, and commands.
- Learn greetings and introductions
- Practice politeness
- Learn numbers 0 to 30
- Learn months of the year
- Discuss the weather
- Learn colors, family members, food, animals
- Learn holidays and geography around the world
- Learn language through songs
- Learn articles, singular and plural
First Grade
The general objectives for first grade students are to:
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Give the child security in learning
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Teach the child to think independently
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Develop self-reliance and stamina
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Develop good study and work habits
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Awaken the student to the pleasure in learning
Specific Objectives by Subject
- Reading
- Spelling
- Writing, Composition, & Grammar
- Penmanship
- Mathematics
- Social Studies
- Science
- Art & Art Appreciation
- Music
- World Languages
- Motor Development
- Computers
Reading
- Teach the child with the tools and skills necessary to enjoy reading
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Develop a habit of reading for both information and pleasure
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Establish rhythmic reading skills for the purpose of comprehension
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Enhance the child’s reading and speaking vocabulary through exposure to fine literature
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Expose the child to the beauty of reading and reciting poetry
Spelling
Writing, Composition, & Grammar
Penmanship
Mathematics
Social Studies
Science
Art & Art Appreciation
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Familiarize the child with a variety of techniques and materials in a supportive environment
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Sharpen perception with an explanation of pictorial organization
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Develop observation skills in and out of classroom
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Introduce elements of line and color
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Learn to appreciate artists and incorporate the use of technique in creating artwork
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Discuss and learn to describe works of art in a social setting
Music
World Languages
Motor Development
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Experience rhythmic activities that develop coordination and concentration skills
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Continue to develop agility and basic locomotor skills
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Demonstrate full range of motion in arm and leg swings and stretches, basic locomotor skills and good posture
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Practice safe use of playground equipment
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Participate in physical activities and demonstrate good sportsmanship and teamwork
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Travel over, under, in front of, behind, and through objects and over, under, in front of, and behind partners, using locomotor skills
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Balance oneself, demonstrating momentary stillness, using body parts other than both feet as a base of support
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Explain the importance of warming up, stretching, and drinking water before, during, and after physical activity.
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Kick a ball with confidence and without losing balance
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Throw, catch, and aim accurately using both overhand and underhand movements
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Jump a rope turned by other students.
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Develop the ability to listen to one's own body and respond to what it "says" appropriately
Computers
Second Grade
The general objectives for second grade students are to:
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Develop self-reliance and stamina
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Develop good study and work habits
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Participate in a pleasurable learning experience that leads to security in learning
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Achieve independence in thinking
Specific Objectives by Subject
- Reading
- Spelling
- Writing, Composition, & Grammar
- Penmanship
- Mathematics
- History & Social Studies
- Science
- Art & Art Appreciation
- Music
- World Languages
- Motor Development
- Physical Education
- Computers
Reading
Spelling
Writing, Composition, & Grammar
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Develop sequential thought in writing through use of Carden composition forms
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Use correct grammar as it applies to composition and comprehension
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Use organizational skills (classifying through keyword and title, categorizing, summarizing, and outlining)
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Apply organizational skills to creative writing
Penmanship
Mathematics
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Develop familiarity with math facts (addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division)
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Perform two and three place addition and subtraction
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Express number concepts and number relationships with ease and accuracy
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Identify fractional parts, place value, identify and use items of measurement, money, and time
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Read bars and graphs
History & Social Studies
Science
Art & Art Appreciation
Music
World Languages
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French and Spanish offered
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Discover language and culture, work on basic grammar, and explore new vocabulary through interactive and stimulating stories, songs, projects and educational games
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Emphasis on oral communication and most activities aim at developing listening skills through recorded dialogues that will serve as opportunities to discover new grammar, new words and new sounds
Motor Development
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Create and demonstrate rhythmic patterns
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Continue to develop lower body large motor skills
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Continue to develop awareness of the body in space
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Transfer weight from feet to hands and from hands to feet, landing with control
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Kick a rolled ball from a stationary position
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Both turn and jump rope repeatedly.
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Perform sit-ups, planks, knee push-ups, squats, and lunges
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Identify the following muscles and how to properly stretch them: biceps, triceps, quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves
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Explain why the heart, lungs, and muscles are so important to physical activity
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Continue to develop the ability to listen to one's own body
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Chase, flee, and move away from others in a constantly changing environment
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Roll a ball for accuracy toward a target
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Throw and catch a ball with a partner, increasing the distance from the partner and maintaining an accurate throw that can be easily caught
Physical Education
Computers
Third Grade
The general objectives for third grade students are to:
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Encourage personal growth independently and in group situations
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Provide a structured and positive environment for each child to attain his or her maximum potential in all academic subjects and areas
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Encourage the class to work together as a unit whenever possible in order to maintain and promote social interaction
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Make each student aware of his or her increased responsibilities with regard to class work and homework
Specific Objectives by Subject
- Reading
- Spelling
- Writing, Composition, & Grammar
- Penmanship
- Poetry & Poetry Appreciation
- Mathematics
- Geography
- Science
- Art & Art Appreciation
- Music
- World Languages
- Motor Development
- Computers
Reading
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Increase and develop vocabulary
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Identify sequence of facts within a text
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Locate sentence key-words and titles using Carden techniques for developing comprehension
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Compare and contrast various elements of texts through development of skills in interpretation of contents, distinguishing fact from fiction, and anticipating (predicting) endings
Spelling
Writing, Composition, & Grammar
Penmanship
Poetry & Poetry Appreciation
Mathematics
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Strengthen abilities and attain confidence in more advanced forms of addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division
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Concentrate on fractions, weights, measures, Roman numerals, sequencing, multiplication tables 0 to 12, charting, graphing, money, and basic forms of geometry
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Make and solve word problems using appropriate skills and strategies
Geography
Science
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Learn that energy and matter have multiple forms and can be changed from one form to another
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Know that light has a source and travels in a direction
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Look closely at adaptations in physical structure or behavior which may improve an organism's chance for survival
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Study the solar system and create a solar system model
Art & Art Appreciation
Music
World Languages
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French & Spanish offered
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Discover language and culture, work on basic grammar, and explore new vocabulary through interactive and stimulating stories, songs, projects and educational games
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Emphasis on oral communication and most activities aim at developing listening skills through recorded dialogues that will serve as opportunities to discover new grammar, new words, and new sounds
Motor Development
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Continue to develop and demonstrate rhythmic patterns
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Participate in class activities designed to build and strengthen body control and stamina
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Explain the need for oxygen and fuel, and how the heart, lungs, and muscles work together during physical activity
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Explain why it is safer to stretch warm muscles rather than cold muscles
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Demonstrate good teamwork and sportsmanship
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Acknowledge and encourage both opponents and partners
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Respond to both winning and losing with dignity and respect
Computers
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Emphasize computer literacy through mastering the various components of the computer, computer terminology, computer graphics, and keyboarding
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Complete individually paced math and reading programs
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Create an interactive project in KidPix about Native American Indians
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Begin classes in Microsoft Word learning the tool bar and its functions, format and align text, and learn how to open a document and save a document
Fourth Grade
The general objectives for fourth grade students are to:
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Build and strengthen academic skills by participating in a structured, enjoyable, and positive school environment
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Maintain and promote social interaction through group and class activities
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Raise each child's awareness of the increased responsibilities with regard to classwork and homework
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Provide constant and consistent encouragement for each child to attain his or her maximum potential
Specific Objectives by Subject
- Reading
- Spelling
- Writing, Composition, & Grammar
- Penmanship
- Poetry & Poetry Appreciation
- Mathematics
- Geography
- Science
- History & Social Studies
- Art & Art Appreciation
- Music
- World Languages
- Motor Development
- Physical Education
- Computers
Reading
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read and respond to a variety of classical literature selections
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apply awareness of the sequence of facts and recognize the relationship between facts
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compare and contrast various elements of a text, acquire skill in interpretation of content, distinguish fact from fiction, and anticipate endings
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use outlining to further identify and understand the framework of a story, identifying introductions, episodes, and conclusions
Spelling
Writing, Composition, & Grammar
Penmanship
Poetry & Poetry Appreciation
Mathematics
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Identify place value of digits to the hundred thousand column and demonstrate knowledge of decimals to the hundredths column
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Estimate and perform four (or more) place addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division problems using whole numbers and decimals
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Organize and create lists, tables, plots, and graphs
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Define and apply rounding and estimation
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Identify and demonstrate knowledge of lines, rays, angles, points, and parts of a circle
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Find perimeter, area, and volume
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Introduction to fractions
Geography
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Understand planet earth by identifying all the continents and distinctive landforms on each
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Become familiar with all major bodies of water
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Focus on migration of people across continents to understand better the beginnings of influential civilizations
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Learn about different countries and their respective cultures through reading, music, and visual elements
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Identify and study the regions of California
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Review different types of maps
Science
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Study the nature of science and the design process
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Study ecosystems and Earth's resources
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Study rocks, minerals, crystals, and the Periodic Table
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Study electricity, magnetism, friction (Marble Maze), and the laws of motion
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Study simple and compound machines
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Study sight and sound
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Study the human body and the nervous, skeletal, and muscular systems
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Study plants and animals (Owl Pellet Dissection)
History & Social Studies
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Understand history through a literature-enriched curriculum
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Compare and contrast daily lives of the people in during the Mission and Rancho periods
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Discuss home life of the first Americans and Native Americans
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Identify the contributions of key figures throughout history
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Mission Project and Presentation
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Links to California Missions and also Maps of California Missions
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Recognize and appreciate the multicultural and multiethnic dimensions of our society and the contributions made by various groups
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Understand the concepts of culture and how it is transmitted
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Identify and apply basic concepts of economics
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Develop an awareness of past and present exchange systems
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Understand the meaning of time and chronology
Art & Art Appreciation
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Introduce famous artists, review a variety of art styles, and create related art pieces
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Explore a variety of media and techniques
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Work in all art elements (line, form, color, texture, value, and space)
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Review the works and lives of famous artists
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Discuss and learn to describe works of art in a social setting
Music
World Languages
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French and Spanish offered
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Discover language and culture, work on basic grammar, and explore new vocabulary through interactive and stimulating stories, songs, projects and educational games
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Emphasis on oral communication and most activities aim at developing listening skills through recorded dialogues that will serve as opportunities to discover new grammar, new words and new sounds
Motor Development
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Continue to develop and demonstrate rhythmic patterns
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Continue to improve basic motor skills during games and sports
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Participate in class activities designed to build skill and stamina in body control
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Develop awareness of the habits and attitudes that support a healthy mind and body
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Understand the difference between defensive and offensive players, and determine appropriate spacing on the field/court for each
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Explain how the heart, lungs, and muscles work together during physical activity
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Describe the difference between strength, speed, and endurance
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Respond to both winning and losing with dignity and respect
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Accept responsibility for one’s own performance without blaming others
Physical Education
Computers
Fifth Grade
The general objectives for students in the fifth grade are to:
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Develop mental, emotional, and physical stamina
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See learning as a constant, rewarding, and enjoyable companion for life
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Take responsibility for one’s actions both academically and socially
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See problem-solving as a challenge and its reward as knowledge gained
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Display respectful conduct towards each other, others’ property, and their elders
Specific Objectives by Subject
- Reading
- Spelling
- Writing, Composition, & Grammar
- Penmanship
- Poetry & Poetry Appreciation
- Mathematics
- History & Social Studies
- Science
- Art & Art Appreciation
- Music
- World Languages
- Physical Education
- Computers
Reading
Spelling
Writing, Composition, & Grammar
Penmanship
Poetry & Poetry Appreciation
Mathematics
History & Social Studies
Science
Art & Art Appreciation
Music
World Languages
Physical Education
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Perform the California Physical Fitness Test
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Participate in class activities designed to develop skill and coordination
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Demonstrate good sportsmanship and positive leadership skills while encouraging class and teammates
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Participate in team sports
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Demonstrate a knowledge of rules for various sports
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Develop goals focusing on self improvement
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Create a lifelong joy for physical activity
Computers
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Become proficient with keyboarding (30-40 wpm)
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Learn word processing programs (Word, Pages)
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Use presentation software (PowerPoint, KeyNote)
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Learn spreadsheets in Excel & Numbers
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Create an interactive book using iBook author
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Complete a multimedia project in iMovie
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Learn block coding
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Use math programs that support the classroom program
If you are not familiar with Miss Carden and the Carden Method, we encourage you to review the information we have prepared.