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CURRICULUM
At Savannah River Academy, we recognize that students learn best through active exploration. By implementing carefully selected, evidence-based curricular programs and teaching practices, we will boost children’s learning potential. The following includes a brief overview (with links) to our curricular programs, grouped by subject.
LANGUAGE ARTS
Reading
The cornerstone of Savannah River Academy’s reading program is Fountas and Pinnell’s “guided reading.” Teachers work with small groups of like readers to effectively build comprehension and decoding skills. Our balanced approach to reading adds language experience, phonics taught through the Orton-Gillingham method, and multi-sensory approaches to language development. Fiction and non-fiction texts are utilized within the reading program.
Writing
Writing occurs daily in the classrooms using the 6+1 Traits Writing Model as a framework. Students work through all the phases of writing, from brainstorming to producing a final draft. Genres of writing (e.g., research papers, opinion articles) are explored in an age-appropriate way.
Spelling and Vocabulary
Our younger learners use the “Sounds and Letters for Readers and Spellers” series, as well as the Orton-Gillingham method to build early spelling skills. The spelling program is based on phonemic awareness. Students transition to “Words Their Way” before moving to “Vocabulary Workshop” by fourth grade.
Grammar
Savannah River Academy utilizes “Shurley English” to teach grammar skills throughout all grade levels.
Handwriting
Our younger students will learn handwriting through the “Handwriting without Tears” program, developed by occupational therapists to build correct letter formation as well as fine motor skills.
Math
The math program at Savannah River Academy is designed to teach children to master essential problem solving and computational skills as well as help them to approach math with confidence and enthusiasm. The Singapore Math program is used at all grade levels. This curriculum is based on national standards used in Singapore, and it meets or exceeds all Curriculum Evaluation Standards for School Mathematics developed by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM). The curriculum focuses on problem solving to facilitate math learning. Concepts are taught with a concrete-pictorial-abstract learning progression through real-world, hands-on experiences. The Singapore Math program solidly builds the foundational concepts that will best prepare students for higher math.
Science
Savannah River Academy’s science program largely uses the model promoted by the National Science Education Standards, which has moved from an emphasis on content-based learning to an emphasis on active inquiry and investigation. Our science program includes content curriculum that includes life, physical, and earth science on a yearly basis. However, this content is taught through an experiential model (i.e., a hands-on approach). Students will be encouraged to try various solutions to problems; ask thoughtful questions; and draw conclusions based on observations, experiments, and activities. Our STEM curriculum is designed to teach students the methods and tools necessary for the process of scientific inquiry.
Social Studies
Our social studies curriculum is based on the National Curriculum Standards for Social Studies and focuses on developing cultural competence, historical perspective, and an understanding of the interconnections between people. Through theme- and content-based activities, students reflect on interpersonal and global connections. Activities (e.g., student-led investigations and service learning) will focus on current and historical events and multicultural perspectives.
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