ICSV Elementary School Course Descriptions 2016­2017

Primary Primary Bible Emphasis in the Primary Bible class is character development. Beginning with Christ’s example and continuing with the study of key biblical and historical figures, students begin to recognize different Christian character traits. They are then encouraged to apply them to their daily lives. In addition, God’s plan of redemption is explained by studying how this plan is interwoven throughout both the Old and New Testament Scriptures. Resources: ACSI Elementary Bible: Kindergarten, Purposeful Design Publications; The Beginner’s Bible, Zondervan Primary Math Primary Math focuses on numbers and operations, geometry, data and patterns, measurement, and money. Students will learn to model, read, write, order, and compare the numbers 0 to 30, while counting to 100. They will solve simple, single­digit addition and subtraction problems. Students will sort, describe, copy, extend, create, and compare using color, shape, and size. They will also count, order, and compare coins up to 50 cents. Resources: GO Math! Primary Phonics Primary Phonics focuses on rhyming, consonants, short vowels, and simple consonant blends. By the end of the course, students will be able to recognize and name all of the consonants and vowels and their sounds. Resources: Scott Foresman Reading, Kindergarten

Primary Reading Primary Reading focuses on comprehension, fluency, accuracy, and vocabulary acquisition. Students will learn to make connections between illustrations and written words, recognizing high­frequency words.. They will recall and retell main events and be able to compare and contrast actions and character attributes in familiar stories. They will recognize the main components of a story such as setting, plot, and main idea. Resources: Scott Foresman Reading, Kindergarten; Scott Foresman Beginning Readers; Reading A to Z. Primary Writing Primary students begin to learn about the writing process that includes traits of good writing, forms of writing, and themes. They also focus on writing words and sentences. They practice pre­writing strategies and learn to punctuate their sentences. Students recognize nouns, verbs, and adjectives, and use time­order words to sequence events. Students are encouraged to write in their journals. Resources: Scott Foresman Reading: Kindergarten, Pearson Education; Writing and Grammar Primary Science Students learn what science is and study animal, plants, habitats, and the concepts of day and night. They identify and describe their five senses and utilize them to observe and learn about the world around them. They begin to describe and pose questions through observing, comparing, measuring, and sorting. Students study the life cycles and life stages of frogs, butterflies, birds, fish, and mammals. Resources: Houghton Mifflin/Harcourt: Science Fusion Curriculum and Science Kits Primary Social Studies Students learn to be a good citizen through the study of stories of the past. They also learn about where they live and explore different types of workers. They begin the year by identifying the purpose of rules and why there are consequence of breaking those rules. They learn to cooperate, take turns, and share, and they appreciate the need for safety signs. Students study landforms, environments, and bodies of water. They distinguish fact from fiction, and learn to appreciate their family’s heritage. Students identify the months and seasons of the year, and they learn about the occupations of individuals in their school, in their community, and at home. Resources: Social Studies: Our World, Now, and Long Ago

Primary Music In this course students are equipped with the skills they need to worship God through music. They develop a feeling for a steady beat and recognize and play rhythm instruments. They learn to identify and demonstrate an understanding of the parameters in music and various expressive qualities in music. They sing in unison and learn solfeggio patterns. They also play Orff instruments. Primary Art This course develops the students’ skills through a variety of art experiences so the students become proficient observers and creators. They grow in their ability to describe, interpret, evaluate, and respond to works in the visual arts. This course helps students to recognize their unique talents and encourages them to glorify God while gaining an understanding of God’s creation and art as a means of human expression. Students learn to examine their own work and that of others. They begin to understand the meaning and impact that the visual arts have in the world in which they live. Specific units of study include the following: primary and secondary colors, warm and cool colors, texture, neutral colors, pattern, and shapes.

Primary Physical Education Students develop their motor skills by using games and age­appropriate movement drills. As they participate in structured “team oriented” and lead­up games for sports such as soccer, handball, volleyball, and basketball, students experience and discuss issues related to participation and personal fitness. In the process, they develop an appreciation of a healthy and active lifestyle. Students also learn basic gymnastics skills and play frisbee football and dodgeball. Primary Library Information Skills Primary students become familiar with the library facilities, organization, and services. They learn where to find books suitable for their age and how to treat borrowed items. They learn respect for others who might be working in the same space. Students begin to understand the basics of alphabet, number order, and library labeling. They learn to identify basic genres and how stories are arranged. The main objective is that primary students grow to love books and have exposure to printed literature. Even though they may not be reading, they should be able to decipher and communicate about what they see and hear. Primary German Students learn to speak and understand German on a very basic level. They understand and use familiar everyday expressions and very basic phrases aimed at the satisfaction of needs of a concrete type. They can introduce themselves and can speak and answer

simple personal questions, such as what they like to do and things they have. The students can interact in a simple way provided the other person talks slowly and clearly and is prepared to help. Students also start to understand the Austrian culture. Particular vocabulary that students learn is as follows: food, family, school, animals, clothes, hobbies, numbers, colors, and introductions. The children also learn some German songs. Primary ELL Students in this class work on content and social language. They begin to listen with understanding and are able to contribute to class discussions. Students demonstrate understanding of spoken words, syllables, and sounds. They use grade­level phonics and word analysis skills in decoding. As they read, they demonstrate understanding of the organization and basic features of print. They use a combination of drawing, dictating, and writing to compose a variety of texts. They develop in their understanding of English grammar and apply that knowledge to their own speaking and writing. In Primary ELL students learn to communicate about the following topics: cooperation, autumn and the seasons, Christmas, changes all around us, adventures, transportation, building, and construction. Resource: Pearson: Language Central, Kindergarten First Grade First Grade Bible Students become familiar with Bible truths that emphasize God’s relationship to people. Students study key biblical figures, with a focus on their character traits. They continue to learn to apply these same traits to their lives. They also begin to understand how Christ is the fulfillment of the Old Testament stories and prophecies. . Resources: ACSI Grade 1 Bible: Purposeful Design Publications; The Beginner’s Bible, Zondervan; NIrV and NIV Adventure Bible translations, Zondervan. First Grade Math First Grade Math emphasizes addition and subtraction concepts, strategies and relationships, number comparisons, basic geometry, measurement, time, and money. Students understand place value up to 100. They learn strategies to solve up to two­digit addition and subtraction problems both with and without regrouping. They learn to count backwards and forwards by ones, twos, fives, and tens. They learn to read and interpret graphs and begin to develop algebra skills as

they look for mathematical rules. They learn to tell time to the hour and half­hour, and they are able to count and order coins up to one Euro. Resources: GO Math! First Grade Phonics and Spelling First graders develop the phonic skills in decoding and using words in context. They learn to apply strategies in order to spell grade­appropriate words correctly. They focus on the identification and recognition of consonants, short and long vowels, blends, homophones, homonyms, contractions, plurals, possessives, digraphs, diphthongs, inflected and comparatives endings, and suffixes. Resources: Scott Foresman Reading, First Grade, Pearson Education, Inc. First Grade Reading By the end of first grade, students will be able to read with purpose, sufficient accuracy, flow, expression, fluency, and comprehension. They will read both fiction and non­fiction stories. they will expand their primary reading skills and be able to use context to self­correct word recognition and understanding. They will recognize the use of voice in stories that contain dialogue. They will continue to learn how to find the author’s purpose and theme, to predict events based on what they have already read, and to make personal connections with what they have read. Resources: Scott Foresman Reading, First Grade; Scott Foresman Grade 1 Phonics Readers; Reading A to Z; Elementary Library Books ­ Levels A ­ M. First Grade Writing and Grammar In first grade, students work on their handwriting and grammar skills while writing creative stories, letters, notes, lists, and narratives. They will continue to improve their penmanship and add the conventions of writing. They will focus on using capital letters, word spacing, and punctuation. Students will learn the parts of a sentence and put words in alphabetical order. They will practice prewriting strategies, sequence events, and write in their personal journals. By the end of the year, they will be able to write a full­page fictional, non­fictional composition. Students will develop their own dictionary to use in checking their spelling. Resources: Write Source: Writing and Grammar, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt First Grade Science

First Grade Science covers the earth’s resources, weather and seasons, matter, energy, and motion. Students learn to identify and describe rocks, water, weather, measurement tools, and magnets. They also increase their knowledge of animals, plants, and humans. Resources: Houghton Mifflin/Harcourt: Science Fusion Curriculum and Science Kits; Scott Foresman Science: Discover the Wonder First Grade Social Studies First Grade Social Studies focuses on economics, landforms, and culture. The improve their map skills and are able to describe physical land features. They create a timeline as a record of their own lives. They begin to compare and contrast cultural features, customs, traditions, and celebrations. They continue with their study of jobs within the community and learn about buying, selling, and processing goods. They learn to read and use flow charts, picture graphs, and bar graphs. Resources: Social Studies: A Child’s View, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt First Grade Music In first grade, students continue their musical experience by studying the following: beat vs. no beat, long and short, upwards and downwards, same and different, forte and piano, largo and presto, legato and staccato, phrases, and graphic composition. They sing and play rhythm instruments. First Grade Art Students in first grade continue to develop as young artists. They study prehistoric art, Egyptian art, mosaics, art in architecture, cubism, and impressionism. They keep a sketchbook of their year’s work. First Grade Physical Education Students develop their motor skills by using games and age­appropriate movement drills. As they participate in structured “team oriented” and lead­up games for sports such as soccer, handball, volleyball, and basketball, students experience and discuss issues related to participation and personal fitness. In the process, they develop an appreciation of a healthy and active lifestyle. Students also learn basic gymnastics skills and play frisbee football and dodgeball. First Grade Library Information Skills

Primary students become familiar with the library facilities, organization, and services. They learn where to find books suitable for their age and how to treat borrowed items. They learn respect for others who might be working in the same space. Students learn to understand the basics of alphabet, number order, and library labeling in greater detail. First graders are able to identify basic genres ­ distinguish between fiction and nonfiction. They can demonstrate basic understanding of parts of a book, as well as story elements (character, setting, goal, problem and solution). They understand that information can be found in the library to answer questions they may have about any given subject. First Grade German First Grade German is a continuation of Primary German. This year that learn the following: food, family, school, animals, clothes, hobbies, informal introductions, numbers, colors, initial sounds, rhyming words, and simple compound words. They also learn more German songs. First Grade ELL First grade students continue to improve in the skills learned in Primary ELL. Specific topics of study include the following: homes and families, animals, people in communities, growing and changing, surprising treasures, and clever solutions. Resource: Pearson Language Central: First Grade Second Grade Second Grade Bible ­ God’s Covenant with the Israelites, Faithful Leaders, the Early Church Second Grade Bible begins with the study of God’s covenant with the Israelites through Abraham. Students will study through the Old Testament beginning with Abraham and continuing through the prophets and judges, with an emphasis on faithful leaders. They learn the redemption narrative by using the Wordless Book and see how Christ is the fulfillment of the Old Testament stories and prophecies. The also study the life of Christ and the growth of the early church. Resources: ACSI Grade Two Bible Curriculum Second Grade Math ­ Numbers, Operations, Geometry, and Measurement

Second Grade Math continues the study of number concept. Students learn numbers to 1,000, focus on two­digit and three­digit addition and subtractions, and begin to learn multiplication concepts. They study length, weight, mass, capacity, money, time, geometry, and patterns. Resources: GO Math! Second Grade Phonics/Spelling Second Grade Phonics focuses on long and short vowels, consonant blends and digraphs, vowel pairs and digraphs, diphthongs, contractions, plurals, and suffixes. Students at this level distinguish among the consonant sounds in any position. They recognize all the short and long vowel sounds so that they can now decode words in isolation and in context. They identify and distinguish among contracted forms of words and are able to change singular nouns into plural ones. Students use these phonics skills in decoding and in using words in context. They apply phonetic strategies in order to spell grade­appropriate words correctly. Resources: Modern Curriculum Press Phonics­ Level B Second Grade Reading ­ Comprehension, Fluency, Accuracy, and Vocabulary Reading continues to be of primary importance in grade two. Students learn to ask and answer such questions as who, what, where, when, why , and how to demonstrate understanding of key details in a text. They recount stories, including fables and folktales from diverse cultures, and determine their central message, lesson, or moral. They describe how characters in a story respond to major events and challenges. They acknowledge different points of view. They also understand how words and phrases (e.g., regular beats, alliteration, rhymes, repeated lines) supply rhythm and meaning in a story, poem, or song. By the end of year, students are able to read and comprehend stories, poetry, and informational texts, including history/social studies, science, and technical texts, at a grade 2­3 level.

Resources: Interactive Reading Notebook; Reading A to Z.

Second Grade Writing/Grammar ­ Narrative, Expository, and Opinion Writing In Second Grade Writing/Grammar, students focus on the writing process. They write numerous pieces including personal narratives, procedural writing, poetry, persuasive writing, friendly letters, and research papers that are integrated with Social Studies. Students also strengthen their command of the standard English grammar by studying homophones and contractions, idioms, compound words, nouns, verbs, suffixes, and prefixes. They continue to focus on correct punctuation and capitalization in their writing. Students learn to use a variety of digital tools to

produce and publish their writing. They also learn to consult reference materials, including glossaries and beginning dictionaries, as needed to check and correct their spelling. Resources: Write Source: Writing and Grammar Second Grade Science ­ Thinking and Working like a Scientist; Plants, Animals, and Environments In Second Grade Science, students demonstrate inquiry and problem solving skills as they explore each topic. They follow the scientific method and identify and describe a variety of science tools and their usage. They develop their understanding of the design process and how to apply it on a basic level. Students understand what technology is and how it is helpful in the field of science. Students learn to describe and compare different kinds of animals and talk about their basic needs. They are able to explain the basic characteristics of all life cycles, and to describe the sequence of life stages for frogs, butterflies, birds, fish, and mammals. They are able to explain and define what a fossil is and how it was formed and to identify a plant’s needs, parts, and life cycles. Second grade students understand that living organisms are interdependent with their living and nonliving surroundings. They describe how adaptations help living things survive in their environments and how environments change due to time, natural events, and living things. Resources: Houghton Mifflin/Harcourt: Science Fusion Curriculum and Science Kits Second Grade Social Studies ­ Government, Economics, Landforms, and Culture In Second Grade Social Studies students learn to explain the rights and responsibilities of a citizen at home, in school, and in the community. They recognize the need for rules and laws and identify consequences for breaking them. Students identify and describe functions of government and understand how government work is paid for by taxes. They are able to describe why we need leaders and how leaders are chosen through the process of voting. Students identify and explain the roles of producers and consumers and describe how goods and services are related to a business. Students recognize the difference between needs and wants. Students will learn map skills like using a compass rose and a map key. Students identify and describe a variety of landform. Students also study cultures from around the world, identifying differences in dress, art, language, food, music, and beliefs. Resources: Social Studies: People We Know

Second Grade Music In Second Grade Music, students study beat and rhythm, rhythm notes (quarter note, paired eighth note, quarter rest, half note, half rest), expressive qualities (crescendo/decrescendo, accelerando/ritardando, accent/no accent, legato/staccato), and A­B/A­B­A form in music. Second Grade Art In second grade, students learn about texture, repeated pattern, size relationships and linear perspective, watercolor, collage, and animals in art. They participate in group visual analysis discussions and teacher­led projects. Second Grade Physical Education Students develop their motor skills by using games and age­appropriate movement drills. As they participate in structured “team oriented” and lead­up games for sports such as soccer, handball, volleyball, and basketball, students experience and discuss issues related to participation and personal fitness. In the process, they develop an appreciation of a healthy and active lifestyle. Students also learn basic gymnastics skills and play frisbee football and dodgeball. Second Grade Library Information Skills Second grade students are familiar with the library facilities, organization, and services.They learn where to go to find books suitable for their age. Second grade students are expected to show respect for others who might be working in the same space. They understand alphabet and number order and library labeling in greater detail. Students at this level are introduced to Destiny Quest, the ICSV Library’s web­based catalog. They learn how to log in and perform simple searches. They learn to differentiate call numbers ­ fiction and nonfiction and identify each relevant section of the the library. They use spine labels and library signage to locate resources in order to address a topic of interest or need. Second graders are able to identify many different genres. They know how a book is organized and how to use a table of contents. They understand that information can be found in the library to answer questions they may have about any given subject. Second/Third Grade Beginner German Students learn to speak and understand German on a very basic level. They understand and use familiar everyday expressions and very basic phrases aimed at the satisfaction of needs of a concrete type. They can introduce themselves and can speak and answer simple personal questions, such as what they like to do and things they have. The students can interact in a simple way provided the other person talks slowly and clearly and is prepared to help. Students also start to understand the Austrian culture, customs,

and traditions of the German speaking community. Geographic knowledge of Vienna is also provided in this course. Students learn the following vocabulary and constructions: food, family, school, animals, clothes, hobbies, numbers, colors, the alphabet, rhyming words, simple compound words, nouns, verbs, adjectives, and introductions. The children also learn some German songs. Second/Third Grade Advanced German This course is a continuation of Beginner German. In it students learn the following: Second/Third Grade ELL Second and third grade ELL classes operate on a two­year cycle of themes so that students who are in the class in consecutive years do not repeat the same content. In year one, students study exploration, working together, creative ideas, our changing world, responsibility, and traditions. In year two, they study living and learning, smart solutions, people and nature, one of a kind, cultures, and freedom. Resource: Pearson Language Central: Second and Third Grade Third Grade Third Grade Bible ­ Studies in the Life of Christ, the Early Church, and Missions from the Time of Paul until the Present In third grade, Bible units begin with the early life of Jesus on the Earth and His disciples. They continue with the teachings and parables of Jesus and His miracles. Students learn how the Old Testament prophecies are fulfilled through Christ’s birth and life. Students learn about His death and resurrection. As the year continues, they learn about the early church, the great commission, and Paul’s missionary journeys. Resources: ACSI Grade Three Bible Curriculum Third Grade Math ­ Numbers, Operations, Fractions, Geometry, and Measurement In third grade, students study place value, addition and subtraction, time and money, and collecting and analyzing data. Students learn to understand multiplication and division and learn facts and strategies. They begin to understand fractions, and compare and order them. They study two­dimensional and three­dimensional shapes, geometric patterns, and measurement. Resources: GO Math!

Third Grade Phonics/Spelling In third grade, students study consonants, hard and soft “c” and “g,” short and long vowels, compounds, blends, digraphs, “y” as a consonant and a vowel, and r­controlled vowels. Students also study contractions, plurals, suffixes, vowel pairs, digraphs, diphthongs, prefixes, base words, suffixes, syllables, synonyms, antonyms, and homonyms. The importance of learning dictionary skills is also emphasized. Resources: Modern Curriculum Press Phonics­ Level C Third Grade Reading ­ Reading Literature and Informational Text In third grade, the students learn and use a variety of strategies to improve their comprehension, accuracy, fluency, and vocabulary. They continue to develop critical thinking skills that will improve their reading comprehension. Students are able to identify story/poem/drama elements and describe how events build throughout the storyline. They determine the meanings of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including being able to distinguish literal from nonliteral language. Students are able to use illustrations and visualize text to create understanding and to compare and contrast themes, settings, and plots of stories. Students are able to identify and use features of informational text and to sequentially retell information and identify cause and effect. Resources: Interactive Reading Notebook; Reading A to Z.

Third Grade Writing/Grammar ­ Forms of Writing, The Writing Process, and Conventions Third grade students review and further their understanding of the “Writing Process” and the “Traits of Good Writing”. They write routinely over extended and shorter time frames for a range of discipline­specific tasks, purposes, and audiences. They produce writing with engaging introductions, an organized body with details and explanations, and a conclusion that restates their topic. The students write across the different genres (opinion, informative/expository, narrative, descriptive, creative, and research) and learn to use transition words and phrases to link and introduce ideas. Third graders learn to use dialogue and descriptions of actions, thoughts, and feelings to develop experiences and events or to show the response of characters to situations. They write sequentially, using temporal words and phrases and demonstrate a command of the conventions of Standard English grammar and usage when writing or speaking. They demonstrate understanding of figurative language, word relationships, and nuances in word meanings. Resources: Write Source: Writing and Grammar Third Grade Science ­ Thinking and Working like a Scientist; Plants, Animals, and Environments

In third grade, students understand that changes can occur to the Earth’s surface. They are able to identify the Earth’s resources that people need to survive. They study how to observe and record weather changes from day to day and season to season. Students are able to identify and gather information about planets in the solar system, and they model and learn about what causes day and night. Students investigate the properties of matter and how heat, light, and sound are forms of energy. They also learn how magnets attract some objects and repel others. Resources: Houghton Mifflin/Harcourt: Science Fusion Curriculum and Science Kits Third Grade Social Studies ­ Our Communities Third Grade Social Studies begins with a review of geography. The students then focus on the communities around them, looking at their geography and changes that have taken place over time. They study the citizen and the government, and learn about people and working within communities. Resources: Social Studies: Our Communities Third Grade Music In third grade, students learn to understand and compose rhythm patterns in different beat meters. They identify and demonstrate the absolute pitch names of the treble clef. They recognize the different types of instruments visually and aurally and understand how sounds are created. Students learn to sing in two and three­part rounds. In preparation for sight­singing, students sing solfeggio patterns following Kodaly hand signs. Students enjoy making music with Boomwhackers. Third Grade Art Third grade artists learn about tints and shades, negative space, warm and cool colors, narrative art, Giuseppe Arcimboldo portraits, surrealism, print making, and origami. They begin to provide peer critiques community feedback on displayed artwork. Third Grade Physical Education Students develop their motor skills by using games and age­appropriate movement drills. As they participate in structured “team oriented” and or lead­up games for sports such as soccer, handball, volleyball and basketball, students experience and discuss issues related to participation and personal fitness. They develop an appreciation of a healthy and active lifestyle. The skills they work on at this stage are further developed and reinforced when they advance to the middle school levels. PE at grade 3­5 also aims to develop a biblical understanding of exercise and playing a team sport. Students play lead­up games in basketball, volleyball,

handball, soccer, baseball, floor hockey, and American football. They learn basic gymnastics skills and participate in frisbee football and dodgeball games. Third Grade Library Information Skills In third grade, students are introduced to the ten main Dewey Decimal System categories and receive in­depth instruction on each category. This includes more exposure to nonfiction texts. Students learn more about Destiny features, ICSV Library’s web­based catalog. They are introduced to subject, title, and author searches. They learn to identify each relevant section of the the library and use spine labels and library signage to locate resources. Students should be able to identify numerous genres. They know how a book is organized and how to use a table of contents and index to find information. Third grade students are introduced to Britannica School Online, learn how to create their own accounts, and save articles to their accounts. They understand the need to evaluate information that they find online and are made aware of the need to cite all their sources. Second/Third Grade Beginner German Students learn to speak and understand German on a very basic level. They understand and use familiar everyday expressions and very basic phrases aimed at the satisfaction of needs of a concrete type. They can introduce themselves and can speak and answer simple personal questions, such as what they like to do and things they have. The students can interact in a simple way provided the other person talks slowly and clearly and is prepared to help. Students also start to understand the Austrian culture, customs, and traditions of the German speaking community. Geographic knowledge of Vienna is also provided in this course. Students learn the following vocabulary and constructions: food, family, school, animals, clothes, hobbies, numbers, colors, the alphabet, rhyming words, simple compound words, nouns, verbs, adjectives, and introductions. The children also learn some German songs. Second/Third Grade ELL Second and third grade ELL classes operate on a two­year cycle of themes so that students who are in the class in consecutive years do not repeat the same content. In year one, students study exploration, working together, creative ideas, our changing world, responsibility, and traditions. In year two, they study living and learning, smart solutions, people and nature, one of a kind, cultures, and freedom. Resource: Pearson Language Central: Second and Third Grade Fourth Grade

Fourth Grade Bible: Studies in the Basic Doctrines of the Church In fourth grade, students read the Bible to gain knowledge of biblical truths and their application to daily life. They understand that the Bible is the fully inspired, infallible, inerrant, and authoritative word of God and that each human being is spiritually lost, sinful, and utterly unable to save himself. Students understand that salvation is by grace, through faith, and through Christ alone. Specific units include the study of Bible study tools, the three persons of the Trinity, the nature of mankind, sin, salvation, Heaven and Hell, church, the Christian life, Christmas, and Easter. Resource: ACSI Elementary Bible: Fourth Grade, Purposeful Design Publication Fourth Grade Math In fourth grade, students use and represent whole numbers. They multiply by one and two­digit whole numbers and divide by one­digit divisors. They model and relate fractions to decimals, adding and subtracting fractions with like denominators. They study data, graphs, measurement, transformation, symmetry, perimeter, and area. Resource: Go Math!: Fourth Grade, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Fourth Grade Reading In fourth grade, students apply their general skills and strategies to the reading process so that they can understand and interpret a variety of informational texts. They need to use correct grammatical and mechanical conventions in their written compositions. They read fictional and non­fiction novels, including biographies and short stories. They also study poetry and figurative language. They study numerous informational text examples, and end their year by writing a research paper. Resources: Numerous trade books, poems, informational texts, and biographies Fourth Grade Writing In fourth grade, students continue to work on the writing process. They produce the following types of writing: descriptive, narrative, expository, persuasive, response to literature, creative, and research. They learn to write extending pieces that cover a variety of topics both creative and non­fiction. They are organized into multiple paragraphs with appropriate grammar and conventions. Students utilize all the steps in the writer’s process: prewriting, drafting, editing, revising, and publishing. They develop their research skills by choosing a topic, utilizing databases, writing research cards, outlining, developing a thesis, etc. Students are taught to evaluate their own traits of writing (organization, conventions, ideas, voice, sentence fluency, and word choice). They create a poetry notebook where they analyze figurative language in

literature and create a variety of original poetry based upon established forms and types of poems. Resource: Write Source Fourth Grade Social Studies Fourth­graders use map and globe skills to determine the absolute location of places and interpret information available through the use of legends, scales, and symbolic representations. They explain how the present is connected to the past, identifying both similarities and differences between the two. They summarize the key events of the era they are studying and explain the historical contexts of those events. They also identify and interpret the multiple causes and effects of historical events. Ultimately they apply biblical truths to their understanding of historical events. They learn these skills through the study of the geography, regions, history, and customs of Europe, Canada, and the Caribbean. Resources: Harcourt Social Studies: World Regions Fourth Grade Science In fourth grade science, students develop scientific inquiry skills and utilize the steps of the Scientific Method to conduct experiments designed to find the answer to questions. The students conduct a variety of scientific inquiries related to the study of physical science, focusing particularly on the engineering process, plants and animals, energy and ecosystems, weather, and earth and space. They plan, record, analyze, and share data gleaned from experiments. Units include the engineering process, plants and animals, energy and ecosystems, weather, earth, and space. Resources: Houghton Mifflin: Science Fusion Fourth Grade Fourth Grade Music In this course, students expand their knowledge of music theory and their ability to read music. They learn how to participate in singing two­part harmony. They are taught basic mallet instrument technique and play the xylophone, metallophone and glockenspiel. In addition, they learn about the different families of instruments: strings, brass, woodwind, and percussion. Fourth Grade Art In fourth grade, students study landscapes, cityscapes, portraits, pop art, expressionism, pointillism, making a statement through art, and personal artwork. They continue to keep a yearlong sketchbook and to provide peer and community critique and feedback.

Fourth Grade Physical Education Students develop their motor skills by using games and age­appropriate movement drills. As they participate in structured “team oriented” and or lead­up games for sports such as soccer, handball, volleyball and basketball, students experience and discuss issues related to participation and personal fitness. They develop an appreciation of a healthy and active lifestyle. The skills they work on at this stage are further developed and reinforced when they advance to the middle school levels. PE at grade 3­5 also aims to develop a biblical understanding of exercise and playing a team sport. Students play lead­up games in basketball, volleyball, handball, soccer, baseball, floor hockey, and American football. They learn basic gymnastics skills and participate in frisbee football and dodgeball games. Fourth Grade Library Information Skills Students review the Dewey Decimal system and Destiny features, ICSV Library’s web­based catalog. They learn more about how to search for a topic by expanding search terms. Students revisit Britannica School Online and are introduced to EBSCOhost’s Explora Primary ­ a new resource for research. They are able to identify relevant and accurate online resources, as well as the reference section of the the library. They understand and explain the need to evaluate information that they find online. Students also learn how to locate information in various print resources using indexes. They receive instruction on how to cite various kinds of sources from print to digital using a modified MLA model and create a working bibliography. They understand and articulate the ethical use of information. Fourth/Fifth Grade Beginner German This course is a continuation of what is taught in grades two and three. Geographic knowledge of Austria and Europe are provided in the course. Students learn the following: prepositions, comparative, numbers, regular and irregular verb conjugations, time, dates, informal introductions, food, family, school, work, clothes, hobbies, sports, health, feasts, apartment, furniture, vacation, reflexive verbs, comparative and superlative, pronouns, prepositions, nouns, verbs, adjectives, descriptions, compound words, and rhyming words. Fourth/Fifth Grade Advanced German This course is a continuation of the Beginner course. In it students learn the following: present and simple past tense, modal and reflexive verbs, question words, conjunctions, comparative and superlative, pronouns, local prepositions, nouns, verbs, adjectives, descriptions, food, family, school, animals, clothes, hobbies, informal introductions, compound words, and rhyming words.

Fourth/Fifth Grade ELL Fourth and fifth grade ELL classes operate on a two­year cycle of themes, so that students who are in the class in consecutive years do not repeat the same content. In year one, students study turning points; teamwork; patterns in nature; puzzles and mysteries; adventures by land, air, and water; and reaching for goals. In year two they study meeting challenges; doing the right things; inventors and artists; adapting; adventurers; and the unexpected. Resource: Pearson Language Central: Fourth and Fifth Grade

Fifth Grade Fifth Grade Bible In fifth grade, students learn to read and apply Scripture to their daily life through Bible study methods focusing on reading, observing, applying, and praying over Scripture. They pray for and discuss current world events across religions and cultural differences. Students read, discuss, analyze, and critically evaluate short secular precepts for living in light of how they do or do not integrate with a Christian biblical worldview. Students discuss and respond to the biblical theme of salvation through grace alone and the substitutionary grace that we experience through the sacrifice of Christ which enables us to avoid the curse brought upon us by sin and the law. Students learn about the basic tenets of a variety of popular secular worldviews in order to critically evaluate and respond to them. They are encouraged to articulate their own worldview, as well. Students study the basic background of apologetics and major doubts and answers about the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ through a novel study of the book, The Case for Christ . They also study, memorize, and discuss passages from Psalms in order to articulate the characteristics of God and His relationship with creation. Resource: Lee Strobel: The Case for Christ Fifth Grade Math In Fifth Grade Math, students study whole number operations, graphs, data, percent, probability, and two and three dimensional figures. They learn to divide by one­digit and two­digit divisors and to add and subtract fractions with both like and unlike denominators. They learn to add and subtract decimals and general algebra such as operations, equations, and measurement. Resource: Go Math!: Fifth Grade, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Fifth Grade Reading In fifth grade, students interact with a variety of novels with the goal of using active reading strategies to understand, discuss, evaluate, analyze, and critique the themes, characters, ideas,

and content of the story. They engage the themes, content, and ideas presented in novels and short stories collaboratively with peers in discussion groups, projects, presentations, and reflective writing activities with the goal of deepening their own understanding. They analyze the language, themes, content, and narrative styles of a variety of forms of poetry. Their own understanding of these concepts is strengthened through the creation of original poetry utilizing these skills. The students also interact with a variety of short informational texts, with the goal of creating an extended research paper synthesizing information gleaned from several sources. Resources: Numerous trade books, poems, informational texts, and biographies Fifth Grade Writing In fifth grade, the students write extended writing pieces covering a variety of topics both creative and non­fiction, organized into multiple paragraphs with grade level appropriate grammar and conventions. Types of writing include personal narrative, expository writing, descriptive writing, responding to text, and opinion essays. They recognize, evaluate, and incorporate the use of figurative language, strong descriptions, and complex and interesting sentences and transitions in their writing. Students utilize all of the steps of the writer’s process (prewriting, drafting, editing, revising, and publishing) in a variety of short and extended writing pieces. Particular attention is paid to the skill of self and peer editing and revision skills. Students also develop their research skills (choosing a topic, utilizing databases, writing research cards, outlining, developing a thesis, etc.) that are used in a major research paper. Students are encouraged to evaluate their use of the traits of writing (organization, conventions, ideas, voice, sentence fluency, and word choice) in order to improve their skills. They create a poetry notebook analyzing figurative language in literature and write a variety of original poems. Resource: Numerous trade book, poems, and informational texts Fifth Grade Social Studies Fifth grade students develop the academic vocabulary and regional knowledge of the

climate and topography of several world regions in order to discuss the effects that the

physical landscape and climate have on a region’s population, growths, opportunities, and

challenges. They develop an understanding of how belief systems, political divides, various

people groups, and other geopolitical factors have on the development and history of a

region. The students create topographical maps of world regions in order to express the

physical differences in the landscapes using academic terminology. They analyze key

events, people, and political developments in order to discuss the impact that these have on

the international community. They also develop the ability to respectfully discuss

similarities and differences between religious and political differences across world

regions. They correctly label and identify countries and major land and water formations in

the regions studied. In fifth grade, study focuses on South Asia, Northeast Africa, and

Oceania.

Resources: Harcourt Social Studies “World Regions” Fifth Grade Science In fifth grade science, students develop scientific inquiry skills and utilize the steps of the

Scientific Method to conduct experiments designed to find the answer to questions. The

students conduct a variety of scientific inquiries related to the study of physical science,

focusing particularly on the they study of matter, energy, electricity, and motion.

Resources: Houghton Mifflin: Science Fusion Fifth Grade Music In this course, students continue to expand their knowledge of music theory. They also study various composers of the Baroque and Classical periods such as Vivaldi, Bach, Handel, Mozart, Beethoven, and Haydn. They continue to work on two­part harmony and their sight­singing skills. They learn to play the recorder. Fifth Grade Art In fourth grade, students study value; still life; creating depth in artwork by overlapping, size reduction, and vertical location; background, middleground, and foreground; linear perspective; three­dimensional design; and artist research project. They have student­initiated drawing time, visit museums, and continue to analyze artwork. Fifth Grade Physical Education Students develop their motor skills by using games and age­appropriate movement drills. As they participate in structured “team oriented” and or lead­up games for sports such as soccer, handball, volleyball and basketball, students experience and discuss issues related to participation and personal fitness. They develop an appreciation of a healthy and active lifestyle. The skills they work on at this stage are further developed and reinforced when they advance to the middle school levels. PE at grade 3­5 also aims to develop a biblical understanding of exercise and playing a team sport. Students play lead­up games in basketball, volleyball, handball, soccer, baseball, floor hockey, and American football. They learn basic gymnastics skills and participate in frisbee football and dodgeball games. Fifth Grade Library Information Skills

In this course, students review all Destiny features, ICSV Library’s web­based catalog. Greater focus is given to advance search strategies such as Boolean Logic and expanding search terms. Students revisit Britannica School Online and EBSCOhost’s Explora Primary. They are able to identify relevant and accurate online resources, as well as the reference section of the the library. They know how to locate information in various print resources using indexes. They can also create a modified bibliography using a modified version of MLA. Fifth graders are able to demonstrate and explain what the ethical use of information entails. Fourth/Fifth Grade Beginner German This course is a continuation of what is taught in grades two and three. Geographic knowledge of Austria and Europe are provided in the course. Students learn the following: prepositions, comparative, numbers, regular and irregular verb conjugations, time, dates, informal introductions, food, family, school, work, clothes, hobbies, sports, health, feasts, apartment, furniture, vacation, reflexive verbs, comparative and superlative, pronouns, prepositions, nouns, verbs, adjectives, descriptions, compound words, and rhyming words. Fourth/Fifth Grade Advanced German This course is a continuation of the Beginner course. In it students learn the following: present and simple past tense, modal and reflexive verbs, question words, conjunctions, comparative and superlative, pronouns, local prepositions, nouns, verbs, adjectives, descriptions, food, family, school, animals, clothes, hobbies, informal introductions, compound words, and rhyming words. Fourth/Fifth Grade ELL Fourth and fifth grade ELL classes operate on a two­year cycle of themes, so that students who are in the class in consecutive years do not repeat the same content. In year one, students study turning points; teamwork; patterns in nature; puzzles and mysteries; adventures by land, air, and water; and reaching for goals. In year two they study meeting challenges; doing the right things; inventors and artists; adapting; adventurers; and the unexpected. Resource: Pearson Language Central: Fourth and Fifth Grade