We use an active, inquiry based approach in language arts, social studies, science and mathematics. Spanish is introduced in grade four. The language arts curriculum strives to develop effective communication and critical thinking skills. Beginning with the personal experiences of each child, language skills are developed through brainstorming, field experiences, and shared inquiry, providing the meaningful context for development in reading and writing. Santa Catalina's balanced reading program is on the leading edge of the national research concerning reading instruction.
Experience shows a balanced reading program helps children learn to read with proficiency.
A solid body of educational research confirms the necessity of providing a combination of modeling successful strategies, guiding each student using a repertoire of strategies while reading for meaning, and providing opportunities to gain independent practice and experience. Children need to learn strategies for reading a variety of materials on their own without assistance. Our balanced reading program actively engages students in learning experiences at different processing levels to accelerate literacy development. Mathematics SRA Explorations is the math program used by the Lower School grades in the Primary Intermediate Division. SRA Explorations meets or surpasses all of the NCTM Standards.