Red Oak Academy English Language Arts
K-2 Goals
Reading Spelling and Handwriting Competency goals and
Learner Objectives described in the Red Oak Academy written curriculum are adopted from the
State of Texas Assessment of Academic Skills and are contained in the
Red Oak Academy Online Curriculum Guide selected to accomplish program
goals and are designed to promote oral and written language and competency
in the Literary Tradition. In the primary grades,
students learn to use enabling skills and decoding strategies to read selections
from the HBJ Reading Series which delivers an incremental ordering
of the level of difficulty. Phonetic decoding skills are reinforced
by the HBJ Spelling (Signature Edition). Writing skills are implemented
using daily phonetic and handwriting activities from the consumable handwriting
textbook (several series available) and a daily journal . Students are
given writing tasks from the earliest levels allowing them to write phonetically
in the first stage. Parents are also coached at-a-distance to utilize the
Harcourt Achieve Combined Leveling
Guide to use ability leveled books as a means to impart an effective at-home
reading program.
Reading, Spelling and Handwriting Students
acquire enabling
skills of phonemic awareness, letter names, sound-letter
correspondences, decoding skills, high frequency
vocabulary, and comprehension skills. Parents are
coached in various methodologies of how to impart
listening skills through oral reading and decoding
skills in the acquisition of letter recognition and
simple word construction. Through the use of a
traditional Harcourt basil reader, HBJ spelling book and
consumable handwriting books students are expected to be
able to produce individual compositions using phonetic
spelling and beginning level handwriting skills. Parents
are provided with children's literature bibliography
that is available in both free online e-texts and
commercially available books.
. Kindergarten students will:
- Engage in word recognition
activities.
- Acquire an appreciation of children's literature.
- Build reading and writing skills.
- Write short sentences to
express themselves.
Reading, Spelling and Handwriting
In addition to the use of the
traditional Harcourt basil
reader, HBJ spelling book and
consumable handwriting books,
parents are coached
at-a-distance to measure their
student's progress using the
Red
Oak Academy Online Curriculum
Guide learner objectives and
the
Harcourt Achieve Combined
Leveling Guide
to
make appropriate children's
literature selections. First grade students extend
their development of phonic decoding
skills and word
recognition. Listening
skills are promoted through the
use of children's literature
selections. They read a variety of
texts, listen to literature, and
respond to books, poetry, plays,
age-appropriate expository
texts, environmental print, and
self-selected reading materials.
They extend their oral language
skills through listening
activities which promote the
concept of
recording their oral language to
express themselves through
writing. As
they participate in meta-texts and
hands-on writing activities,
they expand their store of
words. They learn to use new
vocabulary and formats for their
written products as a result of
their exposure to good examples
of reading, speaking and writing.
Parents are provided with
children's literature
bibliography that is available
in both free online e-texts and
commercially available books.
First grade students will:
-
Engage in word
recognition activities.
-
Develop listening skills
through the use of children's literature.
-
Extend reading and writing skills.
-
Begin to develop
oral reading abilities.
-
Write
sentences to express a
personal experience
Reading, Spelling and Handwriting
In addition to the use of the
traditional Harcourt basil
reader, HBJ spelling book and
consumable handwriting books,
parents are coached
at-a-distance to measure their
student's progress using the
Red
Oak Academy Online Curriculum
Guide learner objectives and
the
Harcourt Achieve Combined
Leveling Guide
to
make appropriate children's
literature selections. Second grade students use
listening, speaking, and writing skills to extend their
understanding of written
language and their skills in
using written language. They
begin to read a wider variety of
texts that require strategies
and skills with more complex
vocabulary and ideas. These
students need to be able to
write sentences to express
multiple ideas about a topic.
Students begin to keep a daily
journal of their experiences
from the previous day.
Parents are provided with
children's literature
bibliography that is available
in both free online e-texts and
commercially available books.
Second
grade students will:
-
Build
on previously acquired skills to
read and write more
independently.
-
Comprehend and respond
to texts using oral and
written strategies.
-
Explore new vocabulary in an
incremental approach.
-
Use reading and
listening, speaking and
writing skills to
accomplish a purpose.
-
Write
a paragraph to explain a
complex idea
Grades 3-5 Goals
Reading, Spelling and Handwriting The goal in Grades 3-5 is to
advance students reading and writing skills and strategies.
Students are encouraged to make independent reading
selections and to engage in creative writers as well as
objective-oriented task writers. At these levels
students are still engaging in reading writing and
spelling activities as their primary mode for skills
acquisition. They learn to apply
their foundational skills automatically and flexibly to
reading and writing fiction, nonfiction, drama, and
poetry. "Reading for fun" is promoted through the
addition of quarterly book report assignments.
Reading, Spelling and Handwriting
In addition to the use of the traditional Harcourt basil
reader, HBJ spelling book and consumable handwriting
books, parents are coached at-a-distance to measure
their student's progress using the
Red Oak Academy Online
Curriculum Guide learner objectives and the
Harcourt Achieve
Combined Leveling Guide
to make appropriate
children's literature selections. Third grade
students use critical thinking skills which they apply
strategically to comprehend and clarify
information and ideas. . They produce multi-paragraph
original compositions and are introduced to literary
genre. Third graders become increasingly
independent in their use of communication
skills and strategies. Students continue to keep a
daily journal of their experiences from the previous
day. Parents are provided with children's
literature bibliography that is available in both free
online e-texts and commercially available books.
Third
grade students will:
- Read exemplary selections of fiction,
nonfiction, poetry, and drama.
- Apply word recognition strategies flexibly
and phonic decoding skills
- Expand vocabulary through reading, writing, and discussion.
- Write for a variety of audiences and purposes
using appropriate formats.
- Use active listening and effective oral
communication.
- Apply grammar, spelling and language conventions
in written assignments.
- Synthesize language, texts, and personal experience.
- Write complete sentence and
paragraphs to express a personal experience.
Celebrations (HBJ Reading
Program, Level 3)
ISBN: 0153300094
Author: Cullinan, Bernice E. Farr, Roger C. Hammond, W.
Dorsey Roser, Nancy L. Strickland, Dorothy S.
Publisher: Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, Orlando, Florida,
U.S.A.
Fanfares
(HBJ Reading Program, Level 3)
ISBN: 0153300108
Author: Cullinan, Bernice E. Farr, Roger C. Hammond, W.
Dorsey Roser, Nancy L. Strickland, Dorothy S.
Publisher: Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, Orlando, Florida,
U.S.A.
Hbj Spelling, Signature
Series. Carlson, Throsten And Richard Madden. Harcourt
Brace Jovanovich. Orlando, Florida, U.S.A.
Handwriting Connections Level 4.
ISBN: 0812377044. Houghton Mifflin, 1993.
Reading, Spelling and Handwriting
In addition to the use of the traditional Harcourt basil
reader, HBJ spelling book and consumable handwriting
books, parents are coached at-a-distance to measure
their student's progress using the
Red Oak Academy Online
Curriculum Guide learner objectives and the
Harcourt Achieve
Combined Leveling Guide
to make appropriate
children's literature selections. Students in
fourth grade apply reading and writing skills to
comprehend and produce specimens of fiction, nonfiction,
poetry, and drama. They continue in their
introduction of literary genre. Students continue
to keep a daily journal of their experiences from the
previous day. Parents are provided with children's
literature bibliography that is available in both free
online e-texts and commercially available books.
Fourth grade students will:
- Read exemplary selections of fiction,
nonfiction, poetry, and drama.
- Apply word recognition strategies flexibly
and phonic decoding skills
- Expand vocabulary through reading, writing, and discussion.
- Write for a variety of audiences and purposes
using appropriate formats.
- Learn basic vocabulary of
writing conventions - parts of speech - types of
sentences.
- Use active listening and effective oral
communication.
- Apply grammar, spelling and language conventions
in written assignments.
- Synthesize language, texts, and personal experience.
- Write complete sentence and
paragraphs to express a personal experience.
- Learn the conventions of
formal writing and informal writing.
- Learn to make an outline.
Crossroads (HBJ Reading
Program, Level 4)
ISBN: 0153300116
Author: Cullinan, Bernice E. Farr, Roger C. Hammond, W.
Dorsey Roser, Nancy L. Strickland, Dorothy S.
Publisher: Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, Orlando, Florida,
U.S.A.
Skylines (HBJ Reading
Program, Level 4)
ISBN: 0153300124
Author: Cullinan, Bernice E. Farr, Roger C. Hammond, W.
Dorsey Roser, Nancy L. Strickland, Dorothy S.
Publisher: Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, Orlando, Florida,
U.S.A.
Hbj Spelling, Signature
Series. Carlson, Throsten And Richard Madden. Harcourt
Brace Jovanovich. Orlando, Florida, U.S.A.
Handwriting Connections Level 5.
ISBN: 0812377052. Houghton Mifflin, 1993.
Reading, Spelling and Handwriting Students in fifth grade expand and deepen concepts,
skills, and strategies learned at earlier grades. They
make new connections as they experience more
sophisticated ideas and begin to study subjects in more
formal ways. They read and write a variety of texts with
greater breadth and depth, critically analyzing and
evaluating information and ideas. Fifth graders revisit
and refine concepts and their knowledge of English
Language Arts conventions as they become more
sophisticated, independent learners.
Fifth grade students will:
- Read exemplary selections of fiction,
nonfiction, poetry, and drama.
- Apply word recognition strategies flexibly
and phonic decoding skills
- Expand vocabulary through reading, writing, and discussion.
- Write for a variety of audiences and purposes
using appropriate formats.
- Learn basic vocabulary of
writing conventions - parts of speech - types of
sentences.
- Use active listening and effective oral
communication.
- Apply grammar, spelling and language conventions
in written assignments.
- Synthesize language, texts, and personal experience.
- Write complete sentence and
paragraphs to express a personal experience.
- Learn research techniques.
- Write an assigned report on a
subject-based topic.
Grades 6-8 Goals
Composition and Literature
Prentice Hall Literature:
Timeless Voices, Timeless Themes
Kate Kinsella, ED. D., Kevin Feldman, Ed. D., Colleen
Shea Stump, Ph. D.
Copyright: 2005 Publisher: Prentice Hall
Grades: 6-8
Sixth grade is where Red Oak Academy begins a
concentrated effort to assist students in becoming
competent at writing about literature. Parents and
students are provided with the Prentice Hall text and
answer keys, unit tests and quarterly exams. Reading and
writing skills instruction provides students with a
solid platform for learning. Diagnostic tools helps
teachers customize instruction to students' needs and to
monitor their progress.
The goal of the middle school English
Language Arts curriculum is to personal appreciation of
great works of literature as well as many contemporary
forms. Students are provided
opportunities to practice the skills
associated with writing about what they read.
The 6-8 English Language Arts
strives
to expose students to the archetypal themes which
permeate the Literary Tradition. A related goal is the
development of critical thinking skills. Writing
assignments emphasize argumentation and persuasion. The curriculum strives to
instill an appreciation of good literature and prepare
the learner for future studies - independently, if
necessary.
Composition and Literature
Students and parents are
provided with the Prentice Hall
Literature Copper:
Timeless Voices, Timeless
Themes Series (Kate Kinsella,
ED. D., Kevin Feldman, Ed. D.,
Colleen Shea Stump, Ph. D.)
In
sixth,
parents
and
students
are
provided
with the
Prentice
Hall
text and
answer
keys,
unit
tests
and
quarterly
exams.
Reading
and
writing
skills
instruction
provides
students
with a
solid
platform
for
learning.
Diagnostic
tools
helps
teachers
and parents
customize
instruction
to
students'
needs
and to
monitor
their
progress.
Sixth grade students are exposed
to a higher level of literary
content with the introduction of
the Prentice Hall Timeless
Voices, Timeless Themes Series. Students
begin an incremental development
process that is spread over the
course of Grades 6-11. In
each reading selection, they are
asked to respond on the level
facts and interpretation and
synthesis. The larger
emphasis at the sixth grade
level is to bring together
reading and writing skills
obtained over the last 6 years
to increase reading
comprehension and produce sound
written compositions.
Throughout this course of study,
students are given the
opportunity with "You the
Writer" activities to produce
comparative and contrasting
written compositions.
Sixth
grade students will:
-
Read
exemplary selections of fiction,
nonfiction, poetry, and drama.
-
Apply
word recognition strategies
and phonic decoding skills
-
Respond to queries relative
to each reading selection.
-
Expand vocabulary through reading, writing, and discussion.
-
Write for a variety of purposes.
-
Learn
the
basic vocabulary of writing
conventions - parts of
speech - types of sentences.
-
Use active listening and effective oral
communication to respond to question about the
selection.
-
Apply grammar,
spelling and language conventions
in written assignments.
-
Synthesize language, texts, and personal experience.
-
Write
complete sentences and
paragraphs to express a
personal experience.
-
Learn
research techniques.
-
Write
an assigned report on a
subject-based topic.
-
Develop an understanding
of the foundations of
argument.
-
Critically analyze
works of art.
-
Use effective sentence
construction and edit for
improvements in sentence
formation, usage, mechanics,
and spelling.
-
Engage in independent
reading activities.
-
Write
at least 4 book reports
(Quarterly).
Composition
and
Literature
Students
and
parents
are
provided
with the
Prentice
Hall
Literature
Bronze:
Timeless
Voices,
Timeless
Themes
Series
(Kate
Kinsella,
ED. D.,
Kevin
Feldman,
Ed. D.,
Colleen
Shea
Stump,
Ph. D.)
In
seventh
grade,
Parents
and
students
are
provided
with the
Prentice
Hall
text and
answer
keys,
unit
tests
and
quarterly
exams.
Reading
and
writing
skills
instruction
provides
students
with a
solid
platform
for
learning.
Diagnostic
tools
helps
teachers
and
parents customize
instruction
to
students'
needs
and to
monitor
their
progress.
Seventh
grade
students
explore
the
structure
of
language
and
study
grammatical
rules in
order to
speak
and
write
effectively.
The
Bronze
level of
the Timeless
Voices,
Timeless
Themes
Series
expands
upon the
previous
level
integrating
reading,
writing,
oral
communication,
and
research.
A
principal
focus of
instruction
is the
development
of
writing
skills.
Many
genres
are
covered,
including
poetry,
expository,
narrative,
and
persuasive
writing.
Students
practice
using
structurally
correct
sentence
patterns
in
written
and oral
language
with
special
emphais
given to
vocabulary
development.
Seventh
grade
students
will:
-
Read
exemplary
selections
of fiction,
nonfiction, poetry, and drama.
-
Respond to queries relative
to each reading selection.
-
Interpret
elements
of
literary
theory.
-
Expand vocabulary through reading, writing, and discussion.
-
Critically
analyze
works
of
art.
-
Engage the
basic concepts of writing
conventions - parts of
speech - types of sentences.
-
Interpret
and
evaluate
a
wide
range
of
literature.
-
Learn
to respond
to
and
synthesize personal,
social
and
cultural
issues.
-
Learn
to
use
various
outside
sources
for
research
activity.
-
Experience
creative
writing
activities.
-
Use active listening and effective oral
communication to respond to questions about the
selection.
-
Apply grammar,
spelling and language conventions
in written assignments.
-
Synthesize language, texts, and personal experience.
-
Write
complete sentences and
paragraphs to express a
personal experience.
-
Learn
research techniques.
-
Write
an assigned report on a
subject-based topic.
-
Develop an understanding
of the foundations of
argument.
-
Use effective sentence
structure and editing
techniques
-
Engage in independent
reading activities.
-
Write
at least 4 book reports
(Quarterly).
Composition and Literature Students and parents are provided with the Prentice Hall Literature Silver: Timeless Voices, Timeless Themes Series (Kate Kinsella, ED. D., Kevin Feldman, Ed. D., Colleen Shea Stump, Ph. D.)
In
eighth
grade,
Parents
and
students
are
provided
with the
Prentice
Hall
text and
answer
keys,
unit
tests
and
quarterly
exams.
Reading
and
writing
skills
instruction
provides
students
with a
solid
platform
for
learning.
Diagnostic
tools
helps
teachers and parents customize
instruction
to
students'
needs
and to
monitor
their
progress.
Eighth grade students are exposed to a higher level of literary works that cover the entire array of genres and. This course focuses on oral and written, grammar, and composition. Students enrolled in this course will engage in writing activities such as personal narratives and persuasive essays. They receive more in-depth coverage of poetry and proceed over the course of the year to independent production of the five paragraph essay. The textbooks used in this course include the Bronze Editions of Prentice Hall’s Literature: Timeless Voices, Timeless Themes and Globe Fearon English Composition.
Eighth grade students will:
- Read exemplary selections of fiction,
nonfiction, poetry, and drama.
- Critically
analyze
works
of
art.
- Engage the
basic concepts of writing
conventions - parts of
speech - types of sentences.
- Learn the forms and conventions associated with poetry.
- Interpret and explicate poetic works.
- Learn to differentiate between poems and non-poems.
- Write and analysis of fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and drama.
- Write to specific audiences and purpose.
- Use effective sentence construction and edit for improvements in sentence formation, usage, mechanics, and spelling.
- Identify language conventions; parts of speech and figures of speech.
- Respond to longer dramatic works and the script format.
- Write at least 4 book reports (Quarterly).
Students and parents are provided with the Prentice Hall Literature Gold: Timeless Voices, Timeless Themes Series (Kate Kinsella, ED. D., Kevin Feldman, Ed. D., Colleen Shea Stump, Ph. D.) This text provides diagnostic tools which helps parents and teachers customize instruction to students' needs and to monitor their progress.
Students in English I gain valuable exposure to great works as well as more contemporary writings. This course exposes ninth graders to literary appreciation, grammar studies, language usage and mechanics, vocabulary development, speaking and listening skills and writing.
The Gold edition of Prentice Hall's Timeless Voices, Timeless Themes Series expands upon the previous level by exposing students to a higher level of classical literature. Special attention is given to poetry and the short story.
One half of the academic year covers composition using the Fearon English composition textbook. This text begins with how to write sentences and paragraphs and proceeds to exercises in how to write essays in the correct format for each purpose. Assessment: Quarterly Exams, Essays, Final Exam.
Ninth grade students will:
- Read exemplary selections of fiction,
nonfiction, poetry, and drama.
- Identify elements of great works which qualify them for inclusion into the Literary Tradition.
- Begin exposure to aesthetic principles.
- Use knowledge of language and standard grammatical conventions.
- Express reactions to the works they read.
- Synthesis meaning for the literal and symbolic levels of a work of fiction, poetry, and drama.
- Write and analysis of fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and drama.
- Write to specific audiences and purpose.
- Use effective sentence structure and edit their own work for correct sentence formation, usage, mechanics, and spelling.
- Identify language conventions; parts of speech and figures of speech.
- Explain meaning, describe processes, and answer research questions.
- Evaluate communication and critique their own texts.
- Make and support original ideas and interpretations.
- Participate in class discussions about literary genres and the Literary Tradition.
Students and parents are provided with the Prentice Hall Literature: World Literature Author: Capillo et al. Publisher: Prentice Hall. 2001.
Tenth grade students in English II read, discuss, and write about classical and contemporary works from world literature. Students compare and contrast cultural difference between what they know of Early American and British history with the works covered by the text. Students examine works in a cultural context to learn about cultural diversity and the various voices of different cultures.
Students will continue be exposed to different "voices" and "points of view" reflected in World Literature. They will also be given some sense of which nationalities possess significant bodies of literature and which ones do not - and the reasons why. Students will then be called up to use oral and written language to explicate their views.
Additionally, students will receive their first exposure to MLA style format and will write a short (3-5 pages research paper with Bibliography. Assessment: Quarterly Exams, Short Research Paper, Final Exam.
Tenth grade students will:
- Read exemplary selections of fiction,
nonfiction, poetry, and drama.
- Examine non-literary texts related to cultural studies.
- Research material to use primarily in clarifying their own explanatory responses to situations and literary-based issues.
- Critically interpret and evaluate experiences, literature, language, and ideas.
- Use standard grammatical conventions and select features of language appropriate to purpose, audience, and context of the work.
Students and parents are provided with the Prentice Hall Literature - The American Experience: Timeless Voices, Timeless Themes Series (Kate Kinsella, ED. D., Kevin Feldman, Ed. D., Colleen Shea Stump, Ph. D.)
Eleventh Grade
Students in English III are presented with an array of American literature from the colonial era through the 20th Century. Students continue to practice expository, argumentative, and critical assignments. The emphasis in English III is to advance comprehension skills, practice research techniques and critical analysis of the texts. Students will also increase the research skills by compiling an annotated bibliography in MLA format. Assessment: Quarterly Exams, Research Project: Bibliography, Final Exam.
Eleventh grade students will:
- Read exemplary selections of fiction,
nonfiction, poetry, and drama.
- Experience the development of early American literature.
- Research assigned topics.
- Increase their vocabulary and comprehension of antiquated language.
- Examine relationships between past and present.
- Produce and annotated bibliography in MLA style
- Learn to take a position in their essays (argument and persuasion).
Composition and Rhetoric
The text for this course is the MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers (6th edition) Author(s): Joseph Gibaldi. Copyright 2003. Publisher: Modern Language Association. This course focuses on student writing and proceeds from simple essays to the formal research paper. The focus is on reading, criticism and research. Students write to a variety of audiences and purposes. Early writing assignments emphasize critical analysis of popular styles and formats. Students will explore expressive, expository, argumentative, and literary contexts with a focus on Modern literary conventions and will also write a formal research paper in MLA style. English IV is the culmination of the language arts activities which have gone before. Emphasis is on preparing students for college level writing so that they may enter with the ability to write clear and concise sentences, paragraphs, essays and research papers.
Twelfth grade students will:
- Produce essays in all formats: expository, argument and persuasion.
- Express reflections and reactions in essay format.
- Examine and critique modern literary text forms.
- Research and write about popular topics.
- Read essays on literary criticism.
- Research and write essays in the model of literary criticism.
- Write using the standard conventions of Modern American English.
- Learn MLA style formats for different source materials.
- Write a 10-12 page research paper with bibliography in MLA style format.
Red Oak Academy Social Studies
K-6 Introduction:
Emphasis in the social studies curriculum is on
helping children learn about the systems of community in which they live.
Their family, neighborhood, their local community, and the larger communities
through the world community. Citizenship skills are imparted as they learn about
the fundamental characteristics of communities of every size shape and
dimension. Students learn about rule making and the transition to national and
global laws as well as why it is important to follow the rules of communities at
every level. Students also cover the historical, geographic and cultural
features of their local communities, country and the world.
K-1
The Kindergarten and first grade Social
Studies curriculum focuses on self-awareness of the surrounding world and
communities. Students come to Kindergarten and First Grade with various family
and cultural backgrounds. K-1 Social Studies promotes independent thinking
and a multicultural World view. Children learn about their relationships with
their family, school and community. As part of an integrated K-1
Curriculum there is a focus on projects whereby
children examine family and neighborhood cities. They learn what it means
tp belong to a community. Parents are provided with a multiplicity of ideas for
independent projects and field trips.
K-1 Concepts introduced:
-
My Family
-
My Community
-
My Country
-
My Responsibility
-
Rules and Laws
(Families and Their Needs , Silver Burdett &
Ginn, 1990, ISBN: 382128486)
Grade 2
The concepts introduced in Second grade build up
those introduced in the K-12 course of study. More in-depth analysis of
the students community is delivered. Students discover the key roles of a larger
community and are given opportunities to examine first hand who the
players are, where they are and what they do. Emphasis is also placed on the
city's diverse cultures, architecture, bridges, landmarks, transportation, and
major events. The children discuss and consider the city's history and compare
the similarities with the smaller and larger communities to which they belong.
Parents are provided with a multiplicity of ideas for independent projects and
field trips.
Grade 2 Concepts introduced:
-
My Neighborhood
-
My Community
-
My City
-
Major Players
-
Rules and Laws
(Text: Communities and Their Needs, Silver
Burdett & Ginn, 1990, ISBN: 382128559)
Grade 3
Third grade marks the beginning of a three-year
study of American history and geography, which is continued in the fourth grade
and fifth grades. Topics are centered around the communities theme introduced in
K-2. Parents are provided with a multiplicity of ideas for
independent projects and field trips. Describe the customs of people from
different geographic , cultural, racial, religious, and ethnic backgrounds.
Grade 3 Concepts introduced:
-
Early Settlers
-
Pioneer Life
-
Geographic Regions
-
Different cultures
-
Native Americans
(Text: Our Country's Communities, Silver
Burdett & Ginn, 1990, ISBN: 382128621)
Grade 4
The eight strands of the essential
knowledge and skills for social studies
are intended to be integrated for
instructional purposes. Skills listed in the geography
and social studies skills strands in subsection (b)
of this section should be incorporated into the
teaching of all essential knowledge and skills for
social studies. A greater depth of understanding of
complex content material can be attained when
integrated social studies content from the various
disciplines and critical- thinking skills are
taught together.
Students build a foundation in
history; geography; economics; government; citizenship; culture; science,
technology, and society; and social studies skills. The content, as appropriate
for the grade level enables students to understand the importance of patriotism,
function in a free enterprise society, and appreciate the basic values of their
state and nation.
Grade 4 Concepts introduced:
- concepts of geography, economics and
government
- maps and globes reading skills
- examine social studies graphs and diagrams
- The relations between citizenship, culture and
society.
- computer-based references
- information systems to generate and interpret
information
(Text: The
Geography of States and Regions, Silver Burdett & Ginn, 1990, ISBN: 38218672)
Grade 5
In Grade 5, students learn about the history of the
United States from its early beginnings to the present with a focus on colonial
times through the 20th century. Historical content includes the colonial and
revolutionary periods, the establishment of the United States, and issues that
led to the Civil War. An overview of major events and significant individuals of
the late-19th century and the 20th century is provided.
Grade 5
students will:
- examine geographic regions in the United
States.
- memorize states and capitals.
- examine how physical features and human
activity modify the environment.
- explain benefits of the free enterprise
system.
- identify the roots of representative
government.
- study the Declaration of Independence and the
U.S. Constitution.
- recite and explain the meaning of the Pledge
of Allegiance.
- examine the importance of effective leadership
in a democratic society.
- identify important leaders in the national
government.
- examine fundamental rights guaranteed in the
Bill of Rights.
- describe customs and celebrations of various
racial, ethnic, and religious groups in the U.S.
(Text: United States Yesterday and Today,
Silver Burdett & Ginn, 1990, ISBN: 0382128710)
Middle School Curriculum
Grade 6
In Grade 6, students study people and places of
the contemporary world. Societies selected for study are chosen from the
following regions of the world: Europe, Russia and the Eurasian republics, North
America, Middle America, South America, Southwest Asia-North Africa, Sub-Saharan
Africa, South Asia, East Asia, Southeast Asia, Australia, and the Pacific Realm.
Students describe the influence of individuals and groups on historical and
contemporary events in those societies and identify the locations and geographic
characteristics of selected societies. Students identify different ways of
organizing economic and governmental systems. The concepts of limited and
unlimited government are introduced, and students describe the nature of
citizenship in various societies. Students compare institutions common to all
societies such as government, education, and religious institutions. Students
explain how the level of technology affects the development of the selected
societies and identify different points of view about selected events.
(Text:
The World Yesterday and Today, Silver Burdett & Ginn, 1990, ISBN:
382128753)
Grade 7 and 8
7th and 8th grade students begin a survey of American History using the
Prentice Hall
History of the United States mini-book series. 7th grade also studies
the history, culture, religion, and customs of the American explorers, settlers
and indigenous natives.
8th grade students receive a general survey of the Civil War, Reconstruction and
later focus on Westward
Expansion and Manifest Destiny concepts of the United States.
7th Grade
In Grade 7, students study the history of the
United States from the early colonial period through the Pre-Civil War years.
The knowledge and skills obtained in this section comprise the first part of a
two-year study of U.S. history. The second part, comprising U.S. history from
the Civil War through the present, is provided in of the Prentice Hall
History of the United States mini-book series.
The content builds upon that from Grade 5 but
provides more depth and breadth. Historical content focuses on the
political, economic, and social events and issues related to colonial and
revolutionary eras, the creation and ratification of the U.S. Constitution,
challenges of the early Republic, westward expansion and sectionalism through
the Pre-Civil War years.
7th Grade students will:
- describe the physical characteristics of the
United States and their impact on population distribution and settlement
patterns in the past and present
- analyze the various economic factors that
influenced the development of colonial America and the early years of the
Republic and identify the origins of the free enterprise system.
- examine the American beliefs and principles,
including limited government, checks and balances, federalism, separation of
powers, and individual rights, reflected in the U.S. Constitution and other
historical document s.
- evaluate the impact of Supreme Court cases and
major reform movements of the 19th century and examine the rights and
responsibilities of citizens of the United States as well as the importance
of effective leadership in a democratic society.
- evaluate the impact of scientific discoveries
and technological innovations on the development of the United States.
Students use critical-thinking skills, including the identification of bias
in written, oral, and visual material.
Textbook: A History of the U.S. SeriesAuthor: Joy Hakim.
Publisher: Oxford University Press. Copyright: 1999.
ISBN: 0-19-512751-x Book 1: The First Americans
ISBN: 0-19-512753-6 Book 2: Making 13 Colonies
ISBN: 0-19-512755-2 Book 3: From Colonies to Country
ISBN: 0-19-512757-9 Book 4: New Nation
ISBN: 0-19-512759-5 Book 5: Liberty for All
8th Grade
In Grade 8, students study the history of the
United States from the the Civil War through the present, is provided in of the
Prentice Hall History of the United States mini-book series.
The content builds upon that from Grade 5 but
provides more depth and breadth. Historical content focuses on the
political, economic, and social events and issues related to the Civil
War, and Reconstruction, 18th and 19th Century Industrialization, the Great
Depression through the present .
8th Grade students will:
- describe the physical characteristics of the
United States and their impact on population distribution and settlement
patterns in the past and present.
- understand how political, economic, and social
factors led to the growth of sectionalism and the Civil War.
- explain the social problems that faced the
South during Reconstruction and evaluate their impact on different groups.
- evaluate the impact of Supreme Court cases and
major reform movements of the 19th century and examine the rights and
responsibilities of citizens of the United States as well as the importance
of effective leadership in a democratic society.
- evaluate the impact of scientific discoveries
and technological innovations on the development of the United States.
Students use critical-thinking skills, including the identification of bias
in written, oral, and visual material.
Textbook: A History of
the U.S. Series. Author:
Joy Hakim. Publisher: Oxford University Press. Copyright: 1999.
ISBN: 0-19-512761-7 Book 6: War, Terrible War
ISBN: 0-19-512763-3 Book 7: Reconstruction & Reform
ISBN: 0-19-512765-x Book 8: Age of Extremes
ISBN: 0-19-512767-6 Book 9: War, Peace, and All That Jazz
ISBN: 0-19-512769-2 Book 10: All the PeopleHigh School Social
Studies Grades 9-12
High School Social Studies builds upon the foundations established grades
k-8. There are three required areas, U.S.History, World History and
American Government. Psychology is offered as an elective.
9th Grade U.S. History (1 Credit)
United States History Studies Since Reconstruction
the Civil War
In this course, which is the second part of a two-year study of U.S. history
that begins in Grade 8, students study the history of the United States since
the Civil War to the present. Historical content focuses on the political,
economic, and social events and issues related to industrialization and
urbanization, major wars, domestic and foreign policies of the Cold War and
post-Cold War eras, and reform movements including civil rights. Students
examine the impact of geographic factors on major events and analyze causes and
effects of the Great Depression. Students examine the impact of constitutional
issues on American society, evaluate the dynamic relationship of the three
branches of the federal government, and analyze efforts to expand the democratic
process. Students describe the relationship between the arts and the times
during which they were created. Students analyze the impact of technological
innovations on the American labor movement. Students use critical-thinking
skills to explain and apply different methods that historians use to interpret
the past, including points of view and historical context.
9th Grade Students will:
- identify the major eras in U.S. history from
859 to the present and describe their defining characteristics.
- apply absolute and relative chronology through
the sequencing of significant individuals, events, and time periods.
- explain the significance of the following
dates: 1859, 1860, 1865,1898, 1914-1918, 1929, 1941-1945, and 1957.
- understands the political, economic, and
social changes in the United States from 1877 to the present.
- analyze political issues such as Indian
policies, the growth of political machines, and civil service reform.
- analyze economic issues such as
industrialization, the growth of railroads, the growth of labor unions, farm
issues, and the rise of big business.
- analyze social issues such as the evolution of
minorities rights, child labor, growth of cities, and problems of
immigrants.
Textbook: A History Of The United States Since 1861.
Author: Author:
Daniel J Boorstin. Publisher:
Prentice Hall. ISBN: 0-13-391798-3.
Copyright: 1985-1990.
10th Grade World History (1 credit)
World History Studies is the only course offering
students an overview of the entire history of humankind. The major emphasis is
on the study of significant people, events, and issues from the earliest times
to the present. Traditional historical points of reference in world history are
identified as students analyze important events and issues in western
civilization as well as in civilizations in other parts of the world. Students
evaluate the causes and effects of political and economic imperialism and of
major political revolutions since the 17th century. Students examine the impact
of geographic factors on major historic events and identify the historic origins
of contemporary economic systems. Students analyze the process by which
democratic-republican governments evolved as well as the ideas from historic
documents that influenced that process. Students trace the historical
development of important legal and political concepts. Students examine the
history and impact of major religious and philosoph ical traditions. Students
analyze the connections between major developments in science and technology and
the growth of industrial economies, and they use the process of historical
inquiry to research, interpret, and use multiple sources of evidence.
10th grade students will:
- understands traditional historical points of
reference in world history.
- identify the major eras in world history.
- describe their defining characteristics.
- identify changes that resulted from important
turning points in world history such as the development of farming; the
Mongol invasions; the development of cities; the European age of exploration
and colonization; the scientific and industrial revolutions; the political
revolutions of the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries; and the world wars of the
20th century.
- apply absolute and relative chronology through
the sequencing of significant individuals, events, and time periods.
- explain the significance of the following
1066, 1215, 1492, 1789, 1914-1918, and 1939-1945.
- understands how the present relates to the
past.
- identify elements in a contemporary situation
that parallel a historical situation.
- describe variables in a contemporary situation
that could result in different outcomes.
- understand how, as a result of the collapse of
the Western Roman Empire, new political, economic, and social systems
evolved, creating a new civilization in Western Europe.
Textbook: World History Patterns of
Civilization. Author: Beers, Burton F. Publisher: Pearson Prentice Hall.
Copyright: 993-01 ISBN: 0139686452 and 0139638857
11th and 12th Grade American Government (1
credit)
Prerequisite: World History, U.S. History
This course is specifically designed to enable the students
to gain insight in American Government. The course includes the study of
characteristics of the three branches of federal, state, and local
government. The student will have a working knowledge of the U.S.
Constitution, citizenship, and civil rights at the end of the course.
The student will:
- identify the relationships between cultural
values and the purposes and policies of government.
- describe types of government social controls.
- understand different styles and forms of
leadership, political socialization, and communication techniques that
influence perception, attitudes, and behavior.
- identify and describe different forms of
leadership as they relate to group-motivation techniques.
- analyze the relationship among social class,
racial, ethnic, and other culture group membership, and political power in
the United States.
- evaluate different communication techniques,
including propaganda and advertising, used to influence perceptions,
attitudes, and behaviors of persons and groups.
Magruder's
American Government Author: Williams and MacClenaghan Publisher: Prentice Hall
ISBNs:0135434971 & 130509426 Copyright: 1991 & 2001
11th and 12th Grade
Psychology (1 credit)
Prerequisite: None
This course is an introductory course to the social science of psychology
(the study of human behavior). Topics investigated are the history and nature of
psychology, developmental psychology, personality theories, mental and
behavioral disorders and therapies.
The student will:
- examine the historical context of the
evolution of psychotherapy.
- understand the dynamics of the relationships
between self and others to be a contributing member of the community.
- understand that beliefs, decisions, and
actions have consequences.
- predict the likely outcome of given courses of
action in particular situations, such as refusing to pay taxes, to register
to vote, or to obey the speed limit.
- evaluate the predicted outcomes of given
courses of actions in particular situations based on an understanding of the
development of morality.
- understand behavioral, social learning, and
cognitive perspectives of motivation to describe his or her role and impact
on economic systems.
Understanding Psychology. Author:
Glencoe. Publisher: Glencoe/Mcgraw-Hill ISBN: 002800180X
1992-06
Red Oak Academy Health Education
Grades 9 - 12
(1/2 credit)
Students learn to
relate the nation's health goals and objectives to individual, family and
community health, they examine the relationship among body composition, diet and
fitness, explain the concepts of quality of life, nutrition, treatment and
social health issues such as organ donation and homelessness. They learn to
explain the fetal development from conception through pregnancy and birth,
explore the importance of prenatal care and proper nutrition and analyze the
harmful effects of certain substances on the fetus such as alcohol, tobacco,
other drugs and environmental hazards such as lead.
Glencoe's text provides a skills-based health
program. Glencoe Health combines print, audio, and technology resources in an
integrated program of health education. The text provides concise lessons,
interactive links and an emphasis on skill-building.
Health Students will:
-
describe the causes, symptoms, and
treatment of eating disorders.
-
examine issues related to death and
grieving.
-
discuss health-related social issues such
as organ donation and homelessness.
-
analyze strategies to prevent suicides.
-
examine causes and effects of stress.
-
develop strategies for managing stress,
anxiety and depression.
-
implement a program of personal health
maintenance.
-
examine issues relating to communicable
disease
-
analyze causes of substance abuse
Textbook: Glencoe
Health, A Guide to Wellness. 6th Edition, Author(s): Merki, Mary
Bronson; Merki, Don. Publisher: Glencoe/McGraw-Hill. ISBN:
0026515628. 1998.
Red Oak
Academy Mathematics Curriculum
Introduction.
The Mathematics
Course provides a set of mathematical competencies for each grade and high
school course to ensure rigorous student academic performance standards that are
uniform across the state. It is based on individual work with each student as
well as on live group study and demonstration. Our philosophy of teaching and
learning mathematics is consistent with the current research, exemplary
practices, and national standards.
The Mathematics
Course has five consecutive goals for K-8:
l
Number
and Operations,
l
Measurement,
l
Geometry,
l
Data
Analysis and Probability,
l
Algebra.
Note: For grades 9-12
Geometry and Measurement are combined.
The concepts and
problems presented in this course have various degrees of complexity and
difficulty, allowing ambitious students to perfect their skills and at the same
time, providing full support for basic math required for advancement and
graduation. The Mathematics Course is therefore the ultimate guide for textbook
selections and the foundation of the Red Oak Academy testing program.
The Mathematics
Course describes the mathematical concepts, skills, operations, and
relationships that are the significant mathematics that all students should
learn and understand. This is the mathematics that will give students the
greatest opportunity to shape their futures.
Kindergarten Math: (Saxon Math K)
Kindergarten students
develop an understanding of base numbers, shapes, and relationships. Using the
Texas Content Standards as a guide, parents may impart early mathematical
concepts according to the following five strands: 1.Number Sense- the
relationship between numbers, simple addition and subtraction and estimation; 2.
Algebra Functions –sorting and classifying; 3. Measurement and Geometry – the
simple shapes of objects and comparisons of length, weight or capacity and the
concept of time; 4. Statistics, Data Analysis and Probability – collecting and
calculating data; 5. Mathematical Reasoning – making decisions to solve
problems. Students use manipulatives to enhance their understanding and
reinforce basic math skills. Students show that they have learned the concepts
and skills acquired in kindergarten mathematics through tests.
BOOKS and RESOURCES
|
Saxon Math K, 2nd edition.
ISBN:
1565770218. Publisher: Saxon
Publishers. Norman, OK.
1990. |
Early Grades 1
and 2
Kindergarten Math:
(Saxon Math K)
Kindergarten students develop an understanding of base numbers, shapes, and
relationships. Using the Texas Content Standards as a guide, parents may impart
early mathematical concepts according to the following five strands: 1.Number
Sense- the relationship between numbers, simple addition and subtraction and
estimation; 2. Algebra Functions –sorting and classifying; 3. Measurement and
Geometry – the simple shapes of objects and comparisons of length, weight or
capacity and the concept of time; 4. Statistics, Data Analysis and Probability –
collecting and calculating data; 5. Mathematical Reasoning – making decisions to
solve problems. Students use manipulatives to enhance their understanding and
reinforce basic math skills. Students show that they have learned the concepts
and skills acquired in kindergarten mathematics through tests.
First Grade Math:
(Saxon Math 1)
First grade students at Red Oak Academy develop number
sense from 1 to 100 and use simple strategies to solve addition and subtraction
problems. Students understand the concept of tens and ones in the place value
number system. They also learn to identify, classify, and describe common
geometric figures. By the end of first grade students are able to develop and
solve word problems in multi-step problem solving situations.
Second Grade Math:
(Saxon
Math 2)
Students in second grade continue their development of
problem solving strategies, which include logical mathematical skills, and
present data in different ways. Students develop a number sense, mathematical
vocabulary, and master the following areas: addition, subtraction, and place
value, estimation, working with money and models and prediction. Other skills
include measurement, telling time, and identifying geometric slopes.
Number and Operations
This module
demonstrates concepts of number sense, reading, writing, and counting with whole
numbers. Whole numbers are represented using image representations. Students
recognize different representations for whole numbers and explain why those
representations are equivalent. They also learn to identify real life number
related symbols, like coins and chapter numbers in various notations. Whole
numbers are compared and ordered and students use a variety of strategies to
estimate quantities and understand place value. A start is provided in using
addition and subtraction of whole numbers.
Measurement
This module
demonstrates concepts of measurement by using a variety of materials. Students
learn about different tools for measuring, they describe, estimate, and measure
length and temperature using non-standard and standard units. Students are
attracted into learning by using real life situations where measurement is
involved like the calendar to follow the days of the week and months of the year
and clocks to explore and tell time at the five-minute intervals.
Geometry
Students learn the
simplest concepts of geometric bodies and why geometry is useful. They get
acquainted with names and basic properties of simple geometric shapes. They
learn how shapes can be cut or arranged to form new shapes. Students look for
the shapes in the environment, and practice drawing and using the shapes. They
learn the meaning of basic directional and positional relationships.
Data Analysis and
Probability
This module shows how
statistical investigation may be useful to describe and get results out of
experiments. Student collect data by counting, measuring, and conducting simple
surveys and experiments. They organize, describe, and display data. Simple
probability experiments are conducted and the results interpreted.
Algebra
Children in the early
grades learn about comparing, sorting, and ordering by one or more
characteristics. The objective of this introductory module is to teach students
on finding and creating patterns, correcting errors in patterns, and translating
patterns into different forms. Students gather data pertaining to interests,
family, and other things around them. They begin to understand that a number is
a symbol for how much of something there is and begin to explore the use of a
variable or placeholder and write open sentences to express relationships.
Students begin to use patterns as a problem-solving strategy.
General
overview
|
Major
Concepts/Skills |
Concepts/Skills to Maintain |
|
·
Number
sense 0-99 |
·
Basic
geometric shapes |
|
·
Single
digit addition and subtraction |
·
Sort and
classify |
|
·
Time
|
|
·
Non-standard measurement |
|
·
Collect
and display data |
|
·
Create
and extend patterns |
BOOKS and RESOURCES
|
Saxon Math 1, 2nd edition.
ISBN:
0939798816. Publisher: Saxon
Publishers. Norman, OK.
1990.
Saxon Math 2, 2nd edition.
ISBN:
0939798824. Publisher: Saxon
Publishers. Norman, OK.
1990. |
Intermediate
Grades K3 – K5
Third Grade Math: (Saxon
Math 3)
Students in third grade continue to develop number sense,
mathematical vocabulary, and master the following areas: addition, subtraction,
place value, estimation, and working with money. They also study multiplication
to a level of mastery in third grade. Working with fractions, geometry and
graphing are skills third graders begin to learn other topics include
measurement, basic algebra, and word problems.
Fourth Grade Math: (Saxon
Math 4 and Math 54)
Fourth grade math places an emphasis on mastering the
basic facts of addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. Students
study place value through the hundred millions. Multi-digit multiplication and
division problems are introduced. Other Texas State Standards students learn
include fractions, decimals, factoring, graphing, and the use of variables. In
Geometry, students learn about different angles and compute area and perimeter
through hands on activities. Problem solving and word problems are emphasized
throughout the year. Students use the skills developed in 4th grade
math when studying aspects of world cultures.
Fifth Grade Math:
(Saxon
Math 54)
Students use the district adopted textbook and other
materials to learn numeracy skills. They learn to compute using very large and
small numbers. They practice solving problems that involve addition,
subtraction, multiplication, and learn to divide fractions and decimals.
Students compute simple algebraic equations. They compute area, volume, and
perimeter of geometric forms and interpret data with the use of graphs.
Students solve multiple step problems. The emphasis of the math curriculum is
based on the Texas State Content Standards in Math.
Number and Operations
This module is
designed to gradually enhance the arithmetic concepts learnt in K2 to understand
how fractions and decimals are formed from whole numbers. We keep a constant
correspondence between the abstract concepts and the real world objects, in
order for the students to better understand why mathematics is very useful, and
to apply the concepts and methods they learn in real life. Students recognize
the rational numbers, the basis for equivalence, comparisons of fractions and
decimal numbers. They learn the order of operations, explore various properties
of operations and relate models to standard symbolic expressions and algorithms.
Measurement
Students learn how to
estimate and measure different properties of physical objects. They learn both
customary and metric units for measuring temperature, mass and length of an
object. Geometric notions are also introduced gradually, as students explore the
plane figures and their perimeter and area.
Geometry
In this module,
students learn to compare and analyze the relationship between plane figures and
3D bodies. They define and test new properties and relationships of geometric
shapes, properties like congruence, similarity, parallelism and
perpendicularity. Graphing methods are explored in order to visually verify the
new concepts.
Data Analysis and
Probability
Students learn more
sophisticated techniques for data collection and statistical investigation,
which include tables, bar and circle graphs, and stem-and-leaf plots. Data are
described and compared using median, mode, and range. Students design
experiments and list all possible outcomes and probabilities.
Algebra
Most concepts learnt
in pre K3 are being used in this module as a basis for algebraic, geometric and
other mathematics methods and patterns while students learn to apply them by
using modern tools, such as calculators and computers. Students use tables and
graphs to analyze relationships and to describe the patterns, in order to be
able to extend these patterns, suggest rules and make predictions. Most
importantly, students learn how to use symbols in expressions and open sentences
to represent unknown quantities, to describe relationships and to solve
problems.
|
Major
Concepts/Skills |
Concepts/Skills to Maintain |
-
Number
sense 0.001-999,999
|
|
-
Addition
and subtraction of non-negative rational numbers
|
|
-
Properties of plane figures
|
|
-
Bar
graphs and stem-and-leaf plots
|
|
|
|
|
-
Simple
equations and inequalities
|
|
-
Students
will solve relevant and authentic problems using appropriate
technology and apply these concepts as well as those developed in
earlier years
|
Middle Grades
6 – 8
Numbers and
operations
Students in the
middle grades learn to extend the concept of a number to represent real numbers
using pictures, number lines, and symbols in a variety of contexts. They
explore relationships among rational numbers are equivalence among fractions,
decimals, and percents. Students extend their understanding of place value to
decimal and scientific notation and use the properties of real numbers,
including zero, one, and inverses. They work with numerical comparisons
expressed as ratios and rates and solve problems using ratio, proportion, and
percent. Students develop fluency in computation with rational numbers as well
as with relationships among numbers, including primes, composites, factors, and
multiples. They explain exponents and square and cube roots of numbers, develop
facility with estimation and mental computation, and use calculators
appropriately.
Measurement
In this module, the
concepts of perimeter and area are expanded to include surface area and volume
of prisms and cylinders and formulas are developed for computing these
quantities. Students learn relationships between length, perimeter, area, and
volume. Students draw objects to scale and use scale drawings to solve
problems.
Geometry
Students learn more
about congruence, similarity using ratio and proportion, and the Pythagorean
Theorem. They also continue to study symmetries and transformations and become
proficient at visualizing and recognizing transformed figures in the coordinate
plane. Three-dimensional figures are drawn and built using different views.
Data Analysis and
Probability
This module provide
students with new approaches to complex data sets. With the appropriate
statistical measures students solve problems involving multiple data sets. More
sophisticated representations, such as histograms, box plots, and scatter plots,
highlight an increased understanding of the spread and grouping of data and the
relationships between variables. Students identify basic patterns and trends in
tables and charts and use them to make predictions. They describe the
distribution of data using measures of central tendency. Students explore
extremes in data and the misuse of representations to communicate information.
With bivariate data, students learn to recognize relationships, estimate, and
make predictions. In particular, linear relationships are identified and used
to investigate bivariate data. Students conduct experiments and simulations to
investiga
ISBN: 0-87352-986-3