Core Knowledge
DEER TRAIL’S PK- 8 CURRICULUM
The 2019 – 2020 school year marks Deer Trail 26J’s PK-8 inaugural year in implementing the Core Knowledge Sequence, The Core Knowledge sequence encompasses language arts, mathematics, science, history, geography, fine arts, and physical education. The curriculum is characterized by knowledge that is:
- Context-rich – lasting, unchanging knowledge such as important events of world history;
- Cumulative – a planned progression building on students’ previous knowledge and eliminating excessive repetition and gaps;
- Content specific – clearly defined knowledge at each grade level ensuring fairness for all students;
- Coherent – explicit knowledge identifies what children should learn at each grade level to ensure an articulated approach to building knowledge across all grade levels.
LITERACY
Reading Classic Books, Substantial Content Classic literature appropriate to the age and ability of each student is read extensively. Students are exposed to high quality reading materials to stimulate their interests and engage their minds.
SKILLS
The 3 R’s and then some! The skills of learning – reading, writing, calculating and speaking – are learned through a combination of curriculum content, modeling, coaching, and sensible practice. Deer Trail teachers help students develop skills in all areas using specific content instruction including learning grammar, explicit phonics for beginning reading, novels and literature for advanced grades, foundational math skills, history, geography and science.
THINKING FRAMEWORK
More than just the facts!
It is not enough to acquire knowledge. The ability to see patterns and analyze facts is necessary to be able to influence and improve the world around us. At Deer Trail, progressive thinking skills, unique to each discipline, are used to guide young people in applying discernment to knowledge