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Curriculum “The purpose of the Carden Method is to develop well-adjusted, capable, confident, eager, alert, courageous, generous, just, compassionate, courteous, happy children, who have a sense of humor, who will be able to develop their ingenuity, who base their actions on the idea that we come to life to make a contribution to the welfare of the human race; children who realize that happiness is a by-product of doing for others; children who realize that the goal of living is not the amassing of money or possessions, but the attainment of the desires of the heart.” - Mae Carden
The Carden Method is a comprehensive curriculum that is sequential and integrated from Kindergarten through Twelfth grade.
Reading
is taught simultaneously with writing, spelling, and the fundamentals of grammar. The foundation is phonemic awareness, word attack skills, comprehension, mental imagery, vocabulary development, and rhythm.
Literature
is selected appropriately for each grade level and presents enduring ideas and values expressed in beautiful language and vivid imagery, thereby building an awareness of the richness of our language and our heritage.
Spelling
is a unique combination of phonics, listening skills, dictionary marks, clarity of diction, rhythm, and organization. Lessons are taught daily and include sound drills, a vowel chart, rules, word grouping, and recall through mental imagery, not memorization.
Language
incorporates Grammar, which Miss Carden called “the key to comprehension.” It covers parts of speech, parts of sentence, verb tenses, and punctuation, and trains the student in analysis and evaluation, as well as in verbal and written expression for the communication of ideas.
Writing
integrates the Carden foundation with the Write Source program, and introduces the students to various forms of writing. Processes including prewriting, outlining and organizing, revising, and editing are taught using a step-by-step approach. Penmanship (printing and cursive) is an integral part of the elementary curriculum. In middle school, computers are used for the publishing of written works.
Mathematics
is taught using both Singapore Math and Saxon Math™. Singapore Math is a results based program designed to build a deep understanding of mathematical concepts through word problems and concrete illustrations. Saxon Math is designed to promote student success through incremental development, continual practice and review, and ongoing, cumulative assessment.
Social Studies
is taught using a variety of texts covering geography, history, and current events. Students learn to master skills and strategies including: map skills, reading comprehension, critical thinking strategies, writing and research skills, chart and graph skills, and test taking strategies. The program leads students to see how the land shapes lives while providing the knowledge base students need for exceeding the new national standards in geography proficiency.
Science
is taught at all grade levels using Delta Education and FOSS science modules, which include hands-on investigations and inquiry-based instruction to master science concepts which correlate with State and National Science Education Standards.
French
is the language chosen for study by Miss Carden because of the many words in the English language that are of French origin. The study of French grammar structure relates to the study of English as well, giving the student a secure base from which to build. Vocabulary building, songs, games, poetry, and visual aids are important techniques used to infuse joy and confidence in the learning of this foreign language.
Music
is taught to build the love of music and the joy of singing. The children learn a wide range of songs including patriotic, seasonal, Hawaiian, simple rounds, and folk songs. There is a progression of instrumental instruction from percussion in the early elementary levels, to recorder, ukulele, drums, and guitar in the upper elementary and middle school levels. Music appreciation is fostered by listening to the works of great composers.
Art
is an integral part of our program. It provides opportunities for individual, creative expression. Children work with a wide variety of mediums over the course of the year. Students are introduced to art appreciation and art history through discussion of some of the world’s great art and artists.
Physical Education
is an opportunity to put to practical use the standards of behavior set forth in the classroom. The emphasis is on fair play and mastery of fundamental sports skills. The students learn independence, leadership, responsibility, and a respect for the rights and property of others. They learn also that physical fitness is a way of life, not merely a leisure activity.
Drama and Creative Movement
are used to enrich students' understanding and awareness of self-expression through dance and the stage. Students become comfortable and confident performing and speaking in front of an audience.
Poetry
is an essential part of the Carden curriculum. Miss Carden said, “Poetry breathes beauty into the commonplace and lifts the soul.” At each grade level the students learn and recite a variety of poems that appeal to a sense of beauty, values, and humor.
Virtues
are integral to our Carden curriculum. A new virtue is introduced each week and reinforced throughout the day to assist with confidence building, social values, and other varying personal aspects. The virtues are then subsequently kept alive throughout the school year.
Created on 09/13/2005 09:17 AM by admin
Updated on 01/05/2011 06:01 PM by micheleg
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