Curriculum

Introduction
Kindergarten
Grades 1-5
Grades 6-8
Bible
Reading
English
Spelling
Mathematics
Science
Social Studies/History
Speech
Library
Music
Art
Physical Education
Computer
Spanish
Educational Resources Department

Introduction

The SCS classroom is characterized by structure and discipline woven with kindness and harmony. Each teacher is a qualified Christian educator chosen for his or her genuine love for children, teaching ability, academic qualifications, and spiritual maturity. Teachers, by their example and words, encourage their students to learn about and follow the teachings of Jesus Christ and to develop a relationship with Him.

The Stamford Achievment Tests are given each year to provide teachers and parents with an idea of how well our curriculum is meeting the overall needs of our students. Our students' scores, when avaraged and compared with schools around the nation, consistently rank in the top fifteen to twenty percent. While we do not place overwhelming emphasis on standardized test scores, we do feel confident that our students are working hard and that the curriculum is solid.

Students are taught self-discipline and respect for one another, for those in authority, and for personal property. Both Christian and secular materials are used; each carefully selected for its specific purpose and overall quality.

We believe that God has created each child uniquely, with special gifts and talents as well as specific learning differences. Applications of children with special learning needs will be considered.

Learning is exciting at SCS

• Students enjoy weekly library, physical education, music, and art programs.
• Annual SCS activities in creative writing, art, and math allow students to showcase their talents. Students may also compete in Association for Christian Schools International ACSI regional festivals.
• Field trips are taken to places like: The Mark Twain House, Bishops's Orchards, The Ely Whitney center, Sturbridge Village, The Connecticut State Capital, and theater productions.
• A fun-filled Field Day is held annually as well as Dad's Day, Grandparents Day, and our End of Year Celebration.

Kindergarten

The Kindergarten program at SCS combines the warm, nurturing environment of home with structure and training, thus preparing students for more formal instruction. SCS believes that children should enter the Kindergarten program when they are developmentally ready. Kindergarten students are offered programs in Bible, math, reading, manuscript writing, library, art, music, and physical education.

Grades 1-5

Strong emphasis is placed on studying God's Word, on the basic skill areas of phonics, reading, spelling, writing, language and mathematics, and on the specialized areas of social studies, science, library, music, art, and physical education. Intentions are to challenge the thought processes of each student at his or her own level while focusing on skill development and mastery.

Grades 6-8

Grades 6-8 are considered the Middle School, and operate on a "team" approach. Students change classes and teachers throughout the day, allowing teachers to "specialize" on one or two specific subject areas.

Bible

Basic Bible is taught daily through a formal Bible curriculum and is applied throughout the school setting using various materials and activities. Scripture memorization is an important component of our program. The ultimate goal is to prepare students to be disciples of Jesus Christ.

Reading

By employing the use of traditional phonics materials, textbooks, and workbooks supplemented with other resources, a strong emphasis is placed on word recognition, vocabulary development, comprehension, and word study skills in the early years. An appreciation for children's literature is encouraged through silent and oral reading of a variety of carefully chosen short stories and novels. Students transition toward reading, writing, and responding to poetry, book reports, and research papers as they move through the grades.

English

The English program focuses on grammar, manuscript and cursive writing. Various composing and editing techniques are taught in the early grades. The materials are attractive and designed to build confidence and success.

Spelling

Daily attention is given to spelling skills through the study of basic word lists and the use of dictionaries and other self-checking tools.

Mathematics

Concept development, computational skills, and mathematical applications are taught daily. When appropriate, children are provided with hands-on materials to aid in the transfer of concepts from the concrete to the abstract. Teachers strive to make arithmetic a positive, success-oriented experience and continuous maintenance of skills is provided through spiral review.

Science

Science is an experiential program focusing on earth science, physical science, and life science. Children are taught to investigate, gather, record and analyze data in an organized fashion trough hands-on laboratory experience as well as observation.

Social Studies/History

Students study family life, communities, the State of Connecticut, and the geography and history of the United States and other nations. Themes of patriotism and God's guidance in the founding of our country are central to each program.

Speech

Public speaking is encouraged in the classroom setting, school assemblies and public programs. Children learn to express themselves with confidence through participation in school presentations and chapel programs.

Library

The library program fosters the love of reading and books. Students in grades 1-5 encounter a wide variety of literature in weekly library classes, which also teach library citizenship and library skills. Middle school students have direct access to the library and its resources.

Music

Regular classes are offered in basic theory and singing. The music curriculum also offers the students a hands-on look at orchestral instruments. We encourage students to study an instrument privately at the earliest age possible.

Art

The art program combines methods of skill development and art history to provide the student with a means of creative expression. Through the instruction of proper media use, the student gains confidence in their art abilities.

Physical Education

SCS provides its students with an enjoyable program aimed at personal fitness, skill development and game participation with an emphasis on sportsmanship.

Computer

In the computer program the student learns keyboarding basics, how to use office programs, and how to safely use the Internet for school and practical purposes. This program is for middle school and provides the student with the tools they need in a technologically advanced world.

Spanish

Conversational Spanish is introduced in Grades 5. Students are encouraged to respond with correct accent and expression. More academic studies begin in the 6th grade. Upon completionof grade 8, student will enter high school on Spanish level 2.

Educational Resources Department

The goal of the Educational Resources Department is to assist each child in reaching his full potential by taking advantage of his particular learning style and strengths. The team of the Educational Resources teacher, the parents, and the classroom teacher work together to provide each student with a rich and complete program. Learning style evaluations are performed when appropriate and consultation between team members is on-going. An Educational and Family Resource Library is available for all families and friends of Shoreline Christian School with a variety of helpful books, cassette tapes, and video tapes.