Laguna Elementary School
Mathematics
Language Arts
Writing
Science
Social Studies
Mathematics
Harcourt Math:
The Math Curriculum has five strands: numbers and operations, algebra, geometry, measurement, and data analysis and probability. LES uses the state-adopted Harcourt math curriculum which follows the state standards and was created by the same publishers who created the state test, the New Mexico Standards Based Assessment (NMSBA). The format of the text and terminology is aligned with the state standards and the state test. This fall (2008), teachers are learning how to use the online math assessments, which will enable them and the school to track progress. The textbook materials also contain hands-on learning opportunities and math manipulatives, which are vital in enabling children to picture and experience the learning objective. The curriculum also contains assessments to determine what a child needs to know (prior knowledge) before attempting each new chapter test, helping the teacher to be informed about how best to assist children individually and in small or large groups.
Accelerated Math (AM):
AM is a supplemental online math curriculum that the school uses in correlation with the STAR Math Assessment. Teachers are able to supplement the curriculum, re-teach, or challenge advanced students using this supplemental online program.
Calendar Math:
Calendar Math, published by Great Source, teaches all five strands of math using daily calendar time. During different months of the year, the shapes on the calendar form patterns used, for example, in algebra or geometry. At other times, the calendar math uses techniques that involve the numbers on the calendar or the upcoming holiday or season to teach activities involving math strategies.
Language Arts
Harcourt Trophies Reading Series:
LES uses the Harcourt Trophies Reading Series as the main textbook for reading classrooms. This reading series teaches reading, using scientifically researched-based methods, focusing on the state standards for the nation, which include the following strands: Reading and Listening for Comprehension; and Literature and Media.
The Accelerated Reading Program (AR):
Using a grant from Save the Children, the school provides reading material on grade level for each child using the STAR reading assessment. The reading material is coded in the library and is used in daily independent reading time. Children take one assessment weekly on their AR book, aiming for 100%. If they score lower than 80%, the child is directed to reread for comprehension. During independent reading, children receive weekly one-on-one conferences regarding their reading strategies, selection of “just right” books, as well as their reading interests, so that they can be coached to get the most benefits from their independent reading time. Children check out several books a week from the school library and have weekly library time. In addition to AR time, they have Self-Selected Reading (SSR) time daily.
Leveled Library:
LES is currently compiling a leveled library and has paid for the first shipment of leveled books to be placed into the library. Books will be arranged according to reading levels, so that teachers may work with students in small reading groups. There are small classroom libraries that contain read-aloud books and leveled books for children to read independently, or with the teacher in small groups.
Reading A-Z:
Each certified teacher has online access to downloadable leveled readers that may be used for reading groups. Each month, more leveled readers are made available and follow a monthly theme. For example, during the Olympics, many leveled readers became available related to the theme. Themes follow seasons and holidays, but also fall into categories that relate to both fiction and non-fiction curriculum.
The Sonday Reading Program:
The Sonday Reading program is a supplemental reading program that teaches phonemic awareness and phonics as well as vocabulary, fluency, and comprehension strategies to struggling readers. It is taught by a certified staff member to students in the Tier III reading program, and by paraprofessionals in the Tier II reading program. It is currently being used by the third and fourth grade teachers to assist children who are still struggling with reading. Other paraprofessionals are about to be trained to provide this program to more of our children in other grade levels.
Head Sprouts:
Head Sprouts is an early literacy program used in our computer lab that teaches phonemic awareness to children in grades K and 1. Supplemental materials can be used in the classroom after children have used the computer program to enhance what students are learning.
WRITING
Write Source:
The Write Source Writing, the state adopted textbook, focuses on assisting children with the use of writing to communicate, using the strand “Writing and Speaking for Expression” in the state standards and benchmarks. The text teaches the various genres of writing, the writing process, and focuses on the Six Traits of writing. These include: conventions, ideas, voice, organization, word choice, and sentence fluency. Teachers also use Six Traits rubrics for assessing writing growth.
PLATO:
LES ordered the PLATO computer program during the summer of 2008 for the supplemental reading and math curriculum and some of the teachers received a two-hour introduction. This program has been highly recommended to schools in Corrective Action. Eventually, teachers will receive training on how to provide access to this curriculum to certified staff members, paraprofessionals, and students.
Science
Scott Foresman Science
The science series is from the state adopted textbook list and follows the state standards and benchmarks, including all of the science strands: life science, earth sciences, physical science, and space science, as well as science and society and technology. The book contains a lot of hands-on and practical guidelines for understanding science.
Science Fair:
The students participate yearly in the science fair and focus on all of the realms of science. Their judges come from local schools and community experts in scientific fields. Students learn the techniques of conducting scientific research.
Social Studies
The social studies series is the “New Mexico Edition” and is from the state adopted textbook list and follows the state standards and benchmarks, including all of the social studies strands which include: History (New Mexico, United States, and the World), Geography, Government and Civics, and Economics. The book contains a lot of activities that are practical and hands-on and help children understand communities and their relationships to the world, celebrating the rich and diverse cultures and contributions of many people groups.