Elementary Curriculum

The TK and Kindergarten differentiated curriculum is designed to help students make a comfortable transition from home to school. Group and individual activities are used to aid in the development of social skills, independent work skills, and motor skills. Academic fundamentals to reading and math are introduced at a pace that is developmentally appropriate for each student. The Bible stories and the life of Jesus will teach the students how to be good citizens of this world.

First grade focuses on teaching students how to read and write. Through the support of Unlocking the Code students will use appropriate language strategies. Including, ran decks, sounder vowels, fishhooking, etc to strengthen their comprehension of reading and writing. Early math skills will be developed with a main focus on addition and subtraction. First grade students will be introduced to basic measurement, geometry, and data analysis. The study of the Bible will include Bible verse and study of Biblical characters, with an emphasis on Jesus. This will allow students to begin to understand how to have a personal relationship with Jesus, allowing room for growth with Him. History/Social Studies will introduce the students to an understanding of symbols, maps, and community. Science will target life cycles, adaptations, and matter.

A combination of whole class, small group and individual reading experiences leads students to become independent readers. Science includes the study of our bodies, health and nutrition as well as geology and chemistry. Social studies students develop respect for human dignity and social responsibility through a multicultural approach to the study of neighborhoods and communities. The Bible lessons emphasize God's power. Math includes addition and subtraction facts through twenty, and an introduction to multiplication. Manuscript writing is reviewed. An emphasis is placed on positive attitudes and problem-solving in social relationships.

Third grade learns about God’s loving and generous plan of redemption for us, throughout the Bible: Jesus as our Friend and Savior, Learning big-heartedness to love and serve others; Shining our light as God’s hands in our community. Language Arts curriculum incorporates a variety of lessons and activities, paired with multi-disciplinary literature to increase comprehension, joy, and love for reading. Reading, Grammar, Spelling (Vowel & Consonant Orthography), Writing, and Prefix Codes are embedded in our vertically aligned program. Third grade students participate in a global literacy community, collaborating and writing digital stories with students around the world. Social Studies curriculum focuses on: Geography; Culture; Economics; Government; and Civics of North America, Caribbean and other Ancient Civilizations. Science curriculum encompasses studying and exploring. God’s amazing creation: Life Science, Human Body, Earth and Space Science, and Physical Science. Mathematics curriculum covers strengthening the different mathematical practices, standards, and skills needed for mastery in: Whole Number Operations, Multiplication, Division, Fractions, Measurement, and Geometry.

Bible lessons will emphasize five major units of study: 1) Salvation; 2) The First Three Kings of Israel; 3) The Teachings of Jesus; 4) Christian Living; and The Bible. Students study the United States in geography and learn the states and capitals. Early colonization of California and the state’s history is studied through the Mission System. The Language Arts curriculum emphasizes grammar structure for reading and writing. Speaking and research for public presentation are developed as well in the LA classes. The math curriculum emphasizes problem solving by using all four operations of arithmetic. Fractions, decimals, and geometry principles are introduced to the fourth graders. The major science units studied are in broad groupings of physical sciences, earth and space science, life sciences, and the human body. Fourth grade students also receive instruction in physical education and instrumental as well as vocal music.

Bible lessons emphasize the integration of biblical principles and spiritual applications across all subjects. Students learn to locate Bible passages, compare genres of writing, and understand the central theme of redemption. In Social Studies, students learn about United States history and geography. They also explore the role of God in the development of communities and nations.

Families that home school their children are welcome to consider enrolling at San Gabriel Academy on a part-time basis. Please contact the principal to arrange a meeting with the teacher and principal. If the admissions committee determines that part-time attendance is beneficial to the student and will be compatible with the classroom environment, the student, parent, teacher and principal will sign a contract that details what is expected of all parties.