Excellence in Education |
Elementary Curriculum Grades 1-5 |
| In the Elementary School program at Blair Christian Academy, we focus on building strong educational skills that will provide the basis for emotional, academic and spiritual growth throughout a student’s lifetime. Our goal is for each child to build a foundation which will provide a lifetime of personal growth and fulfillment. Our aim is to prepare the whole student – spiritually, emotionally and intellectually – to glorify God as each child faces the challenges and pursues the opportunities ahead. |
| A Christian perspective and world-view are presented throughout the curriculum with a special emphasis on spiritual growth and understanding. Weekly chapel services provide opportunities for Biblical instruction and praise and worship. Daily, Biblical themes, Bible stories, scripture memory verses, Christian and Gospel music and prayer enrich the classroom environment. |
| We also seek to motivate our students by utilizing available resources including traditional classroom teaching, dramatic presentations, field trips, educational games, group projects and individual study, to provide an environment that enhances the learning process. Our partnership with local senior homes provides cultural intergenerational opportunities in the areas of art and music. |
| Blair uses a Christian based curriculum designed to build students’ awareness of God’s presence in all subject matter. In each subject, core study areas are selected and presented in age appropriate lessons. Reasoning skills, listening skills and personal participation are stressed. The Core Curriculum is composed of six curricular areas Bible, Reading, Writing, Math, Science, and Social Studies. In addition, learning is extended and enhanced by resource classes in Computers, Art, Physical Education, Music, and Spanish. |
| Bible |
| Bible is a major subject and is taught everyday. Scripture memory verses with an emphasis on comprehension, the application of Bible knowledge to daily living, and deliberate Bible study skills all come together to create a comprehensive curriculum. |
| Every Elementary student attends weekly Chapel for a time of prayer, praise and worship. During Chapel object lessons are used to help children understand the relevance of God’s Word to their lives. Chapel is also a time to recognize students for their accomplishments during the week. Once a month, a different class gives a special presentation to the student body. Talent Chapel gives students the opportunity to showcase their unique talents and is held twice a year. |
| Reading |
| The ability to read well is the foundation for all education and a rich source for learning about life. The goal of the elementary reading program is to develop independent readers. Young readers’ enthusiasm for good literature and their comprehension of the material read contributes to the development of their critical thinking and reading skills. Our curriculum uses the balanced literacy approach and systematically teaches comprehension skills. Students are taught using authentic literature and vocabulary is built by focusing on words found within the text. |
| Writing |
| The goals of the Writing program are to develop the correct use of English grammar in written and oral communication, use the writing process, expose students to and teach students different types of composition, encourage clear and effective writing, and develop study and reference skills. Writing is taught using conceptual and interactive approaches which further develops critical thinking. The close alignment of writing and grammar skills gives students full utilization of why they are learning grammar. |
| Mathematics |
| We strive for strong calculation skills and number sense balanced with deep understanding of the operations, the ability to see and communicate about patterns and relationships, problem solving ability, an appreciation for the beauty and usefulness of math, and plenty of direct experience with objects and materials to provide the basis of solid mathematical intuition. |
| Social Studies |
| The Social Studies curriculum seeks to educate children to live in a changing world. The importance of community and what makes a community is the basis of the Social Studies Curriculum. Students also study geography, Philadelphia history, and the history of the United States. All students participate in the Social Studies showcase to display projects that focus on yearly themes. Students also study an international country every year and present their findings during International Night. |
| Science |
| Science in the Elementary School introduces students to the natural and physical world around them. Topics covered include: Plants and Animals, Space and Weather, Earth’s Land, Energy and Motion, and Exploring Matter. All students complete independent science projects and have the opportunity to compete in the school Science Fair. |
| Technology |
| The computer and related technologies are integrated into our curriculum to enhance critical thinking, research, writing and communications skills. We strive to use the computer as a tool to further cultivate these skills. The focus of the computer is placed in the lab as an agent to prepare students with skills to be utilized in their classroom endeavors. The computer Lab and all elementary classrooms have internet connectivity. |
| Art |
| Art encourages a critical perception, a comprehension of tools and techniques, an appreciation of creativity and the enjoyment of art in our lives. Students participate in one semester of Art. |
| Music |
| Students in Grades 1-3 participate in Glee Club where they learn and perform different genres of music. Fourth and fifth grade students participate in intergenerational African percussion and Gospel choir programs with elders from local nursing homes. Students also have the opportunity to participate in the school’s handbell choir. Students participate in one semester of Music. |
| Health and Physical Education |
| Physical education allows children to work on social skills and to maximize their own physical fitness. In addition, children are helped to acquire attitudes and practices which increase their potential for good health in the years ahead. Physical education classes meet once a week. |
| Foreign Language—Spanish |
| Foreign language in the Elementary School introduces students to the basics of Spanish. Students are given a foundation to prepare them for more intensive foreign language study in the Middle and High School. Students receive foreign language instruction in kindergarten through fifth grade for one semester each year. |
| As in all grade levels at Blair, we strive to develop open communication with students. Our teachers are expected to not only offer classroom leadership, but to be role models. They reflect a Godly, positive attitude and a genuine concern for students. |
| A full-time guidance counselor is available for all elementary, middle, and high school students. In addition, Blair offers tutorial services for all school subject material. |