Newell Elementary School

Grade Level Curriculum Overview

Math: 

Innovamat Math Overview

Innovamat is a competency-based educational program for teaching and learning mathematics. Learning based on practices generates knowledge that is more solid, connected, critical, and long lasting; developing a comprehensive mathematical experience. Innovamat focuses on the processes of Problem Solving, Reasoning and Proof, Connections, and Communication and Representation. 

Students will build knowledge while exploring manipulative and digital materials, collaborate and discuss multiple ways to answer challenging questions, and strengthen strategies by working in meaningful contexts.

Language Arts:

Core Knowledge Language Arts, or CKLA, is a comprehensive, language-based literacy program that builds deep content knowledge with research-based foundational skills. Through the use of intentionally sequenced units of study which spiral across the grades, students build vocabulary and knowledge in science, social studies, literature and the arts. Aligned with NJ Learning Standards, CKLA promotes equitable access to complex texts through differentiated accessibility for diverse learners while engaging student interests via culturally responsive and relevant learning experiences. 

.In third and fourth grade, foundational skills and knowledge are integrated with focus on close reading of complex texts and lessons that interweave morphology, spelling, grammar and vocabulary development.

Science: 

Mystery Science is an inquiry-focused and research-based program designed to encourage student curiosity in the world around them. Mystery Science focuses on student interests and engages learners through hands-on activities. The program encourages students to use scientific discourse and activate prior knowledge. The units covered in fourth grade include the “Birth of Rocks,” the “Human Machine,” “Waves of Sound,” and “Energizing Everything.” 

Social Studies:

Social Studies Alive: Regions of Our Country utilizes inquiry-based unit structures to engage the students’ interests. The standards-aligned content gives students the opportunity to make personal connections, explore diverse perspectives, and draw upon and apply previous knowledge. The units covered in fourth grade include “Discovering the Social Sciences”, “Exploring Regions of the United States”, “The Peopling of the United States”, and “A Tour of the Northeast.”

Characteristics of a Successful Learner: In this area NES staff focuses on teaching students to be–

Effective Communicators by listening attentively and speaking clearly with appropriate volume.

Self-Directed Learners by taking initiative and works independently, uses time effectively, and preservers in task completion.

Collaborative Team Member by working cooperatively with peers,is respectful of  the ideas, rights and feelings of others.

Creative and Practical Problem Solver by taking learning risks and Considers multiple solutions to problems.

Mindfulness: Focuses on empowering students to:

develop self-awareness tools

develop self-management tools

to be calm

to be focused

to be connected

to be energetically balanced

These skills are taught through breath, movement and mindfulness practices in order for students to be ready to learn.