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 kindergarten through second grade, CKLA is divided into a 60-minute skills instructional period and a 60-minute knowledge instructional period. This two strand approach ensures student access to rich texts and discussion while teaching developmentally appropriate and sequenced reading foundation and comprehension skills.

Science:  In Kindergarten we follow the Next Generation Science Standards and study about Trees, Weather, Seasons, Color mixing and Animals.

Social Studies: In Kindergarten we learn about Family, Friendship,  Self-esteem, Cultural Diversity, Who am I?, Manners, Holidays and  Celebrations and Communities.

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.