Curriculum
Our core academic program includes Language Arts (Spelling, Literature, Grammar, Composition), Mathematics, Science, Social Studies (History and Geography), and Foreign languages (French in all grade levels and Latin in Middle School). Carden Conejo’s homeroom teachers cover the Language Arts and Social Studies curriculum. We use specialist teachers for Mathematics, Science, Languages, Music, Art, Computer, and Physical Education.
The entire Language Arts curriculum is sequential and integrated from the earliest grades through the 8th Grade. The study of reading, comprehension, composition, grammar, and vocabulary leaves no “holes” in a child’s learning. Each level is thoroughly covered. Classical literature at grade-appropriate levels unfolds critical thinking, judgment questions, and life experiences. Morals and ethics are taught through the literature studied. The annual class plays become opportunities for students to step outside their comfort zone and work together as a group to develop poise and build self-esteem.
Mathematics begins in Pre-School and its concepts and skills are sequentially developed year after year. Students work in both small and large groups in order to grasp Math concepts. Our traditional Math program consists of the basic facts along with word problems. Starting in Kindergarten, the Singapore Math system of instruction, frameworks, textbooks, assessments, and teacher preparation is introduced. The system is modeled on Math teaching in Singapore, which consistently ranks first in the international Math comparisons. By 7th Grade students cover Pre-Algebra and in 8th Grade take Algebra. Eighth Grade students are well prepared for High School College Prep classes and exams.
Our students love Science because it involves many hands-on investigations. They observe, identify, classify and describe to deepen their understanding of simple and complex scientific phenomena. We have implemented the inquire-based Full Option Science System (FOSS) science curriculum developed at U.S. Berkeley. Students who study science with FOSS are able to learn scientific concepts, solve problems, express their understanding, and apply their knowledge in a variety of novel ways.
History lessons are incorporated into and build from lessons in Literature, Spelling, Dictation, and Grammar. Our students learn about our government and other governments. They learn about our country’s Constitution and how our democracy was defended. We teach the Geography of the World, the U.S. States, and Capitals. They learn about other countries and cultures around the world and how they differ from ours. We strive for our students to understand the world in which we live.
Carden Conejo’s curriculum includes a strong base in Foreign Languages. French is taught as a second language from the Primary School through 8th Grade. This language was chosen by Mae Carden because of the many French words that comprise the English language. Grammar is taught in the French language and its structure is similar to English. As students progress, they learn verb conjugations and sentence structure. Latin is introduced at the 6th Grade. This is done to show the roots of many of our English words. This helps develop vocabulary so that our 7th and 8th Grade students are well-prepared for high school.
Music and Art are an integral part of the program. In these subjects the children experience the freedom to express beauty and individuality. In the Music class, students develop and interest and appreciation for the different styles of music. Students learn to read and play music on various instruments. Art classes build confidence and capability for creating art projects. Weekly art appreciation classes help students identify and enjoy beautiful works of art from the ages.
Our Computer Lab consists of 20 new Dell low-profile computers. We run the Windows XP operating system. Students learn the Microsoft Office programs, Excel, Word, and Powerpoint. They develop their keyboarding skills necessary to complete assignments quickly and accurately.
Our Physical Education program emphasizes good sportsmanship. Each class meets daily for P.E. to develop their skills and their sense of fair play. Various sports include soccer, football, baseball, track, and volleyball. Sports skills are developed throughout the year. In the second semester we also participate in our National Presidential Physical Fitness Award Testing.
