The elementary curriculum is developmentally appropriate and involves hands-on activities. Teachers incorporate multiple teaching strategies and technologies to appeal to every learning style. Through careful planning and research, teachers are able to provide a strong foundation that fosters critical thinking skills. Special attention is given to language acquisition including reading, writing and speaking skills. Using manipulatives, models, and deep questions, students gain a conceptual understanding of the math concepts they are taught. They are able to move beyond surface level memorization of skills to explain the applied process. Science is an inquiry-based program designed to allow the students to experience the concepts in which they are learning. The social studies curriculum is rich in non-fiction literature. PBS teachers also enrich the academic curriculum with art, music, experiments, technology and hands-on activities.
Academics – First & Second Grade When children enter the first grade, they are eager to learn and create. The program at PBS is designed to use these natural tendencies to build skills in reading, writing, math, Bible, science and social studies. The language arts curriculum is a balanced literacy program which provides phonics instruction, small group reading instruction and writing experiences to meet the students’ needs. Math manipulatives are commonly used to help develop number concepts. Students in first and second grades are engaged daily in hands-on activities to develop knowledge and understanding of the world around them.
Academics -Third & Fourth Grade Children in third and fourth grade make the shift from learning to read to reading to learn. They begin to learn important organizational and study skills that they can apply as they transition into middle school. Students become more independent and begin to take ownership of their learning. They also apply their knowledge to critical thinking situations and deep analytical assignments.
