Academics

Education at SMIC

Elementary Curriculum

ELA

Our ELA Common Core curriculum uses a balanced literacy approach with diverse fiction and nonfiction texts, emphasizing comprehension strategies, vocabulary, and critical thinking. It guides students through the writing process, promotes effective communication through discussions and presentations, and emphasizes language conventions, grammar, and vocabulary. It offers differentiated instruction, and assessments for progress monitoring, and integrates technology with digital resources and tools to enhance learning.

In our elementary ELA program, students will develop these skills:

Better Use of Academic Language: Students will learn to use academic language more effectively, helping them discuss and understand complex ideas.

Improved Critical Thinking: By answering questions based on texts and closely reading, students will learn to think critically and understand what they read.

Stronger Writing Skills: With different writing activities, students will get better at writing clearly and adapting their style for different purposes.

Research Skills: The curriculum encourages students to ask questions and conduct research, helping them learn how to find and use information.

Better Communication in Groups: Students will practice discussing ideas with classmates, improving their ability to share thoughts and listen to others.

Personal Responsibility for Learning: With tools like check-ins and learning goals, students will learn to take charge of their learning and keep track of their progress.

Math

Our Singapore math curriculum focuses on developing mathematical understanding, problem-solving skills, and critical thinking. It follows a Concrete-Pictorial-Abstract (CPA) approach, emphasizes problem-solving, employs a spiral progression, incorporates model drawing and visual learning strategies, and promotes mental math skills. The curriculum offers differentiation for diverse student needs and includes assessments to measure progress and inform instruction.

In our elementary Math program, students will develop these skills:

Understanding Mathematical Concepts: Students will develop a strong grasp of math concepts, helping them see how different ideas connect.

Problem-Solving Skills: The focus on problem-solving will equip students with strategies to tackle real-world math problems effectively.

Critical Thinking: Students will enhance their critical thinking abilities, allowing them to analyze situations and make logical decisions in math and other subjects.

Visual Learning and Modeling: Through the Concrete-Pictorial-Abstract (CPA) approach and model drawing, students will learn to visualize problems, making it easier to understand and solve them.

Mental Math Skills: The curriculum promotes mental math, helping students improve their ability to calculate quickly and accurately in their heads.

Personal Responsibility for Learning: With tools like check-ins and learning goals, students will learn to take charge of their learning and track their progress in both math and other subjects.

Science

Our NGSS standards science curriculum engages students in inquiry-based learning, three-dimensional learning, and a phenomenon-based approach. It offers hands-on activities, integrates STEM principles, provides differentiation for diverse learners, incorporates assessments to measure progress, and utilizes digital resources for enhanced learning experiences.

In our elementary Science program, students will develop these skills:

Inquiry-Based Learning: Students will learn to ask questions and explore topics through hands-on activities, enhancing their curiosity and understanding of scientific concepts.

Collaboration Skills: Working with peers on projects and activities will help students develop teamwork and communication skills, essential for group work in science and other subjects.

Critical Thinking: Through inquiry-driven activities, students will improve their critical thinking skills, learning to analyze information and draw conclusions based on evidence.

STEM Skills: The integration of STEM principles will equip students with skills related to science, technology, engineering, and math, preparing them for real-world applications.

Real-World Connections: Students will learn to connect science concepts to real-world situations and careers, helping them understand the relevance of what they are studying.

Digital Literacy: Utilizing digital resources will enhance learning experiences, teaching students how to effectively use technology for research and collaboration.

Chinese

Our Chinese curriculum aligns closely with the mandated government program for students, focusing on developing Mandarin language skills. It integrates essential elements of the language, as well as aspects of China's history, culture, and identity, enhancing the language learning experience.

Vocabulary and Grammar Understanding: The structured approach will help students gradually build their vocabulary and understand basic grammar, making it easier to express themselves.

Cultural Awareness: By using authentic materials like videos and stories, students will gain insights into Chinese culture, enhancing their language learning experience.

Speaking and Listening Skills: Interactive activities and dialogues will focus on improving students' speaking and listening abilities, making them more confident in conversations.

Character Recognition: Students will learn to recognize and write Chinese characters, improving their reading and writing skills in the language.

Pronunciation Practice: Emphasis on pronunciation will help students develop accurate speaking skills, allowing them to communicate clearly in Chinese.