Academics
Core Knowledge Curriculum
Grace Valley Christian Academy has been using the nationally recognized Core Knowledge Sequence as the foundation of its curriculum since 1998. The Sequence is a detailed outline of specific content to be taught in language arts, history, geography, mathematics, science, and the fine arts. Much more than a list of facts to be memorized, the Sequence provides a solid foundation on which to build skills instruction. Because it serves as a guide to coherent and specific content from grade to grade, the Core Knowledge Sequence encourages steady academic progress as children build their knowledge and skills from year to year.
One of the many strengths of the Core Knowledge Sequence is that the teachers across all grade levels are teaching a common core of knowledge. However, plenty of room is left in the school day to include Spanish language instruction and physical education for all Academy students. In addition, the Academy’s experienced and talented faulty teaches a rich variety of middle school electives; some of these courses include: home economics, art, drama and choir.
The Core Knowledge Sequence also allows teachers to implement a variety of instructional methods and material - often created by the teachers themselves. While the Sequence provided specifies a coherent minimum, the teachers remain free to decide when to go into depth and detail beyond what is recommended in the Sequence, and how best to teach it. Accordingly, teachers can customize their instruction to meet the specific needs and interest of their students.
In additional to the Sequence guidelines, Grace Academy also pays close attention to the curriculum standards established by the State of California. The Academy’s administration and teachers make every effort to meet and exceed these requirements. The consistently superior achievement of the Academy’s students on nationally recognized standardized tests is but one indication of their success.
Visit www.coreknowledge.org for more information on the Core Knowledge Sequence curriculum.