Curriculum

Core Knowledge

The Core Knowledge curriculum is a research-based program that is utilized in hundreds of schools across the country and is founded on the premise that a grade-by-grade core of common learning is necessary to ensure a sound and complete elementary education. The Core Knowledge curriculum was developed by Dr. E. D. Hirsch, Jr., and is based on a large body of research in cognitive psychology as well as a careful examination of several of the world's fairest and most effective school systems. Dr. Hirsch has argued that, for the sake of academic excellence, greater fairness and higher literacy, early schooling should provide a solid, specific and shared core curriculum in order to help children establish strong foundations of knowledge.

History

The Core Knowledge curriculum thoroughly covers History, World Civilizations and Geography. As students progress through these subjects, they are able to understand the shared values of a civilized society, follow the threads throughout world history that provide a context for the founding of the United States of America, and trace the emergence of the principles on which our nation was founded. Additionally, these studies provide a historical basis for the establishment of the modern world.

Language Arts

Literacy Transparency Dashboard

An effective Language Arts program is the cornerstone of every student's education. Without the basic skills of reading, writing and communicating, students cannot fully participate in the educational process. Therefore, at American Academy, we focus intensely on early literacy to ensure that every child has an opportunity to learn and grow.

Reading

For our primary reading program, we use Core Knowledge Language Arts (CKLA). CKLA integrates all elements of the language including spelling, grammar, writing, and reading. We may also use aspects of other programs for certain children, as necessary to ensure that every child achieves this critical skill. Finally, we use curriculum differentiation by way of flexible groups in order to accommodate the skill level of every child.

Writing

American Academy integrates Step Up to Writing and 6+1 Trait Writing into the CKLA curriculum. Step Up to Writing, developed here in Colorado by Maureen Auman, is a very systematic and structured approach to the process of writing. 6+1 Trait Writing deepens understanding through the seven traits of writing and link to reading.

Math

American Academy uses the Go Math! curriculum program for mathematics. Go Math! is a perfect complement to our STEM emphasis because it encourages learning through exploration and investigation instead of memorization of a procedure. Go Math! asks students to defend answers, encouraging comprehension of a process rather than seeking a specific answer. By including reflective written responses, the Go Math! learning curriculum solidifies a richer understanding of mathematics. American Academy also implements flexible ability grouping based on student mastery of the content with the Go Math! program.

Science

At American Academy, we have adopted the Next Generation Science Standards for all science classes K-8 while keeping our emphasis as a Core Knowledge School. These exciting, performance-based standards aim to produce scientifically literate critical thinkers who demand high-quality data from reliable sources. Kindergarten through fifth grade implemented a science curriculum, HMH Science Dimensions, which empowers students to learn science through self-directed exploration, analysis, application and explanation. With its cohesive, spiraled approach, the curriculum provides a consistent and engaging experience. Science Dimensions promotes a higher-quality science learning experience through a learning-by-doing and claims-evidence-reasoning approach to science education.

Technology Use in Curriculum

Technology is integrated into everyday learning at American Academy with an eye toward the development of 21st Century Learners. It is used as a learning enabling tool, an output tool, an assessment tool, and a subject for study. Research-based and proven software programs are integrated in the regular curriculum. American Academy implements ISTE's Educational Technology Standards for Students. Students are taught to become very familiar with computers, through explicit instruction on keyboarding, basic navigation and important applications such as word processing, spreadsheet, email and presentation software. Being able to use a computer as a tool to communicate and articulate is an essential skill in our world, and American Academy ensures this skill becomes as much of a habit as walking and talking. These skills are aligned and integrated with the Core Knowledge curriculum. For example, while learning about Ancient Greece, second graders are asked to research a specific ruin and develop a Power Point presentation on their findings to be shared with the class.

Technology also streamlines our school operations and communications. Parents are able to access their student’s grades and progress in real-time via a secure website. Students download their homework or collaborate on a project over the web. Teachers have immediate access to assessment data so they can adapt instruction accordingly.

Specials

At American Academy, Specials programming includes five content areas that work collaboratively with each other and with the Core Knowledge curriculum delivered in the general classroom. Those five content areas include Art, Music, Technology, Physical Education, and the addition of Dramatic Arts in middle school. In every content area, instructors focus on development of student skill, knowledge, and character, working diligently to uncover areas of strength in each student and providing opportunities for growth and leadership in those areas as much as possible.

Art

In elementary school, students experience art activities and learn visual arts techniques that develop fine motor skills, like painting, drawing, textiles, clay sculpting, etc. Middle school students continue development and learning in Core Knowledge curriculum while making deeper connections to art, implementing more advanced techniques, utilizing mediums such as pencil techniques, color pencil, charcoal techniques, oil pastel, sculpture, pen and ink techniques to perfect shading while observing objects from life to incorporate into their design.

Music

Students are introduced to music through movement, voice, percussion instruments, and keyboard piano stations. They explore foundational elements of music and music history through composition, performance, and active listening. In middle school, students advance to more complex concepts, building upon the skills and knowledge acquired in elementary school. Students can pursue after-school enrichment opportunities to participate in band and orchestra, dance, theater, and vocal training in solo and ensemble settings through the American Academy Performing Arts program.

Technology

Students start developing basic computer skills, including typing, as early as kindergarten. As they demonstrate proficiency in Google interface applications and digital literacy, they engage in projects such as media arts, coding, machine learning, and app development. Instructors prioritize activities that nurture creativity, innovation, communication, collaboration, research skills, critical thinking, problem-solving, decision-making, digital citizenship, and technology operations and concepts. The curriculum and assessment materials align with ISTE, state, and national standards for technology education.

Physical Education

In physical education, students are tasked with developing large motor skills and acquiring specific physical competencies and spatial awareness through gameplay and physical exercises. Instructors promote sportsmanship and teamwork, and assist students in monitoring their progress and health through Fitness Testing. Middle School PE continues to integrate a diverse range of activities to address physical and mental wellness objectives, encompassing cardiovascular fitness, muscular strength and endurance, flexibility, mental health, nutrition, and personal safety. Additionally, American Academy offers extracurricular activities through the middle school Rebels Athletics program, which includes soccer, basketball, cross country, flag football, and volleyball.

Dramatic Arts - Grades 6-8

In this class, students will be introduced to the basic concepts of theatre arts and vocal performance. By using various drama techniques students will focus on building confidence and trust. These techniques will inspire creativity and imagination. Through theatre games and activities students will learn to become more comfortable in a presentational setting, improve trust in themselves as well as others in their class, and they will learn invaluable presentation skills. Students will learn and use theatre vocabulary in class discussions. They will also learn proper vocal techniques such as projection, enunciation, and diction. To establish a historical view, a timeline of history of theatre will be presented. Students will display and reinforce the skills they learn through individual and group performances, teamwork, and journal writing.

Middle School Electives

American Academy offers a variety of middle school electives, which are well suited for grades 6-8 and touch on a variety of interests. Please see our Middle School Electives page for more information.

STEAM

American Academy's STEAM programming aims to expose all students, in both daily curriculum and through a myriad of outstanding enrichment opportunities, to a wide range of specific skills and learning opportunities in science, technology, engineering arts (visual and performing) and math.

STEM

Please visit the STEM web pages for more information about STEM education at American Academy.

Performing Arts

Please visit our Performing Arts web pages for more information about Performing Arts opportunities at American Academy.