The Grammar years (K-4) are a time of growth and development for our students during which many life long habits, attitudes, and character attributes are established. Whatever the subject or activity, nurturing a positive self-concept and cultivating a love for learning are crucial to the success of students during these formative years. This is why, at Oakwood Classical, we pay special attention to the unique talents, temperament, and circumstances of each student.
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL CURRICULUM
English Language
Our English programs are focussed on grammar, the skill of reading and interpreting words. Beginning with basic phonics and oral narration, students progressively build their reading, writing, and vocabulary skills alongside a wide variety of great literature and "living books."
History
We use stories to make history come alive in our classrooms—students learn to place themselves in the stories of their family and their place before moving around our world in ever-widening circles. A wide variety of narratives and perspectives are visited, coinciding with great literature, music, and carefully-chosen art projects that relate to the era that the student is studying.
Latin
It is almost impossible to understand a human culture without understanding its language, and learning a new language gives students more facility with their own native language. Latin is the predominant language of our past. We want our students to be conversant with that tradition, so they begin learning Latin in lower school and continue through the upper school.
Mathematics
OAKWOOD uses Singapore Mathematics, which develops mathematical understanding in the context of problem solving. In addition, Singapore Math develops conceptual understanding through concrete, pictorial, and abstract representations, and develops facts fluency through strategies and mental math.
Performing Arts
Our music program employs the Kodály method to introduce students to basic musical elements such as rhythm, pitch, and expression. Students are introduced to the recorder in third grade and the violin in fourth grade, and may choose between ensemble instruction in either choir or strings in fifth and sixth grade.
Physical Education
Our physical education programs ("gymnastic education") are derived from an understanding that students' minds and souls benefit from their bodies' opportunity to be healthy and active during the school day.