Challenger Basic School Detailed Cirriculum

Mathematics - Mathematics is taught daily and receives a great deal of emphasis. The program uses oral drill and written practice sheets and stresses memorization of math facts. Metric and modern math terms are included. The textbooks used are from "Saxon" and supplemented with "Harcourt, Brace, Jovanovich".

Literature and Phonics - Literature and phonics are a daily part of the curriculum. The literature program has a strong phonics base emphasized by daily written and oral drill. Literature selections include classics and literature sets with wholesome ideals. Each room has its own library, and teachers read to their classed daily. "The Writing Road to Reading" is the text used for phonics. Independent classroom reading is designed to encourage students to read books which offer a variety of subjects that extend and enhance what is being read in class.

Recitations - Each student will memorize and recite for the teacher, one selection of either prose or poetry at least once every nine weeks.

Penmanship - A standardized handwriting program is taught in all grades, with cursive writing introduced no later than third grade, based on the child's ability. Neatness and legibility of penmanship are stressed through daily drill. To prepare students for filling out forms, an annual review of printing is conducted. "The Writing Road to Reading" is the text used for handwriting.

Spelling - A solid phonetic-based spelling program, which consistently teaches spelling rules, is part of the language arts curriculum. Spelling is also emphasized in the literature and composition programs. "The Writing Road to Reading" is the text used for spelling.

Language - The language program includes daily practice and drill in fundamental English grammar, its rules and usage. Composition and poetry are an integral part of the program. The textbooks used will be "Shurley English Method" and "Language for Daily Use" by "Harcourt, Brace, Jovanovich".

Composition - Each Challenger student is expected to be able to express themselves in written form in a grammatically correct manner that emphasizes clarity of thought and preciseness in spelling and penmanship. A variety of writing experiences are provided at each grade level.

History and Geography - This program emphasizes the study of history and geography. Memorization of important geographical and historical data is required. Current events are also presented. The textbooks used are from the "Harcourt, Brace, Jovanovich" and "MacMillan" series and other supplemental texts.

Science - The science program includes concepts in physical, chemical, earth, and biological sciences. It is centered around the "Scott-Foreman science series.

Health/Safety - Emphasis is on good health habits, nutrition, general safety rules, first aid and life saving techniques.

Music - A structured general music appreciation program is taught in all grades.

Physical Education - Each child at Challenger Basic School participates in a structured physical education experience. The physical education program is designed to teach children important physical skill development that will carry over into day-to-day life and help promote good health.

Art - Art appreciation is a part of the basic program. Art is used to emphasize holidays and seasons and, where appropriate, is incorporated into other areas of study. Art activities are kept to a minimum and emphasize traditional art concepts.

Computers - Challenger computer curriculum supports our school principles and emphasizes the use of computers as tools to enhance classroom learning. Computer usage is aligned with Challenger's educational curriculum and goals.

Citizenship - Honesty, respect, courtesy and the meaning of citizenship are taught. Teachers set examples for students and teach them through acknowledgment, praise and role playing. Respect for personal and public property is taught by stressing respect rather than fear of punishment.