Grades 1 - 8
The academic program at All Saints' Episcopal Day School offers students a course of study that is intellectually challenging and inspires a love of learning. The School seeks, develops and refines a curriculum that is designed to promote the education of students who are knowledgeable, questioning, thoughtful and integrated. The curriculum reflects a variety of approaches to teaching and learning and is reviewed in light of educational research and ongoing evaluation.
Language Arts
The ASDS language arts program emphasizes children's literature,
the classics, and required outside reading. The mastery of reading,
phonics, vocabulary, and spelling skills provides a foundation
for subsequent scholastic achievements. In writing, students are
expected to master basic grammar and composition. Correct spelling,
neat handwriting, complete and properly punctuated sentences and
the construction of well-organized paragraphs are writing skills
emphasized in all grades. Beginning in the 5th grade, Latin roots
are taught in conjunction with the study of the English language
and vocabulary development, and a separate Latin grammar course
is taught to all 6-8th graders.
Math
The mathematics curriculum emphasizes mastery of fundamental operations,
basic concepts, and number theory. Students are provided with
a variety of opportunities to apply these concepts in problem
solving. Drill and practice enable the students to develop accuracy
and speed in computation. Small math grouping in the upper grades
works to ensure close, individualized attention for the student
and greater opportunity for challenge and enrichment. Pre-tests
and post-tests are used in determining placement and for monitoring
student progress.
Religious Studies
The objective of Christian teaching at All Saints’ is to provide
experiences on which the student may build a solid foundation
for a firm religious belief and the formation of Christian character
virtues of faith, hope and love. Religious education in the classroom
reinforces the religious commitment of the School, provides a
time for discussing human values, and gives the student a historical
perspective of the Judeo-Christian tradition. The religious material
presented in the elementary classroom is designed to give the
student an understanding and knowledge of the great stories of
the Bible as a foundation for the development of faith. Middle
school students continue to study the Bible, and additional areas
of focus include: Biblical archeology, comparative religions,
and practical ethics. The extensive Outreach program at ASDS springs
from gratitude to God for all the wondrous gifts He has given
us—in Creation, individually, and as a school community.
Social Studies/History
In social studies and history the curriculum is designed to lead
children to think and explore beyond themselves and their known
world. In the lower grades, the children study Japan, Africa,
the Monterey Peninsula, California, and the United States. In
the 6-7th grades the Ancient World, Europe, Africa, and Asia are
studied, and U.S. history is taught in the 8th grade. Additionally,
art history is taught in all three upper grades as a component
of the history curriculum. Field trips, class projects and enrichment
activities allow students to integrate their learning as well
as to practice language, reading and writing skills.
Science
The goal of the All Saints' science curriculum is to build on
students' natural curiosity about the world around them and to
inspire interest and enthusiasm for “doing science.” Our program
provides hands-on instruction in science for grades ECU through
8th, with an emphasis on the science process skills of observation,
experimentation using the scientific method, and communication.
Field trips and visits from outside speakers enrich the curriculum
at all grade levels.
Foreign Language
Spanish or French are studied beginning in the first grade. The
vocabulary origins of Latin and Greek are integrated into sixth-
eighth grade language arts. Latin as a living language is studied
by all upper grade students.
Music
The ASDS music program is comprised of two main components: performance
and music instruction. Students perform traditional and modern
songs, as well as Christian liturgical works; these performances
are highlights of numerous school events throughout the year.
Classroom study includes chorus, knowledge of musical instruments,
music theory and history.
Art The art program at All Saints' is one in which the students’ art experiences deepen their appreciation and enjoyment of the aesthetic qualities in both nature and made objects. The program is designed as a continuum for all students in grades ECU through eight. Art instruction evolves from five interrelated areas:
- artistic perception
- creative expression
- historical/cultural contexts
- aesthetic valuing and connections
- relationships and applications
Mediums include drawing, painting sculpting, printmaking, weaving, ceramics and photography.
Physical Education
The goal of the All Saints' physical education program is to instill
in students a love for physical activity and an understanding
of the importance of developing life-long physical fitness skills.
To this end, a rigorous athletic program co-exists with the academic.
Physical education classes are held by grade level, and non-competitive
games, as well as competitive sports and sportsmanship, are a
part of the P.E. curriculum. Competitive upper grade interscholastic
sports are offered in soccer, basketball, tennis and golf.