Kindergarten
curriculum

Saxon Math:

Saxon's primary mathematics series is a "hands-on," success-oriented program that emphasizes manipulatives and mental math. The series addresses the multisensory approach to teaching. Its use will enable all children to develop a solid foundation in the language and basic concepts of mathematics.

We have found that mastery of mathematical concepts does not occur quickly. Mastery and long-term retention require that the concepts be practiced over a long period of time. In this program, concepts are presented in carefully sequenced small pieces called increments. New objectives are introduced through carefully selected group activities. All concepts are practiced in each succeeding lesson. All areas of mathematics are integrated so that children see the interrelationships. Thus the presentation of concepts is not in "units" but is gently spread out over a considerable period of time.

The Saxon K-4 program is designed for heterogeneously grouped children. A two-year test of the program shows that the series is effective for children of all ability levels.

The teacher's manual has been carefully written to provide activities and language appropriate for children at each grade level. It is Scripted (like a play), providing questioning strategies that enable children to construct mathematical concepts. Although is is not necessary to memorize the script, teachers are encouraged to follow the script and the questioning strategies as closely as possible in a way that is comfortable for the teacher. It is important that the activities in both the meeting and the lesson be included daily because of the opportunities provided for the different learning modalities.

Saxon Phonics:

Saxon's primary phonics series is a success-oriented program that enables most students in a heterogeneous class to develop a solid foundation in phonics and thus become successful readers. In keeping with the Saxon philosophy, the phonics series builds on prior learning. New learning is presented in increments, and each increment is reviewed throughout the year. This provides every student with the exposure he or she needs to achieve success.

The phonics series is supplemental and may be used with any other reading program. Its objective is to provide students with the information they need to be able to read independently. There has been no attempt to include the type of quality literature most primary school teachers use to further their students' desire to read.

The program teaches students how to read by introducing them to language in small increments. Students are taught to "code" words by identifying the sound each letter/letter cluster makes, thus enabling them to read, and eventually, to spell, those words. A series of spelling rules explaining typical patterns used to spell words is also taught. These rules are displayed on wall charts hung around the classroom so that they may be referred to easily. Words that do not follow the spelling rules are displayed on posters and, in Phonics 1 and 2, also listed in booklets students keep at their desks.

The teacher's guide has been carefully written to provide activities and language appropriate for students at each grade level. It is scripted (like a play), providing questioning strategies that enable students to participate actively in the learning process. Although is is not necessary to memorize the script, teachers are encouraged to follow the script and the questioning strategies as closely as possible but in a way that is comfortable. It is important that the various activities provided for the different learning modalities.

Saxon Publishers
 
 

Rigby Books

Grounded in research, steeped in practice, child-centered and learning-driven, Literacy 2000 is a ten-stage K-5 and beyond program for emergent through fluent readers. The program offers  an exciting variety of literature developed for students with a wide range of abilities and interests, ensuring reading success right from the start.