Spectrum Traditional K-6
Traditional K-6
What is Traditional?
In the Traditional classroom, the desks all face the front of the room, and the curriculum is delivered primarily through whole group instruction led by qualified teachers.
The Traditional ELA curriculum is a comprehensive integrated language arts program focusing on building the essential foundations skills of phonemic awareness, systematic phonics, and fluency along with high-quality literature to engage in text comprehension and writing. Explicit instruction and ample practice ensure students’ growth in reading proficiency.
The Math curriculum emphasizes concept mastery. Students learn mathematical concepts at an increasingly deep level, and it results in their ability to apply mathematics with mastery and confidence. In this program, Math is taught one grade level above.
Traditional homework will meet or exceed our usual GPS homework requirements, and there will be additional reading time of 15-30 minutes related to an Accelerated Reading program.
Student learning is reported through achievement grades.
Traditional Curriculum
English Language Arts (ELA)
GPS Traditional classrooms (at Neely Traditional Academy, Canyon Rim Elementary, and Spectrum Elementary) use the Spalding Method as the basis for all instruction in literacy. The Spalding Method of Instruction is a total language arts approach to instruction that includes instruction in spelling, writing, and reading. It integrates content, principles, and procedures that empower teachers and parents to be successful decision-makers, equipping them with the ability to help all students learn to read and write.
GPS Traditional classrooms also use ReadyGEN for reading instruction. This reading program offers a wealth of high-quality literature to engage learners. Explicit instruction and ample practice ensure students’ growth in reading proficiency.
Dyslexia Resources: Arizona Department of Education Dyslexia Handbook | Arizona Department of Education Dyslexia Resource Guide for Families.
Math
With the Math in Focus curriculum, mathematical concepts are developed through incremental, layered learning. Students rely on deep knowledge of prior learning and apply it flexibly in their progression toward standards and skill mastery. Students also develop critical thinking skills through a structured approach to problem-solving.