FOR T WOR TH COUNTR Y D AY
2020-21 LOWER SCHOOL CURRICULUM Kindergarten
Grade 1
Grade 2
Grade 3
Grade 4
LANGUAGE ARTS Balanced literacy approach with a focus on comprehension, accuracy, fluency and expanding vocabulary. Developmental spelling, phonics with sight word automaticity used to build reading and writing skills; multisensory approach to handwriting.
LANGUAGE ARTS Balanced literacy approach with a focus on comprehension, accuracy, fluency and expanding vocabulary. Phonics used to build reading and writing skills. Grammar and spelling incorporated into narrative, opinion and nonfiction writing. A multisensory approach to handwriting.
LANGUAGE ARTS Phonetic/Integrated language approach with emphasis on reading comprehension/mechanics of writing, spelling, grammar, journal and creative writing. Introduction to cursive writing
LANGUAGE ARTS Literature-based approach to reading with emphasis on comprehension and literary genre. Mechanics of writing emphasized with parts of speech, development of cursive, Fundations phonics and creative writing.
LANGUAGE ARTS Literature-based program that integrates reading, writing and vocabulary development with special attention to critical- thinking skills. The writing process model is incorporated to include mechanics, grammar and spelling.
SOCIAL STUDIES All about me, ecology, holiday concept, geography, cultural awareness and diversity, Texas.
SOCIAL STUDIES Self, family, community and economics, holidays and traditions around the world, geography, polar zones, rainforests, map skills/calendar skills, research skills. Experiential learning and interdisciplinary connections are also emphasized.
SOCIAL STUDIES Our Communities—a thematic approach to the history, geography, economic, government, citizenship and culture social studies threads. Research and technology skills, experiential learning and interdisciplinary connections are also emphasized.
SOCIAL STUDIES Texas, Our Texas—a thematic approach to the history, geography, economic, government, citizenship and culture social studies threads. Research and technology skills, experiential learning and interdisciplinary connections are also emphasized.
SOCIAL STUDIES The United States, Our Nation and Regions—A thematic approach to the history, geography, economic, government, citizenship and culture social studies threads. Research and technology skills, experiential learning and interdisciplinary connections also emphasized.
MATHEMATICS Hands-on experience, study of patterns/numbers, development of number concepts, real-life application of concrete mathematics, graphing estimate, measurement.
MATHEMATICS Discovery with hands-on explorations, problem solving through applied knowledge, practice of basic skills through ongoing routines and math games.
MATHEMATICS Investigations through geometry/ money, problem solving, prediction of outcomes, justification of answers, practice of basic facts/ algorithms, addition/subtraction of whole numbers with re-grouping. Introduction to multiplication, mental computation and estimation.
MATHEMATICS Bridge between concrete and abstract concepts, estimation and mental computation, development of multiplication/division, fraction/ decimals, geometry, problem solving, extension of addition and subtraction concepts.
MATHEMATICS Problem-solving strategies, multiplication/division extended, operations with fractions, factoring, exploration of graphic/basic operations with decimals, further exploration of geometry.
SCIENCE Hands-on program emphasizes practices and skills, including observing, classifying, measuring, estimating, designing experiments, collecting data, comparing and generalizing. Each grade studies and uses the Habitat Garden and Star Lab planetarium. Seasons, animals, five senses.
Animal habitats, life cycles, plants, seeds, leaves, solids and liquids, soil.
Animal Adaptations: classification, plants, seeds, matter, air, rocks, balance and motion.
Structures of life, measurement, motion and design, sound, light, solar system.
Inventions, variables, seed plants, electricity, magnetism, solutions, rocks, minerals, nutrition, digestion.
FRENCH OR SPANISH These courses emphasize response to comprehensible commands, proper pronunciation and expansion of vocabulary and grammar concepts in an immersion environment that builds skills through reading, songs, listening activities, conversations, written activities, games and cultural celebrations. Students begin to transfer skills learned in English to another language and begin exploring the written nature of their second language as well. TECHNOLOGY The campus is connected by both wired and wireless networks. Desktop labs are located in the Moncrief Library, Lower School, Middle School, Visual Arts Department and also in the Journalism/Yearbook classroom. Every classroom features state-of-the-art audio visual equipment and interactive technology. Computer skills are integrated into instruction at every level. A 1:1 iPad program in the Middle School promotes the development of personal technology skills and enhances the instructional experience for every student. The TEAM Room, a fully equipped STEM makerspace, provides opportunities for teachers to implement engaging hands-on, project-based learning activities. The space is suited for all grades, JK-12. LIBRARY Library classes help students find, evaluate and select appropriate sources to answer questions as well as learn to find books for pleasure and personal growth. Students are exposed to a variety of technology tools for accessing information and pursuing inquiry. The wide variety of literature and nonfiction located in both libraries support FWCD’s philosophy that the library resources are created for a variety of purposes that are meaningful throughout one’s life. VISUAL ARTS Experiential learning of the elements of art and principles of design with focus on fine motor development, skills of observation, critical thinking and creativity. Appreciation of artists and different cultures from around the world. Introduction of art materials and techniques of drawing, painting, collage, sculpture, ceramics and fiber arts.
VISUAL ARTS Builds on knowledge of art media, techniques and further develops appreciation of processes, products and art history. Creativity, critical thinking and imaginative responses, self-expression, and ability to articulate personal artwork and the work of other artists continue to develop.
MUSIC First Steps in Music curriculum creates a foundation for singing, listening, movement and music literacy.
MUSIC Extends Conversational Solfege music literacy curriculum, World Music Drumming, singing, listening and movement.
MUSIC First Steps in Music curriculum extends singing, listening, movement and music literacy.
MUSIC Transitions into Conversational Solfege music literacy curriculum and extends musicianship skills.
DYNAMIC PHYSICAL EDUCATION Developmentally appropriate introductory activity, mental and physical warm-up. Fitness development exercising all regions of the body. Lesson focus on coordination, body management and specialized skills. Games applying skills in lesson focus. Health-related fitness evaluation.
MUSIC Extends Conversational Solfege music literacy curriculum, World Music Drumming, singing, listening and movement. ELEMENTARY BALLET (OPTIONAL) Basic barre and center exercises, emphasis on posture, strength, coordination and grace. Winter demonstration and spring recital
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2020-21 MIDDLE SCHOOL CURRICULUM Grade 5
Grade 6
Grade 7
Grade 8
HUMANITIES BLOCK Literature-based program that integrates reading, writing and vocabulary development within the entire humanities curriculum. Students learn critical reading skills through annotation and discussion and writing skills through literacy models with an emphasis on proper grammar, mechanics, spelling and paragraph development related to themes in social studies. CASE STUDIES – Archeology, Sumerian, Egyptian and Greek civilizations and mythology.
ENGLISH Students develop analytical and critical-thinking through the study of literary and plot elements in poems, short stories and novels, which reflect diverse cultures and correlate with grade 6 geography. The class emphasizes the application of introduced grammatical skills through different types of writing. Students write multi-paragraph compositions that include an introduction and conclusion.
ENGLISH Students closely read fiction and nonfiction, annotate for literary and rhetorical devices that affect meaning, think deeply, and synthesize opinions with evidence in their writing using varied syntax in analytical, research, and creative writing while reviewing grammar and proofreading skills. They bolster vocabulary development through novel study and an online cumulative/ differentiated program.
ENGLISH Students read plays, poetry and novels, including To Kill A Mockingbird, Shakespeare and The House on Mango Street. The class emphasizes strong research and analytical skills while developing solid grammatical skills through students’ writings. Word development and Greek and Latin Roots are taught through Membean, an online program.
WORLD GEOGRAPHY Texas geography and culture; Pre-Columbian cultures of North and South America, including the Maya, Aztec and Inca. The transformation from indigenous societies to Spanish colonies provides a model for understanding the connections between humans and the environment they inhabit. Course culminates in regional studies in North America, Europe, Africa and Asia.
UNITED STATES HISTORY Encompassing the Pre-Columbian period through 1865, the course covers the political, social and economic issues associated with migration and settlement, establishing American identity and independence, building a new nation, westward expansion (including a history of Texas to 1845), slavery, sectionalism and the Civil War.
WORLD HISTORY Mediterranean cultures of Greece and Rome, culminating with medieval political, social and economic institutions of the pre-modern world around 1400 C.E. In-depth examinations of western and non-western civilizations allow students to comparatively explore various societies and develop a greater understanding of diverse cultures and value systems.
MATHEMATICS Interactive program, continued mastery of decimals, fractions, percent, geometry, measurement, statistics, probability, ratios in problem solving, some pre-Algebra.
MATHEMATICS Pre-algebra, variables, expressions, equations, application of problem-solving strategies through linear equations, probabilities, rates and ratios, exposure to geometry and statistics.
ALGEBRA I Linear and quadratic equations, algebraic fractions, radical equations and inequalities, exponentiation, problem solving and critical thinking skills through equations and expressions, integrated technology skills.
MATHEMATICS Mastery of whole number operations, interactive program of problem solving with fractions, decimals, statistics and geometry.
SCIENCE Science and engineering practices: asking questions/defining problems; developing and using models; planning/carrying out investigations; analyzing/interpreting data; using mathematics and computational thinking; constructing explanations/designing solutions; engaging in argument from evidence; obtaining, evaluating and communicating information. SCIENCE Environmental studies, physical science, health, plants. Wildflower collection.
EARTH SCIENCE Weather, geology, astronomy, energy, fossils, climate.
FRENCH OR SPANISH Continued development of conversational skills, more formalized presentation of grammatical structures and expansion of vocabulary and grammar through a program of listening, reading, speaking and writing. Written focus begins to expand beyond the production of short paragraphs into longer ones. 6th GRADE LATIN This entry level course will explore the connections between English and Latin grammar, the Latin language and vocabulary, Latin roots in English, and Roman History and classical mythology. Not a prerequisite for Latin 7.
LIFE SCIENCE Cell biology, genetics, diversity of life, evolution, human reproductive system, basic botany, local ecology, Texas tree identification using GPS/GIS and HTML coding.
PHYSICAL SCIENCE Chemistry and algebra-based Newtonian physics; projects centered on technology, engineering design cycle and Big Bend trip.
FRENCH I OR SPANISH I Further development of conversational skills, more formalized presentation of grammatical structures and expansion of vocabulary and grammar through a program of listening, reading, speaking and writing. Written focus begins to expand into the production of longer paragraphs as students progress from grade 7 to 8 or throughout the Level 1 course. LATIN I Acquisition and internalization of Latin vocabulary, with a particular emphasis on the conjugation of verbs and declension of nouns. Reading of simple paragraphs and stories, including passages inspired by classical Latin authors with extra vocabulary help. Study of Roman history and culture.
TECHNOLOGY The campus is connected by both wired and wireless networks. Desktop labs are located in the Moncrief Library, Lower School, Middle School, Visual Arts Department and also in the Journalism/Yearbook classroom. Every classroom features state-of-the-art audio visual equipment and interactive technology. Computer skills are integrated into instruction at every level. A 1:1 iPad program in the Middle School promotes the development of personal technology skills and enhances the instructional experience for every student. The TEAM Room, a fully equipped STEM makerspace, provides opportunities for teachers to implement engaging hands-on, project-based learning activities. The space is suited for all grades, JK-12. LIBRARY Library classes help students find, evaluate and select appropriate sources to answer questions as well as learn to find books for pleasure and personal growth. Students are exposed to a variety of technology tools for accessing information and pursuing inquiry. The wide variety of literature and nonfiction located in both libraries support FWCD’s philosophy that the library resources are created for a variety of purposes that are meaningful throughout one’s life. VISUAL ARTS Application of design concepts and art principles, development of techniques through drawing, painting, printmaking, clay formation. Art history is interwoven into projects. Art Club is offered. MUSIC – CHOIR – Music using voice as an instrument, basic elements of rhythm, harmony and melody. Show Choir is available for grades 7-8.
VISUAL ARTS Increased knowledge of techniques, two- and three-dimensional work, artistic style and art history. Media and techniques through drawing, painting, printmaking, clay formation and animation. NJAHS
BAND – Traditional wind and percussion band instruments; performances throughout the year. Drum line is available for grades 7-8.
ORCHESTRA – Violin, viola, cello and string bass. Blends traditional and Suzuki teaching methods. Class teaches basic foundation of string playing and includes ensemble performances and music theory education.
THEATRE Students explore and gain understanding of self and human nature through theatrical elements such as monologues, scene work, playwriting, improvisation, production work and class plays. THEATRE SURVEY (GRADES 7 & 8) – Acting, theatre tech and theatre history.
BALLET* Intermediate/Advanced Ballet – Ballet, barre and center floor exercises with emphasis on stability, strength and flexibility. Winter and spring recitals. Ballet is held during sports time and fulfills the athletic/ PE requirement. Jazz introduced in grade 6; pointe introduced to those fulfilling prerequisites.
INTRODUCTION TO SPORTS Developmentally appropriate introduction to competitive sports offered at FWCD. Emphasis is on skill development, sportsmanship, basic team concepts and intramural play. Mini-units focus on flexibility, core strength development, cardiovascular conditioning and physical health. Single day units focus on a variety of developmental activities. Additionally, two units of Health Education are included.
ATHLETICS COMPETITIVE SPORTS PROGRAM GIRLS PROGRAMS – Volleyball, Field Hockey, Cross Country, Basketball, Soccer, Softball, Tennis, Track, Ballet* (see above) BOYS PROGRAMS – Volleyball, Football, Cross Country, Basketball, Soccer, Wrestling, Baseball, Tennis, Track, Lacrosse, Ballet* (see above)
FOR T WOR TH COUNTR Y D AY
2020-21 UPPER SCHOOL CURRICULUM Grade 9
Grade 10
Grade 11
Grade 12
ENGLISH 9 Students focus on critical thinking, writing, reading, research and grammar skills. They write analytical arguments, implementing the writing process, and read fiction, nonfiction and poetry. Discussions emphasize using evidence to support literary analysis. Expand vocabulary using Membean.
ENGLISH 10 Students develop skills for closer textual analysis and continue to hone analytical writing skills. They continue to use the writing process in composing timed and untimed argumentative, researchedbased and literary analysis essays. Sophomores read drama, short nonfiction and poetry. Expand vocabulary using Membean.
ENGLISH 11 Introduction to rhetoric with readings from American literature; pre-AP language and composition skill emphasis; vocabulary study from texts and Membean; mostly nonfiction readings, but students analyze fiction and nonfiction for essays; grammar/style reviews in semester 1; independent research paper in semester 2. • AP English Lit and Comp
AP ENGLISH LANGUAGE This course engages students in becoming skilled readers of prose written in a variety of periods, disciplines and rhetorical contexts, and in becoming skilled writers who compose for a variety of rhetorical purposes. • Imaginative Writing
WORLD HISTORY A survey of World’s modern civilizations by thematically analyzing interconnections between regions within the context of increasing globalization.
AMERICAN GOVERNMENT & CIVICS Survey of American government, constitutional policies, decision making, economic history, research papers and an annual Washington, D.C. trip and capstone project.
UNITED STATES HISTORY Colonial America to the present, primary and secondary sources, interpretation of issues, research papers • AP U.S. History
HISTORY ELECTIVES • Microeconomics • Topics in History • World Religions • AP Macroeconomics • AP Comparative • Film Studies Government • AP Psychology
GEOMETRY Axiomatic and analytic development of plane geometry and foundation in measurement for plane and solid geometry. • Geometry • Honors Geometry
ALGEBRA II • Algebra 2 Pt. 1 • Accelerated Algebra 2 • Honors Algebra 2
PRECALCULUS • Algebra 2 Pt. 2 • Accelerated Precalculus • Honors Analysis
ADVANCED MATHEMATICS • Precalculus • AP Calculus (BC) • Statistics/Calculus • Multivariable Calculus • AP Calculus (AB) • AP Statistics
SCIENCE Science and engineering practices: asking questions/defining problems; developing and using models; planning/carrying out investigations; analyzing/interpreting data; using mathematics and computational thinking; constructing explanations/designing solutions; engaging in argument from evidence; obtaining, evaluating and communicating information. COMPUTER SCIENCE The Upper School also offers the following Computer Science elective courses: • Computer Science Principles (9th) • Art and Code (10th) • AP Computer Science (11th) • Data Structures (12th) BIOLOGY Focus on genetics, evolution, cell biology, ecology and sustainability. Course based on discussion, inquiry lab and hands-on exploration.
CHEMISTRY Properties of matter, chemical reactivity, energy changes. Inquiry-based lab work. Quantitative emphasis. Computers used for research, data acquisition/analysis, presentation. • Honors Chemistry
PHYSICS Problem-solving, use of computer in data analysis, mechanics, electromagnetism, waves, historical context of physics. • Honors Physics
SCIENCE ELECTIVES • Engineering Design • AP Environmental Science • AP Physics • Anatomy and Physiology
MODERN AND CLASSICAL LANGUAGES Grammar, vocabulary, cultural awareness, focus on speaking, reading and writing.inquiry lab and hands-on exploration. • French I, II • Honors Latin II • Honors French II • Spanish I, II • Latin I, II • Honors Spanish II
MODERN AND CLASSICAL LANGUAGES Review and extend previous courses’ focus on speaking, reading and writing. • French II, III • Honors Latin II, III • Honors French II, III • Spanish II, III • Latin II, III • Honors Spanish II, III
MODERN AND CLASSICAL LANGUAGES Review, continue to develop linguistic proficiency. • French III, IV • Advanced Latin • Honors French III Literature • AP French Language • Spanish III, IV & Culture • Honors Spanish III • Latin III, IV • AP Spanish • Honors Latin III Language & Culture
MODERN AND CLASSICAL LANGUAGES Review, continue to develop linguistic proficiency. • French IV, V • AP Latin Vergil • Business French • Spanish IV, V • Latin IV • AP Spanish • Advanced Latin Literature & Culture Literature
PHYSICS
• Forensic Science • AP Biology • AP Chemistry • Design Lab
TECHNOLOGY The campus is connected by both wired and wireless networks. Desktop labs are located in the Moncrief Library, Lower School, Middle School, Visual Arts Department and also in the Journalism/Yearbook classroom. Every classroom features state of the art audio visual equipment and interactive technology. Computer skills are integrated into instruction at every level. In the Upper School, every student is required to bring a laptop for use during their classes. Online courses are offered through the Malone Schools Online Network in grades 11 and 12. Computer Science course offerings are also facilitated via the MSON program. The TEAM Room, a fully equipped STEM makerspace, provides opportunities for teachers to implement engaging hands-on, project-based learning activities. The space is suited for all grades, JK-12. MSON Malone Schools Online Network: See enclosed brochure. VISUAL ARTS CERAMICS (GRADES 9-12) – Techniques for the potter’s wheel and handbuilding to create vessels and sculpture. PAINTING & DRAWING (GRADES 9-12) – Explore a variety of subject matter, ideas and techniques through drawing and painting media. PHOTOGRAPHY (GRADES 9-12) – Explore the process of photography utilizing digital and traditional techniques. • Art History • AP Art History • AP Studio Art
PUBLICATIONS (GRADES 9-12) • Yearbook – Create 300+ page JK-12 publication. • Senior Book – Create 120+ page senior book. • Journalism – Produce 5 print issues and write for online student newspaper. • Video Journalism – Produce video stories for online student newspaper.
PERFORMING ARTS CHOIR, BAND, ORCHESTRA – Ensemble focused on developing music literacy, skill and musicality through performance. Repertoire includes classical and pop literature and features a variety of musical styles, periods, languages and cultures. Students may participate in TMEA, TPSMEA, ISAS and the FWCD spring musical. ACTING 1 (GRADES 9-10) – Vocal technique, acting styles, characterization and script analysis; one unit of playwriting. ACTING 2 (GRADES 11-12) – Builds on Acting 1; one unit of playwriting. MUSICAL THEATRE (GRADES 9-12) – Historical study of musical theatre style vocals, choreography and heightened style of acting required by musical scripts. PLAYWRITING (GRADES 11-12) – Full year or semester course; students write according to their playwriting experience; beginners learn structure and write short pieces; intermediate/advanced writers are given inspirational motifs to inspire longer works. • Music History • AP Music Theory ATHLETICS COMPETITIVE SPORTS PROGRAM Grades 9-11 students are required to participate in a sport or attend a PE class for two of the three seasons. Only one sport season required. Grade 12 students do not have a PE/athletics requirement. Participation in sports and/or PE is available and encouraged. INTERMEDIATE/ADVANCED BALLET (OPTIONAL) – Complex barre and center floor exercises are practiced on a daily basis. Pointe, jazz, modern and choreography are offered.
GIRLS PROGRAMS – Volleyball, Field Hockey, Cross Country, Basketball, Soccer, Swimming, Softball, Tennis, Track, Golf, Cheerleading, Ballet BOYS PROGRAMS – Volleyball, Football, Cross Country, Basketball, Soccer, Wrestling, Baseball, Swimming, Tennis, Track, Golf, Lacrosse, Ballet