Curriculum

Our Lower School curriculum focuses on producing Christian character and qualities conducive to successful learning. In addition to learning academic skills in reading, writing, and arithmetic, students learn to reason and think reflectively and to take responsibility for their actions.

Our approach focuses on developing the organizational and study skills, diligence, industry, faithfulness, and respectful behavior needed for successful learning in the future. Below is an overview of our Lower School disciplines of study.

BIBLE

The Bible is taught as the inspired Word of God and forms the foundation of every subject.  Students are encouraged to develop a personal relationship with Christ while internalizing Biblical principles taught throughout the day.  Portions of scripture are memorized regularly at each grade level. The Principle Approach® education inspires a deeper understanding of God, His Word and a Biblical worldview as students reason and relate biblical truths in every subject.

READING

StoneBridge uses a Biblical historic approach to teaching reading applied in an innovative way. Known as the Bible as Reader program, the Bible is used as the reader at each grade level. The components of reading are taught daily: phonics, vocabulary, oral reading fluency, comprehension and reasoning and writing. An individualized supplemental reading program meets the needs of each student at his or her independent reading level. Literature classics and poetry are read aloud regularly. The sounds of language and the lyrical rhythms and imagery conveyed through this method enhance the child’s vocabulary and writing ability and style.

ENGLISH

The teaching of English is comprised of orthography, grammar, syntax and composition. Phonetics, basic spelling rules, and grammar are mastered.  Word studies incorporated in every subject build vocabulary and etymology skills. Through composition, students learn how to organize and express their thoughts and think reflectively.

LITERATURE

Literature is taught to elevate the student’s mind and foster a love for the literary heritage of Christian values. Studying the classics helps develop critical thinking skills and expand the imagination and creative potential. It provides a model and inspiration for thinking and writing. 

HISTORY

A biblical and a providential view of God, man, and government is introduced. The importance of each individual in God’s plan is recognized as major events, beginning with Creation, are taught. Each grade level focuses on specific historical events and individuals.

GEOGRAPHY

Geography gives the student a sense of dominion over his world. Basic geography skills are introduced including the use of maps and globes.

ARITHMETIC

Our mathematics curriculum is designed to help students become precise thinkers that can reason from cause to effect in real-life problem situations. They learn to use mathematics in everyday life, ensuring that students become life problem-solvers. The courses are designed to build an understanding and mastery of math concepts and to draw students closer to our Creator, the Author of Mathematics.

SCIENCE

Students learn about God’s character as revealed throughout natural creation and through the laws that govern it. The various disciplines of science are taught emphasizing hands-on activities and methods of observation and research. Individuals who contributed to the development of science are also studied.

FOREIGN LANGUAGE

The teaching of French at an early age establishes a pattern of language learning and develops an aptitude for future language study. Students gain insight into the individuality and unique characteristics of the French people and their culture. 

RHETORIC

All Lower School students participate in a yearly classroom Speech Meet. They are also encouraged to memorize and recite Bible passages for our annual Tyndale Bible Award competition.

ART

Our Lower School art curriculum lays a firm foundation for the development of the creative potential within each individual. Students are exposed to the great masters and their masterpieces. A wide range of media is used in the instruction of basic art techniques.

MUSIC

Through a variety of activities, students experience and appreciate many facets of music. Music writing and theory, recognition of instruments, great composers, and movement with song are all introduced. Students have the opportunity to perform in school events throughout the year.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

P.E. classes are designed to strengthen the student’s perceptual-motor skills. Physical activities are planned to meet the varying developmental needs of each student. Students also have the opportunity to participate in basketball and soccer junior athletics programs as early as Pre-Kindergarten.