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 and
Greek roots are taught in conjunction with the study of the English language and vocabulary
development, and a separate Latin course is taught to all 6th-8th graders.
Mathematics The math 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 each student and greater opportunity for challenge and enrichment. Pre-tests and post-tests are used for monitoring student progress and determining placement.
Religious Studies The objective of the religious studies curriculum 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 an historical perspective of the Judeo-Christian tradition. The religious material presented in the elementary classroom gives 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 and History The social studies (ECU-5) and history (6-8) curriculum is designed to foster in children an interest in their past, present, and future; an appreciation for the world and its diverse cultures; and an understanding of civic duties and responsibilities. In grade level appropriate degrees, historical facts, current events, global awareness, critical thinking, research skills, technology, and interdisciplinary activities are stressed. In the lower grades, the students study families, cultures and area studies that include the Monterey Peninsula, California, the United States, Africa, and Japan. In the 6th and 7th grades, students study the history and cultures of the ancient world, India, Africa, Asia, South America, and Europe. United States history and government are taught in the 8th grade. Additionally, art history is a curricular component in all three upper grades as an adjunct 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 the 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 8, 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 is studied beginning in the 1st grade; additionally, the study of the Latin and Greek roots of our vocabulary is integrated into the 5th through 8th grade language arts program. 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 appreciation. Students learn and perform traditional and modern songs, as well as liturgical works, and these performances are highlights of school events throughout the year (Lessons & Carols, the Spring Tea, the Spring Musical and Primary Players). Classroom work includes chorus, introduction to musical instruments and the study of composers, musical genres and music 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 of both nature and man-made objects. The program is designed as a continuum for all students in grades 1 through 8. Art instruction evolves from five interrelated areas: artistic perception; creative expression historical/cultural contexts; aesthetic valuing and connections; and relationships and applications. Mediums include drawing, painting, sculpting, printmaking, weaving, ceramics and photography.
The Performing Arts A fall Shakespeare production/faire and a spring school musical combine all areas of the performing arts and fine arts and give students the opportunity to perform for a community audience. Additionally, ASDS students participate in dramatic performances in Chapels throughout the school year, at the Spring Tea, and in the annual Primary Players production, performed by the 1st and 2nd graders.
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. 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 after school interscholastic sports are offered in the upper grades in soccer, basketball, tennis and golf.
Computer Technology The goal of the ASDS computer technology program is to provide students with the ability to use technology as a tool for effective communication, information access, personal productivity, and lifelong learning. The ASDS computer lab has 26 computers and two mobile computer carts, each with 14 wireless laptops that can be used in classrooms throughout the school. Grades 1-3: students are introduced to programs for artwork and CD-Rom based educational enrichment games; Grades 4-5: students focus primarily on keyboarding skills, learning the programs in the Microsoft Office suite, working on Internet research and digital photography; Grades 6-8: students use computers in a variety of classes and ways, ranging from foreign language labs and virtual field trips to Latin newspapers and art history web pages.
Health Personal health, hygiene, respectful interpersonal relationships, Christian values, and self-confidence are vital components for health education and the developing child. The ASDS health and sex education program provides students with a knowledge, appreciation, understanding and respect for the human body. Guest speakers and films augment the classroom material with special emphasis in grades 4-8.