The curriculum used at Barnard Academy is based on inquiry and conceptual teaching, using a framework of rigorous content knowledge as a solid foundation. Factual knowledge is placed in a context and is enhanced by conceptual knowledge. Conceptual knowledge is clarified as it is used to help organize the important details. This ensures high academic achievement using cumulative teaching techniques and content-specific strategies that match content with student.
Below is a description of the programs we use.
Literacy
For literacy, we use the Balanced Literacy approach. To track reading proficiency and growth, we assess using the Fountas & Pinnell assessment system.The F&P continuum takes us through the learning progressions, building from year to year. Content for reading is also determined as much as possible by the units being taught in Social Studies and Science. We also use the Lucy Calkins Units of Study for Writing for the Intermediate hub.
Math
In math we use the Investigations 3 program for grades K-5. The 6th grade is piloting Open Up Resources also known as Illustrative Math. This aligns with the math curriculum in the middle school.
Science
In science we build units using the NGSS standards, which are shared by teachers across the district. Because we have multi-age classes, we combine some grade level units from each grade for one year, and then teach the rest the following year. For example, this year we are teaching some 3rd grade units, and some from the 4th grade, and next year we will teach the remaining units. This is the way we work through the combination grades.
Social Studies
In the Intermediate hub we use the district scope and sequence and we go back and forth due to the combinations. For example the 3 & 4 grade has been doing “Rivers of the World” next year a study of “Mountains.” This year’s history curriculum is Vermont, colonies , and events leading up to the American Revolution, next year it will be World cultures,( Vikings, Romans, Africa, Islam).
For grade 5 and 6: this year the focus is US history starting with the Constitution through Westward Expansion and US geography. Next year it will be Ancient Civilization and world geography.
For the Primary Hub, we use the Core Knowledge curriculum.
PreK
In PreK we use The VT Early Learning Standards and the Early learning for Core Knowledge. We use the Teaching Strategies Gold for assessment.
Here are some curriculum maps from this school year.
Curriculum Map for the Primary Hub
Curriculum Map for the Intermediate Hub
If you have further questions about the curriculum at Barnard Academy, please contact Hannah Thein.
BA staff follows the Food Allergy Action Plans set forth by individual medical caregivers and medical specialists. Due to severe life-threatening food allergies, Barnard Academy has adopted being peanut and egg free.
Any products containing peanuts or eggs (quiche, mayo, hard boiled eggs) are not permitted at Barnard Academy. We understand that this may be difficult to accomplish with children needing protein or specific items being their favorite food, but it is important for the safety of those children who suffer from these allergies to refrain from possible allergen exposure. There are alternatives to peanut butter such as Sunbutter, Wow Butter, and others. Viable sources of protein include yogurt, cottage cheese, beans, turkey, chicken and fish.
Per doctors’ orders, we also have specific areas/tables in specific classrooms and the Green Mountain room that are designated peanut, egg, and tree nut free, even though we don’t expect peanut and egg products to come in to the school. These tables get an extra stringent cleaning.
If you have any questions or concerns, please see THIS PAGE on our website and/or contact Rachel Eggum.
