Our teachers focus on structured literacy that centers on literature, building connections with a wide range of topics. The language arts and reading programs allow students to learn reading, writing, and discussion skills along with critical thinking through comprehension exercises and writing prompts. In the lower grades (K-2), we put emphasis on foundational reading and writing skills.  The resource used is Into Reading, which provides texts containing award-winning literature that aligns with science, social studies, or the arts.  Assessments and formative “quick checks” provide data that allows for differentiated reading instruction. Students who need remediation or enrichment are provided that through small group or individualized work with the teacher.

In the upper grades (3-8), these programs continue to build upon the foundations laid in the lower grades through the use of a wide range of classic and modern literature.  As resources, we use Wordly Wise from EPS Learning for spelling, vocabulary, and comprehension, Poetry Toolbox for writing, and various resources for grammar.  The Poetry Toolbox provides students with tools to enhance not just poetry but reading and writing as well. “Writers of all kinds- poets, authors of fiction and non-fiction, and screenwriters have studied these tools from Jack Grapes’ Method Writing for over 46 years to train their voices for better writing.” (Jennie Linthorst, creator of Poetry Toolbox) Wordly Wise is a well-known resource that strengthens the bridge between vocabulary and reading comprehension. Wordly Wise features a variety of components that work together to help students learn 3,000 words most likely to appear in their reading and textbooks, and on state and national assessments.

Merritt’s math program focuses on rigor by allowing students to learn the language of math and demonstrate fluency that is built upon a vertically-aligned scope and sequence.  Our math specialist provides extra support for those students in need of remediation or enrichment.  Some gifted students are able to join the next grade for their math instruction, putting them on the path to advanced studies in middle school, where they can receive high school credit for Algebra I and Geometry.

By encouraging curiosity, exploration, and a growth mindset, the resource we use to teach our curriculum, Reveal Math, allows students to see math as a dynamic set of problem-solving strategies instead of the application of memorized algorithmic or computational procedures. (mheducation.com)

Merritt Academy selected Reveal Math as the primary resource for teaching math in kindergarten through 5th grade because we are committed to student engagement through the use of effective struggle, targeted inquiry, and the teaching of mathematical vocabulary.

Merritt Academy’s science program is built upon the subjects of life science, earth science, physical science, health and hygiene, investigation and experimentation throughout each grade level (kindergarten through 5th grade). We believe that scientific progress is made by asking meaningful questions, and our teachers provide those opportunities through hands-on experiments and demonstrations. As the students progress through the grades, the inquiry becomes more focused, and students begin to incorporate a deeper understanding of how to draw conclusions from scientific evidence into their learning.  Students learn how to select appropriate tools and make quantitative observations, as well as record data by using appropriate graphic representations, including charts, graphs, and labeled diagrams, and make inferences based on those data.

Resources vary according to grade level and include Generation Genius, which provides engaging science videos, lesson plans, and hands-on activities. The videos are produced in conjunction with the NSTA (National Science Teachers Association). The textbook, Science: A Closer Look is published by Macmillan/McGraw-Hill.  Additionally, teachers access materials and lessons through Teachers Pay Teachers (TPT) and other online resources. Many field trips are included in the learning experience, including museums and hands-on learning.

Merritt’s social studies program teaches students that history describes events and people of other times and places. Beyond that, students also learn to interpret information presented and identify and compare changes through time and throughout communities. Citizenship is a focus in all grades, allowing students to recognize the purpose of rules and their responsibility as citizens to value honesty and truthfulness in oneself and others. Students participate in classroom decision-making and learn about the symbols and traditional practices that honor and foster patriotism in the United States, which allows us to be united as Americans by common principles. As students progress through the grades, they are able to demonstrate the skills needed for historical and geographical analysis.

To help teachers teach these concepts, Merritt Academy provides a social studies textbook for each grade level published by Five Ponds Press.  In addition, teachers access various materials through Teachers Pay Teachers (TPT) and other on-line resources.  To help enrich the learning experience, all grades have field trips throughout the year to take advantage of the many local historical sites and museums.