Primary Department | Elementary Department | Intermediate Department

Elementary Department: 2nd Grade to 4th Grade

WCS offers a Three-Dimensional Program of education for its students. It consists of a Spiritual Development Program, an Academic Development Program, and a Student Activity Program. Each one of these three dimensions receives equal attention in application, as explained in the following articles. Students receive instruction through varied experiences and utilize planned and proven methods to elevate them to a greater level of education - spiritually, formally, and practically.

Photograph: 4th Graders in the rotunda of the Capitol in Austin, Texas.

Academic Dimension

The textbooks are approved by the Texas Education Agency. As a result, all elements of the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) are incorporated into the curriculum. This insures that students are prepared to continue their education in any public or private setting.

  • Emphasis is placed on phonetic reading, language arts, and math skills through the use of Literacy Place, Accelerated Reader, and the Saxon Math program.
  • Instruction is presented in a thematic approach. This method promotes critical thinking skills. All subjects are taught from the Christian perspective
Language Arts teachers combine a whole language and phonetic approach to teaching reading, writing, spelling and English skills through Literacy Place. Quiet time is provided every day so that students can spend time reaching their individual reading goals, which are monitored through the Accelerated Reader. Ninety minutes of time a day is devoted to reading and language arts instruction.

Mathematics teachers emphasize mathematical concepts and computation skills using the popular Saxon Math curriculum. Manipulatives are used extensively to enhance new concepts. Ninety minutes of time per day is devoted to math instruction.

Science classes are taught with a hands- on method utilizing the Scott Foresman curriculum. Students explore science, where they learn to observe, predict and draw conclusions about the world around them. Second grade students make a model of the solar system during their study of space and take a field trip to the NASA Space Center.

Social Studies extends from studying neighborhoods and the world around us in second grade to Texas history in fourth grade. To enhance their study of the Vikings, third grade students tour the Natural History Museum. Fourth grade students travel to Washington on the Brazos to see where Texas was born.

Activity Dimension

Co-curricular activities offered each week include music, physical education, Spanish and art. Students participate in two programs each year: a music program and a physical education program. “Westbury Songsters” is a special choral group for students in grades 4 to 6 who have a special interest in music.

Students also receive instruction in computer and library skills. In addition to computer instruction, technology is integrated into the teaching of the core subjects. The AlphaSmart program offers a unique and fun way to learn computer keyboarding. The library is available to students several times per week, both as a class activity and for students to check out books. Also, one class period of library skills instruction is provided on a regular basis.

Spiritual Dimension

Second Grade classes study the parables of Jesus. Through a close study of the teachings of Jesus, students develop a personal understanding of the character of God and His desire for their spiritual growth.

Third Grade Bible focuses on a student’s use of the Bible and how to find a book, chapter and verse in Bible study. The curriculum explores the book of Acts studying the establishment of the church and begins the study of the apostle Paul’s missionary journeys.

Fourth Grade Bible continues studying Paul’s missionary journeys as chronicled in all of his New Testament letters. Spiritual training and practical lessons of Christian living are the focus of these daily Bible classes.

All Bible classes emphasize individual and group memory work.

Chapel is a special time where teachers and students alike join in prayer and singing, praising God for loving us. Students are used extensively to lead chapel activities. This leadership training develops personal awareness and self-confidence.

Westbury Christian School
10420 Hillcroft
Houston, Texas 77096-9946
713-551-8100
713-551-8117 (fax)

Suggestions/Corrections:  ppollard@westburychristian.org     
Last update: August 4, 2004
Copyright © 2004 Westbury Christian School

 
RenWeb