Curriculum Overview
Our Mission
To provide students with knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary to be lifelong learners and responsible citizens.
The Arizona Department of Education provides the academic standards that we teach. CUSD has broken those standards into performance objectives so that students can demonstrate benchmark competencies. This progress is monitored quarterly. In addition to language arts and mathematics objectives, science and social studies are regular parts of the curriculum. Students receive physical education weekly and participate in general music, library and technology classes. Fifth and sixth grade students may take band or orchestra in lieu of general music.
View CUSD Curriculum and State Standards by content area
Math
My Math (k-4) and Glencoe Math (5-6) curriculum, along with hands-on activities, practice with manipulatives, and other district approved and adopted materials shall be utilized at all grade levels to ensure the mastery of the standards and proficient mathematical practices. The math program is accelerated one year at all grade levels with supplemental materials to ensure mastery of all standards.
Mathematics shall include the mastery and practical application of basic mathematical principles. Students shall understand that mathematical problems have absolute answers and that precision and accuracy are required. Students use higher level thinking skills to solve conceptual problem-solving applications. The use of calculators to complete classwork or homework occurs only when directed by the teacher.
The mathematics basic facts program shall be taught to the mastery level using drill, repetition, and memorization to achieve appropriate accuracy and speed. Grade level year-end goals/expectations are as follows:
- Grade 1 (+,-) 30 problems in 1 ½ min.
- Grade 2 (+ - x ) 100 problems in 4 min.
- Grade 3 (+ - x /)100 problems in 3 ½ min.
- Grade 4 (+ - x /) 100 problems in 3 min.
- Grade 5 (+ - x /)100 problems in 2 ½ min.
- Grade 6 (+ - x /)100 problems in 2 min.
Reading and Language Arts
Active block - Client Enablement Consultant
Spalding Integrated Language Arts
The Spalding mission is to develop skilled readers, critical listeners, accomplished speakers, spellers, writers, and lifelong learners. A strong emphasis on grammar, both oral and written, will be stressed on the Liberty campus. The language arts program will include the Spalding Method using the Writing Road to Reading along with the guidance of Succeeding in Reading with the Spalding Method Teacher's Guide. As a total language arts program, Spalding integrates direct instruction in listening, speaking, spelling, writing, and reading.
All language arts teachers at CTA shall have complete, or be enrolled in, the Spalding 1 course within five months after the date they are hired. Teachers shall complete the Spalding 2 course prior to the start of their third year teaching at CTA Liberty. The language arts program shall integrate the following components:
1. Spelling & Handwriting
2. Composition
3. Reading/Literature
4. Oral Communication
Physical Education (P.E.)
Active block - Client Enablement Consultant
Physical education (PE) for kindergarteners through six shall be a required subject. PE shall be taught by a qualified physical education specialist.
The program shall instruct each student in various physical skill to promote good health and lifelong involvement in physical activities. Students will participate in activities such as Field Day, Fun Runs or participation in Running Club or other physical activity clubs.
Music, Band, & Orchestra
Music for grades Kindergarten through 6th is a required subject.
My goals for this school year include continuing to foster the enthusiasm, the excitement, and the love of music for each and every child. Developing musical literacy, songs and singing games from various cultures, listening activities, movement activities, playing instruments, performance opportunities, as well as attending performances are all part of the Arizona Standards for Music and will be experienced in the classroom through general music.
Band and Orchestra are optional for 5th and 6th graders.
