Curriculum

Core Knowledge Sequence

The educational program at Vision Academy Charter Schools is firmly rooted in the esteemed Core Knowledge Sequence, a meticulously structured progression aligned with state standards and approved content. This ensures that students of varying abilities receive essential knowledge, forming the basis for advanced learning and enhancing knowledge, language, and skills.

It builds upon previously acquired content, guaranteeing each student develops the necessary subject-related skills and cultural literacy to comprehend content value (Hirsh, 1985).

While the Core Knowledge Sequence outlines teaching content, the school complements it with resources from Houghton Mifflin Harcourt’s Into Math, Singapore Math, CKLA, CKHG, and Amplify. The Core Knowledge Foundation endorses these curriculum publishers for their adherence to the Core Knowledge Sequence and effectiveness in delivering Direct Instruction. Teachers have the autonomy to incorporate supplementary materials independently.

Reading/Language Arts: K-5 Core Knowledge Language Arts

Core Knowledge Language Arts is a comprehensive language arts curriculum program for preschool through grade 6 students. Alongside reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills, it builds students’ knowledge and vocabulary in literature, history, geography, and science, aligning with concepts specified in the Core Knowledge Sequence.

Reading/Language Arts: 6-8 Amplify ELA

Amplify ELA is a comprehensive English Language Arts curriculum rooted in research and innovative pedagogy. It offers a rich selection of texts fostering critical thinking, analytical skills, and a love for reading. The curriculum thoughtfully develops students’ communication abilities, enabling effective expression in written and spoken forms through interactive digital experiences and collaborative activities.

Mathematics: K-8 (Singapore Math, Into Math, and Do Math)

Singapore Math aligns with the Core Knowledge Sequence, fostering mastery of mathematical concepts through a precise format. Utilizing the proven Singaporean approach cultivates critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Into Math and Do the Math programs complement Singapore Math, offering dynamic mathematics education, interactive experiences, real-world applications, and personalized learning paths, empowering students to build a strong mathematical foundation and critical thinking skills.

Science: K-8 Amplify Science

K-8 Amplify Science is a comprehensive curriculum that sparks curiosity and inquiry and is aligned with Next Generation Science Standards. It immerses students in scientific exploration, encouraging critical thinking, collaboration, and communication through hands-on investigations and interactive digital experiences.

Social Studies—K-8 Core Knowledge History and Geography

Core Knowledge History and Geography™ (CKHG™) is a comprehensive program integrating topics in world and American history, geography, civics, and the arts. It helps students build knowledge of diverse civilizations, cultures, and concepts specified in the Core Knowledge Sequence, preparing them for active participation in a democratic society.

Curricular Nights

Integral to the Core Knowledge Sequence is the school’s “Curriculum Night,” which fosters community engagement and showcases ongoing educational endeavors. Rooted in students’ experiences with Project-Based Learning (PBL), teachers transition from directors to facilitators, offering myriad opportunities to apply acquired knowledge to address future challenges.

Flipped classroom at upper grades (6-8)

Vision Academy CS embraces the “Flipped Classroom” model, gradually guiding students towards active learning by having teachers create direct instruction lectures as homework. This approach is implemented in upper grades (6-8), fostering active learning and the development of inquiry-based skills. It empowers students with autonomy and essential inquiry-based skills, crucial for success in high school, college, and future careers.

Engaging STEM for ALL Learners

The “Engaging STEM for ALL Learners” program at Vision Academy Charter School provides students in grades K-8 opportunities to explore STEM and media arts through applied technology and project-based learning in the SmartLab. This fosters essential next-generation skills, including communication, collaboration, critical thinking, problem-solving, and information literacy, preparing students for success in the modern workplace.

Students actively engage in hands-on learning experiences, create portfolios to document their achievements, and delve into various STEM disciplines.

ESL Program

Furthermore, For English Language Learners (ELLs), content-based ESL programs aligned with Pennsylvania State Standards ensure academic skill development while acquiring English proficiency.

World Languages

Vision Academy Charter School of Excellence implements a content-based language teaching model, fostering language acquisition and proficiency aligned with state standards and global readiness. Students from kindergarten to 8th grade receive world language instruction, promoting proficiency in alignment with state standards for global readiness, using chosen language and teaching methods provided by the school.

Curriculum Revision Cycles

Vision Academy CS maintains a comprehensive improvement plan and revision cycle to keep its curriculum current, ensuring alignment with new initiatives and Pennsylvania Department of Education requirements.