Sylvester Elementary (grades 3-5) continues to build on the academic
foundation preparation done at the earlier levels of education. In
addition to a clear, academically focused curriculum that stresses 21st
Century skills, students at Sylvester Elementary are also encouraged to
develop and use problem solving skills that may arise in the social
domain. It is the goal of our staff to teach students to do their best,
treat others with respect, and take an active role in their education.
At this level of public education, state testing becomes an area of
focus. All students are administered M-step (Michigan Student
Educational Test of Progress) and test in the areas of math and English
Language Arts. 4th graders are also tested in the area of science, while
5th graders are assessed in social studies. Various district level
assessments and national assessment are also administered to ensure that
students are progressing academically. Sylvester Elementary students,
parents, and staff are also encouraged to participate in community and
nation-wide events such as; March of Dimes, Jump Rope for Heart, Holiday
Care Program, Safe-Routes to School, United Way and other activities
that allow students to develop healthy living habits and take an active
role in the community.
Reading:
Reading:
- Reader's Workshop format used to develop independent reading skills at level sufficient to understand grade level content; strong focus on building reading stamina.
- Making Meaning materials are used to develop the following comprehension strategies; visualizing, wondering/questioning, inferences, understanding text structure, determining important ideas, making connections and summarizing.
- Social Skill interactions built into the structure of the reading program include; taking turns, appreciating and respecting others ideas, giving reasons to support thoughts and opinions, talking and listening to one another, using prompts to add to others thinking, clarifying questions, reaching agreement, and discussing opinions respectfully.
- http://www.readersworkshop.org/
- Writer's Workshop format utilizing MAISA units developed by Oakland Schools.
- Mini-lessons, small group strategy sessions, and conferences with teachers help students to build and expand their writing skills.
- School-wide publishing days are celebrated throughout the year to recognize student's personal narratives, persuasive, fiction, non-fiction and poetry works.
- http://www.teachersfirst.com/lessons/writers/
- Bridges in Mathematics is used in grades 3-5.
- Bridges focuses on developing students' deep understandings of mathematical concepts, proficiency with key skills, and ability to solve complex and novel problems.
- Blends direct instruction, structured investigation, and open exploration.
- Taps into the intelligence and strengths of all students by presenting material that is as linguistically, visually, and kinesthetically rich as it is mathematically powerful.
- http://www.mathlearningcenter.org/bridges
- Battle Creek Science Kits used in grades 3-5.
- Discovery based kits and materials that develop scientific processes for learning concepts and content.
- Balance of hands on activities and content resources in the areas of life science, physical science, and earth science.
- https://www.bcamsc.org/
- A combination of MAISA Units and Social Studies Alive materials are used to meet grade level content expectations
- Interactive approach to teaching about community, state and world (history, geography, government, economics) delivered through classroom activities, field trips, and textbooks.
- Multicultural perspectives and appreciation of diversity bring social studies instruction alive within our classrooms.
- MAISA Units combine cross-curricular activities to provide more in depth learning opportunities for students.
- http://oaklandk12-public.rubiconatlas.org/Atlas/Br...
- All students are entitled to a safe and civil school environment.
- Safe and Civil Schools programming implanted at Sylvester Elementary.
- Positive school-wide behavior supports and MTSS (Multi-Tier System of Supports)
- Effective classroom management procedures.
- Fosters respect and accountability in all students and improves school climate and culture.
- Data driven decision making as it relates to behaviors.
- http://www.safeandcivilschools.com/