CURRICULUM
St. Jacobi Lutheran School offers those subjects commonly taught at the elementary school level, in compliance with the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction. In keeping with the philosophy of the school, all subjects are to be taught in the light of God’s Word. Learning experiences are provided in the areas of religion, math, the language arts, science, social studies, fine arts, and physical education. Click on the different subject areas below to learn more.
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Religion
- The key component in St. Jacobi’s religion curriculum is the Christ-Light series, which presents both Old and New Testament Bible stories. Each lesson has a key truth that is meaningfully discussed and applied to the children’s lives. This comprehensive curriculum gives students a strongly rooted foundation in God’s Word, equipping them to live as children of God. Memorization skills are enhanced as students commit Bible passages to memory. Every Friday morning the students gather for chapel in the gymnasium or church. Parents and friends are invited to join the students for this devotion.
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Language Arts
- A clear understanding of the English language is imperative for success in all areas of the curriculum and everyday life. St. Jacobi’s language arts curriculum accomplishes this through its integration of reading, phonics programs, writing, spelling, grammar, and oral expression in a sequential and developmentally appropriate order.
Reading
Students develop a love for reading through phonics-based instruction that incorporates thematic units of quality literature, poetry, short stories, and plays. The curriculum emphasizes listening and comprehension skills, while developing the ability to read critically.
Writing
Students are taught to be proficient writers in a step-by-step composition process that included phrases, sentences, paragraphs, reports, letters, poetry, journals, and short stories. Grammar is taught and stressed in all writing lessons. Students are encouraged to exercise their free expression in creative writing class.
Spelling
The spelling component of the curriculum develops the sound/spelling connection in language, provides dictation practice, and incorporates and reviews vocabulary words in weekly units.
Oral Reading
Students develop public speaking skills through experiences in show-and-tell, oral reports, forensics, and class presentations.
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Mathematics
- A thorough mathematics curriculum is critical for success in our ever-changing world. The traditional math approach at St. Jacobi gives students a firm foundation in computation, math concepts, problem solving strategies, and data interpretation. This foundation is constructed though daily instruction and review in a cumulative manner. All of our classes in Kindergarten through 8th grade use Saxon mathematics. The math program is experiential in nature and employs manipulatives and real life situations to build mathematical knowledge. The students in 5th-8 th grade also use IXL Math as a supplement to build on key mathematical concepts.
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Technology
- The development and use of modern technology continues to evolve and shape our lives. In order to gain proficiency in this technological age, computer education begins in first grade. Students are given the opportunity to develop familiarity with the physical structure of computers and with operating various computer programs to supplement cognitive growth. The computer lab is equipped with educational software and is utilized to complement student needs.
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Science
- The Science curriculum at St. Jacobi leads children to a greater appreciation of the world in which they live that God created. By means of textbook investigation, hands-on experimentation, special group projects, and technology-aided presentations, students discover various aspects of physical, earth, and life science. Special emphasis is placed on developing skills such as observing, comparing, hypothesizing, predicting, measuring, testing, and interpreting.
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Social Studies
- The scope of study in our social studies curriculum includes exposure to a variety of social science disciplines: world cultures, values and customs, history, geography, sociology, current events, economics, and civics. Instruction and activities in these areas are structured to help young students develop skills such as critical thinking, decision-making, cause-and-effect relationships, and reading charts, maps, and graphs. This curriculum aspires to give students the necessary tools to be active, well-adjusted citizens and leaders in today’s world.
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Music
- St. Jacobi’s music program contains the integrated components of music theory, voice development, and music appreciation. Basic elements such as notation, rhythm, and music terminology prepare the children to read music and explore musical instruments. Students practice note reading and rhythmic exercises through the use of recorders, boom whackers, ukuleles, and other percussion instruments. Vocal skills are developed through pitch exploration, ear training, and daily classroom singing. Students are introduced to famous composers and some of their works.
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Art
- Concepts such as line, shape, form, color, pattern, design, and composition are developed in an art curriculum that allows children to express their creativity and discover their talents. Young artists learn to value not only the product, but also the process. The children also enjoy exposure to well-known artists, their unique styles, and classical works. Other goals include development of fine motor skills, improvement of hand-eye coordination, and experiences in collaborative learning. There is also an opportunity for students to join the AHA Art club after school hours.
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Physical Education
- The goals for the physical education program include: instruction in the rules, skills, and strategies of team and individual sports; physical fitness and cardiovascular development; practical experiences in leadership, teamwork, and sportsmanship; and development of a positive self-image in a safe, structured environment. Expectations include participation in all games and activities, respect for peers and instructors, proper care of equipment, and cooperation. The P.E. program is designed to enable each child to achieve success while developing an interest in life-long physical activity. Participation in P.E. for students with medical problems or physical limitations will be modified as needed.
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