Curriculum

Math - enVisionmath2.0® is a comprehensive math curriculum that offers the flexibility of print, digital, and blended instruction. The district has recently adopted the K-8th grade mathematics curriculum developed by Pearson which is aligned with the Common Core Standards. Elementary Math Instructions consists of a minimum of 44 minutes daily.

Reading -  This past year we implemented a new reading curriculum, Benchmark Advance.  The curriculum is rich in informational text developed around Science and Social Studies Themed Units, while also promoting literature that is related to the unit topics. Elementary English Language Arts instruction consists of a minimum of 120 minutes daily. Teachers also utilize literature circles, guided reading and the Daily 5.  The Daily 5 protocol is a framework which incorporates being read to, reading to self, reading to others, word work and writing to foster literacy independence.  The protocol provides students more time to practice reading skills.   The Daily 5 framework also helps our teachers to provide small group instruction for differentiated needs.  Research shows that just 15 minutes a day of extra reading can lead to three months of additional growth. 

Science - Elementary Science standards are integrated into our core math and reading instruction. Our district encourages an integrated approach in order for children to apply their math and ELA skills across all content areas. The elementary takes a hands on approach to science instruction whenever possible by utilizing instructional kits from Foss and Delta Science Modules (DSM).  Both FOSS and DSM are research-based science curriculum for grades K–8 developed at the Lawrence Hall of Science, University of California at Berkeley. General information about FOSS can be found at http://www.deltaeducation.com/stem-solutions/delta-science-modules. Science instruction is expected to consist of a minimum of 75 minutes per week.

Social Studies - Elementary Social Studies grade level standards including areas of US. and World History, Civics, Economics, and Geography are part of our goal to provide a well rounded education for all students.  Social Studies standards are also integrated into our core math and reading instruction. Our district encourages an integrated approach in order for children to apply their math and ELA skills across all content areas. Currently our teachers use a variety of resources for Social Studies instruction including texts and periodicals such as Scholastic News®  and Time for Kids®.  We believe Social Studies is extremely important and work to provide meaningful related learning opportunities for our students.  Social Studies instruction is expected to consist of a minimum of 75 minutes per week

Ancillary Elementary Classes - Renville County West Elementary students receive instruction and practice opportunities in other learning environments and content areas including:

Physical Education - Students in grades K - 6 receive daily PE instruction throughout the school year.  Classes are a minimum of 25 minutes in length.

Music - Students in grades K and 1 receive daily music instruction throughout the school year for 25 minutes.  Students in grades 2-6 receive music instruction every other day for a minimum of 30 minutes. 

Social Emotional Learning - Students in K-6 receive direct instruction in SEL using the Second Step® Curriculum. Teachers and social workers review and integrate the skills and concepts taught in the 25-30 minute lesson throughout the week. 

Technology and Library experiences - Elementary students participate in regular library visits, read-to's, and related content related technology applications on a rotating basis.  Students in grades K and 1 have library/tech time daily.  Students in Grades 2 - 5 have library/tech time on days opposite of their music instruction.