Teachers and Staff

Our gifted faculty...the best anywhere in the Elgin area!

Every academic teacher at The Einstein Academy is certified and either has a master's degree or is working to obtain one. We require our teachers to take courses and workshops on educating gifted and talented students and pursue state recognition as gifted and talented educators if they have not already done so.

Terri Anderson
Grades 1 & 2
Mrs. Anderson received her bachelor's degree in Elementary Education, with an endorsement in art, from National-Louis University. As a student, she founded and became president of a National Education Association collegiate chapter that held fundraisers for local charities and workshops for fellow NLU students. Her outstanding grades, dedication, and community service earned her a top scholarship and the prestigious Lincoln Academy Student Laureate Award, for which she was honored by the governor. Mrs. Anderson taught four years at Erickson Elementary School in Bloomingdale and is thrilled to be a part of The Einstein Academy for her fourth year. If you walk by the second grade hallway, you can see how her creativity and enthusiasm are evident. Mrs. Anderson believes in creating a classroom where children are engaged, motivated, and encouraged to ask questions and actively learn in a hands-on, child-centered environment. She is married and has three beautiful and talented daughters.

Amy Lasser Baldini
Math and Science Specialist (5th-12th)
Mrs. Baldini graduated from National-Louis University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education and a concentration in Psychology. Mrs. Baldini is a natural when it comes to teaching. Her instant connection with children and genuine affection for them create an eagerness to learn in an atmosphere of openness and trust. She plans to advance her degree with a specialization in gifted education. Since the age of seven, her dream has been to teach, and she is delighted to be in her fifth year of teaching at The Einstein Academy. Mrs. Baldini is married and has a beautiful baby girl.

Terry Felt
Pre-Kindergarten
Mrs. Felt has a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education, with an area of concentration in Child Development. She graduated magna cum laude from Northern Illinois University and has been teaching for more than 26 years. Her nurturing style allows our youngest students to learn at their own pace in a warm, hands-on, and inviting environment. Mrs. Felt has experience teaching Kindergarten, Early Childhood, and Special Education. She is married and has two children.

Kelley Fluegel
Computer Technology
Extended Care Program
Mrs. Fluegel graduated from Michigan State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Science and an emphasis in Biology. She has completed graduate work in Marketing Communications. Mrs. Fluegel has many years of computer experience and training, especially at a corporate level. She is married with two children and is thrilled to return and share her computing know-how with students at The Einstein Academy.

Kate Flynn
Science and Math
Ms. Flynn has been teaching upper level science for 4 years. She has a love for math as well! Kate is a wonderful addition to The Einstein Academy! Along with her passion for math and science Kate also enjoys listening to music, going to White Sox games, and playing with her dog, Jack. She looks forward to beginning the new school year with The Einstein Academy.

Lorraine Francioni
Language Arts and History Specialist (5th-12th)
Mrs. Francioni is a native of the Chicago suburbs and has lived in the Fox Valley area since 1989. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management from Northern Illinois University and went on to attain her master's degree with an emphasis in Public Administration from Roosevelt University. For 13 years she worked in Human Resource Management/Labor Law with the federal government. After making the difficult choice to be more available to her young daughter, Mrs. Francioni entered the field of education, earning her teaching certification in Kindergarten through Grade 9 at Elgin’s very own Judson University. She has special endorsements in Language Arts, Social Sciences, and Business. Mrs. Francioni’s experience with children in a learning environment is extensive. She has worked for many years with gifted students from preschool through Grade 5 and tutored students with exceptional learning needs in Kindergarten through Grade 5. Mrs. Francioni is very happily married and has an extraordinary daughter who is her pride and joy (and a gifted learner). She also has a precious canine who motivates her to take daily walks. Mrs. Francioni is thrilled to be working with fifth graders at our school and to be a part of our unique team.

Sally Hover
Grade 3
Elementary School Assistant Principal
Mrs. Hover earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education with a concentration in Sociology and Anthropology, graduating from National-Louis University with high honors. She has more than 18 years of experience working with children of all ages, especially the middle years. Mrs. Hover is a practitioner of Howard Gardner's theory of multiple intelligences and utilizes a variety of educational choices and hands-on learning experiences. Her passion is for Mathematics and the Sciences. Mrs. Hover offers stimulating activities that involve total integration across the curriculum, which helps her students maximize their learning potential. She is the proud grandmother of three.

Cathy Ilani
Grade 4
Elementary School Principal
Mrs. Ilani has been an educator for more than 22 years and has taught preschool through eighth grade. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and her Master of Arts in Teaching from National-Louis University. Mrs. Ilani is one of the few teachers statewide with an endorsement in Gifted Education. Her classroom is always alive with excitement and hands-on learning activities. She is extremely dedicated to making each and every one of her students reach their maximum potential. Mrs. Ilani is married and has three children.

Carly Johnson
Kindergarten
Ms. Johnson is a recent graduate from Western Illinois University where she studied her love of Physical Education and working with children.  She graduated with a Bachelors of Science in Education, as well as an endorsement in Health Education.  She enjoys physical fitness and being active.  Her classroom reflects her passion for exploring nature, providing children with hands on experiences to engage all learners and movement for mental and physical well-being.  She is excited to bring her enthusiastic and outgoing personality to The Einstein Academy this year!

Senoa Morgan
Music and Drama
Mrs. Morgan received a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Music and Theatre from Millikin University in 1993. She worked in the entertainment industry for eight years in Los Angeles as a singer, voice-over artist, commercial and improv actress, and children's acting and voice coach. One of her students was Kyle Sullivan from “All That” and “Malcolm in the Middle.” For the last six years, Mrs. Morgan has taught music and theater programs for gifted children at Fermilab's Lederman Science Center and the Packer Foundation Scholars program at Aurora University. She is happy to return as the music teacher at The Einstein Academy.

David Roscher
Latin
Mr. Roscher graduated from the Pennsylvania State University in 2007 with Phi Beta Kappa honors.  There he earned Bachelor of Arts degrees in both Classical Languages and English.  Appropriately reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of Classical Studies, Mr. Roscher’s interests within the field are quite diverse, ranging from archaic oratorical prose to Silver Age epic.  He is truly delighted to be a member of the Einstein community and eager to share with his pupils a passion for the Latin language and culture.

Linda Schober
Art
Mrs. Schober graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Fine Arts from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and a Master of Education degree from Loyola University. Included in her education is certification to teach art from Kindergarten through Grade 12. Although she is a full-time mom with three children, she finds time to continue her passion for the arts, thanks to the support of her family. Mrs. Schober was president of the Dundee Township Fine Arts Council for two years and chairperson of the Cultural Arts program at Dundee Highlands Elementary School for five years. She remains an active art resource for other community organizations. In addition, she paints and sells her own artwork, including mural paintings for local residents. It is her love of teaching and the many facets of visual art impacting our day-to-day lives that bring her to The Einstein Academy. Mrs. Schober finds great pleasure in taking students on a creative adventure filled with exploration, emotion, appreciation, mistakes, and many great accomplishments.

Jason Smith
Dean of Students and Athletic Director
Mr. Smith has a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education, with an endorsement in Multicategorical Education, from the University of Dubuque. He was recognized for making the dean's list at UD and was honored by the National Collegiate Minority Leadership Association. Mr. Smith has 17 years of experience working with children and has spent the last five as an advocate counseling troubled youth. Mr. Smith prides himself on developing a positive rapport with his students and creating a comfortable environment conducive to learning. He is married and has two wonderful sons.

Admission

The secret's out...The Einstein Academy is a wonderful, nurturing place to educate gifted children. If you're as convinced as we are, please download an application. Or, if you need more information, call us at (847) 697-3836. Prospective students will be required to interview with our staff. We recommend you visit for a day or two to get a taste of our unique school environment.

Elementary students will need to provide standardized test scores or other academic testing, as well as a teacher referral. Students must be in the 80th percentile or above to qualify. Preschool students will meet with our Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten teachers for skills assessment; standardized testing is not mandatory for this young age, but is preferred.

2009-2010 Elementary School Tuition

We require an enrollment deposit of $975, which is applied to tuition. Financial assistance is available to students in need. For more information, call us!

Pre-Kindergarten

Through the collaboration of faculty and parents, The Einstein Academy has built an accelerated academic core curriculum which challenges students to perform at least one grade level above state standards. The following overview provides a framework for students, teachers, and parents to use for instructional goal setting and communication. Teachers creatively expand on each area of study listed and help students become proficient in the itemized concepts. The curriculum will include introduction, review, and practiced applications from prior knowledge, as well as continued reinforcement in subsequent grade levels.

Pre-Kindergarten curriculum goals include but are not limited to the following:

• Recite the alphabet
• Recognize upper and lower case letters
• Associate beginning sounds with letters
• Recognize association between the spoken and written word (concept of word)
• Use picture to understand a story
• Make simple predictions
• Illustrate an idea from a story
• Understand rhyming
• Retell what is read

Language Arts - Writing

• Write first and last names
• Write upper and lower case letters
• Dictate a story from background experience with a sequence of events
• Use a mixture of drawing and writing to convey an idea

Language Arts - Speaking and Listening

• Follow simple, oral directions
• Listen for specific purposes
• Develop and expand vocabulary by speaking and listening
• Ask questions to clarify meaning

Fine Motor Skills

• Use correct grip for pencil and scissors
• Learn D'Nealian letter forms

Math

• Count sets and attach numbers to sets of objects
• Recognize and create patterns, using manipulatives
• Present simple addition and subtraction facts
• Present number stories with the use of manipulatives
• Display data in graphs, using manipulatives
• Identify the basic concepts of shapes
• Continue concepts of greater than, less than, and equal to
• Continue numeral recognition
• Sequence numbers 1 to 30
• Compare two objects by length, weight and capacity
• Tell time to the hour
• Know ordinals to fifth

Science

• Make simple predictions
• Identify basic weather conditions
• Classify animals
• Care for the environment

Social Studies

• Demonstrate and respect the rights of others in the classroom
• Understand and respect classroom and school rules
• Understand the responsibilities of being a group member
• Understand multicultural groups
• Participate in events and celebrations of local, state, or national holidays, such as Lincoln's Birthday, Columbus Day, and others
• Understand continents, as well as a variety of countries and their flags
• Classify basic geographical features of the Earth

Technology

• Identify the physical components of a computer system
• Demonstrate mouse skills
• Start, use, and exit a program
• Use computer programs to reinforce cognitive skills

Fine Arts - Music

• Follow a set rhythm
• Listen to music and imitate
• Perform in a group

Fine Arts - Visual Arts

• Explore art history pertinent to grade level curriculum
• Experiment with various media
• Identify colors, shapes, and textures
• Demonstrate creativity

Fine Arts - Performing Arts

• Learn to role play
• Learn creative expression through movement
• Rehearse and perform music, theater, dance, and/or public speaking

Physical Fitness

• Practice running, jumping, hopping, galloping, and skipping
• Practice ball skills of kicking, bouncing, throwing, catching, rolling, and dribbling
• Participate in creative movement, songs, and simple dances
• Participate in basic tumbling skills

Foreign Language - Latin

• Understand commands, opposites and comparisons
• Identify body parts
• Use vocabulary for family and relatives
• Identify the days of the week
• Discuss culture, traditions, music, and food
• Identify additional numbers and colors

Life Skills

• Cooking/Foods
  • Understand nutrition and the food pyramid (or groups)
  • Practice simple, no-bake cooking skills
  • Become familiar with proper table manners
  • Mix and measure dry ingredients
• Sewing
  • Learn beginning stitch technique
  • Learn to thread a needle and cut fabric
• Carpentry
  • Learn proper tool use
  • Use hammer, nails, and sandpaper

Kindergarten

Through the collaboration of faculty and parents, The Einstein Academy has built an accelerated academic core curriculum which challenges students to perform at least one grade level above state standards. The following overview provides a framework for students, teachers, and parents to use for instructional goal setting and communication. Teachers creatively expand on each area of study listed and help students become proficient in the itemized concepts. The curriculum will include introduction, review, and practiced applications from prior knowledge, as well as continued reinforcement in subsequent grade levels.

Kindergarten curriculum goals include but are not limited to the following:

• Recognize patterns of words
• Identify letters of the alphabet and associated phonetic sounds
• Recognize short vowels in one-syllable words and word families
• Recognize long vowels
• Match known patterns of letters to patterns in unknown words
• Predict words
• Identify age-appropriate sight vocabulary and common high-frequency words
• Use a variety of strategies (phonics, syntax, semantics, picture clues, and knowledge of environmental print) to recognize new words
• Develop mental pictures of concrete information that is read
• Recall the main idea and details of text that has been read aloud
• Read simple text
• Understand rhyming

Language Arts - Writing

• Use letters to form words
• Place spaces between words
• Dictate a story with a beginning, middle, and end
• Reread own story of composition
• Begin to use appropriate capitalization rules
• Begin to use appropriate punctuation in sentence endings

Language Arts - Speaking and Listening

• Follow oral directions
• Listen to classmates and adults without interrupting
• Listen for specific purposes
• Develop and expand speaking and listening vocabulary by using correct grammar
• Contribute to group discussions

Fine Motor Skills

• Use pencil and scissors correctly
• Write in lines from left to right and from top to bottom of page

Math

• Demonstrate written and verbal knowledge of numbers to 100
• Demonstrate counting by 2, 5, and 10 to 100
• Solve word problems involving single-digit addition and subtraction
• Demonstrate knowledge of addition and subtraction facts
• Develop the concept of estimation
• Develop the basic concepts of time (1/4 hour, 1/2 hour, and hour)
• Identify measuring tools, such as ruler, scale, and thermometer
• Understand simple graphs with one-to-one correspondence
• Identify names and values of coins
• Know ordinals to tenth

Science

• State a prediction from an observed event
• Make simple measurements
• Observe simple objects
• Understand environments
• Apply care for the environment
• Describe and compare living organisms

Social Studies

• Identify respect for law as a necessary part of being a good citizen
• Recognize important people (founders, leaders, business persons, athletes, artists) and their contributions to history
• Identify ways people depend on and interact with the physical environment
• Explain that the United States has people from many cultural backgrounds
• Identify the 50 states and their capitals
• Know the four cardinal directions and use them to get to a specific location

Technology

• Identify the physical components of a computer system
• Demonstrate mouse skills
• Begin using keyboard skills
• Start, use, and exit a program
• Print a created product using software

Fine Arts - Music

• Imitate rhythmic patterns
• Learn songs for two performances
• Use self-expression to dramatize music

Fine Arts - Visual Arts

• Explore art history pertinent to grade level curriculum
• Demonstrate self-expression through art experiences
• Understand concepts of color, shape, texture, and lines
• Demonstrate creativity through spontaneous experimentation with various media

Fine Arts - Performing Arts

• Expand skills in role play
• Explore creative self-expression through movement
• Rehearse and perform music, theater, dance, and/or public speaking

Physical Fitness

• Practice body fitness to develop flexibility, strength, and cardiovascular endurance
• Demonstrate overhand/underhand throwing skills
• Participate in basic tumbling skills (e.g., body rolls, stunts, and low balance activities)
• Participate in low organizational games

Foreign Language - Latin

• Recite months of the year and days of the week
• Understand commands, common phrases, and expressions
• Recite additional numbers and colors
• Discuss culture, traditions, music, and food
• Recognize specific foreign words

Life Skills

• Cooking/Foods
  • Understand nutrition and the food pyramid
  • Practice table manners
  • Learn table setting
• Sewing
  • Sew and stuff an original project
• Carpentry
  • Learn proper tool use
  • Use hammer, nails, screwdriver, and sandpaper

1st Grade

Through the collaboration of faculty and parents, The Einstein Academy has built an accelerated academic core curriculum which challenges students to perform at least one grade level above state standards. The following overview provides a framework for students, teachers, and parents to use for instructional goal setting and communication. Teachers creatively expand on each area of study listed and help students become proficient in the itemized concepts. The curriculum will include introduction, review, and practiced applications from prior knowledge, as well as continued reinforcement in subsequent grade levels.

First grade curriculum goals include but are not limited to the following:

• Identify long and short vowels
• Identify age-appropriate sight vocabulary and common high-frequency words
• Reread a paragraph or sentence to establish meaning
• Understand that reading is a way of gaining information about the world
• Make simple predictions and inferences
• Identify story elements (setting, characters, problem, solution)
• Understand the use of a table of contents
• Sequence the events of a story
• Identify new words, using phonics, syntax, and semantics
• Identify and interpret new words, using suffixes, prefixes, and word parts
• Know plots and major characters in a variety of selections of fictional material

Language Arts - Writing

• Revise to improve content, grammar, and sentence structure (nouns and verbs)
• Write a story with evidence of a beginning and an end
• Use upper and lower case letters conventionally
• Use appropriate capitalization rules
• Use appropriate punctuation in sentence endings
• Write creative writing essays

Language Arts - Speaking and Listening

• Ask questions to improve comprehension
• Use appropriate volume when speaking in a classroom setting
• Listen for specific purposes
• Contribute to group discussions

Math

• Develop an understanding of problem solving skills
• Develop an understanding of place value to 999
• Know the value of money, coins, and equivalences
• Solve real-world problems involving double-digit addition and subtraction
• Demonstrate double-digit additon and/or subtraction with regrouping
• Understand the concept of estimation when solving problems
• Understand fractions (1/4, 1/3, 1/2, and whole)
• Demonstrate counting by simple numeric patterns
• Learn the basics of multiplication
• Understand the concept of time

Science

• Demonstrate basic classification skills
• Describe and compare living organisms (insects and pond life)
• Understand basic concepts of light and optics
• Understand basic concepts of our solar system

Social Studies

• Discuss the rights and responsibilities of citizens
• Analyze key elements of being a good citizen
• Explain some historical customs and traditions in American society
• Explain the difference between past, present, and future
• Discuss various tribes and traditions of Native America
• Explain the relationship between early settlers and Native Americans
• Explore the purposes of early New World exploration by various countries
• Compare and contrast various explorations of the New World
• Develop an understanding of life as a pioneer
• Describe reasons for westward expansion

Technology

• Demonstrate basic computer care
• Use software programs to reinforce content area skills
• Gather, organize, and display data
• Identify the Internet as a source of information

Fine Arts - Music

• Learn musical notation
• Use pitched rhythm instruments
• Sing with more complex story line and vocabulary
• Understand the role and authority of the director

Fine Arts - Visual Arts

• Explore art history pertinent to grade level curriculum
• Create art from real and imaginary sources of inspiration
• Demonstrate the ability to recognize size relations
• Manipulate three-dimensional art materials
• Discuss works of art and the artists

Fine Arts - Performing Arts

• Expand skills in role play
• Explore creative self-expression through movement
• Rehearse and perform music, theater, dance, and/or public speaking

Physical Fitness

• Practice body fitness to develop flexibility, strength, and cardiovascular endurance
• Demonstrate basic soccer skills
• Demonstrate skill in performing simple partner and group folk dances
• Perform a forward roll and come to a sitting position

Foreign Language - Latin

• Use greetings and common phrases
• Demonstrate the ability to follow basic classroom instructions, both verbally and written
• Use basic vocabulary (e.g., numbers, colors, family members, body parts, calendar)
• Recognize oral and written vocabulary
• Follow the basic plot/meaning of a story and/or song

Life Skills

• Cooking/Foods
  • Understand nutrition and the food pyramid
  • Practice table manners
  • Practice table setting
• Sewing
  • Design and create a three-dimensional project
  • Explore new stitches
• Carpentry
  • Practice proper tool use
  • Learn how to measure

2nd Grade

Through the collaboration of faculty and parents, The Einstein Academy has built an accelerated academic core curriculum which challenges students to perform at least one grade level above state standards. The following overview provides a framework for students, teachers, and parents to use for instructional goal setting and communication. Teachers creatively expand on each area of study listed and help students become proficient in the itemized concepts. The curriculum will include introduction, review, and practiced applications from prior knowledge, as well as continued reinforcement in subsequent grade levels.

Second grade curriculum goals include but are not limited to the following:

• Use a variety of strategies to recognize new words in context
• Understand the use of verbs in the present and past tenses
• Identify and interpret new words, using suffixes, prefixes, and word parts
• Understand the use of a table of contents
• Make predictions, inferences, and summaries
• Identify story elements (setting, characters, problem, solution)
• Comprehend the main idea of simple, expository text
• Sequence the events of a story

Language Arts - Writing

• Revise written work to improve content, grammar, and sentence structure (nouns, verbs, and adjectives)
• Maintain topic, showing focus and elaboration
• Identify topic sentence of a paragraph
• Use the correct spelling of the first 100 common high-frequency words
• Write narrative and expository text that contains complete sentences
• Understand and construct a paragraph
• Use appropriate capitalization rules when constructing a narrative
• Use appropriate punctuation in sentence endings
• Write short stories for creative writing
• Learn and practice cursive writing

Language Arts - Speaking and Listening

• Ask questions to improve comprehension
• Use appropriate volume when speaking in classroom settings
• Listen for specific purposes
• Develop and expand vocabulary by speaking and listening, using correct grammar
• Contribute to group discussions
• Recite poetry or prose from memory

Math

• Know the value of coins and bills and how to write a check
• Solve real-world problems involving double- and triple-digit addition and subtraction
• Demonstrate numeration (double- and triple-digit addition and subtraction)
• Use regrouping with double- and triple-digit numbers
• Understand the concept of estimation when solving problems
• Understand fractions (1/4, 1/3, and 1/2)
• Demonstrate counting by simple numeric patterns
• Understand the connection between repetitive addition and multiplication
• Understand the concept of perimeter
• Understand the concept of three-dimensional figures

Science

• Understand cause and effect (e.g., weather changes/cycles, sunshine/shadows)
• Understand basic concepts of the tropical rain forest
• Understand basic concepts of the Sun, Moon, and Earth, including comparisons, motions, and effects
• Understand and demonstrate basic concepts of the scientific method, chemical reactions, and safety concerns in the kitchen

Social Studies

• Locate, describe, and explain regions and features of the Aztec, Incan, and Mayan cultures
• Identify the ways people interact with their environments in other cultures
• Understand roles and interactions of individuals and groups in other cultures
• Identify how other cultures become part of the heritage of the United States

Technology

• Print a created product using software
• Recognize the characteristics of multimedia
• Add data to a simple database
• Interpret data on charts/graphs and make predictions

Fine Arts - Music

• Understand the concept of harmony
• Identify and sing various multicultural music pieces
• Study classical composers

Fine Arts - Visual Arts

• Explore art history pertinent to grade level curriculum
• Depict objects in proportion within a work of art
• Identify and use a variety of sources for art ideas
• Explore three-dimensional art
• Discuss works of art and time periods of art

Fine Arts - Performing Arts

• Expand skills in role play
• Explore creative self-expression through movement
• Rehearse and perform music, theater, dance, and/or public speaking

Physical Fitness

• Demonstrate rope jumping skills
• Demonstrate overhand throw
• Demonstrate catching skills
• Dribble a basketball with either hand

Foreign Language - Latin

• Demonstrate ability to follow basic oral and written classroom instructions
• Make common classroom requests
• Demonstrate ability to hold a short conversation of introduction
• Add basic vocabulary (e.g., numbers, school, family members, body parts, colors)

Life Skills

• Cooking/Foods
  • Understand nutrition and the food pyramid
  • Use oven for simple baking
• Sewing
  • Become proficient in needle use
  • Practice pinning and using patterns
  • Sew without pre-punched holes
• Carpentry
  • Work on a simple kit with teacher guidance
  • Practice expanded tool use

3rd Grade

Through the collaboration of faculty and parents, The Einstein Academy has built an accelerated academic core curriculum which challenges students to perform at least one grade level above state standards. The following overview provides a framework for students, teachers, and parents to use for instructional goal setting and communication. Teachers creatively expand on each area of study listed and help students become proficient in the itemized concepts. The curriculum will include introduction, review, and practiced applications from prior knowledge, as well as continued reinforcement in subsequent grade levels.

Third grade curriculum goals include but are not limited to the following:

• Identify age-appropriate sight vocabulary and common high-frequency words
• Self-correct miscues and reread to establish meaning
• Read aloud with fluency, rhythm, and flow
• Understand different purposes for reading (information, enjoyment, and learning)
• Activate prior knowledge and connect reading to previous experiences
• Make predictions and adjust understanding based on what is read
• Recognize the structure of a story
• Recall and retell information from text
• Identify the explicit main idea and supporting details
• Compare similar elements in different stories
• Identify new words, using phonics, syntax, and semantics
• Use a variety of strategies to recognize new words
• Use glossary, dictionary, and thesaurus to clarify and extend word meaning
• Reflect in oral and written forms what has been learned from reading
• Be familiar with a variety of classic and contemporary fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and drama

Language Arts - Writing

• Revise to improve content and grammar
• Edit for simple punctuation rules and spelling
• Use descriptive language to enhance ideas
• Use upper and lower case letters conventionally
• Use appropriate capitalization rules
• Use appropriate punctuation in sentence endings
• Draft, revise, edit, and proofread writing, with attention to significant errors in spelling, grammar, and content
• Identify strengths and weaknesses in own writing and that of peers
• Practice and master cursive writing

Language Arts - Speaking and Listening

• Follow complex oral directions
• Provide appropriate oral responses to questions
• Listen for specific purposes
• Develop and expand vocabulary by speaking and listening with correct grammar
• Begin to organize oral presentations
• Give oral presentation
• Memorize parts in class plays

Math

• Discover problem solving strategies
• Understand place value to 100,000
• Solve two- and three-step problems with whole numbers, fractions, and decimals, using addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division
• Read temperature in Celsius and Fahrenheit
• Solve and create math problems using currency
• Compare geometric figures and determine whether they are parallel, perpendicular, similar, congruent, symmetrical, etc.
• Measure in customary units and metric units, verbally and in writing
• Understand the basic concepts of area, volume, and perimeter
• Read, write, and talk about math vocabulary
• Interpret and describe numerical relationships, using tables, graphs, and symbols

Science

• Demonstrate basic research skills
• Use appropriate safety procedures when doing experiments
• Understand basic scientific principles and the scientific methods
• Use models to expand abstract thinking
• Demonstrate accuracy in classifying objects by properties through the study of vertebrates/invertebrates and plant classification
• Express and interpret information and ideas and report results in written form
• Understand the basic concepts of magnetism, electricity, systems, classification of living things, and constancy/change in weather and climate
• Understand basic environmental changes
• Compare individual and group observations and results
• Be aware of the development of science and technology over time
• Understand the process of scientific inquiry to investigate questions, conduct experiments, and solve problems

Social Studies

• Understand how the 50 states are divided into six regions based on common geographic features
• Select maps and globes to collect, analyze, and interpret data
• Identify states and capitals
• Distinguish how ways of life in regions long ago differ from ways of life today
• Understand that many individuals and groups have shaped the nation's heritage
• Identify how the United States relates to other nations
• Demonstrate a basic understanding of how goods are produced, distributed, and consumed in the United States
• Describe how wages/salaries can be earned in exchange for work
• Understand trade as an exchange of goods or services
• Develop an understanding of primary and secondary sources
• Identify why people settle in certain locations through the study of explorers, Native Americans, Colonial America, and westward expansion
• Locate, describe, and explain places, regions, and features on the Earth

Technology

• Print a created product using software
• Recognize the characteristics of multimedia
• Add data to a simple database
• Interpret data on charts/graphs and make predictions

Fine Arts - Music

• Read and write music notation
• Recognize rhythmic and melodic patterns
• Explore the role of music and dramatic production
• Contribute music skill on an individual (solo) basis
• Learn to play a recorder

Fine Arts - Visual Arts

• Explore art history pertinent to grade level curriculum
• Use various art processes and techniques to produce works of art
• Identify and use positive and negative space, balance, and pattern
• Create illusion of depth

Fine Arts - Performing Arts

• Expand skills in role play
• Explore creative self-expression through movement
• Rehearse and perform music, theater, dance, and/or public speaking

Physical Fitness

• Demonstrate basic basketball and volleyball skills
• Use beginning tennis skills
• Execute a movement sequence on mats, using inverted balances and a choice of rolls, swings, and locomotor movements

Foreign Language - Latin

• Follow additional oral and written instructions
• Demonstrate ability to use a dual-language dictionary
• Read about history and geography using the Internet and encyclopedia
• Improve pronunciation, intonation, and inflection
• Understand basic grammar

Life Skills

• Cooking/Foods
  • Understand nutrition and the food pyramid
  • Bake pies and cakes
  • Use small kitchen appliances (microwave, mixer, toaster, etc.)
• Sewing
  • Use a simple, pre-made pattern
  • Learn the characteristics of different fabrics
  • Learn beginning machine work
• Carpentry
  • Use a kit and follow directions
  • Demonstrate tool vocabulary and safe tool use

4th Grade

Through the collaboration of faculty and parents, The Einstein Academy has built an accelerated academic core curriculum which challenges students to perform at least one grade level above state standards. The following overview provides a framework for students, teachers, and parents to use for instructional goal setting and communication. Teachers creatively expand on each area of study listed and help students become proficient in the itemized concepts. The curriculum will include introduction, review, and practiced applications from prior knowledge, as well as continued reinforcement in subsequent grade levels.

Fourth grade curriculum goals include but are not limited to the following:

• Identify and use basic parts of speech (noun, verb, pronoun, adjective, adverb)
• Identify and use verb phrases
• Identify and use proper punctuation and capitalization
• Write complete paragraphs, nonfiction articles, creative prose, and poetry
• Revise paragraphs
• Write using the format of a five-paragraph essay
• Give a three- to five-minute oral presentation
• Spell, define, and use target words correctly
• Analyze stories for elements of plot, setting, character, and theme
• Read with understanding and fluency, using effective reading strategies
• Recognize different types of literary forms
• Identify and comprehend new vocabulary, using root words, synonyms, antonyms, and word origins
• Extend comprehension through discussion and evaluation of literature
• Analyze how a character deals with conflict and relate it to real life
• Recognize root words and their origins

Math

• Recognize, round, and write whole numbers in exponential notations according to place values of digits
• Read and write Roman numerals through 1,000
• Solve square roots of perfect squares
• Change decimals to fractions and/or mixed numbers for problem solving
• Align place value through addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division
• Write percentages as fractions and find percentages of a whole
• Solve multi-step problems
• Identify perimeter, circumference, and area of common geometric shapes
• Recognize radius, diameter, and center of a circle
• Describe the concept of probability with regard to chance and odds
• Solve algebraic equations and find the unknown
• Measure volume, weight, and mass, using appropriate measuring instruments in the customary and metric systems
• Identify prime numbers

Science

• Describe and explain the motion of the Earth's crust
• Describe the formation of mountains, plateaus, and domes
• Describe what occurs during earthquakes
• Describe the types of volcanoes and state the major zones of volcanic activity
• Discuss the theories of continental drift, ocean floor spreading, and plate tectonics
• List the major lithospheric plates
• Describe the three types of rocks and the rock cycle
• Explain the effects of the use of drugs, alcohol, and tobacco
• Describe the interaction between science, technology, and society
• Compare and contrast types of cells
• Investigate the structures and functions of cells
• Discover the nature of protists and fungi
• Classify bacteria and investigate viruses
• Classify and describe the different states of matter
• Investigate how energy affects matter
• Discuss the way atoms are organized into molecules and give their distinctive properties
• Describe the physical properties of matter in terms of particulate nature

Social Studies

• Identify the continent, area, or region under study by its physical features, latitude, longitude, and proximity to specific geographic locations
• Classify a region by climate and describe typical weather for the region and its impact
• Describe the societal development of early man and his culture
• Analyze the ancient cultures and civilizations of Mesopotamia, Egypt, Greece, and Rome and understand how they have impacted the world today

Technology and Computer Skills

• Use databases and spreadsheets
• Locate information on the Internet
• Evaluate information found through telecommunications
• Develop word processing documents
• Explore e-mail
• Identify ways technology has changed Illinois, the United States, and the world

Fine Arts - Music

• Read and write music notation
• Recognize rhythmic and melodic patterns
• Explore the role of music and dramatic production
• Contribute music skill on an individual (solo) basis
• Learn to play a band instrument

Fine Arts - Visual Arts

• Explore art history pertinent to grade level curriculum
• Use thumbnail sketches to document thought processes
• Identify and use various examples of repetition and unity
• Use line variety in artwork

Fine Arts - Performing Arts

• Expand skills in role play
• Explore creative self-expression through movement
• Rehearse and perform music, theater, dance, and/or public speaking

Physical Fitness

• Demonstrate specific skills in basketball, soccer, volleyball, and tennis
• Bat a pitched ball to a target
• Demonstrate movements found in folk and square dances
• Execute a movement sequence on mats

Foreign Language - Latin
Level 1 - Varies, depending on ability level and class placement

• Properly use singular/plural nouns and adjectives
• Understand and be able to demonstrate sentence structure
• Decode new vocabulary using contextual clues and words/phrases from prior lessons
• Demonstrate ability to use dictionary, Internet, and/or software

Life Skills

• Cooking/Foods
  • Understand nutrition and the food pyramid
  • Prepare snacks and small meals
  • Complete a recipe
• Sewing
  • Create a quilt or pillow on a sewing machine
  • Learn more involved machine skills
• Carpentry
  • Complete small projects, demonstrating knowledge of workshop terms

5th Grade

Through the collaboration of faculty and parents, The Einstein Academy has built an accelerated academic core curriculum which challenges students to perform at least one grade level above state standards. The following overview provides a framework for students, teachers, and parents to use for instructional goal setting and communication. Teachers creatively expand on each area of study listed and help students become proficient in the itemized concepts. The curriculum will include introduction, review, and practiced applications from prior knowledge, as well as continued reinforcement in subsequent grade levels.

Fifth grade curriculum goals include but are not limited to the following:

• Identify and use basic parts of speech (noun, verb, pronoun, adjective, adverb)
• Identify and use phrases
• Identify and use different types of sentences
• Write, edit, and revise paragraphs of various styles
• Research and write a short nonfiction paper
• Write creative prose and poetry
• Write reviews and five-paragraph essays
• Write notes from text and oral presentations
• Give three- to five-minute speeches of different styles (expository, persuasive, etc.)
• Spell target words correctly
• Recognize spelling patterns
• Recognize and use antonyms and synonyms
• Determine the meaning of words through contextual clues
• Classify and interpret different types of literature
• Analyze the meanings of words and phrases in literature
• Recognize Latin and Greek root words

Math
Very Individualized

• Define a variety of mathematical terms and vocabulary (reciprocal, quadrilateral, quotient, polygon, etc.)
• Identify and describe ratios
• Interchange decimals/fractions/percentages
• Identify prime numbers
• Locate points on a graph by plotting to determine locations
• Find the area and perimeter of unusual shapes
• Identify obtuse, right, and acute angles
• Identify negative numbers

Science

• Describe the process and branches of science
• Identify the steps in the scientific method
• Compare experimental and control setups
• Identify and use metric units in scientific measurement
• Identify and use common laboratory tools to measure length, volume, mass, and temperature
• Identify and compare the different types of microscopes
• Describe the tools used to study the Earth's oceans, crust, and atmosphere
• Classify stars by size, mass, color, temperature, and brightness
• Describe the life cycle of stars
• Describe four layers of the Sun
• Describe theories on the formation of the universe
• Describe the nebular theory and the formation of the solar system
• Identify the factors that affect the shapes of planetary orbits
• Describe the basic interactions and relationships among living things
• Explain the role of chemical cycles in nature
• Describe the process of ecological succession
• Identify the characteristics of the six land biomes and two water biomes
• Develop and experiment using the scientific method
• Collect and analyze data and interpret results

Social Studies

• Describe causes and effects of the Civil War
• Compare and contrast the American Civil War to other civil wars
• Describe problems and efforts to unite the nation during Reconstruction
• Analyze relationships between agriculture and industrialization during the Industrial Revolution
• Compare/contrast experiences of different immigrant groups and Native Americans in the Industrial Age
• Analyze the causes and effects of various wars, including the Spanish-American War, World War I, World War II, and Cold War
• Recognize the events leading to and occurring during the Great Depression

Technology and Computer Skills

• Use search strategies
• Explore the need for protection against viruses and vandalism
• Participate in curriculum-based telecommunication projects
• Develop word processing documents, using proper keyboarding technique
• Develop a product using a database

Fine Arts - Music

• Identify form in vocal music
• Recognize audio melodic and rhythmic patterns
• Understand increased complexity of relationship between diction and rhythm
• Participate in band

Fine Arts - Visual Arts

• Explore art history pertinent to grade level curriculum
• Use black and white to create tints and tones
• Use perspective in a work of art
• Develop works of art by first conducting research and making preliminary sketches

Fine Arts - Performing Arts

• Expand skills in role play
• Explore creative self-expression through movement
• Rehearse and perform music, theater, dance, and/or public speaking

Physical Fitness

• Develop specific skills in basketball, soccer, volleyball, and badminton
• Develop a sequence on mats which shows turns, changes of direction, and speed
• Use matching, following, and contracting relationships with a partner in sequence work

Foreign Language - Latin
Level 2 - Varies, depending on ability level and class placement

• Ask and answer questions
• Demonstrate presentation skills
• Decode new vocabulary, using contextual clues and words/phrases from prior lessons
• Describe customs and holiday traditions

Life Skills

• Cooking/Foods
  • Understand nutrition and the food pyramid
  • Record food choices
  • Review nutrition in relation to student
  • Find and prepare health-conscious recipes
• Sewing
  • Use a pre-made pattern with more than four parts
• Carpentry
  • Begin learning about drafting
  • Explore blueprints and learn how to interpret them

6th Grade

Through the collaboration of faculty and parents, The Einstein Academy has built an accelerated academic core curriculum which challenges students to perform at least one grade level above state standards. The following overview provides a framework for students, teachers, and parents to use for instructional goal setting and communication. Teachers creatively expand on each area of study listed and help students become proficient in the itemized concepts. The curriculum will include introduction, review, and practiced applications from prior knowledge, as well as continued reinforcement in subsequent grade levels.

Sixth grade curriculum goals include but are not limited to the following:

• Identify and use all parts of speech
• Identify and use prepositional phrases and adverb/adjective clauses
• Write clear and correct paragraphs—descriptive, narrative, and persuasive
• Outline nonfiction writing
• Take accurate notes from nonfiction sources
• Write a three-page research paper
• Write creatively in the genres of prose and poetry
• Revise and edit self-written and peer-written paragraphs and papers
• Give a 10-minute oral presentation using visuals
• Create and participate in a debate
• Spell all vocabulary words accurately
• Identify roots, prefixes, and suffixes of words
• Recognize and use synonyms and antonyms
• Read nonfiction (essays, diaries, journals, speeches) for content
• Read fiction and describe elements of plot, setting, theme, conflict, characterization, and literary form

Math
All students will be given a placement test to determine which Math level is appropriate.

• Master and practice basic mathematical skills, such as addition, decimals, and measurement
• Reinforce mathematical calculations, conversions, and basic geometric definitions
• Reinforce calculation of simple probability
• Define and apply prime and composite numbers, rates, and proportions
• Identify and use integers
• Find solutions to simple equations

Science

• Describe the basic characteristics of living things
• Describe the structure and function of various cells and cell parts
• Compare plant and animal cells
• Define and compare respiration and photosynthesis
• Explain the classification systems and list the seven major classification groups
• Identify the parts of a virus
• Describe virus reproduction
• Identify parts of a moneran
• Explain how monerans obtain energy
• List and describe the three types of protists
• List and describe the types of fungi
• Analyze the adaptations necessary for plants to live on land
• Compare nonvascular and vascular plants
• Discuss the life systems of plants, patterns of growth, and tropisms
• Describe the characteristics of the major groups of invertebrates and vertebrates
• Apply steps of scientific inquiry
• Study the human body

Social Studies

• Study Europe at the end of the Middle Ages
• Understand the Renaissance of Italy and northern Europe
• Describe the social and political structures of medieval Europe
• Analyze Europe after the Roman Empire
• Learn about daily life in feudal Europe
• Compare/contrast two feudal societies
• Analyze the civilizations of the Americas
• Recognize the Olmec, Mayan, Tiwanakan, Moche, Aztec, and Incan cultures
• Study ancient world cultures (Rome, Greece), Sub-Saharan Africa, and Asian civilizations

Technology and Computer Skills

• Refine application skills
• Use formulas in a spreadsheet
• Use search strategy with more than one factor in a database
• Increase productivity and accuracy in keyboarding
• Use word processing, spreadsheet, database, and multimedia for assignments in all subject areas
• Locate and retrieve information using telecommunications

Fine Arts - Music

• Explore polyphonic rhythms
• Identify visual and audio intervals
• Explore the business of music publishing, copyrights, etc.

Fine Arts - Visual Arts

• Explore art history pertinent to grade level curriculum
• Solve designing problems using color schemes selected from the color wheel
• Utilize fantasy as a means of expression in works of art
• Identify and use analogous, complementary, and monochromatic colors

Fine Arts - Performing Arts

• Expand skills in role play
• Explore creative self-expression through movement
• Rehearse and perform music, theater, dance, and/or public speaking

Physical Fitness

• Demonstrate partner cooperation and problem solving
• Demonstrate specific basketball, football, hockey, soccer, tennis, and softball skills
• Demonstrate specific track and field skills
• Perform folk, square, and circle dances

Foreign Language - Latin
Level 3 - Varies, depending on ability level and class placement

• Contribute to group discussions
• Demonstrate presentation skills
• Describe customs and holiday traditions
• Write a report, skit, or story

Life Skills

• Cooking/Foods
  • Understand nutrition and the food pyramid
  • Prepare meats and vegetables
• Sewing
  • Explore needle arts, including knitting, crochet, and embroidery
  • Research needle arts on the Internet and complete a project
• Carpentry
  • Explore architects and architecture
  • Make a scale model using drafting symbols

7th Grade

Through the collaboration of faculty and parents, The Einstein Academy has built an accelerated academic core curriculum which challenges students to perform at least one grade level above state standards. The following overview provides a framework for students, teachers, and parents to use for instructional goal setting and communication. Teachers creatively expand on each area of study listed and help students become proficient in the itemized concepts. The curriculum will include introduction, review, and practiced applications from prior knowledge, as well as continued reinforcement in subsequent grade levels.

Seventh grade curriculum goals include but are not limited to the following:

• Identify and use all parts of speech
• Identify and use prepositional phrases and adverb/adjective clauses
• Write clear and correct paragraphs—descriptive, narrative, and persuasive
• Outline nonfiction writing and take accurate notes from nonfiction sources
• Write a three-page research paper
• Write creatively in the genres of prose and poetry
• Revise and edit self-written and peer-written paragraphs and papers
• Give a 10-minute oral presentation using visuals
• Create and participate in a debate
• Spell all vocabulary words accurately
• Identify roots, prefixes, and suffixes of words
• Recognize and use synonyms and antonyms
• Read nonfiction (essays, diaries, journals, speeches) for content
• Read fiction and describe elements of plot, setting, theme, conflict, characterization, and literary form

Math
All students will be given a placement test to determine which Math level is appropriate.

• Understand the real number system
• Convert decimals, fractions, and percentages and apply to word problems
• Use the rectangular coordinate system
• Expand on knowledge of basic geometric terminology
• Use the Pythagorean theorem
• Compare and contrast mean, median, mode, and range
• Use negative numbers in various basic operations

Algebra

• Understand the use of variables
• Study the properties of the real number system, including radicals
• Solve simple equations and inequalities
• Set up and solve word problems using multiple variables
• Understand the order of operations when using the symbols of inclusion
• Study exponential notation and the laws and uses of exponents
• Study polynomials and their uses in expressions and equations
• Graph and solve linear equations, using points, slopes, and intercepts
• Solve systems of equation in two variables
• Solve equations with rational algebraic expressions
• Extend the four basic operations to include radical expressions
• Learn the quadratic formula and how it is used
• Study quadratic equations and functions

Geometry

• Define and apply basic geometric terminology
• Define two- and three-dimensional geometric figures and utilize their properties
• Generate theorem proofs based on definitions, postulates, and previous theorems
• Apply definitions, theorems, and postulates to unknowns in geometric figures
• Apply ratios, proportions, and trigonometric ratios to geometric problems

Science

• Describe the general properties of matter
• Explain and give examples of physical and chemical properties and physical changes
• Classify matter, elements, compounds, solutions, and mixtures
• Describe the structure of the atom
• Explain chemical bonding
• Compare ionic, covalent, and metallic bonding
• Describe and explain the basis of chemical reactions
• Interpret and balance chemical equations
• Describe the properties of acids, bases, and salt
• Classify different carbon compounds and draw structural formulas for them
• Contrast different types of nuclear reactions
• Understand and explain the process of particle acceleration

Social Studies

• Describe the effect of historic events on a region (war, trade, and government policy)
• Analyze, describe, compare, and contrast civilizations and their political/economic structures and cultures
• Analyze, describe, compare, and contrast the role of governmental structures in different nations
• Analyze and explain current global economic development
• Describe current political changes in the world
• Study the growth of Islam, ancient worlds, Sub-Saharan Africa, Asian civilizations, and medieval societies
• Study medieval and Renaissance Europe
• Study civilizations of the Americas

Technology and Computer Skills

• Use ethical behavior in the employment of technology resources
• Select and use technology tools to collect, analyze, and display data
• Use a variety of technological tools to develop projects in content areas
• Use appropriate spreadsheet functions to solve problems relative to content areas

Fine Arts - Music

• Increase participation at the individual level
• Expand understanding of music notation in transcription
• Identify specific bass patterns
• Identify harmony patterns in accompaniment
• Explore instrumental music applications

Fine Arts - Visual Arts

• Explore art history pertinent to grade level curriculum
• Solve designing problems, using color schemes selected from the color wheel
• Utilize fantasy as a means of expression in works of art
• Identify and use analogous, complementary, and monochromatic colors
• Use the seven principles of design
• Freely explore three-dimensional art, using mixed media
• Produce an "imitation" of the artist
• Participate in critiques
• Keep a sketchbook

Fine Arts - Performing Arts

• Expand skills in role play
• Explore creative self-expression through movement
• Rehearse and perform music, theater, dance, and/or public speaking

Physical Fitness

• Demonstrate specific skills in basketball, football, softball, soccer, volleyball, and badminton
• Demonstrate specific skills in track and field events
• Use equipment properly and safely
• Participate cooperatively and ethically in competitive activities

Foreign Language - Latin

• Contribute to group discussions
• Demonstrate presentation skills
• Describe customs and holiday traditions
• Write a report, skit, or story

Life Skills

• Cooking/Foods
  • Understand nutrition and the food pyramid
  • Prepare meals
  • Explore meal planning on a budget, including maintaining and balancing a checkbook
• Sewing
  • Understand fabrics and use a machine well
  • Design and complete an original project
• Carpentry
  • Plan a project from research on the Internet
  • Modify a project to accommodate the school's limitations

8th Grade

Through the collaboration of faculty and parents, The Einstein Academy has built an accelerated academic core curriculum which challenges students to perform at least one grade level above state standards. The following overview provides a framework for students, teachers, and parents to use for instructional goal setting and communication. Teachers creatively expand on each area of study listed and help students become proficient in the itemized concepts. The curriculum will include introduction, review, and practiced applications from prior knowledge, as well as continued reinforcement in subsequent grade levels.

Eighth grade curriculum goals include but are not limited to the following:

• Identify and use gerunds, infinitives, and participles as phrases and clauses
• Outline longer nonfiction writing
• Take accurate notes from written and verbal sources
• Write research papers with footnotes
• Revise and edit self-written and peer-written materials
• Compare and contrast various styles of writing
• Write creatively in different styles and genres
• Give a 15- to 20-minute oral presentation using visuals
• Recite memorized poetry and speeches
• Create and deliver expository and persuasive speeches
• Create and participate in debates
• Spell all vocabulary words accurately
• Analyze words for origin, root, suffixes, and prefixes
• Read nonfiction for content
• Analyze fiction for basic elements, as well as author's purpose, symbolism, style, and bias
• Learn MLA academic research style

Math
All students will be given a placement test to determine which Math level is appropriate.

• Understand the real number system
• Convert decimals, fractions, and percentages and apply to word problems
• Use the rectangular coordinate system
• Expand on knowledge of basic geometric terminology
• Use the Pythagorean theorem
• Compare and contrast mean, median, mode, and range
• Use negative numbers in various basic operations

Algebra

• Understand the use of variables
• Study the properties of the real number system, including radicals
• Solve simple equations and inequalities
• Set up and solve word problems using multiple variables
• Understand the order of operations when using the symbols of inclusion
• Study exponential notation and the laws and uses of exponents
• Study polynomials and their uses in expressions and equations
• Graph and solve linear equations, using points, slopes, and intercepts
• Solve systems of equation in two variables
• Solve equations with rational algebraic expressions
• Extend the four basic operations to include radical expressions
• Learn the quadratic formula and how it is used
• Study quadratic equations and functions

Geometry

• Define and apply basic geometric terminology
• Define two- and three-dimensional geometric figures and utilize their properties
• Understand and apply various forms of reasoning
• Generate theorem proofs based on definitions, postulates, and previous theorems
• Apply definitions, theorems, and postulates to unknowns in geometric figures
• Apply ratios, proportions, and trigonometric ratios to geometric problems

Science

• Define and calculate formulas involving speed, velocity, and acceleration
• Define force and apply Newton's laws of motion and universal gravitation
• Describe force in fluids and apply Archimedes' principle and Bernoulli's principle
• Explain work and power
• Define energy, identify its forms, and state the law of conservation of energy
• Describe the nature, characteristics, types, and interactions of waves
• Describe the properties of sound waves
• Describe the properties of electromagnetic waves
• Explain reflection and refraction of light
• Describe the forces between electric charges and the atomic basis of electric charges
• Identify the effects of static electricity
• Define voltage, current, and resistance and apply these concepts to circuitry
• Discuss magnetism and magnetic poles, fields, and domains
• Explain electromagnetism and electromagnetic induction and identify practical applications for these concepts
• Design, build, and test a device useful in solving a problem
• Study Earth's waters

Social Studies

• Describe the compromises made in the development and acceptance of the U.S. Constitution
• Analyze the Declaration of Independence and Bill of Rights, comparing them to similar documents
• Compare and contrast the duties and responsibilities of the three branches of federal and state government
• Describe the federal and state lawmaking processes
• Analyze and compare amendments to the U.S. Constitution
• Recognize the rights and responsibilities of citizenship and demonstrate ways to put responsibility into action
• Study the Illinois Constitution

Technology and Computer Skills

• Use spreadsheets and databases relevant to classroom assignments
• Choose charts/tables or graphs to best represent data
• Conduct online research and evaluate the information found
• Use word processing/desktop publishing for classroom assignments and projects
• Use a variety of technological tools to develop projects in content areas

Fine Arts - Music

• Increase participation at the individual level
• Expand understanding of music notation in transcription
• Identify specific bass patterns
• Identify harmony patterns in accompaniment
• Explore instrumental music applications

Fine Arts - Visual Arts

• Explore art history pertinent to grade level curriculum
• Solve designing problems, using color schemes selected from the color wheel
• Utilize fantasy as a means of expression in works of art
• Identify and use analogous, complementary, and monochromatic colors
• Organize a presentation inspired by the style of the artist
• Complete a year-long sketchbook project

Fine Arts - Performing Arts

• Expand skills in role play
• Explore creative self-expression through movement
• Rehearse and perform music, theater, dance, and/or public speaking

Physical Fitness

• Demonstrate specific skills in basketball, football, softball, soccer, volleyball, and badminton
• Demonstrate specific skills in track and field events
• Use equipment properly and safely
• Participate cooperatively and ethically in competitive activities

Foreign Language - Latin
Level 3 - Varies, depending on ability level and class placement

• Contribute to group discussion
• Demonstrate presentation skills
• Describe customs and holiday traditions
• Write a report, skit, or story

Life Skills

• Cooking/Foods
  • Understand nutrition and the food pyramid
  • Explore meal planning on a budget, including maintaining and balancing a checkbook
• Sewing
  • Design and complete an original garment
  • Research fabric arts and make a presentation
• Carpentry
  • Design and execute a project combining materials