SPECIAL CLASSES
 

Our specials classes include Spanish, Music & Movement, Library, and Gardening & Science. Every day the child is enrolled, they participate in at least one specials class. The weekly themes are tied into the lessons. 

 

Spanish 

In Spanish class, the students will learn through a technique called TPR, which stands for Total Physical Response. This technique uses authentic experiences in learning language. In Spanish, they will also read, sing, and dance to immerse themselves into Spanish. The teacher looks forward to exposing the students to their favorite books in Spanish and engaging them in conversation. She will also ensure that they have an appreciation for the Spanish language and its culture.

 

Music & Movement

In Music & Movement class, students will learn about high, middle, and low sounds through movement and dance. They will also learn beat and rhythm in an environment that will allow our students to exercise, stretch, play and connect in a non-competitive environment with their peers. The teacher will also incorporate yoga and gross motor games to enhance flexibility, strength, and coordination while also combining imaginative play.

 

Library 

During Library Class, the students will explore and appreciate many genres of literature; learn to discriminate between real (non-fiction) and pretend (fiction); and self-select a book to check-out.  Activities such as retelling and prediction will enhance their reading readiness skills. Pre-Kinder and Kinder classes will also begin to research subjects in which they are interested and begin to synthesize information they find.

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Gardening & Science

In addition to participating in Specials classes, children will also have the opportunity to explore Gardening & Science. Ascension Episcopal Church has a large organic garden on the north side of the campus. ADS is currently occupying one large plot and the students are in the garden at least once a week. When appropriate, we supplement our snack time with the produce students harvest and sometimes your students will come home with things they have pulled from the garden. The students will also participate weekly in science experiments and sensory activities. Most of the time this class is held outdoors, either in the garden or in the courtyard.