Curriculum

Creative Curriculum for Preschool at PS/IS 210

At PS/IS 210, we use the Creative Curriculum for Preschool, a nationally recognized, research-based program designed to support the whole-child development of children ages 3–5. This curriculum helps children grow socially, emotionally, physically, and cognitively through hands-on, play-based learning that is both engaging and developmentally appropriate.

What Makes the Creative Curriculum Unique?

The Creative Curriculum is built around the idea that children learn best through active exploration and meaningful experiences. It is intentionally flexible, allowing teachers to tailor learning to each child’s interests, needs, and developmental level.

Key features include:

  • Project-Based Investigations: Children explore topics like trees, buildings, pets, and music through in-depth studies that promote curiosity and critical thinking.
  • Learning Through Play: Activities are designed to be fun and purposeful, helping children build foundational skills in literacy, math, science, and the arts.
  • Whole-Child Focus: The curriculum supports growth in all areas—social-emotional, physical, language, cognitive, and creative expression.
  • Family Engagement: Families are seen as essential partners in learning, with tools and resources provided to support learning at home.

Art and Creativity in the Curriculum

Art is a central part of the Creative Curriculum. Children are encouraged to express themselves through:

  • Drawing, painting, and sculpting
  • Exploring textures, colors, and materials
  • Creating collages and mixed-media projects
  • Using art to tell stories and reflect on their experiences

These activities help children develop fine motor skills, confidence, and a sense of identity while fostering creativity and imagination.

How Parents Can Support Learning at Home

  • Create a mini art station with crayons, paper, glue, and safe scissors.
  • Talk about your child’s artwork—ask open-ended questions like “What did you enjoy most about making this?”
  • Read books together and encourage your child to draw scenes or characters.
  • Explore nature and collect materials for art projects (leaves, rocks, twigs).
  • Celebrate creativity by displaying your child’s work at home.

Helpful Resources for Families

  • Creative Curriculum for Preschool Overview – Learn more about the curriculum’s structure and goals
  • Teaching Strategies for Families – Tips and tools to support learning at home
  • A Family’s Guide to Preschool – A helpful booklet for understanding how to partner with teachers
  • MetKids (The Metropolitan Museum of Art) – Interactive art exploration for children
  • PBS Kids – Arts Games and Videos – Fun, creative activities for preschoolers
  • Art for Kids Hub (YouTube) – Easy-to-follow drawing and painting tutorials for young children

 

 

Science at PS/IS 210: FOSS Curriculum (Grades K–8)

At PS/IS 210, we use the FOSS (Full Option Science System) curriculum to teach science across all grades from kindergarten through 8th grade. This comprehensive, hands-on program is designed to spark curiosity and deepen understanding through active, inquiry-based learning.

 

What is FOSS?

The FOSS curriculum, developed by the Lawrence Hall of Science at the University of California, Berkeley, is a nationally recognized, research-based science program. It engages students in scientific discovery through direct experience—encouraging them to ask questions, conduct investigations, and make sense of the world around them.

Key Features:

  • Inquiry-Based Learning: Students explore scientific concepts through observation, experimentation, and analysis.
  • Hands-On Activities: Lessons are built around engaging, real-world investigations.
  • Integrated Literacy and Math: Students use science notebooks, data collection, and critical thinking to strengthen cross-disciplinary skills.
  • Three-Dimensional Learning: Aligned with the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), FOSS integrates:
    • Core Scientific Concepts
    • Science and Engineering Practices
    • Crosscutting Concepts that connect different scientific domains

Areas of Study:

FOSS covers a wide range of topics across four major domains:

  1. Physical Science – Matter, energy, motion, and forces
  2. Earth Science – Weather, geology, water systems, and space
  3. Life Science – Ecosystems, organisms, and life cycles
  4. Engineering – Design thinking and problem-solving

How Parents Can Support Learning at Home:

  • Talk with your child about what they’re learning in science class.
  • Encourage curiosity by exploring nature, conducting simple experiments, or watching science documentaries together.
  • Support science-related homework and projects.
  • Visit science museums or participate in STEM events when possible.

Additional Resources for Parents:

  • FOSS Program Overview
  • FOSS Parent Resources
  • FOSS at Home Activities
  • Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)

Grade-Level Resources:

 

Mathematics

At PS/IS 210 we follow Illustrative Mathematics (IM) K-8 Math is a problem-based curriculum designed to help students develop a deep understanding of mathematical concepts through exploration and problem-solving. It emphasizes student discourse, collaboration, and the use of mathematical language to foster a strong mathematical identity and prepare students for future success

Core Principles:

  • Problem-based learning:

Students learn math by engaging in real-world problems and constructing their own understanding. 

  • Coherence:

IM Math is designed to build upon prior knowledge and connect mathematical concepts across different grade levels. 

  • Focus and Rigor:

The curriculum concentrates on developing deep understanding of key mathematical ideas, rather than superficial memorization. 

  • Mathematical Practices:

Students are encouraged to develop important mathematical habits of mind, such as problem-solving, reasoning, and communication. 

  • Inclusive Community:

IM Math fosters a classroom environment where all students feel valued and can participate actively in mathematical discussions. 

Key Features:

  • Digital and Print Materials:

IM Math offers a blend of digital and print resources, including lesson plans, student-facing slides, and family support materials. 

  • Professional Learning:

IM Certified Professional Learning provides support for teachers to implement the curriculum effectively and enhance their teaching practices. 

  • Diverse Representations:

The curriculum uses diverse examples and contexts to connect with students from various backgrounds and experiences. 

  • Family Support:

Materials are available to help families understand the curriculum and support their children's learning. 

  • Two Pathways:

IM Math offers both a traditional three-year pathway (Grades 6, 7, and 8) and a two-year accelerated pathway for students who want to begin high school math in 8th grade. 

Implementation:

  • Classroom Community:

Each grade level begins with lessons designed to establish a mathematical community and encourage student participation. 

  • Mathematical Language:

Students are encouraged to develop and use mathematical language through collaborative activities and discussions. 

  • Teacher Guidance:

Lesson plans provide detailed guidance for teachers, including suggested pacing, discussion prompts, and worked examples. 

  • Adaptations:

The curriculum allows adaptations to meet the needs of diverse learners, including those who may need additional support. 

EL Education Curriculum (Grades K–5)

At PS/IS 210, we proudly implement the EL Education Curriculum (formerly known as Expeditionary Learning) for students in Kindergarten through 5th grade. This comprehensive, standards-aligned program is designed to foster a love of learning through inquiry, collaboration, and real-world connections.

What Is EL Education?

EL Education is a research-based curriculum that blends rigorous academic content with character development and interdisciplinary projects. It empowers students to become critical thinkers, effective communicators, and compassionate citizens.

Key Features:

  • Student-Centered Learning: Lessons are built around essential questions and high-quality texts that encourage deep thinking and discussion.
  • Real-World Relevance: Students explore meaningful topics such as environmental sustainability, human rights, and community through hands-on projects.
  • Character Education: The curriculum promotes habits of responsibility, perseverance, collaboration, and empathy.
  • High-Quality Work: Students are encouraged to revise and reflect, producing work they are proud to share.

Curriculum Structure:

Each grade level includes four thematic modules per year. These modules integrate reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills through:

  • Complex literary and informational texts
  • Vocabulary and grammar instruction
  • Writing tasks (narrative, opinion, and informational)
  • Performance-based assessments
  • Optional labs and projects to extend learning

How Families Can Support Learning:

  • Ask your child about the current topic or book they’re exploring.
  • Read together and discuss characters, themes, and ideas.
  • Encourage writing at home—stories, letters, or reflections.
  • Visit museums, libraries, or nature centers to connect with classroom themes.
  • Celebrate your child’s work and learning milestones.

Parent Resources: