CURRICULUM
   Emphasis at Morrison is placed on teaching and learning the basics.  Learning to read through a skills based program including instruction in phonics is emphasized in the primary grades. Students are academically grouped for some skills instruction.
     Our kindergarten program contributes to the physical, social, intellectual, and emotional growth of the five and six year old in many planned ways. Although the list below is not all-inclusive, kindergarten students are taught to:
> Be polite and cooperative while working and playing with other children.
> Share experiences, ideas, games, and tools with classmates.
> To use verbal and nonverbal means to express ideas.
> To become more independent by caring for self and belongings.
> To develop self control and good manners.
> To appreciate good books and the printed word.
> To express creative ideas in clay, paint, paper, blocks and other materials.
> To develop self-confidence and the willingness to attack simple problems.
> To act out and dramatize familiar stories.
> To develop readiness for math and reading skills.
     Children are taught the D'Nealian handwriting method in kindergarten, first and second grades. The manuscript utilized in this program is designed to aid children in making the transition to cursive writing in third grade.
     By the time children reach third grade, they are involved in instructional activities that include: independent silent reading, dictionary skills, comprehension (i.e. main idea, critical reading, making inferences, drawing conclusions, and distinguishing between fact and fiction, phonics, vocabulary, book reports, and written language.)  Fifth grade language arts classes include instruction in study skills, grammar, parts of speech, paragraph development, research writing, creative writing, and oral fluency.
    Our math program emphasizes the need for students to understand concepts, know basic facts, efficiently use computational skills, and apply appropriate problem solving strategies. Addition, subtraction, and multiplication facts are expected to be mastered before the end of fourth grade.
     When students achieve sixth grade status, they should be able to independently take notes, outline, summarize, do research in our library and on the internet, write and orally present coherent reports.
     Computers are another tool available to the students and their teachers.  Weekly, children visit our technology lab for instruction.  They also may utilize these computers during open lab time if deemed appropriate by their teachers. New computers were added to each of our classrooms beginning in January, 2001, followed by additional computers in August, 2002 for sixth grade and August 2003 for fifth grade.  Having up-to-date classroom computers for students to use helps facilitate the integration of technology into our curriculum and enhances our educational program.
     Homework is given by teachers to reinforce classroom work.  It is due the next day unless otherwise indicated by the teacher.  Students who return homework late can receive a reduced grade for that activity.
     Art, vocal music, and physical education classes are taught by special instructors.  All students participate in these classes weekly.  In addition, instrumental music is available to students in grades 5 and 6.  Class sessions occur weekly. Students who are interested in band should indicate their desire to participate early in the school year so that they may become part of the instrumental program.
     Special education classes including learning disabilities/ developmental disabilities, multiple disabilities, and speech/language are housed at Morrison for those children who are identified as requiring special assistance.  Referrals for these classes are generally made by teachers but parents may also bring learning problems to the attention of school personnel.  Parents should talk with their child's teacher if they believe their son or daughter requires the kinds of academic help and assistance provided by a special education program.
     Identified students in grades five and six participate in  HOTS (Higher Order Thinking Skills) which is a full day of intervention for students identified as having superior cognitive ability. Students meet one day per week at a district site. CHALLENGE is for students in grade four who are recognized as having specific academic ability in certain subject areas.  These youngsters meet two  days per week at Morrison.
     We have a strong academic program provided by well qualified and caring staff members.  Annually, students in grades 4 and 6 pass the Ohio Proficiency Test.  If students apply themselves, they should be well prepared for success in the middle school after graduating from Morrison.
    Persons who have questions about our school's curriculum should contact their child's teacher or principal, John Gordon.

Last updated on June 16, 2004