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DS Course Descriptions

Multisensory Math
In Directed Studies Math we are remediating students to solidify their knowledge, so that we can accelerate them academically.

The Multisensory Math approach is research based, advocated by NCTM, appropriate for all students, and necessary for many. Hands-on work with manipulative objects is recommended for students at all levels. It enhances both concept integration and memory. This approach is especially helpful for learning different students and those with conceptual gaps. Research has shown that multisensory input is stronger than unisensory input for creating lasting associations and stronger memories.

Study Skills & Strategies Class
Our study skills class is a 4 phase program covering the following:
  1. Building vocabulary that enhances comprehension
  2. Study skills concepts*
  3. Comprehension/ Reading/ Reasoning
  4. Analogies

Also, note that your student will be working on a study skills notebook that they will keep in the classroom. They need a tub file at home to be able to remove all notebook notes at the end of the 9 weeks. We will study 1-2 days a week if students need the time.

* organization, scheduling, studying conditions, attitudes, memory, test taking, and discovery of what type of learner am I?

Take Flight
The Take Flight program contains the five components of effective reading instruction supported by the National Reading Panel research meta-analysis and mandated by the No Child Left Behind Act:
  • Phonemic Awareness in Take Flight includes a systematic exploration of the articulation of phonemes and is fully integrated within decoding and spelling instruction.
  • All phoneme-grapheme correspondence rules are introduced over a shorter time than previous TSRHC programs, allowing time for practice toward accuracy and automaticity in the application of phonic skills and for more guided reading practice with controlled and regular text. Also, there is an expanded use of etymology in teaching word analysis strategies.
  • Vocabulary is expanded and enriched by developing morphological knowledge, word relationships, figurative language, syntax and semantics by direct instruction and in the context of reading.
  • Fluency instruction incorporates guided and timed repeated reading decodable words, phrases and connected text. Incentives, concrete measures of progress and daily home practice are also important elements of fluency training.
  • A combination of techniques is used for instruction in reading comprehension, including comprehension monitoring, question generation, story structure, summarizing and inferencing. Students also learn how to utilize graphic and semantic organizations when reading narrative and expository texts.

Each of the five components is presented in seven books. This curriculum is designed for 230 hours of direct instruction.