Academic Standards
The Key Concepts of the ECP program naturally lead to the Academic Standards that form the structure and motivation for the elementary program. Each set of standards articulates what we want Trinity students to know and be able to do. The Academic Standards undergird each of the Basic 8 ideas, outlining the concepts as well as the skills that children learn from grade to grade.
Basic 8
Think
Delight in thinking to solve problems. Value different perspectives.
Read
Read fluently with understanding and pleasure. Expand your world.
Write
Write to know what you think and why. Learn many forms of communication. Match message with audience.
Learn Languages
Of different cultures, of art, of music, and our bodies. Open yourself to expression.
Reason Mathematically
Know basic math facts. Mentally manipulate numbers. Solve real problems.
Know the Past
Know who and what came before you. Build on their good ideas. Avoid their mistakes.
Think Scientifically
Explore the unknown. Learn to frame the next question. Pursue a logical response.
Know yourself
Forgive yourself. Forgive others. Treat others as yourself. Serve the common good.
In this way, the Trinity School experience provides each child with the learning tools to be a problem-solver, an information manager, and a productive team member. Trinity School prepares students to learn how to ask the next relevant question that will inform solving a given problem at hand. This is how we train the curious mind in each child.
Teaching Methods
The elementary teachers' expertise is in knowing their students and gauging the academic program to students' needs in light of the Academic Standards. Four strategies guide the teacher's work:
Teacher-child relationship
Every child wants to know, "Do you know me? Do you like me?" The expertise and experience of the Trinity School teachers ensures a resounding, "Yes!" Teachers bring different styles and talents to their work so that the ways of knowing the child, the ways of communicating trust and respect grow from grade to grade as the child grows and changes.
Core teaching
Teachers ensure the child is exposed to the right teaching at the right time within a classroom setting. Skills and basic knowledge are a necessary foundation for meaningful application and expansion of learning.
Integration
Teachers pose meaningful and motivating questions such as "What makes someone a hero?" Through these "essential questions" teachers help children make connections between disciplines and understand that learning and knowledge are holistic endeavors.
Differentiation
While teachers want each child to master Academic Standards, there is a range of child readiness within each class. Within the scope of group and small group instruction, teachers challenge those who are ready for more with meaningful learning while supporting and pacing the learning for all children in the class.
Meet the Trinity School Teachers