Grammar Level D: “Horse”
Ready to Write and Study Literature
Ages 8-10
Literature: In Level D, “learning to read” gives way to “studying literature.” Students at this level are taught how to think more deeply about what they are reading. Books are carefully chosen and read together, at a slow pace, spending much time in the exploration of vocabulary and the discussion and consideration of questions designed to foster understanding of virtues, struggles, triumphs and connections. Students respond orally and in writing, mastering content and vocabulary for unit and final tests. Titles at this level include: Mr. Popper’s Penguins, Charlottes Web, and A Bear Called Paddington as well as a beautiful collection of poems.
Spelling: Systematic instruction in phonics continues for spelling at Level D, with a review of all spelling and phonic rules covered in Levels B & C. Words and lists are longer at this level, and spelling practice is for the purpose of solidifying skills and keeping them sharp.
Latin & Grammar: This year, students begin their learning of Latin in earnest, learning to read, spell, and translate over 100 Latin vocabulary words, 20 common sayings, and 4 traditional Latin prayers. Students begin to identify English derivatives from Latin, and are introduced to basic Latin grammar forms. Level D students will also review the eight parts of speech and learn to apply all grammar, capitalization, and punctuation rules.
Cursive Penmanship: Cursive instruction gives way to daily practice with teacher oversight and accountability for students to do all written work with “museum quality” cursive.
Writing Composition: Having been prepared, in Levels B and C, with basic spelling, grammar and handwriting, Level D students are ready to begin their “Adventures in Writing” from the Institute for Excellence in Writing. The process of learning to write well is complex and difficult for young students as it requires learning to think in an organized manner. Level D students follow a systematic approach to writing instruction in which they learn to summarize simple texts into key word outlines and then retell the text using interesting and varied vocabulary. The process requires much teacher guidance for every step to achieve mastery. Upon completing Level D, students will be able to easily summarize a simple text and rewrite it in their own words using interesting language, a variety of sentence styles, proper English grammar, and logical organization.
Math: Arithmetic 3 (Click for Scope and Sequence) Level D students continue to master adding and subtracting multi-digit numbers with borrowing and carrying, are introduced to multiplication and division and memorize the facts from 1-12. Students at this level continue to master telling time, adding and subtracting money, and working with fractions.
Christian Studies: Level D students study the Old Testament from Creation to Moses, learning vocabulary, discussing themes, memorizing weekly verses, and studying maps. Students in also memorize the books of the Bible and memorize longer portions of scripture monthly.
History: During the afternoon program, Level D students will study world history through The Story of the World by Susan Wise Bauer. This engaging, chronological history curriculum introduces students to the great sweep of human history through lively storytelling rather than dry textbook recitation. Students rotate through major periods of history by year, and in Level D students will cover “The Middle Ages.” As they listen to the audio book, students will complete map work, practice note-taking, and participate in thoughtful discussions that help them connect people, places, events, and ideas. This study of history helps students grow in attention, memory, narration, and understanding of God’s providence throughout time.
Science: Also during the afternoon program, Level D students will study Earth Science through Science Shepherd’s video-based Christian science curriculum. Students will explore the wonderful planet God has created, learning about the structure of the earth, geology, volcanoes, glaciers, oceanography, weather, fresh and salt water, and more. Through video lessons, workbook activities, discussion, narration, and practical activities, students will grow in careful observation, scientific understanding, and wonder as they see how the study of the earth reveals the order, beauty, and wisdom of God’s creation.
Physical Education: Level D students will participate in 20 minutes of daily P.E. instruction using the SPARK P.E. curriculum. SPARK provides structured, research-based physical education lessons that help students develop healthy habits, physical fitness, motor skills, movement knowledge, and positive social skills. Through active games, skill-building activities, and guided practice, students will grow in strength, coordination, teamwork, good sportsmanship, and enjoyment of physical activity.
Subjects to be covered at home: Life Skills, fine arts, family discipleship, spiritual formation, and nature study.
Grammar Level A Grammar Level B Grammar Level C Grammar Level E Logic