The Emerging Language and Literacy Curriculum
ELLC Preschool Curriculum
Emerging Language and Literacy Curriculum
(ELLC Preschool Curriculum)
The Emerging Language and Literacy Curriculum (ELLC) is a program that provides developmentally appropriate language and literacy practices for all preschool children. Communication skills are critical for later success in formal reading instruction upon entering school. ELLC focuses on providing a strong foundation for language systems and giving preschool children significant exposure to print and sound play. This curriculum is like many others except for a liberal amount of materials and equipment related to language and literacy learning and explicit teaching of phonological awareness and language targets.
The Quirkles
So What’s With The Quirkles®?
In most classrooms across America, there’s not much science happening. There are a lot of reasons. For one thing, in the early elementary years, so much time is spent on reading and literacy development, there’s little time left for everything else. And because most elementary teachers don’t have a strong science background themselves, they’re often afraid to tackle the subject. Finally, to make science hands-on and interactive, it takes time and money to research and gather materials. How many teachers and parents have time for that?
Research suggests that most schools don’t seriously teach science until about third grade. It also suggests that by fourth grade, most students say they hate science. Why? Their exposure has been limited to reading assignments in traditional texts and then answering questions at the end of the chapter. How boring is that?
Let’s face it. Learning about science is like driving a car or learning to water ski! Granted you need to study the subject, but it’s not fun or often meaningful until you get in and do it!
To address these issues, the Quirkles® were created. The Quirkles® are 26 imaginary scientists that help children every day, all over the world, develop a love and appreciation for science. They offer a fresh new way to integrate literacy and science at school, for educational programs, or at home. Vocabulary builders, two related science experiments, and a character education lesson are also included in each of the 26 alphabet-series books. The Quirkles® create enthusiasm and excitement for reading and science through whimsical illustrations, alliteration of the specified letter, and fun hands-on science.
The Quirkles® offer a multitude of differentiated learning opportunities for older/more advanced students as well. The science concepts are robust and can be taught in such a way to be challenging throughout upper elementary grades. From an introduction and shared reading experience for the youngest learners, to an independent reading or mentoring experience that more heavily emphasizes science for older children, the Quirkles® offers something for everyone.
We have partnered with the Missouri Department of Conservation for The Discover Nature School Program/Nature Revealed, to give students the awareness and exposure to nature and the environment around them.
We utilize the Eat Smart, Move Smart Program with our children and staff. It is an important part of what we do as educators to show the families in our program and community that healthy habits begin with us.
The Academy of Innovative Learners is a Certified Wildlife Habitat School Yard