Teaching methods at Flowery promote language acquisition through thematic units of study. Since all students at Flowery are second language learners, we plan lessons that are strategic and engaging to maximize their understanding. They explore, experiment, and discover - actively making sense of new concepts and generating knowledge.
Flowery’s school wide student-centered instructional model is Project GLAD (Guided Language Acquisition Design). It is an approach to implementing curriculum based on educational theory and brain research about how children learn.
Teachers are GLAD-trained and incorporate experiential methods into their teaching. Additionally, all teachers in grades K-2 are currently participating in SEAL (Sobrato Early Academic Language) training. The meaningful, thematic style of GLAD makes subject matter interesting and accessible. GLAD strategies result in effective teaching that appeals to all sorts of learners.
GLAD Philosophies Evident at Flowery:
- Diversity is affirmed in language, ethnicity, personal experiences, thinking and learning.
- Language acquisition is accelerated by emphasizing meaning and the message.
- Both languages (Spanish and English) complement each other through integrated.
- Teachers differentiate instruction as needed and maintain high expectations for all students.
- Students are guided in making connections between academic content and the real world.
- Science, social studies and literature are taught in interrelated, thematic lessons.
- Listening, speaking, reading and writing are incorporated into all content areas.
- The purpose and joy of reading is valued.
Flowery follows California state and Sonoma Valley Unified School District guidelines. The school district has adopted content standards and benchmarks assessments. These assessments allow teachers, students and parents to see where individuals are in reaching and/or exceeding district standards. The measures determine whether the student has successfully learned grade level standards. The results of these measures enable our teachers to teach to your child's individual needs and strengths. The state content standards can be accessed at the link provided below.
Content Standards for California Public Schools K - 12