Standards
NY State Standards - Common Core
New York State P-12 Common Core Learning Standards (CCLS) are internationally-benchmarked and evidence-based standards. These rigorous standards serve as a consistent set of expectations for what students should learn and be able to do.
Learning Frameworks
Literacy Framework – Fountas Pinnell Literacy Continuum
A comprehensive, sequential, researched based program of learning for high-impact literacy instruction. Rigorous and articulated interventions support Fountas Pinnell Literacy through the use of leveled assessments. An organic progression of learning for reading and writing of processes, sequences, continuum, books, levels, lessons, methods, principles and strategies, this literacy continuum supports children in reading flexibly and joyfully and writing clearly and skillfully.
Math Framework – My Math
A research-based, fully articulated sequential development of mathematical concepts and skills, with a strong focus of learning through student investigation, practice and practical application to real world situations.
Science Framework – Building Blocks of Science
A developmentally appropriate exploration of scientific concepts and knowledge coupled with the learning of the scientific method; a strong focus is placed on exploration through hands-on activity. Teachers are alert to individual interests and frequently extend activity to incorporate those interests. Topics are often integrated with the transdisciplinary Units of Exploration.
Social Studies Framework – Transdisciplinary Units of Exploration
Units of Exploration relating to year-long overarching social study themes are experienced through project-based student inquiry. Supported by a wide array of resources and drawing on various subject disciplines, children build understanding through research, field trips, a wide array of hands-on, project-based activities, and ongoing reflection and expression of learning. Grade PreK - Family / Grade K1 - Transportation / Grade K2 - Water / Grade 1 - Community / Grade 2 - Dubai Now and Then / Grade 3 - Traveler's Traders / Grade 4 5 – Egypt / Grade 6 – Immigration
Performing Arts Framework
Music, visual arts, theatre and dance are vital at Clarion. These areas are critical to the Clarion experience serving as an avenue for creativity, expression and skill development to ignite and expand the interests of your child. Teachers in each of these areas hold specialized arts education degrees.
Modern Foreign Languages – ACTFL (American Council of Teachers of Foreign Languages)
Second language program based on the standards for the teaching of languages developed by the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL). Children will be linguistically and culturally prepared to function as world citizens.
Assessment Framework
Program embedded assessments
Powerful assessment and record keeping strategies are embedded in each of the academic programs and learning frameworks, ensuring teacher understanding of each child’s growth and level of attainment. This ongoing assessment leads to selection of the appropriate resources and instructional strategies for use with each child. In My Math and Building Blocks Science, end of unit tests helps to ensure that children have achieved learning objectives. In Literacy, assessments are designed to monitor literacy growth through a seamless continuum of skills. During the Units of Exploration, teachers maintain observational records and student project work to understand a child’s growth.
Student Portfolios
A digital and paper collection which gathers important student work as created by students throughout the year. The portfolios provide understanding of student development as seen through the lens of actual student work. Teachers and students partner to choose the student work and associated assessment documents for inclusion in the portfolios. Periodically the student reviews the portfolio (independently and in collaboration with teachers, parents and peers), to reflect upon their growth and development and to consider and establish goals for future learning. The portfolio is an important vehicle for celebrating the child’s growth.
Learning Journals
Reflection and social learning are two of the most powerful factors which support learning. Clarion students work with their teachers to record their learning journeys using a wide variety of media and techniques. These “records” provide many opportunities for students to reflect on their journeys with peers, teachers and parents. The reflection upon experience and planning for future experience drives a deep level of understanding and ownership of the learning experience. A powerful skill and mindset the child takes with them through life.
Measurement of Academic Progress (Grade 1 and above)
An external standardized test to objectively monitor individual student growth and attainment - with benchmarking both locally and internationally – helping to provide quality assurance of a school’s academic program as well as highlight areas of support for individual children. The test is conducted three times per year in Math, Literacy and Science.
CAT 4 (Grade 2 and above)
The Cognitive Abilities Test provides insight into a student’s potential. Teachers use this information to ensure they are setting goals and providing instruction so that students achieve or exceed the level matching their potential. This diagnostic test is conducted at the beginning of each school year.