See our curriculum by grade below
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The Rockland Jewish Academy curriculum (see below) takes a diverse approach and has as its fundamental belief that a community naturally includes people with different beliefs about Judaism in practice and theory. It teaches that it is possible to be a member of a community that includes and respects those differences.
Most Jewish day schools split the day into two halves, one half teaching secular subjects, and the other half, Judaic studies. The RJA curriculum interweaves general and Judaic studies throughout the day. This provides adequate time to teach the skills of Hebrew language fluency and an understanding and knowledge of Judaism; but also increased time in those general subjects which allow our students to develop critical thinking and literary interpretive skills, understanding the scientific method, the practical and theoretical use of mathematics and the value of collaboration and analytical skills. At the center of such a program is the gathering together of skilled and compassionate teachers at RJA. Our innovative curriculum begins with our Early Childhood Program, which takes an “Intentional Teaching” approach, focused on learning through play. Early Childhood is a time of learning, exploration, fun, warmth and holiday-centered celebration. We introduce Jewish values and customs, and the importance of treating each other respectfully, as the Torah teaches. By learning through play children can develop social and cognitive skills, mature emotionally, and acquire the self-confidence they need to engage in the world around them. |
We teach Hebrew beginning in preschool – a significant difference from public and other private schools. Being bilingual early on has proven to have positive effects on intellectual growth, increased flexibility in thinking, a greater sensitivity to language, and better listening skills. Learning a second language at an early age is intuitive and easy to master. We welcome you to view the curriculum for all of our grades below.
RJA curriculum includes Balanced Literacy, an integrated approach to mastery of language arts. The balanced literacy approach includes reading aloud, guided one-on-one reading, independent reading, along with word study and both independent writing and guided writing. Students work in literacy centers and explore all the different genres. Our curriculum includes the innovative Singapore Math teaching method, a widely respected model of preparing students to become deep thinkers. Singapore Math is based on a progression from concrete to abstract concepts. This approach teaches students to organize information and solve problems in a step by step manner. Even though Singapore Math’s curriculum is well-thought out, rigorous and deep, the language and explanations are exceptionally clear. Most explanations are in “pictorial language,” which, when combined with all the other features, make Singapore Math truly unique, powerful and the #1 math program in the world. U.S. and international researchers have found a strong correlation between the concise and focused math framework and good test performance. The philosophical goals of Singapore Math go to genuine development of problem-solving abilities, understanding underlying mathematical principles and appreciation of mathematics as a powerful tool in everyday life. |
