Daily Schedule
As noted throughout this academic plan, Cornerstone Prep
understands the need to focus on literacy and mathematics. The Cornerstone Prep
daily schedule reflects this focus, as noted by three Literacy Blocks, a
Writing Block, Read Aloud, and Silent, Sustained Reading.
One item worth noting
is the block on read-alouds. Several studies have been conducted that have
noted the importance of continuing to read to students beyond the customary
kindergarten and first grades. Internationally respected author and teacher,
Regie Routman, notes that “reading aloud positively impacts overall academic
achievement as well as reading skills and interest in reading.”[1]
Similarly, Bolden, a fifth-grade teacher, noted his “highest-achieving students
are still read to by their parents” while Catherine Paglin explains that
"from being read to repeatedly, children learn that reading is enjoyable,
that pictures provide clues to the story, that books and print go from left to
right, that print represents words and meaning, that stories have a beginning
and an end. By listening, watching, and asking questions, they add to their
vocabulary and increase their comprehension."[2]
Cornerstone Prep students receive 220 minutes
of daily literacy instruction separated into the three reading blocks and one
block of writing. This figure does not include 20 minutes of daily silent,
sustained reading nor does it include 20 minutes of daily read aloud that
students will receive.
Cornerstone Prep students receive
over 90 minutes of daily instruction on mathematics. Mathematics lessons
include problem solving techniques and general mathematics instruction.
Cornerstone Prep students receive over twice the required Social Studies and
Science instruction as required by the local school system. Students receive
105 minutes of Social Studies and Science instruction per week.
The school day is structured so
that core subjects are taught in the morning and afternoons are used primarily
for other subjects such as science, social studies, physical education, quiet
reading, leadership skills, and other educational and tutorial programs.
Comparison to Local School System
In comparison to the local school system, Cornerstone Prep
students receive nearly 10 hours more literacy instruction per week that
equates to over 360 additional hours of literacy instruction per academic year.
Also, students receive over 300 minutes of math instruction per week which
exceeds district mandates by 25 minutes per day. As mentioned earlier, students
not only receive instruction on general mathematics skills and techniques but
students also receive daily lessons on problem solving techniques.
[1] Routman, R.
(2000). Conversations: Strategies for
teaching, learning, and evaluating. Heinemann: Portsmouth.
[2] Ibid.;
Paglin, C. (1998). In the beginning. Northwest
Education Magazine. Fall 1998 issue.