TPRS (Teaching Proficiency through Reading and Storytelling) is a method for teaching foreign language that was created by Blaine Ray, a Spanish teacher in Bakersfield, California in 1990. Concerned that his students were disinterested in the unexciting process of learning a language from a textbook, he began to use James Asher’s Total Physical Response to teach Spanish. By incorporating Dr. Stephen Krashen’s language acquisition strategies of storytelling, dramatic role playing, reading in the target language and being read to, with James Asher’s TPR, Ray developed an all-encompassing methodology. This method allows ample time for students to hear and internalize language structures before being made to produce the language.
All students are required to take Spanish other than the half-day Kindergarten students. Students in grades 7-8 may elect to take advanced courses in Spanish.
Music experiences and the study of music are an important component of our curriculum sequence and daily schedule. Our music program consists of music history, theory, and music performance. Our music curriculum is sequenced and aligned according to grade level progression with an emphasis on band and choir performance in grades 6-8.
Opportunities and experiences in the area of physical education are an important element in physical well-being of our students. Awareness of physical health, as well as exposure to activities related to physical development and skills are key priorities for our PE program.
Our art program is an essential component of our core curriculum and sequence. Through our art classes, students develop an appreciation of the visual arts, and knowledge of art history and artists. Our curriculum is designed to provide students a rich knowledge of art, as well as practical skills and development of talents in the area of visual arts. Students are also given opportunities to demonstrate their skills at “art shows” and exhibits for our school community.
New Vision Charter School believes that students should be provided with a comprehensive educational experience that includes the Arts as well as opportunities to explore individual talents as they become young adults.
The electives and requirements are distributed to families at the end of the school year prior for the upcoming academic year. Questions regarding the electives or specials being offered at each trimester should be directed to the school counselor. Electives are subject to change at any given time.