General Studies

An Academic Foundation that Supports Individual Achievement

Valley Beth Shalom Day School is dedicated to create 21^st Century learners who can work collaboratively and independently, communicate effectively, think critically and creatively, and problem solve effectively. We are preparing our students to be responsible risk takers in a safe environment, equipped with the skills of flexibility, adaptability, and motivation, ready to succeed in our rapidly changing global age. Technology is integrated throughout the curriculum, and learning takes place utilizing our Innovation Lab as an extension of the classrooms. Each student’s unique learning style is addressed through small group differentiated learning instruction. Our highly academic general studies curriculum goes beyond the California State and Common Core Standards, offering students an enriching learning experience, from accelerated class opportunities to individualized student support. We offer enrichment specialists in science, technology, library, physical education, and the arts. Field trips and overnight trips broaden the curriculum beyond the classroom.

Language Arts

The language arts curriculum develops the communication skills of reading, writing, listening, speaking and thinking. A wide range of experiences, teaching techniques and strategies, and the use of technology help learning come alive throughout the grade levels. 21^st Century learning strategies including, collaboration, creativity, problem-solving and critical thinking are employed throughout the lessons.

Reading

A comprehensive, balanced literacy approach encourages students to become motivated readers and derive knowledge and meaning from what they read. Our individualized approach allows each student to reach his/her potential. Students learn reading strategies that help build sequential skills, decode unfamiliar words, read fluently, develop reading comprehension skills, including the ability to analyze and infer, and appreciate and enjoy fine literature.

Writing

Our program includes developmental and inventive writing in the younger grades building toward expository, narrative, persuasive and research assignments in the upper grades. The use of rubrics and portfolio assessment guides students through the writing process. Grammar and spelling instruction are an integral part of the writing curriculum. An individual portfolio follows each student from kindergarten to sixth grade documenting writing growth.

Mathematics

Our core math program is Math in Focus, a curriculum based on the Singapore Math approach. Math in Focus emphasizes deep, conceptual understanding rather than rote memorization, guiding students to understand both the “why” and the “how” of mathematics. In practice, this means spending more time on fewer topics to build a strong foundation, using multiple strategies like bar models or visual representations before moving to abstract equations, and applying math to real-life situations through word problems. Teachers encourage students to explain their reasoning, fostering critical thinking and communication, while also tailoring practice to meet individual needs. This approach reflects our core value of Limmud — Achieving Academic Excellence, helping students become confident mathematicians who are prepared to apply their knowledge in a wide variety of situations.

Science and Health

Science instruction engages students to learn about our natural world through inquiry and hands-on discovery in our interactive Science Lab. Students learn the scientific method: observing, classifying, communicating, predicting, making hypotheses, collecting, recording and interpreting data in each unit of study. Health education integrates with the science curriculum.

Social Studies

Social sciences builds a foundation of our world through the understanding of past events, geography, government, law, economics, cultures, and science. The Social studies curriculum focuses on decision making and its impact. Students engage in critical thinking, collaboration, simulations, and performance tasks. Texts and primary resources are used as references to help make history and culture come alive and support students as active participants and global citizens in the democratic process.