Core Curriculum

  • Academic Achievement

    At Dows Lane Elementary School, we believe in a well-rounded and rigorous curriculum experience. At each grade level, students will receive instruction in the four main core curriculum areas: Literacy (Reading, Writing, Listening, Speaking), Math, Social Studies and Science. Literacy and math are a part of daily instruction. For social studies and science, each grade level approaches units across the year. At times, these units are integrated with other core areas. In addition, students have experience through special programs that enhance our core curriculum, such as the PLTW (Project Lead the Way) and a variety of PTSA and IEF grant-funded experiences, including the NY Historical Society, Artists, authors, assemblies, and more.  NY State Curriculum and Instruction

    Curriculum - Teaching Thinking

    We are pleased to share a link to Rubicon Atlas, a website that provides access to Irvington UFSD's curriculum. Below is the link to the Irvington UFSD Rubicon Atlas site and our FAQ document. This FAQ's will provide quick answers ​that you may find helpful as you explore our curriculum through this new website.

    Rubicon Atlas

    Homework

    Homework is designed to reinforce a strong foundation for reading, writing, math skills, and other skills learned during the day. In addition, homework is also designed to provide shared experiences for families and children.

    Teachers follow a recommended time allotment for homework which is developmentally appropriate and research-based. 

    • Kindergarten: 5-10 minutes
    • 1st Grade:  10-20 minutes
    • 2nd Grade: 15-30 minutes
    • 3rd Grade: 20-40 minutes

    If you find that your child is laboring over homework, please reach out to your child’s teacher. We encourage parents not to provide extensive help with homework so teachers can get a sense of where a student may be struggling with daily learning.

    We also recommend you read to your child every night.

     

    Social Emotional Learning

    At Dows Lane, we also support and foster students' social and emotional learning. Helping students understand and manage emotions, feel and show empathy for others, and establish positive relationships helps students grow as individuals.

    In our classrooms and around the school, collectively, we:

    • Start each day with a positive greeting and/ or circle conversation
    • Use stories, role-playing, and conversations for teachable moments
    • Model and support student work with partners and groups
    • Nurture a culture of kindness