At Enlight Christian School we offer Scholar Springs Publications curriculum which is Common Core State Standards and Next Generation Science Standards rooted in Bloom’s Taxonomy. This provides a structured and progressive framework for developing critical thinking and deep understanding across all subject areas. We believe that true learning goes beyond memorization, it involves guiding students through increasingly complex levels of thinking, from basic knowledge acquisition to advanced analysis and creative problem-solving.
Our teaching begins at the foundational level of Remembering, where students recall facts, definitions, and basic concepts. From there, we move to Understanding, ensuring that students can explain ideas in their own words and grasp the meaning behind what they learn. At the Applying stage, learners use their knowledge in real-world scenarios and classroom tasks, reinforcing practical learning.
We emphasize Analyzing by encouraging students to break down information, identify relationships, and draw connections between ideas. This is followed by Evaluating, where learners are challenged to make judgments, defend opinions, and assess outcomes using evidence and reasoning. At the highest level, Creating, students synthesize their knowledge to design new ideas, construct solutions, and express themselves in original and meaningful ways.
Our Mathematics Program for Grades 1–8 is fully aligned with the Common Core State Standards (CCSS), providing students with a strong foundation in mathematical understanding, problem-solving, reasoning, and real-world application. The curriculum is carefully designed to develop mathematical fluency while encouraging critical thinking, logical reasoning, and confidence in mathematics.
Students progress through a structured sequence of learning experiences that build conceptual understanding and procedural skills. The program emphasizes the Standards for Mathematical Practice, helping students become effective problem solvers who can analyze situations, communicate mathematical ideas, and apply mathematics in meaningful contexts.
- Grade 1: Students develop number sense through counting, place value, addition, and subtraction within 100. They begin exploring measurement, data, and basic geometry while building fluency with foundational math facts.
- Grade 2: Students extend their understanding of place value to 1,000 and strengthen addition and subtraction strategies. They explore measurement, money, time, data interpretation, and geometric reasoning.
- Grade 3: Students develop multiplication and division fluency, work with fractions, solve multi-step word problems, and deepen their understanding of area, perimeter, measurement, and data analysis.
- Grade 4: Students expand their knowledge of multi-digit multiplication and division, equivalent fractions, decimals, geometry, measurement conversions, and mathematical reasoning through complex problem-solving tasks.
- Grade 5: Students work with operations involving fractions and decimals, analyze patterns and relationships, explore volume concepts, and develop a stronger understanding of algebraic thinking and coordinate systems.
- Grade 6: Students transition into middle school mathematics by studying ratios, rates, percentages, expressions, equations, statistics, geometry, and introductory algebra concepts. Real-world applications are emphasized throughout the curriculum.
- Grade 7: Students deepen their understanding of proportional relationships, rational numbers, algebraic expressions, equations, inequalities, probability, statistics, and geometric reasoning. Critical thinking and mathematical modeling become increasingly important.
- Grade 8: Students prepare for high school mathematics through the study of linear equations, functions, systems of equations, geometry, transformations, statistics, and introductory concepts in algebra and mathematical modeling.
Our English Language Arts (ELA) Program for Grades 1–8 is fully aligned with the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) and is designed to develop strong readers, writers, speakers, listeners, and critical thinkers. The curriculum provides a comprehensive and balanced approach to literacy, helping students build the communication skills necessary for academic success and lifelong learning.
Through engaging literature, informational texts, writing experiences, collaborative discussions, and presentations, students develop the ability to comprehend complex texts, express ideas clearly, think critically, and communicate effectively in a variety of settings.
- Grade 1: Students develop foundational reading skills, including phonics, decoding, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. They begin writing simple narratives, informative pieces, and opinion texts while developing speaking and listening skills.
- Grade 2: Students strengthen reading fluency and comprehension while exploring a variety of literary and informational texts. Writing instruction focuses on organizing ideas, expanding sentences, and producing clear narratives, informative texts, and opinions.
- Grade 3: Students read increasingly complex texts and develop strategies for understanding themes, main ideas, character development, and text structures. Writing becomes more detailed and organized across narrative, informative, and opinion genres.
- Grade 4: Students analyze literature and informational texts more deeply, citing textual evidence to support their thinking. Writing instruction emphasizes organization, elaboration, research skills, and effective use of language conventions.
- Grade 5: Students engage with challenging texts that require critical analysis and interpretation. They write multi-paragraph essays, conduct research projects, evaluate evidence, and participate in collaborative discussions and presentations.
- Grade 6: Students develop advanced reading comprehension skills through the analysis of literary and informational texts. Writing focuses on argumentative, informative, and narrative compositions while strengthening grammar, vocabulary, and research abilities.
- Grade 7: Students evaluate complex texts, analyze authors’ craft, compare multiple sources, and develop evidence-based arguments. Writing assignments require critical thinking, organization, and effective communication across various formats.
- Grade 8: Students prepare for high school literacy expectations by analyzing sophisticated texts, constructing well-supported arguments, conducting research, and refining speaking and listening skills. Emphasis is placed on independent reading, analytical writing, and academic discourse.
Program Components
Reading
- Foundational Reading Skills
- Literature Analysis
- Informational Text Comprehension
- Vocabulary Development
- Reading Fluency
- Critical Thinking and Text Analysis
Writing
- Narrative Writing
- Informative/Explanatory Writing
- Opinion and Argumentative Writing
- Research and Inquiry Projects
- Grammar and Language Conventions
- Revision and Editing Skills
Speaking and Listening
- Collaborative Discussions
- Oral Presentations
- Active Listening Strategies
- Multimedia Communication
- Public Speaking Skills
Language
- Vocabulary Acquisition
- Grammar and Usage
- Sentence Structure
- Academic Language Development
- Figurative Language and Word Relationships
Program Highlights
- Fully aligned with Common Core State Standards (CCSS)
- Balanced literacy approach integrating reading, writing, speaking, and listening
- Rich exposure to literature and informational texts
- Emphasis on critical thinking and evidence-based analysis
- Development of academic vocabulary and communication skills
- Research and technology integration
- Progressive preparation for high school English Language Arts
By the completion of Grade 8, students are confident readers, effective writers, thoughtful communicators, and critical thinkers who are prepared for the rigorous literacy demands of high school and beyond.
Our Science Program for Grades 1–8 is fully aligned with the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), providing students with an engaging, inquiry-based approach to learning science. The curriculum integrates scientific knowledge with hands-on investigations, engineering design challenges, critical thinking, and real-world problem-solving experiences.
Students actively explore science through observation, experimentation, research, collaboration, and evidence-based reasoning. The program is built around the three dimensions of NGSS:
- Science and Engineering Practices (SEPs): Learning how scientists and engineers investigate, design, and solve problems.
- Crosscutting Concepts (CCCs): Understanding patterns and connections across all areas of science.
- Disciplinary Core Ideas (DCIs): Building deep knowledge in Life Science, Physical Science, Earth and Space Science, and Engineering.
- Grade 1: Students explore the natural world through observation and investigation. Topics include plant and animal needs, light and sound, patterns in the sky, weather, and basic engineering design.
- Grade 2: Students investigate habitats, ecosystems, Earth’s changing surface, states of matter, forces and motion, and the relationship between living things and their environments.
- Grade 3: Students study life cycles, ecosystems, weather and climate, forces and interactions, inheritance and variation of traits, and engineering solutions to real-world problems.
- Grade 4: Students examine energy transfer, waves and information, Earth’s processes, natural hazards, animal structures and functions, and the role of engineering in solving challenges.
- Grade 5: Students investigate matter and its interactions, ecosystems, Earth systems, the water cycle, energy flow, space systems, and engineering applications that address environmental issues.
- Grade 6: Students develop a deeper understanding of cells, body systems, energy, Earth’s systems, weather and climate, forces and motion, and engineering design processes.
- Grade 7: Students explore chemical reactions, matter and energy in organisms and ecosystems, natural selection, genetics, Earth’s history, plate tectonics, and environmental sustainability.
- Grade 8: Students study physics concepts including forces, motion, waves, energy, and electromagnetism, while also exploring evolution, Earth’s place in the universe, and advanced engineering challenges.
Program Components
Life Science
- Cells and Organisms
- Ecosystems
- Heredity and Genetics
- Evolution and Natural Selection
- Human Body Systems
- Biodiversity
Physical Science
- Matter and Its Interactions
- Forces and Motion
- Energy
- Waves and Information Transfer
- Chemical Reactions
- Electricity and Magnetism
Earth and Space Science
- Weather and Climate
- Earth’s Systems
- Natural Resources
- Geological Processes
- Solar System
- Space Exploration
Engineering and Technology
- Engineering Design Process
- Problem Solving
- Innovation and Technology
- STEM Projects
- Environmental Engineering
- Real-World Applications
Program Highlights
- Fully aligned with Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)
- Three-dimensional learning approach (SEPs, CCCs, and DCIs)
- Hands-on laboratory investigations and experiments
- Engineering design challenges and STEM integration
- Inquiry-based and project-based learning experiences
- Emphasis on critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving
- Real-world scientific applications and environmental awareness
- Preparation for advanced middle school and high school science courses
By the completion of Grade 8, students have developed scientific literacy, analytical thinking skills, and a strong foundation in Life Science, Physical Science, Earth and Space Science, and Engineering. They are prepared to succeed in advanced science studies and to become informed, responsible citizens in an increasingly scientific and technological world.
Our Social Studies Program for Grades 1–8 is aligned with Common Core State Standards (CCSS) literacy expectations and is designed to develop informed, responsible, and globally aware citizens. Through the study of history, geography, civics, economics, cultures, languages, and world regions, students gain a deeper understanding of the diverse societies that shape our world.
The curriculum integrates reading, writing, research, speaking, listening, and critical thinking skills while encouraging students to examine historical events, geographic relationships, cultural traditions, economic systems, and civic responsibilities from multiple perspectives.
- Grade 1: Students explore families, communities, cultures, national symbols, maps, basic geography, and how people live and work in different places around the world.
- Grade 2: Students investigate local and global communities, cultural traditions, geographic features, government services, and how communities meet the needs of their citizens.
- Grade 3: Students study world communities and regions, comparing cultures, languages, traditions, economies, and geographic environments across different countries and continents.
- Grade 4: Students examine state and regional history, geography, government, economics, and the contributions of diverse groups to society.
- Grade 5: Students explore ancient civilizations, early world history, human migration, geographic influences on societies, and the development of cultures, governments, and economies.
- Grade 6: Students study world geography and cultures, examining countries across Africa, Asia, Europe, Oceania, North America, and South America. Students analyze physical geography, languages, religions, governments, and economic systems.
- Grade 7: Students investigate world history from ancient civilizations through the medieval period, exploring the rise and fall of empires, cultural exchanges, technological innovations, and global interactions.
- Grade 8: Students examine the foundations of modern societies through the study of government, citizenship, constitutional principles, economics, global interdependence, and significant historical events that have shaped the modern world.
Program Components
History
- Ancient Civilizations
- World History
- Historical Figures and Events
- Human Migration
- Exploration and Discovery
- Historical Analysis and Interpretation
Geography
- Physical Geography
- Human Geography
- Maps and Geographic Tools
- World Regions and Countries
- Natural Resources
- Environmental Interactions
Civics and Government
- Citizenship and Civic Responsibility
- Rights and Responsibilities
- Government Structures
- Laws and Public Policy
- Leadership and Decision-Making
- Democratic Principles
Economics
- Needs and Wants
- Goods and Services
- Producers and Consumers
- Trade and Global Markets
- Financial Literacy
- Economic Systems
Culture and Global Studies
- World Cultures and Traditions
- Languages and Communication
- Religion and Belief Systems
- Cultural Diversity
- Global Connections
- International Understanding
Literacy in Social Studies (CCSS Integration)
- Analyzing Primary and Secondary Sources
- Reading Informational Texts
- Research Projects
- Evidence-Based Writing
- Oral Presentations and Discussions
- Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
Program Highlights
- Aligned with Common Core State Standards (CCSS) literacy expectations
- Comprehensive study of history, geography, civics, economics, and culture
- Exploration of countries and regions around the world
- Development of global awareness and cultural understanding
- Integration of reading, writing, research, and communication skills
- Use of maps, timelines, primary sources, and technology
- Inquiry-based learning and collaborative projects
- Preparation for active citizenship and lifelong learning
By the completion of Grade 8, students possess a strong understanding of world history, geography, cultures, governments, and economic systems. They are equipped with the critical thinking, research, and communication skills necessary to participate thoughtfully in their communities and in an increasingly interconnected global society.
Our Bible Program for Grades 1–8 provides students with a strong foundation in Biblical knowledge, Christian character development, spiritual growth, and practical faith application. Through the study of Scripture, students develop an understanding of God’s plan throughout history, the life and teachings of Jesus Christ, Christian values, and the role of faith in everyday life.
The curriculum encourages students to grow spiritually, develop Biblical literacy, build strong moral character, and apply Biblical principles to their relationships, decisions, and service to others. Students engage in Scripture reading, memorization, discussion, reflection, prayer, and practical Christian living.
- Grade 1: Students are introduced to major Bible stories, God’s love, creation, prayer, obedience, kindness, and the life of Jesus. Lessons focus on developing a basic understanding of God’s character and His care for people.
- Grade 2: Students study key Old and New Testament stories, Biblical heroes, God’s promises, prayer, worship, and Christian character traits such as honesty, respect, and responsibility.
- Grade 3: Students explore God’s covenant with His people, the lives of important Biblical figures, the teachings of Jesus, and the importance of faith, forgiveness, and serving others.
- Grade 4: Students examine God’s plan of redemption throughout Scripture, the history of Israel, the ministry of Jesus, and the early Church while applying Biblical principles to daily life.
- Grade 5: Students study the structure of the Bible, major Biblical themes, Christian discipleship, leadership, spiritual growth, and how Biblical teachings influence personal choices and relationships.
- Grade 6: Students develop deeper understanding of Biblical history, doctrine, Christian worldview, apologetics foundations, and the relationship between faith and everyday life.
- Grade 7: Students explore the life of Christ, the teachings of the Apostles, Christian ethics, spiritual disciplines, church history, and the application of Scripture to contemporary issues.
- Grade 8: Students examine Biblical doctrine, leadership, service, evangelism, Christian worldview, Biblical interpretation, and preparation for living out their faith in high school and beyond.
Program Components
Biblical Knowledge
- Old Testament Survey
- New Testament Survey
- Major Biblical Characters
- Key Events in Scripture
- Biblical Themes and Teachings
- Scripture Memory
Christian Character Development
- Integrity
- Respect
- Responsibility
- Compassion
- Humility
- Perseverance
Christian Living
- Prayer
- Worship
- Service
- Stewardship
- Evangelism
- Discipleship
Theology and Doctrine
- God the Father
- Jesus Christ
- The Holy Spirit
- Salvation
- The Church
- Christian Worldview
Biblical Literacy Skills
- Reading and Understanding Scripture
- Bible Study Techniques
- Memorization and Application
- Reflection and Discussion
- Critical Thinking Through a Biblical Lens
- Personal Devotions
Program Highlights
- Christ-centered and Bible-based curriculum
- Systematic study of Old and New Testament Scriptures
- Development of Biblical literacy and understanding
- Emphasis on Christian character and servant leadership
- Integration of faith into everyday life and learning
- Scripture memorization and application
- Opportunities for prayer, worship, and service
- Preparation for spiritual growth and lifelong discipleship
By the completion of Grade 8, students have developed a solid understanding of Scripture, a growing relationship with Jesus Christ, strong Christian character, and the ability to apply Biblical truth to their daily lives. They are prepared to continue their spiritual journey with confidence, wisdom, and a commitment to living according to God’s Word.
Our High School Curriculum is designed to prepare students for college, careers, leadership, and lifelong learning through a rigorous, standards-based academic program. Courses are aligned with Common Core State Standards (CCSS), Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), and college readiness expectations. Students engage in challenging coursework that develops critical thinking, communication, problem-solving, research, and leadership skills.
The curriculum combines high-quality instructional resources, including CommonLit for English Language Arts, OpenStax for Science and Mathematics, and Advanced Placement (AP) opportunities for students seeking college-level academic challenges.
English Language Arts (CCSS Aligned)
Our English program utilizes CommonLit and other high-quality literary and informational texts to develop advanced reading, writing, speaking, listening, and research skills. Students analyze complex texts, write evidence-based arguments, conduct research, and communicate effectively in academic and real-world settings.
Grade 9 English
- Literary Analysis
- Informational Text Analysis
- Narrative, Informative, and Argumentative Writing
- Vocabulary Development
- Public Speaking and Discussion Skills
Grade 10 English
- World Literature
- Critical Reading and Analysis
- Research and Inquiry
- Advanced Composition
- Multimedia Presentations
Grade 11 English
- American Literature
- Rhetorical Analysis
- Research Writing
- SAT/College Readiness Skills
- Advanced Argumentative Writing
Grade 12 English
- British and World Literature
- College and Career Writing
- Advanced Research Projects
- Public Speaking and Communication
- Senior Capstone Presentations
Mathematics
Using OpenStax and standards-aligned resources, students develop strong mathematical reasoning and problem-solving skills.
Course Sequence
- Algebra I
- Geometry
- Algebra II
- Pre-Calculus
- Statistics
- Calculus (AP option available)
Students learn to apply mathematics to real-world situations while developing analytical and quantitative reasoning skills.
Science (NGSS Aligned)
Science courses utilize OpenStax resources and inquiry-based learning aligned with NGSS principles.
Course Sequence
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Environmental Science
- Anatomy and Physiology (elective)
Students engage in laboratory investigations, engineering design challenges, scientific research, and evidence-based problem-solving.
Social Studies
Students examine history, geography, civics, economics, government, and global studies through inquiry-based learning and analysis of primary and secondary sources.
Course Sequence
- World History
- United States History
- Government and Civics
- Economics
- Global Studies
Students develop informed citizenship, cultural awareness, and critical thinking skills.
Bible and Christian Studies
The Bible curriculum develops Biblical literacy, Christian worldview understanding, discipleship, leadership, and servant-hearted character.
Topics include:
- Old Testament Survey
- New Testament Survey
- Christian Worldview
- Apologetics
- Leadership and Service
- Biblical Ethics
- Personal Spiritual Growth
Advanced Placement (AP) Opportunities
Qualified students may enroll in Advanced Placement (AP) courses that provide college-level academic experiences and preparation for AP examinations.
Possible AP offerings include:
- AP English Language and Composition
- AP English Literature and Composition
- AP Calculus
- AP Statistics
- AP Biology
- AP Chemistry
- AP Physics
- AP United States History
- AP World History
- AP Government and Politics
- AP Psychology
- AP Computer Science Principles
AP courses promote advanced analytical thinking, academic writing, research, and college readiness.
College and Career Readiness
Students are prepared for post-secondary success through:
- Research and Inquiry Projects
- Technology Integration
- Public Speaking and Presentations
- Career Exploration
- Leadership Development
- Community Service Opportunities
- Financial Literacy
- College and Scholarship Preparation
Program Highlights
- CCSS-aligned English Language Arts curriculum
- CommonLit integration for reading and writing excellence
- OpenStax resources for Mathematics and Science
- NGSS-aligned Science instruction
- Advanced Placement (AP) opportunities
- College and career readiness focus
- Critical thinking and problem-solving development
- Technology-enhanced learning
- Christian character and leadership development
Our STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) Program provides students with innovative, hands-on learning experiences that prepare them for success in a rapidly changing world. Through inquiry, creativity, collaboration, and real-world problem-solving, students develop the skills necessary to thrive in college, careers, and future leadership roles.
The STEM curriculum integrates science, technology, engineering, and mathematics into meaningful projects and challenges that encourage students to think critically, solve complex problems, and apply their learning to authentic situations. Students engage in engineering design, coding, robotics, research, experimentation, and innovation while developing the essential skills needed for 21st-century careers.
STEM Program Goals
- Develop critical thinking and analytical reasoning skills.
- Foster creativity, innovation, and problem-solving abilities.
- Encourage collaboration and effective communication.
- Build technological literacy and digital citizenship.
- Promote engineering design and computational thinking.
- Connect classroom learning to real-world applications.
- Prepare students for future STEM careers and higher education opportunities.
Elementary STEM (Grades 1-5)
Students explore foundational STEM concepts through hands-on investigations and project-based learning.
Areas of Study:
- Scientific Inquiry
- Engineering Design Challenges
- Coding Fundamentals
- Robotics Exploration
- Environmental Science
- Simple Machines
- Innovation and Invention
- Mathematics Applications
Middle School STEM (Grades 6-8)
Students deepen their understanding of STEM disciplines through increasingly complex projects and collaborative problem-solving experiences.
Areas of Study:
- Robotics and Automation
- Computer Programming
- Engineering Design Process
- Renewable Energy Systems
- Artificial Intelligence Foundations
- Environmental Sustainability
- Data Analysis
- Applied Mathematics
High School STEM (Grades 9-12)
Students participate in advanced STEM experiences that prepare them for college-level study and future careers.
Areas of Study:
- Engineering Principles
- Robotics and Automation
- Computer Science and Programming
- Artificial Intelligence
- Biotechnology
- Environmental Engineering
- Advanced Mathematics
- Scientific Research and Innovation
Project-Based Learning
Students regularly engage in authentic STEM projects, such as:
- Designing sustainable communities
- Building robotic systems
- Developing computer programs and applications
- Engineering renewable energy solutions
- Creating scientific research investigations
- Solving environmental challenges
- Designing prototypes and inventions
- Participating in STEM competitions and showcases
Cognia STEM Accreditation
Our STEM Program is designed to align with the standards and best practices recognized by Cognia STEM Certification, a globally respected framework that recognizes schools demonstrating excellence in STEM education.
Cognia STEM Certification evaluates how effectively schools integrate Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics into teaching and learning while fostering innovation, collaboration, critical thinking, and real-world problem-solving.
A Cognia STEM-certified program demonstrates a commitment to:
- Interdisciplinary STEM learning experiences.
- Inquiry-based and project-based instruction.
- Authentic problem-solving opportunities.
- Collaboration with community and industry partners.
- Technology integration across the curriculum.
- Continuous improvement and innovation.
- Career and college readiness preparation.
- Development of future-ready skills.
STEM Learning Outcomes
Students in a Cognia-aligned STEM program develop:
- Critical Thinking
- Creativity and Innovation
- Communication Skills
- Collaboration Skills
- Engineering Design Competencies
- Technological Literacy
- Computational Thinking
- Leadership and Problem-Solving Abilities
Career Pathway Preparation
The STEM program helps prepare students for careers in:
- Engineering
- Computer Science
- Robotics
- Artificial Intelligence
- Healthcare and Biotechnology
- Environmental Science
- Aerospace
- Cybersecurity
- Information Technology
- Data Science
Program Highlights
- Hands-on STEM learning experiences
- Project-Based Learning (PBL)
- Engineering Design Challenges
- Robotics and Coding Integration
- Real-World Problem Solving
- Technology-Rich Learning Environment
- College and Career Readiness Focus
- Alignment with Cognia STEM Certification Standards
- Development of Future-Ready Skills
- Opportunities for Innovation and Leadership
Through our STEM program and commitment to Cognia STEM excellence, students become confident innovators, problem solvers, and leaders who are prepared to succeed in an increasingly technological and interconnected world.