CURRICULUM
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3rd and 4th graders become Mighty Acorns and are excited to explore the Forest Preserve at Sauganash.
Core Subjects
The CPS core academic curriculum includes Language Arts (Reading and Writing), Math, Science, and Social Studies. At Waters we strive to differentiate learning within each classroom so that students can feel comfortable yet be appropriately challenged with opportunities to grow. Central to Waters’ approach, the teachers take every opportunity to integrate across content areas and provide authentic hands-on learning experiences. Contact classroom teachers for additional information about grade-level curricula.The Waters School Continuous Improvement Work Plan (CIWP) outlines the specific strategies and action steps for our school’s curriculum.
  • Language Arts:​ Pearson’s Reading Street is our language arts curriculum (reading and writing combined) for K-5, Pearson’s MyPerspectives is the language arts curriculum for grades 6-8.
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  • Mathematics:​ For K-5, we use the Math Trailblazers Curriculum to provide students academic rigor, a comprehensive program that helps students work through mathematical concepts by conducting hands-on problem-solving experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and collaborating to arrive at conclusions. Connected Math is the base curriculum for grades 6-8, supplemented by pre-Algebra in 7 th and Algebra in 8th (with an exit exam at the end of the school year for high school placement). 

  • Science:​ Our K-8 scope and sequence science curriculum is defined by the science focus team and aligned with the Next Generation Science Standards, which teach science as both a body of knowledge and as a hands-on, evidence-based curriculum.. At Waters our Science curriculum is integrated with our Ecology Program, which amplifies these goals by making complex concepts come alive and building a life-long interest in science. Students may participate in the city-wide STEM research exhibition and/or National Engineers Week. 

  • Social Studies​ - Our social studies curriculum is created so our students have the skills, knowledge and habits necessary to effectively contribute to a

In addition to the core curriculum, each home room participates in a variety of Essentials programs. Waters students receive instruction in music, drama, visual art, digital media (formerly technology), physical education, math enrichment, and ecology.