Resource Classrooms
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Computers
The role of technology instruction is to guide students through the maze of complex terms and ideas, capitalize on their natural curiosity, and engage their imaginations as to the applications of technology. An important goal of technology instruction at Renaissance Academy is to foster independence in students when working with computers. When problems or difficulties arise, students are encouraged to think them through and arrive at the solutions themselves--the instructor’s role is to elicit these solutions from the students. When they learn that they can “figure it out”, it develops the confidence that excites them to tackle new problems. The small group setting allows for one-on-one work time between teacher and student, or between student and student, so there is very little lecture time. Projects are designed to be “fun”, but students must demonstrate the required skills. When our students leave Renaissance Academy, our hope is that they interface with computers proficiently and respectfully, and embrace the world of technology in higher education and the workplace.
Art/Drama
The Renaissance Academy’s art experience plays a vital role in the child’s development and provides opportunities that allow for self-expression. The student will progress from simple to more complex tasks building upon the child’s previous knowledge base. The value of art activities for the young child lies primarily in the process of creation rather than in the finished product. The fine arts based curriculum provides experiences in working with various drawing and painting media such as pastels, charcoal, oil pastels and tempera paints, to encourage skill development as well as an awareness of color. Students work with fiber and fabric learning simple tie-dye and batik techniques, weaving and collage. Photography will be used to emphasize sequencing and awareness of the surroundings. Printmaking, sculpture and architecture are explored and encourage students to learn by doing. Through the study of famous artists and the art of other cultures, students encompass a greater sense of history and see themselves in the scope of time. Our intent is to spark the creative impulse in every child to look at the world in a whole new way.
Spanish/PE Renaissance Academy Spanish classes focus on vocabulary, grammar and conversation, reading, literature, and writing. The focus changes quarterly and is presented in developmentally appropriate ways. Language teaching today places great value on authenticity. The content that students are expected to learn and how they practice it is related to the learner’s interests and to real life uses. Students are taught authentic, not “textbook” language. They practice practical conversational phrases and enjoy perfecting their accent! Students are introduced to famous authors, poets and literary work from different Latin American countries. P.E. classes at the Renaissance Academy focuses on exposing the students to different sports throughout the year. They learn different strokes, positions and rules of the various sports that they are exposed to in varying depth. Sportmanship is always a focus in our class. We discussed the many benefits of sports in our lives and worked to keep the “win” in perspective.
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Technology
is an ever-changing course of study that can be equally exciting and confusing
for children these days. What is current and cutting edge today, can be out of
date and useless tomorrow. 
