Teaching & Learning
We believe to become truly educated, students must recognize and develop their intellect, their talents, and their aspirations. That’s why we advocate developing the whole person through various programs and activities available throughout our community. On this page, you’ll learn a little more about programs your child will discover at Ridge Ranch Elementary School. Also, enjoy our links for students, and see a few of the ways we make learning fun!
English as a Second Language (ESL)
We proudly offer English as a Second Language (ESL) based on student need. At registration, school personnel identify and evaluate English language learners to determine the level of intervention they require.
The goal of the ESL program is to assist students in achieving English fluency, to include listening comprehension, speaking, reading, and writing skills. Our certified ESL teachers conduct annual student assessments to survey progress.
Science
The next generation science standards (NGSS) reflect a new vision for American education that reflects the interconnected nature of real world science. Teachers engage their students in learning experiences that provide exposure to science and engineering practices, crosscutting concepts, and disciplinary ideas. The K–4 Paramus Science Committee studied the NGSS, researched applicable programs, and wrote curriculum fitting with new standards and dimensions.
Mathematics
The Paramus curriculum, based on the New Jersey Student Learning Standards for Mathematics, offers conceptually based learning experiences for our students designed to build and expand number sense and procedural fluency.
Throughout the elementary years, students use a wide variety of grade-appropriate manipulatives to build mathematical understanding. The ultimate goal of our program is for students to become mathematically-proficient, engaged problem-solvers who create solutions as they grapple with real world problems.
Social Studies
The goal of the elementary social studies curriculum is to help students become effective citizens in a changing world. In accordance with NJ student learning standards in social studies, the curriculum provides students with the skills needed to develop as informed citizens and effectively participate in the process of government.
Students will develop an awareness of social, cultural, environmental, economic, and political aspects of nations and people.
Literacy
Students learn best when what they learn is in an authentic context. For this reason, students in Paramus:
- Work in a reading and writing workshop setting
- Create their own narrative, informational, and opinion texts
- Engage in word study, learning through patterns in phonics, spelling, and vocabulary
- Read aloud and discuss texts as a class to practice fluency and interpretation
- Write interactively to support phonemic awareness in early stages
- Participate in guided reading to help them grow in their ability to tackle more and more complex texts