Core Content Areas 6-38

School Board of the City of Virginia Beach
Policy 6-38

INSTRUCTION

Core Content Areas

The School Board believes the instructional program in the four core content areas (English/language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies) should be commensurate with the goals, interests, and abilities of all students. Because the goals of each student vary, the program should be flexible enough to provide appropriate instruction that meets curriculum requirements and, where appropriate, be developed with consideration of student interests and abilities.

1. English/Language Arts

   English/Language arts iarts instruction should integrate the teaching of the four components of English/language arts(reading, writing, speaking and listening) so the learning of one reinforces the others. Developmentally appropriate reading and writing skills shall be included in the curriculum of all content areas in grades K-12. Upon completion of the English/language arts program, students should have the strategies and skills to be successful, literate and contributing members of society.

2. Mathematics

   Mathematics instruction is designed to develop students' mathematical knowledge and skills and strengthen students' abilities to think and reason mathematically. All students should have the opportunity and the support necessary to learn mathematics with depth and understanding.

3. Science

   The primary purpose of science education is to provide students with the conceptual understanding of science content and the scientific and engineering practices required to function effectively in a scientific and technologically oriented society. Sufficient scientific background should be provided to enable students to make intelligent scientific decisions in their lives and on major scientific issues. Science education should also provide students who will pursue scientifically oriented careers with opportunities to build prerequisite background knowledge. An appropriate science curriculum is provided to meet the needs of all students.

4. Social Studies

   The social studies program is committed to helping young people appreciate their historic and cultural heritage, the culture of others and comprehend developments in an ever-changing world. The knowledge, skills and understandings of social studies should cultivate responsible, engaged and compassionate citizens.

Adopted by School Board: July 13, 1993 (effective August 14, 1993)
Amended by School Board: June 6, 2006
Amended by School Board: June 20, 2017
Amended by School Board: February 13, 2024