With a curriculum grounded in project-based learning and social-emotional learning, we create fun and engaging interdisciplinary deeper learning projects centered on real-world arts and technology. Paying close attention to California state standards, we are committed to giving our students a well-rounded education that prepares them for higher education and successful careers in the arts and entertainment industries.
Math
The Synergy mathematics curriculum is based on California Common Core State Standards and Frameworks. It develops quantitative thinking through a combination of skills practice, application in real-world scenarios, and activities to develop conceptual understanding. Class time is structured as a workshop to provide opportunities for learners to develop a thorough understanding of concepts and develop mathematical proficiency. Facilitators provide differentiated instruction to meet the needs of all learners.
Literacy
The Synergy literacy framework focuses on a reader’s and writer’s framework. Learners develop and strengthen skills in phonics, phonemic awareness, vocabulary, high-frequency words, spelling, and reading fluency. Daily 5 is used to develop daily reading, writing, spelling, and vocabulary habits. Learners work independently and in small groups with the facilitator to develop specific literacy skills. Learners have the opportunity to choose books that interest them.
In the writer’s workshop, learners are explicitly taught specific writing skills based on state standards. Learners can also independently write, work with peers, and work with their facilitator. Learners have opportunities to practice specific skills and write their own stories and ideas. This instruction method helps develop a love of writing and become a lifelong learner.
Science
The science curriculum is focused on developing an understanding of scientific concepts and practices. Learners explore concepts through an inquiry-based approach. NGSS Science standards will be taught through Project-based learning and will focus on the real-world application of ideas and concepts. Learners will also explore design thinking and apply this process to scientific investigation.
Social Studies
The History/Social Sciences curriculum will build learners’ knowledge by investigating big ideas and essential questions while connecting to learners’ interests and experiences through project-based learning. Instruction will develop learners’ growing understanding of their community and the world. The curriculum will include the four main social science disciplines: history, geography, civics, and economics.
A Synergy of Arts and Technology:
The Arts
- Music Arts: Piano, Guitar, Violin, Voice
- Theater Arts: Acting, Playwriting, Production
- Dance Arts: Cultural, Classical, Ballet, Hip Hop
- Visual Arts: Film, Video, Motion, VR/AR, Animation, Graphics
- Communication Arts: Visual Form, Writing, Design, Color Theory
Technology, Career Technical Education (CTE)
- Stagecraft: Lighting, Sound, Rigging, Set Design, Construction
- Virtual and Augmented Reality: Conceptual Design, Programming
- Gaming Science: Conceptual Design, Scripting, Programming, Coding
- Film and Video: Scripting, Storyboarding, Pre-Visualization, Casting, Production, Editing
- Digital: Hardware, Software, Keyboarding, Design, Copy & Digital Asset Development, Programming, Coding
Grounded in Deeper Learning Principles:
Learners engage in real-world issues through personally meaningful projects. They identify an issue, complete research, and present an evidence-based solution.
PBL promotes interdisciplinary deeper learning. Learners work with multiple subjects simultaneously in one course of study. For example, students in a theater arts course may be simultaneously concentrating on math, social studies, history, and language arts.
With PBL learners:
- Become problem solvers and collaborators
- Make personal connections to their learning
- Deepen their understanding and retention of material
- Become independent learners and critical thinkers
- Cover topics in greater depth
- Collaborate across disciplines
- Model and solve real-world challenges
- Analyze ideas and solve problems
Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)
Learners develop skills vital for success: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making.
SEL increases the likelihood that learners will:
- Graduate from high school and college
- Have successful careers
- Foster positive relationships
- Manage their mental health
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