Academics

Curriculum Overview (Kindergarten–5th Grade)

Signal Mountain Christian School provides a Christ-centered, academically strong education rooted in Scripture, classic literature, and mastery of foundational skills. Our curriculum emphasizes careful reading, clear writing, strong mathematics, chronological history, and hands-on science, with daily practice in narration, memorization, and thoughtful written work. Students grow from guided instruction in the early grades to increasing independence, responsibility, and depth of understanding in the upper grades.

Bible

Daily Scripture reading, memorization, catechism, hymn study, and discussion form the foundation of each school day. Students move from learning the great stories of the Bible in the early grades to understanding doctrine, Christian character, and personal responsibility before God in the upper grades.

Literature

Students read classic children’s literature, biography, poetry, and historical narrative rather than textbook excerpts. Through narration, oral reading, and discussion, students develop strong comprehension, vocabulary, and moral imagination.

Phonics (K–2)

Students use Saxon Phonics and Spelling for systematic instruction in letter formation, phonograms, spelling rules, oral reading, and dictation, building confident and fluent readers.

Writing & Grammar (2–5)

Writing is integrated across all subjects through narration, copywork, dictation, and composition. Students use Shurley Grammar for structured grammar instruction, learn cursive in 3rd grade, and use cursive in 4th–5th grade. Students plan, revise, and publish written work, often completing their own books by the end of 2nd and 3rd grade. Kindergarten and 1st grade students focus on letter formation, sentences, and nature notebooking.

Mathematics

Students use BJU Math 1–6 for daily cumulative instruction in number sense, computation, problem solving, geometry, and early algebraic thinking, with emphasis on mastery and review.

History

History is taught chronologically through stories, biographies, and primary sources.
K–2 study holidays, cultures, and Bible history connections.
Grades 3–5 use Story of the World:

  • 3rd — Vikings to Revolutionary War

  • 4th — Revolutionary War to Modern America

  • 5th — Ancient Civilizations

Science

Students use Apologia elementary science with hands-on activities and notebooking.

  • K — Astronomy/Human Body

  • 1 — Earth Science

  • 2 — Zoology: Land Animals

  • 3 — Zoology: Sea Creatures

  • 4 — Flying Creatures & Chemistry

  • 5 — Botany & Physics (Rube Goldberg project)

Technology

SMCS is a low-technology school that introduces digital tools slowly and intentionally.
K–2 use technology only when needed for viewing or presentations.
Students learn typing in grades 3–4.
4th grade uses Chromebooks without internet for writing.
5th grade uses computers with internet for writing, presentations, research, and Smartboard instruction.
Technology is used as a tool, not a replacement for reading, writing, and discussion. Covenants for use are signed by both parents and students.

Movement

SMCS builds movement into our daily curriculum through recess, intentional desk formations, various play areas throughout the campus, and quick movement breaks that reset the students for learning.