Carden Method Vocabulary Curriculum Model

The development of a large speaking vocabulary begins in the nursery. A vocabulary enrichment program is in place at every grade level.

Reading

Language Arts The purpose of the Foundation is to further education throughout the United States and the world through Carden. The Foundation provides courses, lectures, classroom visitations, demonstration teaching, and workshops in the CARDEN METHOD®. It publishes educational materials for use by teachers and students. These materials are available only to those who receive instruction in Carden educational philosophy and teaching techniques. Teach Language Arts

Comprehension Techniques

Students learn to rhythmically group words within sentences, emphasizing the key word of the sentence to indicate understanding. Classification of the key word to express the main idea of the sentence enables the acquisition of new vocabulary. Summarization of the sentence, paragraph, and chapter begins as early as the first grade. Questions ascertain literal understanding and cultivate critical thinking. The recall and organization of material read are practiced. These activities carried on through grade eight equip Carden students with study skills needed to achieve their educational goals. 

Spelling

The phonics base used in reading is also used to encode, or spell words. The rules of grammar are applied. The dictation of paragraphs is used as a beneficial exercise of spelling skills. Spelling lessons are built around the subjects of history, science, art, and technology.

Writing

Printing is taught with an approach designed to avoid confusion through clarity of presentation and unique sequencing. Emphasis is placed on the construction, not the copying, of letters in order to give the student mastery and self-confidence. Cursive writing and penmanship are introduced in Grade One. 

Language

Functional grammar is taught as a tool of comprehension. Skill in the verbal and written communication of ideas is developed step-by-step through the grades.

Composition

Beginning in Grade One, guided composition through paragraph forms helps students achieve mastery in the logical presentation of ideas. Freedom is also given to foster the students’ creativity in an artistic sense.

Speech

Excellence of diction and enunciation are developed along with clarity and fluency of expression

Literature

Prose, poetry, drama, and games enrich the students’ understanding and awareness of subjects studied at each grade level. Plays are performed according to grade and maturity level. All students participate. The Carden literature program includes a variety of classics such as The Tale of Peter Rabbit in Grade One, Black Beautyin Grade Three, A Dog of Flanders in Grade Six and Julius Caesar in Grade Eight.