Students deepen their understanding of Scripture and poetry through memorization, recitation, and reflection. Each passage and poem becomes an invitation to practice expression, rhythm, and grace—learning to speak truth with confidence and reverence. Lessons include exploring key people and events from the Old and New Testaments, giving students a clearer view of God’s redemptive story and the beauty of language shaped by His Word.

Using Shurley English Level 1, students memorize jingles and complete targeted lessons to build understanding of language structure. They learn to classify sentences through the time-tested Shurley Method and study parts of speech, including nouns, verbs, adjectives, adverbs, and article adjectives, along with capitalization and punctuation rules. Students joyfully begin their study of grammar, building a strong foundation for clear and effective communication.

Texts & Resources: Shurley English Level 1

Students work toward mastery of forming upper and lowercase letters and numbers on lined paper. Instruction includes the correct placement of name and date on written work, reinforcing foundational habits of neatness, organization, and attentiveness to detail.

Students systematically work through a phonics program that integrates songs, recitation, and dictation. The goal is to complement and reinforce reading instruction at home, helping students grow in fluency, comprehension, and joyful confidence as emerging readers.

Texts & Resources: ACTS-selected phonics curriculum

Using Sonlight Science A, students explore the wonders of the human body, plants, animals, weather, and the skies above. Through engaging books, experiments, and hands-on discoveries, they learn to observe patterns and purpose in the created world. Each lesson is an encounter that invites curiosity and awe, revealing how all things—great and small—bear the mark of God’s design.

Texts & Resources: Sonlight Science A and ACTS-selected books, experiments, and materials

Through guided exploration, students work toward mastery in identifying the seven continents, five oceans, and the geography of the United States and Maryland, developing attentiveness to God’s thoughtful design in every place. Foundational geography skills—reading a compass, map keys, and legends—help cultivate careful observation and analysis. These ideas are reinforced through the Me on the Map project, helping students understand their place in God’s world.

Later in the year, they study explorers such as Columbus, the thirteen colonies, and significant figures in U.S. history, recognizing God’s providence in shaping nations and stories over time.

Texts & Resources: ACTS-selected books and materials

Students continue their study of the color wheel, exploring primary and secondary colors along with tint, hue, and shade. They experiment with a variety of media, with particular emphasis on acrylic paints to practice brush techniques, improve fine motor control, and practice following directions. While highlighting artistic principles, lessons emphasize artistic expression as a reflection of God’s creativity and order.

This year includes an introduction to notable artists and their work, culminating in an in-depth study of Vincent van Gogh and a student rendition of Starry Night.

Students continue their study of instrument families and have opportunities to explore a range of classroom instruments. They learn to sing the basic solfège scale (“Do-Re-Mi”) and discover the works of selected composers, gaining exposure to diverse musical styles and eras. Through singing and performance activities, students develop vocal and presentation skills while practicing active listening and appreciative reflection on the beauty of sound as part of God’s harmony in creation.

Each ACTS day begins with a Morning Meeting that reinforces mastery of the days of the week, months of the year, and the seasons and holidays. Through songs, poems, and chants, students strengthen memorization skills while developing both fine and gross motor coordination. They also deepen their understanding of cardinal and ordinal numbers through daily practice and repetition.

Each day includes time for play, nourishment, and rest. Students spend 20–30 minutes outdoors exploring God’s creation, enjoying fellowship, and engaging in active play. A ten-minute snack time provides nourishment and social connection, allowing students to rest and refresh their minds before returning to their studies.

At the start of the year, students complete Reading homework twice a week and memorize various Bible verses, chants, or poems at home. During the second semester, short grammar assignments and other exercises are added. The total at-home workload is limited to approximately 30 minutes per day, supporting consistency and family rhythms without creating undue burden while reinforcing classroom learning and building independence.

Texts & Resources: ACTS-provided lesson plans