Traditional School at Ward K-8

Tempe Elementary Schools is proud to offer a Traditional School program for K-8 students at Ward Traditional Academy.

Goal of Traditional Instruction:
Ward Traditional Academy uses a direct instructional model for all grades. This approach emphasizes carefully planned lessons designed around small learning increments and clearly defined tasks.

• The teacher is the instructional leader. The curriculum specifies the goals, lessons, and tasks, and the teacher presents these to her students. 
• The teacher closely supervises and coaches students. Teachers work hands-on during lessons and when students are working alone or in small groups. The goal is for all students to master every concept, with no exceptions.
• Lessons are fast-paced. The developers of direct instruction learned early on that a quick pace is essential for proper learning to occur. 
• The absolute outcome of instruction on any lesson must be mastery. Every student in the group must be able to perform the skill independently and without mistakes – firm and fluent.
• The curriculum is advanced. Students are taught using Spalding Phonics and cover concepts one year ahead in math.