The Southwest Preparatory Learning Center classroom schedule is from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

We treat each core subject area independently as the concepts and depth of study in each area expand. A heavy emphasis is placed on expanding vocabulary using words the students are exposed to through the core subjects: social studies, math, language arts and science. The curriculum is closely tied to the Common Core standards and the national English Language Learner standards.

At Southwest Preparatory Learning Center, our students’ education is supplemented with physical education, “Smart Lab”, Spanish, and art. Spanish and PE instruction is offered for an hour twice a week, and art is one hour a week. Smart Lab is offered on a rotating schedule throughout the school year. Every classroom is fully equipped with Chromebooks for each student to utilize technology.

Several field trips a year also help to supplement the curriculum, including the following:

  • Theatre Events
  • ABQ BioPark
  • NM Museum of Natural History and Science
  • Albuquerque area activities and events

Language Arts

Language arts instruction focuses on reading comprehension, critical thinking, vocabulary, Greek and Latin roots, and written expression. Students are expected to read grade level appropriate novels as part of the curriculum. Writing instruction includes formal and informal, evidence based, creative, and poetic writing. Students are exposed to word processing skills as part of the writing curriculum and are encouraged to edit and improve their writing. Students will have individualized reading goals in addition to classroom expectations. Classroom activities typically include large and small group instruction, practice, support, and enrichment.

Social Studies

Social studies instruction in all grade levels includes current events utilizing Scholastic News. In fourth grade the students focus on New Mexico history, fifth grade focuses on American history, and sixth grade focuses on world history. Students demonstrate learning through research, writing, presentations, and creative projects.

Math

Students explore topics in numeration, place value, operations, fact fluency, algebra, geometry, and problem solving. A variety of strategies are offered as students investigate and solve multiple step story problems. Real life application is emphasized and higher-level thinking is carefully developed. Classroom activities typically include large and small group instruction, practice, support, and enrichment. Teachers utilize a hands-on and pictorial approach before moving to abstract and higher-level activities.

Science

Science in the classroom is designed for building inquiry and STEM skills and is optimized for learning in the classroom or at home, on a laptop, tablet, or using a science textbook. The digital curriculum, virtual labs, hands-on activities, and write-in science textbook develop important critical-thinking skills that prepare students for success in future science courses and in the workplace. The curriculum is a balance of Earth Science, Physical Science, and the Life Sciences.

The 4th grade curriculum topics include: Studying Science, the Engineering Process, Plants and Animals, Energy and the Ecosystem, Weather Earth and Space, Properties of Matter, Changes in Matter, Energy, Electricity, and Motion.

The 5th grade curriculum topics include: How Scientists Work, Engineering Process, Cells to Body Systems, People in Science, How Living Things Grow and Reproduce, Ecosystems, Energy and Ecosystems, and Natural Resources.

The 6th grade curriculum topics include: Changes to Earth’s Surface, Rock Cycle, Fossils, Earth’s Oceans, the Solar System and the Universe, Matter, Light and Sound, and Forces and Motion.