English Language Arts

At The Alternative Learning Environment, we introduce students to literature that exposes them to a wide variety of voices, genres, and perspectives.

Students deepen their understanding of each text through guided novel studies that encourage independent reading, meaningful reflection, and thoughtful analysis.

Reading also comes to life through collaborative literature discussions, where students share ideas, ask questions, and learn from one another. These conversations strengthen comprehension, build critical thinking skills, and foster a genuine appreciation for reading that extends beyond the classroom.

Foundational reading skills are taught through evidence-based instruction using Orton-Gillingham (O.G.).

Reading instruction is explicit, systematic, and individualized, ensuring students develop the confidence and skills needed to become successful, lifelong readers. Instruction is tailored to meet each student's unique learning needs.

Writing

Writing is viewed as a powerful tool for communication, creativity, and self-expression. Through a supportive, student-centered approach, learners develop the skills and confidence to share their ideas with purpose and authenticity.

Writing instruction at The Alternative Learning Environment is built around Smekens Writer's Workshop and the Six Traits of Writing, where students engage in meaningful writing experiences that emphasize the writing process—from brainstorming and drafting to revising, editing, and publishing. Students explore a variety of writing genres while learning to write for different audiences and purposes, strengthening both their voice and their technical writing skills.

Our youngest learners receive explicit instruction in handwriting, developing proper letter formation, spacing, and legibility through purposeful penmanship practice. As students grow in their writing abilities, they continue refining their handwriting while older learners are introduced to cursive writing, giving them another valuable tool for written communication.

Throughout every stage of the writing journey, students receive individualized guidance, opportunities for collaboration, and meaningful feedback that encourages growth, creativity, and confidence as writers.

Math

We believe that Mathematics is best learned through exploration, problem-solving, and meaningful real-world application. Our goal is to help students build strong mathematical understanding while developing the confidence to think critically and persevere through challenges.

Math instruction incorporates a variety of research-based curricula, including enVision Mathematics and Reveal Math, allowing us to meet students where they are and provide instruction that is both rigorous and responsive to individual learning needs. Additional support is provided through personalized learning platforms such as IXL and other targeted intervention programs, giving students opportunities to strengthen skills, close learning gaps, and extend their understanding at their own pace.

Learning at TALE goes far beyond worksheets and memorization. Students regularly use hands-on manipulatives, visual models, games, and movement-based activities to make abstract mathematical concepts concrete and engaging. By actively exploring math through meaningful experiences, students develop deeper conceptual understanding, improve problem-solving skills, and discover that mathematics can be both accessible and enjoyable.

Science

Science is brought to life through curiosity, discovery, and hands-on exploration. We believe students learn best when they actively investigate the world around them, ask meaningful questions, and apply their learning through authentic experiences.

Science is one of the most interactive parts of our program, with hands-on projects, experiments, engineering challenges, and investigations serving as the foundation of instruction. Students explore scientific concepts by observing, creating, testing, and problem-solving, making learning both engaging and memorable.

To reinforce classroom learning, we incorporate high-quality instructional resources such as Mystery Science, providing students with standards-aligned lessons that spark curiosity and encourage scientific thinking. Learners also have opportunities for independent exploration through interactive digital programs like PhET and Kodable, where they can investigate scientific concepts, practice computational thinking, and build problem-solving skills at their own pace.

By combining inquiry-based instruction, technology, collaboration, and real-world application, students develop a deeper understanding of science while building the critical thinking, creativity, and perseverance needed to become confident, lifelong learners.

Social Studies

At The Alternative Learning Environment, social studies is about understanding the people, places, events, and ideas that have shaped our communities, our nation, and our world. Students are encouraged to ask questions, explore multiple perspectives, and make meaningful connections between history and the world they live in today.

Rather than relying on a single textbook, our social studies program draws from a variety of high-quality resources to create engaging and relevant learning experiences. Students explore topics including Indiana history, United States history, geography, government, economics, cultures, and civic responsibility through interactive lessons, discussion, research, and project-based learning. Resources such as Indiana Daily, IXL, BrainPOP, and other carefully selected instructional materials provide opportunities to reinforce concepts while meeting the diverse needs of our learners.

Learning extends beyond the curriculum whenever possible. Students analyze maps and primary source documents, investigate historical events, participate in collaborative projects, and explore current events. By examining how the past influences the present, students develop critical thinking skills, cultural awareness, and the knowledge needed to become informed, responsible citizens who can make a positive impact on their communities.

Social Emotional Learning

We strongly believe social-emotional learning is the foundation for academic success, healthy relationships, and lifelong well-being. Every student deserves the opportunity to understand themselves, develop meaningful connections with others, and build the skills needed to navigate life's challenges with confidence and resilience.

Our social-emotional learning program is grounded in The Zones of Regulation, providing students with a common language for recognizing emotions, understanding how their feelings influence their behavior, and developing practical strategies for self-regulation. Through explicit instruction, guided practice, and daily application, students learn to identify emotions, manage stress, solve problems, communicate effectively, and make responsible decisions.

Building on this foundation, we incorporate a variety of evidence-based resources, literature, activities, games, and collaborative experiences that address topics such as empathy, friendship, conflict resolution, growth mindset, mindfulness, emotional regulation, self-awareness, executive functioning, and character development. Lessons are designed to be engaging, meaningful, and responsive to the unique needs of our students, allowing every learner to find connections that resonate with their own experiences.

Through classroom discussions, restorative practices, cooperative learning, reflective activities, and shared experiences, students learn to celebrate one another's strengths, appreciate different perspectives, and build a supportive community where everyone feels seen, valued, and respected. Because when students feel safe, understood, and connected, they are empowered to learn, lead, and thrive.