The Difference
What makes A.C.E. different from other curriculum providers is its individualized, self-instructional, mastery-based approach. PACEs allow students to absorb subject material at their own pace rather than being forced to learn at a pace set by a teacher in a classroom environment. Instead of being labeled by a chronological grade, each student may advance according to individual learning abilities. For instance, a student placed in the fifth grade in a traditional school setting may be taking varying levels of PACEs in the A.C.E. system. This same student could be taking Level 4 math, Level 5 science, and Level 5 English. Students may move ahead in some subject areas and proceed at a slower pace in others.
The A.C.E. program also enables Ventura Christian Academy to administer PACEs to multiple students on different grade levels with minimal staffing. Kindergarten and first-level students are taught with a phonics-based program that requires direct instruction from a supervisor. From the second level on, the student is guided by the self-instructional PACEs. School supervisors give limited assistance to help students discover learning through the material.
Placement Testing
Students using the A.C.E. curriculum for the first time take the aceconnect Diagnostic Test to evaluate where they are performing academically and to prescribe where they should start. Whether students are transferring to a school using the curriculum or are from a homeschooling family, the Diagnostic Test helps identify any “gaps” in a student’s education. PACEs are then assigned to help the student continue his educational journey.
Core Curriculum
Core curriculum provides students with academics, skill building, reading practice, character and wisdom training, and knowledge of God and His Word. This complete package begins with reading development and progresses through high school, giving students a solid foundation for pursuing their life goals.
Students who are more skilled may progress at a faster rate or may accelerate in the areas of their academic strengths. Slower students are encouraged to do their best but are able to work at their levels of proficiency and proceed as they are capable.
Each core subject consists of 12 PACEs (Packet of Accelerated Christian Education) per level. Typical students work daily on one PACE in each subject and may be performing at varying levels. The diagnostic test results help to identify academic weaknesses and prescribe a path to help students catch up. Most students complete at least 70 PACEs per year, while maintaining academic balance by completing about the same number of PACEs in each assigned subject.
Multimedia
Readmaster Plus is an educational software suite that enhances students’ educational experiences while challenging their learning. Readmaster Plus offers four distinct computer software programs:
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Readmaster® improves reading rate and comprehension skills for Levels 1–12.
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Typemaster® teaches computer keyboard skills for Levels 1–6.
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Math Builder® provides drill and practice in math concepts for Levels 1–6.
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Word Builder improves spelling, word usage, and pronunciation for Levels 2–8.
Electives & Additional Instruction Programs
In order to enhance the core curriculum, A.C.E. offers a number of other programs and courses beneficial to academic growth and development. Each of these courses adds interest and enhancement to the core curriculum and to other learning activities.
Additional Support
Lighthouse Christian Academy (LCA) serves as the K-12 distance learning provider for A.C.E. curriculum. LCA assists Ventura Christian Academy with academic advisors, support, accredited diplomas, and a graduation ceremony. Ventura Christian Academy students have the opportunity to earn an accredited diploma through LCA as well.
A.C.E. also provides extensive support to Ventura Christian Academy using the curriculum. A series of Christian Educators’ Conventions and Supervisors’ Training is held throughout the U.S. and in several foreign countries each year. Several Administrators’ Training sessions take place each summer at the A.C.E. International Corporate Offices in Hendersonville, Tennessee.