Curriculum

At UCS, our curriculum approach is intentional, balanced, and future-focused. We adopt the strongest academic standards by drawing from the best-performing school districts in Ohio, while pairing them with a high-quality Quran, Arabic, and Islamic Studies curriculum that nurtures identity, character, and faith.

Math

Helping Students Build Lasting Math Success

UCS adopted EnVision Savvas Math, which is a research-based curriculum designed to foster deep mathematical understanding, not just memorize steps. What makes it unique is how it combines clear, engaging print resources with a dynamic digital platform, giving students multiple ways to learn and practice.

With the hard copy materials, students can follow along, write, and show their thinking step by step. The digital version brings math to life with interactive models, videos, and activities that help students visualize and explore concepts in new ways. Together, these resources provide flexibility for every type of learner.

In addition, students have access to complementary practice tools that reinforce what they’ve learned in class. This extra practice is personalized and adaptive, meaning it meets students right where they are and helps them grow with confidence. Parents can feel assured that EnVision Savvas Math doesn’t just prepare students for tests, but it equips them with the problem-solving skills, persistence, and understanding they need for long-term success in math and beyond.

English Language Arts

For our English program at UCS, we have adopted HMH Into Reading for students through 6th grade, and HMH Into Literature for grades 7-8.

HMH Into Reading is a research-based, comprehensive K–6 literacy curriculum that draws on the latest evidence in reading and writing instruction. It provides a carefully sequenced scope and sequence for foundational literacy skills - from phonemic awareness, phonics, morphology, spelling, fluency, to reading comprehension - enabling students to become fluent, confident readers.

Into Literature, for grades 7-8, supplies a rigorous English-Language Arts program with high-quality, engaging, and varied texts - including classic and contemporary literature, informational texts, drama, and poetry - designed to build intellectual stamina, deepen comprehension, and foster critical thinking, writing, and communication skills. It offers flexible, standards-based units, supports differentiated instruction through scaffolding and small-group options, and encourages students to analyze, reflect, and respond to texts in meaningful ways.

Science

At UCS, our students use the Savvas Science curriculum, a program designed to spark curiosity and build a strong foundation in scientific thinking. The curriculum is hands-on, inquiry-based, and aligned with Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), helping students not only learn facts but also practice the skills of real scientists and engineers. Students experience hands-on learning, STEM connections, critical thinking, interactive digital tools, and real world applications which support different learning styles and connect to everyday life. The program encourages curiosity, problem-solving, and collaboration. By the end of each unit, students have not only learned key science content but also practiced the habits of mind that prepare them for future learning and innovation.

Social Studies

Our school uses the McGraw-Hill Impact Studies curriculum in social studies. It helps students learn about history, geography, and culture through stories, activities, and discussions. The program encourages critical thinking and helps students see how the past connects to their lives today. Teachers use it in both whole-class lessons and small group work so students can practice skills like asking questions, analyzing sources, and sharing ideas with others.

Arts Program

Our art program offers students a creative space to explore and express themselves through a variety of artistic experiences. We teach students the principles of Islamic art, helping them appreciate tradition while also exploring modern techniques. Our curriculum goes beyond a single subject; it's a way of thinking and seeing the world. Through hands-on projects and nature exploration, students learn to notice artistic details in everyday life. We believe art is a tool for problem-solving, self-expression, and personal growth, helping each child discover their unique identity.

Students in our program have had their work featured in galleries and art competitions, with two of them winning state-level awards in Ohio. These achievements not only highlight their talent but also the creativity and confidence we help them build. We believe art is a lifelong skill that helps students express themselves in healthy and meaningful ways that will stay with them as they grow.

Quran & Islamic Studies

At UCS, students start learning to read quran at Prek-3. We follow the teachings of the The Nooranyah Rulings, which is authored by Al-Qahtani, and is considered one of the best educational methods for teaching the recitation of Quran, especially for children and non-Arabic speakers. It relies on a specific tone for each vowel or diacritical mark, which makes spelling easier and helps correct pronunciation and sounds. It is also one of the most widely adopted methods in America and Canada.

At UCS, our Islamic Studies curriculum is designed to nurture students' spiritual growth while grounding them in core Islamic knowledge and values. We focus on helping students develop a strong connection with Allah (SWT) through learning the essentials of aqeedah (belief), fiqh (practice), seerah (life of the Prophet ﷺ), and adab (Islamic manners and character). The curriculum is age-appropriate and builds each year to deepen their understanding and love of Islam. More than just memorizing facts, our goal is to help students live their faith in a meaningful, confident, and respectful way - both inside and outside the classroom, Inshallah.

Arabic Language

At our school, we use the textbook series “Al-Asas” (الأساس) as the foundation for teaching Arabic. This series is designed for non-native speakers of different nationalities and uses modern and advanced educational techniques to provide students with a solid understanding of the Arabic language and its proper usage. The Al-Asas series consists of six books that cover all levels, from beginner to advanced, allowing learners to progress smoothly and gradually. Each unit includes listening activities, reading passages, guided conversations, and writing exercises that give students the chance to practice all language skills.

The series is based on international reference frameworks and standards for languages, including the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) and the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). It emphasizes listening, speaking, reading, and writing, while building both linguistic and communicative proficiency.

A unique feature of the book is that it provides QR codes (barcodes) linked to audio materials, helping students practice authentic pronunciation and listening. In addition, vocabulary is translated into English, making the learning process smoother and more accessible.The Al-Asas series also approaches grammar from a functional perspective, focusing on how language is actually used in real-life situations.Our goal is to create an engaging and interactive classroom where students use Arabic as a living language, step by step building confidence and fluency.