Lower School Curriculum

 The Lower Curriculum includes:

• A language arts program that emphasizes reading to enhance all subject areas
• A mathematics curriculum that includes the study of patterns, numeration, computation, geometry, measurement, fractions, and problem-solving at each level.
• Social studies classes that cover elements of anthropology, geography, history, political science, economics, and sociology
• Science instruction that allows students to observe, predict, experiment, and interpret
• The study of foreign language at all grade levels to enhance language skills and to promote cultural awareness
• Computer mastery to enhance learning in all disciplines
• Music and art classes to nurture self-expression and
  foster individual talents
• Physical education classes that promote fitness, healthy lifestyles, and the development of motor skills

Kindergarten:

To develop reading readiness, students learn:

• vocabulary development
• visual discrimination
• auditory discrimination
• classification
• alphabet recognition and formation
• sound-letter association
• picture-word association
• sequencing
• phonetic spelling

To develop math readiness, students learn:

• association of number symbols with number names
• application of numbers to daily activities
• handling numbers with reasonable speed and ease
• correct formation of numerals
• understanding of counting order
• recognition of pennies, nickels, and dimes
• concrete concepts of computation
• comparison of length, size, shape, and quantity of objects
• recognition and continuation of patterns

To support a student’s social and emotional
development, we work to identify and develop:

• positive interaction with peers and adults
• positive attitude toward self
• self-reliance and self-control
• responsibility for possessions
• ability to communicate and assert self
• respect for individual differences
• ability to accept routines and adjust to change
• reinforcement of a positive value system
• enthusiasm for learning

To provide a wide range of learning experiences,
students have special classes in:

• computer skills
• library skills
• music
• Spanish
• physical education

Grades 1 – 5:

The Lower School curriculum spirals in developmentally appropriate ways through basic concepts that form the foundation on which all learning is built. The teaching is multi-sensory and actively incorporates the auditory, visual, and tactile. Through learning by doing, students gain concepts quickly and are able to progress to the more advanced levels of conceptualization.

Reading

Using a phonetics-based approach, students learn to decode, analyze, read expressively, and comprehend on a literal as well as on an inferential level. Literacy appreciation is taught through exposure to a wide range of literacy styles. Early years of instruction stress learning to read, while older Lower School students read to learn through emphasis in the content areas.

Writing

Writing, both expressive and expository, is taught to all students, including the youngest. As they progress in the writing process, the correct use of grammar and its basic tenets are emphasized. The teaching of writing also is intertwined with reading to enable students to become complete communicators.

Math

Numeration, computation, geometry, measurement, and problem-solving are studied at each level. Concrete objects are used to enhance understanding, and as students are ready, they progress to application of the skills at higher levels of reasoning.

Science

Scientific concepts and principles are learned, employing an integrated, multi-disciplinary spiral program that emphasizes hands-on learning in a concrete, investigative environment. The program capitalizes on children’s natural curiosities while building both scientific concepts and scientific literacy.

Foreign Language

Vocabulary development, oral expression, and cultural understanding in Spanish are introduced in Kindergarten and continue through Grade 5.

Computer Science

The computer science curriculum is based on classroom activities. The curriculum systematically ensures attainment of computer literacy, knowledge of applications (such as word processing, spreadsheets, and web browsers), and basic programming skills. Activities are chosen to provide development in problem-solving, writing, research, and communications.

Social Studies

Beginning with the students’ immediate world of home and school, cultural awareness of their community, state, and nation are developed through appreciation of historic, economic, and geographic elements. Community and parental resources broaden students’ understanding of the world.

Art

Students in Grades 1 - 5 study art once a week. The art curriculum is based on art elements (color, value, line, shape, and texture) and art principles (repetition, proportion, rhythm, and emphasis). Students learn to use many media. The program strives to foster each student’s creativity and originality.

Music

Music experiences in singing, movement, playing, listening, reading, and creating are emphasized.

Physical Education

Physical education concentrates on motor development, individual skill development, physical fitness, and sportsmanship.

Click here for information about the Middle School curriculum.

Click here for information about the Upper School curriculum.