Lower School
The curriculum for Grade One through Grade Five takes the students from the Montessori Early Childhood program and prepares them for our challenging middle school program. This range of years, referred to as our Lower School, marks a period of dramatic cognitive and intellectual growth as our students move from emergent reading to literary analysis, simple addition to algebraic concepts, and introductory drawing to abstract painting. The following information is intended as an overview of the academic content for these grade levels.
Throughout the Lower School emphasis is placed on all components of language arts development. The writing program balances instruction with opportunities for expression as students explore creative and expository writing. The formal teaching of reading is accomplished through individual reading conferences using a literature-based reading program, enhanced by regular phonics instruction. An appreciation for literature is also fostered through weekly library visits where students engage in book talks and practice library skills. The language arts program includes spelling instruction, penmanship and cursive writing lessons, and vocabulary enrichment.
Social studies in the Lower School takes our students on a historic journey from a study of their neighborhoods and their respective needs to communities and their needs; from early man, through the early civilizations of Sumer, China and Egypt to the golden age of Greece; from the study of the Roman Empire to a study and comparison of the major world religions. Across the Lower School years students engage in numerous research activities on subjects ranging from pioneers to Norsemen to astronauts to the indigenous people of Australia, Alaska, and the American Plains. In addition, geography and map skills are an integral part of social studies.
The study of mathematics begins with whole number computation using the four basic math operations. Students then explore fractions, mixed numbers, decimals, measurement, geometry, and algebraic concepts. Throughout the grades, manipulatives are used to aid conceptual understanding. Curricular units are designed to develop critical thinking, promote logical reasoning and encourage problem solving. To assure a comprehensive foundation for future study, students are introduced to mathematical terms and vocabulary.
The Lower School science program nurtures the innate curiosity of children as they explore our fascinating natural world and beyond. Students are introduced to earth, life, and physical science units which range in content from the metamorphosis of a butterfly to space and the solar system. Emphasis is placed on observation and hands-on activities. Starting in fourth grade classes are held in the Science Lab which offers enhanced opportunities for research and experiments.
Foreign language instruction, which begins in the Montessori program, continues in first grade with a more comprehensive study. In keeping with the development of the child, lessons now include reading and writing, formal grammar, and French history and culture. In fifth grade the students have the choice of continuing with their study of French or beginning Spanish. Additionally, all students begin a study of Latin in fifth grade.
Throughout the Lower School grades the core academic subjects are enriched and enhanced with regular art, music, physical education, and technology courses. While drama does not appear as a separate subject, each grade produces a play that is performed in Kilmer Auditorium. Often the content of these plays relates directly to the class curriculum. Students in Grades 4 and 5 also participate in yearlong band and chorus in addition to their music class.
Our Lower School curriculum provides a sound foundation in content and conceptual understanding as students ready themselves for the exciting transition into Middle School.
