|
Language Arts
Students become strategic readers and writers—integrating the language arts into their daily lives for enjoyment, self-expression, insight, and understanding. The language arts curriculum includes practice in listening and speaking, finding and organizing information, building comprehension, using word analysis and phonics, developing writing skills, and mastering standard spelling.
Mathematics
Following the standards set by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, the Lower School mathematics curriculum teaches multiple problem-solving strategies that help students grasp concepts and provide the understanding and fluency on which future instruction builds. Technology in the classroom complements the educational experience.
Science
Studies of earth, life, and physical science include the use of state-of-the-art technology and field activities. Engaged in hands-on experimental activities, students explore and gather data both in and out of the classroom as well as in our Lower School science lab.
World Languages
Children study Spanish or French and focus on listening, speaking, reading, and writing in the target language. They learn to recognize basic vocabulary, grammar, and spelling; demonstrate comprehension; and repeat short phrases and mimic accent—through role playing, songs, recitations, and stories.
Social Studies
In each of the four Lower School grades, the curriculum includes topics on culture, history, geography, global interconnections, sociology, economics, governance, and civic ideals. Students learn to compare and contrast families and communities in Wisconsin, the United States, and in other parts of the world.
Art
Students have the opportunity to explore self-expression through a variety of media: tempera, paper, pencils, clay, metal, wire, string, pastels, and computer imaging. Using symbols and ideas, they learn techniques, processes, structures, and functions of media. Students visit the Milwaukee Art Museum in preparation for our highly anticipated and successful Fourth Grade Docent program.
Music
In the music program, students focus on performance, composing simple melodies, and reading music. Students sing and/or play instruments from a musical repertoire representing many cultures and styles. They listen to, analyze, and describe music and learn to recognize music as a part of history and culture—understanding the relationship between music, the arts, and other disciplines.
Dance
The Lower School dance curriculum guides students in the creative use of basic elements of dance (body, space, force, and time). As elements for self-expression, students are encouraged to explore and experiment, understand and control. Third and fourth grade students choreograph and present an annual dance concert.
Physical Education
Our children enjoy daily physical education, working and playing together to develop and master basic movement skills. We know students learn better and develop a positive self-concept when physical activity is incorporated into their daily lives.
Library Information Arts
Our program teaches library skills and helps develop a lifelong love of reading. Students learn about authors, genres, literary characters, and how to select a book they can enjoy and read independently. Our librarians support the classroom curriculum through interactive experiences and research projects.
Technology
We integrate technology into classroom studies. Our students master basic computer operations and concepts, including vocabulary and basic skills in first grade. Second grade focuses on drawing, word processing, and simple multi-media production. Keyboarding and multi-media integration are major focuses in third grade, while fourth grade emphasizes report preparation and the appropriate use of the internet. |