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INTERMEDIATE CURRICULUM Reading / Literature The overall goal is to instill the love of reading. The literature program offers high quality, appealing, traditional and contemporary literature that can accommodate a range of instructional reading levels. The selections are organized by genre to encourage study of various types of literature. Study aids guides students into, through, and beyond the literature to a deeper understanding of what it means to be human. Twenty minutes are set aside each day as a quiet time for the teacher to read a book to the class. Science Intermediate science provides a broad perspective, exploring various science topics to provide a diverse introduction to the natural world. We study both primary and secondary sources (readings, discussions with experts, etc.), use laboratory (hands on) activities, and outdoor exploration involving the school’s forest. Focused field trips bring topics to life. Sample units include an investigation of weather (including severe weather events such as tornadoes, hurricanes, etc.), the broad spectrum of simple life forms (fungi, bacteria and viruses), cohesion and adhesion, marine mollusks and geology. In light of our local geologic risk, we also consider earthquake phenomena and science that applies. This wide overview provides a background for students to understand how science impacts our lives and is an exciting entry point into scientific studies for our young learners. Writing Workshop Students learn to write by writing. The workshop includes an all-class “mini lesson” that focuses on a specific writing strategy or skill. Lessons are designed to fit the emerging needs of the students as determined by their daily writing. Weekly writing assignments are augmented by student-teacher writing conferences. Featured Topics:
Math Along with work in the text, students are involved in cooperative problem-solving activities, use of manipulatives, games and puzzles. Homework is for exploration and enrichment or for the purpose of completing work begun in class. We emphasize strategies for using math skills to solve problems. Math level is determined by student ability rather than by grade. Featured Topics:
Social Studies Students experience historic journeys and make decisions drawn from their “experiences”. Historic journeys are personalized through research papers, art projects, drama, music, and field trips. Sample Topics:
Physical Education Focuses on a cooperative, non-competitive approach to games such as basketball, jungleball and dodgeball, aiding in physical development as well as team-building. Fencing, a competitive sport, is offered as an after school activity. Art Emphasizes drawing and design skills. Students work with a variety of media drawn both from life and from imagination while learning the basics of composition and perspective. Various craft and three-dimensional media are explored such as weaving, papier mâché and clay. Drama Drama games, improvisation, writing and scene work enhance imagination, self-confidence and a sense of community throughout the year. In the spring, students present a fully staged production of a classic play. Students may attend several Seattle Children’s Theatre plays. |
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