The Elementary Phase comprises of grades 1-5. Reading is focused on decoding text, building vocabulary and retelling for comprehension in grades 1 and 2. In grades 3-5 emphasis is made on comprehension skills and the writing process. In math, the subject is taught through systematic approaches which allow students to explore the steps and components of mathematical algebra in preliminary forms. The study of money, time and world problems allows students exposure to mathematics to grow with skills necessary connection real world application. Science may be infused with the study of STEM (Science Technology Engineering and Math) to build on inquiry skills and the scientific method.
Technology is integrated in lessons through the use of a variety of platforms that students use to reinforce and further develop their learning by the use of applications such as Freckle and Achieve3000 on their devices. Students also learn to code by using Sphero bots and Minecraft Education. Finally, technology is also used for communication, reflection and creating digital portfolios through applications like Class Dojo and Microsoft Office.
In this phase, students’ progress and attainment is monitored through the following types of assessments:
• Cognitive Abilities Test 4 (CAT4) given from grades 2-5 in three-year cycles. The purpose of this assessment is to measure each child’s abilities and approach to learning. Data from this test helps teachers design lessons that meet the needs of all learners based on how students think.
• Measurement of Academic Progress (MAP) given from KG2-G5 three times per year. The performance is measured from the previous two years performance as well as within the same academic year. The assessment is catered to simplify or increase in difficulty as the child answers each question. The assessment is specific to reading, language, math and science
• Internal benchmarks are used from the curricular resources to support and triangulate our student data based on curricular standards for each grade. Internal benchmarks are taken three times per year.
Formative and summative assessments are administered to students for each subject to check mastery of skills and objectives. They are given as units of studies are completed and are communicated to parents via the Parent Portal on a weekly basis.
