Languages

The language curriculum is based on the following strands:

 

Oral language - listening and speaking

Visual language - viewing and presenting

Written language – reading, writing and spelling

 

Language skills are acquired and developed in all subjects, and students are taught specific skills in English for the different areas of study. Literature appreciation and the development of creative language skills are also an essential aspect of the language curriculum.

 

In addition, students from Grade 1 onwards will study Russian as an additional language. The study of an additional language contributes to the development of international mindedness. As such, the modern languages curriculum includes cultural studies alongside the four strands required for the acquisition of language.

 

Mathematics

The mathematics curriculum is organised in five strands: data handling, measurement, shape and space, pattern and function and number. Mathematics is usually taught as a stand-alone subject but is often included in the units of inquiry where there are meaningful connections with the topic. Additionally, some concepts are learned through mathematics units of inquiry involving practical tasks and real life situations. Basic skills practice, problem solving skills and working mathematically are also important aspects of the mathematics programme.

 

Science

Science topics are explored through the Units of Inquiry. The Science curriculum includes the areas of Living Things, Earth & Space, Materials & Matter, and Forces & Energy. Science investigations allow students to predict and test scientific concepts through experimentation, observation, measuring and explaining outcomes. Design Technology explores the practical applications of scientific principles in everyday life. Students learn about these by observing real processes and by working with materials in construction and model making.

 

Social Studies

Social Studies topics are explored through the Units of Inquiry. Social Studies pursue human activity in the areas of: Human Systems & Economic Activities, Social Organisation  Culture, Continuity & Change Through Time, Human & Natural Environments, and Resources & The Environment. In these studies students inquire into issues of local and global significance. They learn how to ask the questions that will lead to in-depth research about the topics, and then to organise and present their findings in a variety of ways.

 

The Arts: Visual and Performing Arts

The strands of the Arts curriculum are: Creating and Responding. In visual arts, dance, drama and music students develop their creative and technical skills to produce art. They learn to respond to, and to appreciate, their own and other artists’ work and techniques. Performance and presentation are important aspects of the arts, and students have many opportunities to perform and present in arts lessons, at assemblies and in their home classroom.

 

Personal, Social and Physical Education (PSPE)

The PSPE curriculum strands are: Identity, Active Living and Interactions.  In Physical Education the students are involved in individual pursuits, movement composition, games, adventure challenges and health related fitness. Students develop new skills in a range of physical activities, challenge themselves to achieve personal skill and endurance goals, and learn cooperative behaviours when working in teams. The personal and social aspects of the programme develop students’ confidence, collaborative skills and awareness of health issues.