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Spanish
Spanish is taught at all grade levels. The goal is to introduce foreign language at an early age to develop the connections that lead to in-depth language proficiency later. The emphasis is on developing an ear for language through direct-response teaching methods. Books, poems, songs, and games are used with a multitude of visuals. Beginning with the basics of letters, numbers, colors, and shapes, students will quickly move into writing, reading, and cultural exploration. With the development of a large vocabulary base and an understanding of language structure, the students will have a solid foundation on which to build their foreign language skills.
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Art
In Kindergarten, art is woven into every part of the curriculum throughout the day. A special art program is used witch introduces students to seven famous artists from Van Gogh and Cezanne to Picasso. More formal art classes begin in the first grade with the introduction of primary colors using crayons, markers, and paint. Through the grades, children will be exposed to other art forms and mediums including drawing, printing, sculpting, clay building, and glazing. Emphasis will be placed on awareness and appreciation of art as well as triggering individual artistic expression and an understanding of the limitless possibilities for art in their world.
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Music
In instrumental and vocal classes, skills are introduced early and refined through the grades. Using ORF instruments, children learn the concepts of rhythm, tempo, and pitch. They will learn to relate music to culture and customs and understand the role of musicians. Through the grades, they will learn to compose, arrange, read, and notate music as well as sing a diverse repertoire from memory with appropriate phrasing, dynamics, and expression. Musical studies include school-wide performances at least twice a year, which gives the children an appreciation for performance preparation and stage presence.
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Physical Education
Children learn good sportsmanship, health habits, skills, and cooperation by participating in aerobic activities and games requiring movement, coordination, and gym equipment. We introduce group games and individual activities, which promote large and small muscle development as well as hand/eye coordination. In the upper grades, students will recognize that physical activity provides enjoyment and allows for the development of leadership abilities and responsibilities while learning the skills necessary for team sport participation.
Technology
From first grade on, students visit the computer lab twice a week for formal computer classes. The students learn all about computers, starting with the basic parts and up through the internal workings of computers. Internet safety and ethics are covered, and numerous programs are explored that reinforce age appropriate skills. Keyboarding, word processing, spreadsheets, and presentation applications are taught in upper-elementary levels.
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