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Courses in Primary School

The goal of the Primary School Science/Social Studies/Geography/ESL/IT Department is for all of our students to understand and appreciate the subjects they are studying.

ESLis a special course designed for primary students whose first language is not English. ESL students will study basic reading and grammar while raising their vocabulary and speaking skills to a functional, communicative, and primary level.

These students will learn a foundation of English language skills in all of the following areas: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. A Chinese/foreign teacher is in charge of the ESL class. This course focuses upon building vocabulary and developing basic English grammar and language skills.

IT（Information and Technology）class mainly covers:

1. Basic knowledge about computers and iPad use.

2. Safety and ethical issues related to the responsible use of information and technology resources.

3. Use Microsoft Word software, basic APPs and other technology tools and skills to reinforce classroom concepts and activities.

4. How to type in Chinese and English.

5. Use a variety of technology tools to organize data and information (e.g., graphic organizer, audio and visual recording, iPad, etc.).

Social studies:

Social studies is the integrated study of the social sciences and humanities to promote effective citizenry. Within the grade 1-3 program, social studies provides coordinated, systematic study drawing upon such disciplines as economics, history, geography, anthropology, archaeology, law, philosophy, political science, religion, and sociology, as well as appropriate content from the humanities, mathematics, and the natural sciences.

Geography:

Students start to have geography class in grade 4. They will understand and appreciate the geography of the world around them. The main goal of grade 4 geography is to introduce the subject to students so that they may apply geography’s ideas to the world around them.

Through exploring maps, physical features, and different ways of life of people around the world, we believe that students will become more open-minded and attracted to learning about world culture and current events. We believe that reading, writing and discussion are central to students’ comprehension of geography.

Science:

Students will have science classes from grade 1 to grade 4. The goal is that all of our students understand and appreciate science and how it pertains to their daily lives. Our science classes introduce students to the scientific method, physical science, and biological science.

We believe that the scientific method (observing, hypothesizing, experimenting and concluding), followed by a well-reasoned analysis of results is central to the process of learning and understanding science. We believe that this understanding happens best in a cooperative, interactive and student-based class environment.