Elementary School Specialist Classes
The aim of the elementary school curriculum is the development of the whole child. We believe that learning and teaching is a reciprocal, co-constructed, independent and interdependent process. Students are engaged in a balanced curriculum focused on skills and concepts in social learning, academics, arts, athletics, and language. All curricular programs are designed around standards in order to provide students with consistent, clear, and research-based learning progressions. Standards are from the US and provide teachers with a consistent progression of measurable content knowledge on which to base instruction.
STEAM
STEAM is an educational approach to learning that uses Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics. Inquiry, dialogue, and critical thinking are encouraged.
Music
The music program in the elementary school for PK3 – Grade 5 focuses on the development of appreciation, understandings, and attitudes essential to music literacy. The student experiences music through a variety of related activities, which include listening, singing, moving, and playing melodic and choral instruments. Emphasis is placed on exploration, appreciation, creativity, expression, and enjoyment.
Information Technology
Students will learn about and use technology to analyze, learn and explore. The students will acquire everything from the basic technology concepts, such as identifying the parts and functions of a computer as well as navigating it with ease, to various advanced topics, such as touch-typing and using a search engine to conduct research and find information on the internet. Furthermore, students will become computational thinkers by learning the basics of coding using critical thinking, logic, and problem-solving techniques. Integration between the IT curriculum and core curriculum is a school goal, as well as providing students with the skills and knowledge they need to learn and live productively in an increasingly global and digital world.
Native Arabic
The main goal of the Arabic language program in PK4 – Gr. 5 is to provide Arabic speaking students with fundamental knowledge, and skills that can be used to provide a strong base with which students can communicate effectively in Arabic. The Arabic language program encompasses reading, handwriting, spelling, grammar, comprehension, dictation, conversation, listening, composition, and the study of literature.
Arabic as a Foreign Language (AFL)
The main goal of Arabic as a Foreign Language in PK4 – Grade 5 is to introduce the non-speaking Arabic students to the Arabic language, its alphabet, reading, and sounds. Students will enrich their Arabic vocabulary, and their understanding of the language. They will also be able to use, read, write, spell, and speak many of the Arabic words and sentences.
Islamic Studies
The main goal of Islamic Studies is to enable students in grades 1 – 5 to have a good knowledge of the Holy Quran and holy sayings of Prophet Mohammed (P.B.U.H.). These programs encompass the study of the Holy Quran, Hadeeth (teaching and instructions), worshipping, Prophet Mohammed’s life (P.B.U.H.), and religious stories. During these studies, the concept of morality and values of Islam will be stressed.
Arabic Culture
Non-Muslim students in grades 1 – 5 will engage in electives, which will reflect our multinational school environment. They will participate in activities that provide cultural awareness and understanding of their host country, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Physical Education
The elementary physical education program is to provide a safe, sequential, and developmentally appropriate program of fitness and motor skills addressing students’ needs and potential. Physical education is an essential part of each student’s overall education with movement as its foundation. The program offers meaningful and individualized practices for students. Physical education is not unstructured for free play. The physical education curriculum serves as the foundation for continued physical and social development.
Art
Students create original artwork in a variety of media utilizing the elements of art and the principles of design. Art Classes and projects provide knowledge and skills that can strengthen the presentation of ideas, allow all students to identify and appreciate the similarities and the differences of diverse cultures as expressed through their art, understanding the variety of the functions and purposes for creating art, and recognizing art as integral to daily life. Children learn to express themselves through color, line, shape, form, texture and space. Integration with grade level topics and local culture enhances their artistic experience.