Elementary Science

Elementary Focus is on Life Sciences and Nature Studies

Taught in the Target language, in English, and Nature Studies in German (for older students).

The Science program is integrated into French, Spanish, Math, Humanities, Arts, Gardening, and Cooking.       

Science is taught through stories and the child's observations of the natural world. We concentrate on our relation with nature, the environment, conservation, agriculture, and the arts.  The arts and humanities are integrated though landscape sketching, poetry, literature, and music inspired by nature. 

Students spend time on nature walks and gardening. 

Field trip destinations have included exploration of the James River, farms, farmers markets, apple picking, and botanical gardens.

Science topics are integrated into the immersion program, allowing students to comfortably participate in science in both languages.

K - 2nd  – Through stories and other activities, students learn a broad vocabulary for animals, nature, plants, the human body, eco-systems, weather, and  planets to prepare for more in-depth study of life science, botany, earth science, astronomy, and anatomy  taught later.

3rd  – Students learn terminology for nature, its different climates, continents, mountains, forests and rainforests, desserts, water (rivers, lakes and oceans), the seasons and the growing cycle. Students learn how people live in different regions and climates and about the types of dwellings people live in and the clothing they wear.  

4th - 5th – Students learn the classification of animals: study of mammals, fish, insects, amphibians, reptiles, arthropods; migration and hibernation, the geography of where different animals live, and the study of extinct and endangered animals.