Primary Years
1st & 2nd - 3rd & 4th
The primary years at Fayerweather are a time for exploring new worlds and ideas,
practicing the give and take of relationships and enjoying the thrill of mastering
a challenge. Our mixed-age classrooms are designed to foster collaboration, build
a sense of community and responsibility and to allow children to move amongst a
broader peer group. Learning is collaborative and projects are hands-on and open-ended,
allowing teachers to challenge students to extend their work and thinking.
Our academic program focuses on developing and then consolidating skills, building
fluency, and gaining confidence. In first and second grade, our curriculum is set
up to take into account the wide range in levels of development and interests of
the students. In third and fourth grade, learning becomes increasingly multi-faceted,
taking place individually and collaboratively as the children continue to develop
intellectual independence.
Interdisciplinary themes bring a richness and depth to learning as students learn
about themselves, their cultures and place in history, and the natural world around
them. Theme work integrates literacy and mathematics with social studies and science
in relevant ways. Students also develop reading, writing and math skills through
direct instruction, such as grade-level math groups, reading groups, independent
reading, writer's workshop and individual folder work.
Homework begins in third grade, and students are supported as they begin to take
responsibility for planning their time, and organizing and approaching their work
thoughtfully.