Core Curriculum

 

Transdisciplinary approach to knowledge

At our dual-language kindergarten, we implement the latest pedagogical trends, placing the student at the heart of the educational process. 

We attempt to provide a comprehensive, integrated and interdisciplinary approach to knowledge, perfectly in line with the everyday experiences of children, through a close look at transdisciplinary themes/units.

Children have an opportunity to make connections between different experiences, to observe and to experiment.  Each of their inquiries is tackled from different spheres of knowledge and through all areas of development (Language, Mathematics, Personal and Social Development / Physical Education, National Sciences, Technology, the Arts).

Areas of Development

Students acquire skills and knowledge related to language systems and communication.  Significant emphasis is placed on the connection between the spoken and written word, particularly as encountered in students’ personal and social lives. Students develop listening and speaking skills by engaging in daily activities that encourage the understanding of the content of a story which gradually leads to phonological awareness.

Reciprocally, to develop reading and writing skills, the emergent literacy approach helps students understand the social role of writing. At the same time, authentic activities prompt students to try and decode messages in their surrounding environment. Students learn to read and write while playing.

The objective of mathematics in the kindergarten is to help students develop thinking processes that utilize characteristics of mathematical science.  Through experiential activities and play, foundations are laid for the development of mathematical concepts.
The development of personal and social skills is the main objective of the educational program. The goal is for students to recognize themselves as unique individuals with special abilities and to be self-sufficient, accept their feelings, control the way they express themselves, take initiative and express their views freely.
The main objective of Natural Sciences is for our students to learn to explore experiences and problems and to become aware that scientific knowledge results from social practices that are governed by specific rules and procedures.
Students become familiar with and understand the basic functions of digital media and educational software which are necessary resources in the digital age of the twenty-first century. Surrounded by an environment equipped with IWB computers, iPads and an audio library, students use technology daily for information management (Google), to express themselves and communicate (painting and drawing software, Skype, email, digital cameras, iPads), and as a programming tool (Bee-bot, Osmo).

The arts are part of the daily teaching process as in recent years they constitute a significant innovation in early childhood education.  Music, drama, visual arts, dance, and movement are used as a means to achieve different goals in all learning areas. Through the arts, students practice their skills and are motivated to learn.  They are empowered and encouraged to be innovative and express their thoughts and feelings in a unique way.

The special courses listed below are included in the curriculum. These courses are taught by experts in each subject area with the aim of cultivating the aforementioned objectives. 

Drama

Drama contributes to students’ socialization through various roles they are asked to undertake. These roles are taken from their daily lives or the subject they are investigating in class. Role-playing and improvisation enhance spontaneity, communication, and teamwork while cultivating emotional intelligence. 

Music

During music lessons, students develop rhythm, cultivate their expressive abilities, become familiar with different music genres, and participate in choir and percussion ensembles. 

Physical Education

Physical education lessons help students strengthen their perceptual and motor coordination through games involving imagination and creativity.  Additionally, visual-motor coordination is developed, as is balance (both static and dynamic) and a sense of space and time. Students also have an opportunity to practice lateral movement skills.