Literature & Poetry
Students will discuss quality literature, learn and recite poetry, and practice the art of oral narration. Through fairy tales, animal lore, fables, and poetry, students will engage in imaginative play and interactive exploration of story in class. At home, students will listen to read-alouds of assigned stories and orally narrate as they learn.

Science & Nature Study
Through hands-on experiences, students will study the intriguing worlds of mammals, birds, and reptiles. Students will enjoy science through nature study and in-class experiments and discoveries.

In unity with all other Esprit students, 1st grade students will engage in a focused nature study of invertebrates (Fall), rocks, minerals, and soil (Winter), and fish (Spring). Home assignments include some light outside reading and one or two nature walks and studies each week.

Geography
Students will discover their physical space in the universe and gain a practical understanding of fixed direction, some stars and constellations, telling time using the sky, the hemispheres, latitude and longitude and more. Homework includes some light reading, night walks to observe the night sky, and review of the in-class learning.

Handicrafts & Arts
Students will explore handicrafts and various art forms throughout the year, including weaving, painting, sewing, beading, collage, and more. Folk music and hymns will be learned using rhythm instruments, and famous works of art will be studied through picture study and art experiences. Some handicraft and art supplies will be suggested for at-home practice, but all in-class materials are provided.

General Info:

Primary School students are required to register for the 9-12:15 block of Thursday classes from September to May. These students will study Literature & Poetry, Science & Nature Study, and Handicrafts & Arts. A book list will be provided for all books needed for home assignments.

Course Duration: 28 weeks, Thursdays

Course & Classroom Supply Fees: $900

Course fees (around $32 per week) include in-class instruction, all supplies used in class, and weekly home lesson plans posted to The Dispatch, our communication hub.

The Primary classes are semi-drop off classes: a parent is required to stay for class mornings several times per year. Childcare is available for younger siblings (up to two) of students whose parents are volunteering. Nursing infants are welcome with mothers who volunteer. Primary students and parents are welcome to pack a lunch and stay for the lunch hour.