Grades 1-4 Curriculum

The Lower School curriculum is designed for students to ask questions, think independently, enjoy the learning process (including making and learning from their mistakes) and synthesize their learning. Along with the belief that differentiated learning allows everyone to participate to their fullest potential.

Through units of study, our curriculum thoroughly looks at specific subject areas and themes rather than broad topics. Teachers provide a creative, interesting and challenging core curriculum of Language Arts, Mathematics, Science and Social Studies drawing from different programs and curriculum tailored to meet the needs of our Lower School students.

More About Themed Units

Grade 1

Grade 1 begins with the students studying the Staten Island Academy campus, its history and the people involved in the day-to-day operations. They express what they have learned through visual arts, song, science and technology. Students write questions and interview faculty members. The culminating project for this study is the creation of physical and digital books based upon what they learned. As the children in Grade 1 become fluent readers, they undertake the challenge of researching non-fiction information. This interdisciplinary unit is based on the study of animals and incorporates science, art, technology, language arts and mathematics. Using books, computer research and discussions, students learn about the location, diet and habitat of their chosen animal and compile information for their non-fiction book. The final piece of this project is the creation of life-size dioramas that illustrate the habitats and transform the classroom.

Grade 2

Grade 2 explores the five boroughs of New York City. Beginning at home, we explore the early history of Staten Island, Historic Richmond Town and where classmates live in relation to our school. We move on to Brooklyn, the Bronx, Queens and Manhattan. As we begin to understand that the five boroughs are closely linked, we identify places we have been, would love to visit or have seen in pictures. We realize that we live in an environment rich in history, culture and opportunity. Working with our technology and arts department, students create an exciting and innovative integrated production. Come join the tour of the greatest city in the world!

Grade 3

Grade 3 students begin their year with a study of the continents. This study continues with the children exploring 19th-century immigration, reasons for the European exodus, and life on the Lower East Side of Manhattan. Trips to Ellis Island and the Tenement Museum are primary sources to bring this rich study to life. The culmination is a theatrical performance with musical accompaniment written and composed by the children with assistance from specialized content area teachers (art, music, chorus, physical education, and library). Grade 3 then embarks on a study of European westward expansion and its impact on the indigenous people who populated the west.

The year ends with a lively Pioneer Country Fair complete with a general store, old fashion hoedown, and an incredible art exhibit.

Grade 4

Grade 4 students develop an understanding of maps and how the regions of the United States are defined and what makes each region unique. Unit activities culminate in group projects requiring students to apply what they have come to understand about the field of geography and the uniqueness of each U.S. region. Students gain experience using print resources, books, and the Internet to conduct research. They develop an ability to read for main ideas and information while learning how to develop and summarize ideas in complete sentences using primary and secondary sources. The culminating project for this Grade 4 study is an integrated production written and directed by the students.