Elementary
Overview of Elementary Programs
The American Baccalaureate School (ABS) offers programs within the elementary school that are based on sound educational principles and practices. Many of the programs, materials, and techniques used at ABS have been adopted from successful U.S. and international based curricula. The school strives to provide the best educational opportunities and experiences for the students, and every effort is made to meet individual needs and interests and to ensure that high self-esteem is maintained in each student.
By providing a caring and supportive classroom environment, the students are encouraged to develop independence, a respect for others and a sense of responsibility for themselves. By working both independently and in cooperative groups, our boys and girls develop life-long learning skills.
The curriculum emphasizes traditional disciplines, including English language arts (e.g. English usage, writing, etc.), Arabic, Islamic studies, math, social studies, science, art, music, computers, and physical fitness and health. Character education is integrated into the general curriculum. Children, through a variety of teaching strategies, learn to explore their world and develop a love of learning that lasts a lifetime. Students are encouraged to use critical thinking and problem-solving skills. It is our goal to maximize each child's potential and to prepare them for their role in an ever-changing global community.
As the student’s progress from the lower elementary grades to the intermediate (grades 3-5), they continue to meet the challenges of a stimulating and expansive curriculum. They are provided with an understanding of the world in which they live and with the tools for future success. The concepts introduced in the primary grades are further developed and new concepts and skills are introduced. New ideas are explored and creative solutions to problems are encouraged. Children learn appropriate work habits and become independent and responsible students.
Curriculum guides are available for each grade level in all subjects and are distributed to parents in each student’s first day packet in September. These guides are revised each year to reflect current trends and changes in the United States, as well as international general curricula standards. All guides are based on a standard for that grade level.
Though the primary language of instruction is English, Arabic is taught as part of the regular curriculum and is the language of instruction for Religion and Social Studies. The periods per week vary with each grade level.
In order to assist those students whose English skills are below grade-level standards, the school offers an English Language Resource Program which is organized and taught by specialists. This program starts in grade one. However, it should be noted that this program provides limited instruction and is not meant to replace a professional after-school remedial program, such as Oxford Learning Center. ABS elementary also offers extra learning support in reading and math after school at no cost. A sustained after-school program can assist a child to reach grade level proficiency within the academic year.