Elementary
Curriculum Overview
The American Baccalaureate School provides a comprehensive elementary program grounded in sound educational principles and practices, combining the best elements of U.S. and international curricula. The curriculum is designed to meet individual student needs and interests while promoting self-esteem and personal growth.
At ABS, we emphasize creating a caring and supportive classroom environment where students are encouraged to develop independence, respect for others, and a sense of responsibility. Our curriculum supports both independent learning and collaborative work, helping students develop the lifelong skills necessary for personal and academic successes.
In line with international educational expectations and Common Core Standards, our curriculum focuses on traditional disciplines, including English language arts, Arabic, Islamic studies, mathematics, social studies, science, art, music, computing, and physical education. By employing various teaching strategies, students are encouraged to explore the world around them and cultivate a love for learning that lasts a lifetime. Critical thinking and problem-solving skills are central to our teaching approach, ensuring students are prepared to thrive in an ever-changing global society.
A key focus of the Elementary program is STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) learning. Integrated across all subjects, STEM encourages critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and communication. Students engage in hands-on, inquiry-based activities that link classroom instruction to real-world challenges. For instance, students might study aerodynamics by designing and testing paper airplanes or develop coding skills through programming exercises that lay the foundation for future technological projects. Access to state-of-the-art science labs, robotics kits, and coding software empowers students to innovate and solve problems while building teamwork and communication skills through group projects.
As students progress through the elementary grades, they encounter a curriculum that becomes more challenging and expansive. The concepts introduced in the primary grades are further developed, with new ideas and creative problem-solving encouraged. Students continue to refine their work habits, independence, and sense of responsibility.
To support students whose English skills are below grade-level standards, ABS offers an English Language Resource Program starting in grade one, taught by specialists. This program provides targeted support while encouraging additional after-school remedial programs if necessary. Furthermore, ABS provides extra learning support in reading and math after school, at no additional cost, to help students reach grade-level proficiency within the academic year.
Though English is the primary language of instruction, Arabic is integrated into the regular curriculum, serving as the language of instruction for Religion and Social Studies. The number of weekly periods dedicated to these subjects varies by grade level.
Through this diverse and dynamic curriculum, ABS aims to maximize each child’s potential and prepare them for success in an interconnected, global community.