In Cycle 3, students reinforce, consolidate and expand their knowledge across all subjects. They are fully bilingual and transition easily from French to English, having learned that English and French curriculum overlap, just as subjects are linked. They realize that knowledge is a whole, and consequently become more open-minded and adventurous in their approach to learning.
Students continue to develop their skills in reading and writing, and reinforce their knowledge of grammar and spelling. New mathematical concepts, such as multiplication, division, fractions, geometry, algebra and measurements, are introduced. Scientific experimentation and the formulation of questions prepare students to propose rational solutions. Students use computers and technology for research and reports. American and European history and geography are added to the curriculum and give students the foundation to understand our world and its varied cultures.
5th grade students take a trip to France every year! They get to know students from a French school, most recently a school in Misery. The students write letters, skype and communicate in a variety of ways, until they finally get to visit the students they have been conversing with all year. Once in France, they are able to test their bilingualism in a real-world setting, cementing their knowledge and gaining confidence.
Students become aware of each person’s responsibility in society. They reflect on human values. Fine arts, music and physical education contribute to their development and equilibrium.
Sometimes, children work better in a mixed-grade class within their current cycle. This class set-up is normal in French schools and all teachers are familiar with this mixed-level teaching. Children can benefit greatly, learning from each other and reinforcing what they know.
Children in grades 3 through 5 are expected to be appropriately fluent in reading, writing, and speaking French, as 75% of their day is taught in French. The program is 8:30AM until 3:15PM.
The Annual 5th Grade Trip to France!
Students get to know their classmates at their host school, study the area they will visit, and raise money for the trip. It’s a great way to end their education journey with us.
Here are some of the comments about the trip to France.
J’ai aimé tout ce qu’on a fait à Paris, mais le plus intéressant c’était le Louvre.
La Mona Lisa est très petite, alors que tout le monde pensait que c’était très grand.
Moi, j’ai aimé Notre-Dame, il y a des belles peintures !
Moi j’ai bien aimé l’arc de Triomphe parce que du haut on peut voir beaucoup de choses : les Champs Elysées, Sacré Cœur, La Tour Eiffel...
L’arc de Triomphe était très grand et il y avait 284 marches à monter!
