“The elementary child hasreached a new level of development. Before he was interested in things: working with his hands, learning their names. Now he is interested mainly in the how and why… the problem of cause and effect”
Moving from concrete learning to a more abstract conceptual learning is the next step that the children take. The students begin to strike out own their own, exploring and researching, using the tools that they have developed at the Primary level. Imagination and abstract reasoning become key tools in their learning. Their work now goes beyond just the reading, writing, and arithmetic. The child seeks to broaden their understanding, gathering deeper answers to the questions about the world around them. They also become more social and collaborative. The ideas of justice and right or wrong become stronger as they develop a higher social awareness.
The Elementary now broadens the child’s world, opening the eyes to even more possibilities and things to explore. Again, the environment is key and the classroom is designed with the resources necessary to encourage independent learning. From reference material to access to computers and the internet, the tools our students need to research, create, and publish are there for them. Both individual and collaborative group work are part of their daily learning and as always, careful and caring instruction from the teachers is there to help them navigate through their journey to discover the world and their place in it.
Throughout the summer semester, the Upper Elementary studied the foundations for starting a business and they had a “blast” doing it. The students began with product research; making phone calls to various venders for a cost-comparison of supplies, and even inadvertently learned the hassle of being “put on hold”. Following thorough investigation, they developed an authentic business proposal and applied for a loan from the Head of Schools (Noreen Martin), herself. After the loan was approved, they formed a marketing campaign that included a trademark and their very own commercial (see video below), which was a big hit for students and parents alike. It has even given the younger students the opportunity to learn about money; many for the very first time. They conducted business daily, learning customer service, teamwork, leadership skills, and philanthropy… and how to have fun doing it. They have built a very strong customer base, ranging from the younger students to parents and other family members. The class truly appreciates their very loyal patrons!
Following the success during the summer season, the class continued the business into the fall and began donating their profits to various school-related projects including supplemental science materials, classroom pets, and student-voted games for the After School Program. With no end in sight, the class is looking forward to offering even more to their school in the months to come.
Click the play button below to view the Lemonade Blast Commercial:
