Upper Elementary
Upper Elementary Program Overview
Our Upper Elementary program provides a challenging and supportive learning environment for students in grades 4-6. This is a pivotal time in your child’s development, where they transition from concrete to abstract thinking and begin to explore their independence and individual interests.
Our program fosters academic excellence, personal growth, and a lifelong love of learning through a unique blend of Montessori principles and engaging, interdisciplinary studies.
Montessori Principles
Our Upper Elementary program is guided by core Montessori principles that empower students to take ownership of their learning:
- Intellectual Exploration: Students delve into academic subjects, researching, debating, and presenting, fostering critical thinking and a thirst for knowledge.
- Responsibility and Independence: We encourage students to take initiative, manage their time effectively, and collaborate with peers.
- Cosmic Education: Our curriculum expands to encompass a “cosmic” perspective, connecting subjects and exploring the interconnectedness of all things, from the universe to human civilizations.
- Moral Development: We emphasize ethical decision-making, respect for others, and social responsibility, nurturing compassionate and engaged citizens.
Upper Elementary Program Details
Ages
9 years — 12 years
Program Hours
Half-Day: 8:30am – 12:30pm
Full-Day: 8:30am – 3:30pm
Extended-Day: 7:30am – 6:00pm
Class Size
12 students, 2 teachers
Upper Elementary Curriculum
Our Upper Elementary program encourages children to further develop their skills and knowledge across various disciplines:
- Language Arts: Advanced reading comprehension, essay writing, public speaking, creative writing, and literary analysis.
- Mathematics: Pre-algebra, geometry, fractions, decimals, percentages, problem-solving, and critical thinking.
- Science: Biology, chemistry, physics, environmental science, scientific method, and research skills.
- Social Studies: Ancient civilizations, world history, geography, government, economics, and current events.
- Technology: Computer literacy, research tools, and digital citizenship.
- Creative Arts: Visual arts, music, drama, and creative expression.
Developmental Milestones
As your child blossoms into an active, productive member of society, they will continue to develop crucial life skills, including:
- Cognition: Abstract thinking, logical reasoning, problem-solving, and metacognition – thinking about thinking.
- Social-Emotional Skills: Developing self-awareness, building strong friendships, navigating social dynamics, and understanding complex emotions.
- Physical Development: Refining motor skills, increasing coordination, and a focusing on making healthy lifestyle choices.
- Morality: Developing a sense of justice, fairness, and responsibility towards themselves and others.
Our Thriving Community
At Austin Children’s Academy, all of our programs, including Upper Elementary, work to foster a strong sense of community where students and families alike feel supported, respected, and valued.
Our experienced teachers act as guides and mentors, encouraging students to embrace challenges, pursue their passions, and become confident, capable young people.