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Lower School at EARJ – IB Primary Years Programme (PYP)
Building strong foundations through inquiry and exploration
Our Lower School, serving students from Kindergarten to Grade 5, provides a dynamic learning experience guided by the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP). Through hands-on, inquiry-based learning, students develop critical thinking, collaboration, and communication skills. At EARJ, we foster a caring community where students are empowered to become confident, reflective learners who are prepared to engage thoughtfully with the world around them.
Subjects Included in the Curriculum
Our curriculum integrates various subjects within the Units of Inquiry, promoting an interdisciplinary approach:
Language Arts (English)
Reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills are developed.
Language Arts (Portuguese)
Reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills are developed.
Mathematics
Foundational and advanced concepts are explored through hands-on activities and real-world applications.
Science
Students investigate natural and physical phenomena through experimentation and observation.
Next Generation Science Standards
Social Studies
Students learn about history, geography, and cultures, fostering global awareness.
American Education Reaches Out
The Arts
Visual arts, Makerspace, Music, and Drama help students express themselves creatively.
Physical Education
Movement, games, and sports promote physical health and teamwork.
Society of Health and Physical Education
Personal, Social, and Physical Education (PSPE)
Emphasizes social and emotional development.
Core Areas of Learning
The PYP framework incorporates essential components to foster well-rounded development:
The PYP Exhibition for Grade 5
The PYP culminates in Grade 5 with the PYP Exhibition—a major event where students demonstrate their learning journey. Working collaboratively, students research a topic of global significance, present their findings, and reflect on their learning process. This exhibition helps develop independence, collaboration, and critical thinking as students showcase their knowledge and skills in a meaningful way.
Immersion in the English Language
English is the primary language of instruction, and students are immersed in a language-rich environment that supports the development of proficiency. Teachers use strategies to engage students at different levels of English fluency, ensuring that each child can actively participate and thrive in the classroom. EARJ also provides specialized programming for students who need additional support in English language acquisition.
Our Educator Profile
Our team of educators is composed of highly qualified, experienced teachers who are passionate about inquiry-based learning and student growth. Each educator holds a certification in education and receives ongoing professional development to stay current with PYP teaching methodologies along with best practices. Our educators are dedicated to creating a nurturing and stimulating environment where every student feels valued and inspired to learn.