Grades 1-4 Programs

The Lower School at The Summit Country Day School includes students in grades 1-4. Students in grades 1-3 have a homeroom teacher who is responsible for language arts, reading and mathematics as part of the morning program. Social studies, science and religion are taught in the afternoon. Grade 4 students have a homeroom teacher with subjects taught in a departmentalized structure.

Grades 1 through 3 have self-contained teaching teams with teaching assistants who compile learning packets, assist students in small groups and compliment the teacher’s style of instruction. Specialty classes are also a part of the curriculum and students participate in each of these classes on a rotating basis. Foreign language (French or Spanish), library, physical education, music, art and keyboarding indicate the variety of subjects covered by these specials.

In addition to keyboarding, computers are used as a learning tool and are integrated into the classroom. A state-of-the-art computer lab, science labs and art center are available for the students to use weekly with their teachers.

First Grade
First grade students are involved in a developmental program which provides a solid foundation in the language arts (reading, phonics, writing and spelling) and mathematics. The afternoon classes of science, social studies and religion enrich and enhance the student’s learning.

Second Grade
Second grade students broaden and enrich the skills established in first grade, continuing to strengthen the spiritual, academic, social, physical, and artistic dimensions of the child. In addition, the second grade curriculum includes a specially designed program in problem solving and critical thinking.

Third Grade
The third grade program expands to include more opportunities for the students to become independent, responsible learners. Team work, report writing and oral presentations are introduced in the third grade. Problem solving and critical thinking are emphasized.

Fourth Grade
The fourth grade students increase their focus on developing research and writing skills in language arts. Students are also actively involved with science and engage in scientific experiments. Further, technology is integrated throughout the curriculum on an everyday basis, as laptop computers are utilized. A departmentalized approach that rotates around a class schedule begins in fourth grade as students begin to prepare for the Middle School experience.