Students in these grades spend 60–70% of their day engaging in French language activities and 30–40% of their time in English. Students use the skills they acquired in Grades 1 and 2 to learn and master more content and information. At the same time, they develop the ability to express increasingly complex ideas. Students strengthen their communication and interpersonal skills as they learn to collaborate effectively with others. The harmonized curricula help students adopt a global perspective and gain knowledge of different cultures.

 

By the end of Cycle 3, students are equipped with the skills and confidence they need for success in Middle School.

 

Cycle 3 specifically fulfills two goals: 1) a continuation of essential learning skills, and 3) preparation for Middle School. The French and English curricula are carefully coordinated to ensure that these goals are met in all subjects, combining academic rigor and creativity. Music, performing arts, and physical education enrich the challenging academic program.

Program Highlights:

BEYOND THE CLASSROOM: Students take their first overnight trip in 4th grade to lslandWood on Bainbridge Island to teach them about environmental sustainability. In 5th grade, they travel to Washington, DC, to experience firsthand the historical and cultural landmarks that bring their classroom lessons to life. 

LANGUAGE ARTS: Students are immersed in the French language, learning basic interpersonal communication skills with the goal of attaining cognitive academic language proficiency. Their acquired language skills in a bilingual environment help them find their place in the world, connect socially, and thrive academically.

HISTORY & GEOGRAPHY: Students are introduced to the rich tapestry of the world around them through lessons in history, geography, and social studies. These subjects form the foundation of cultural, civic, and global awareness.

MATHEMATICS: In math, students develop foundational problem-solving skills, logical thinking, and numerical fluency that they can then apply to real world situations and future learning. An early focus on geometry develops spatial perception and enhances abstract reasoning skills.

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY: Science, engineering, and coding are centered around the inquiry method and facilitate the understanding of concepts such as matter, the living world, earth and its ecosystems, as well as sustainability and technology. This fosters critical thinking and creativity.

VISUAL & PERFORMING ARTS: Visual arts, music, and drama allow self-expression, the learning of techniques, and the cultivation of cultural appreciation, ultimately enabling students to understand and connect with the world around them.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION: PE helps students develop gross motor skills and teaches them to express themselves using their bodies. They learn to take on responsibilities, cooperate with their peers, and maintain physical fitness.

ENRICHMENT ACTIVITIES: The optional after-school program includes homework help, classes (such as arts and crafts, sciences, cooking), and athletics (track & field, cross country, soccer, basketball, and volleyball), providing opportunities for creative exploration, skill building, and social interactions.