Language arts at Eton Upper emphasizes a continuum of effective communication and comprehension skills across the curriculum. In language arts classes, students are offered a rigorous course that incorporates the Six Traits writing program, vocabulary studies, grammar usage, editing and mechanics, and literature. Novels, short stories, poetry and plays are part of the language arts experience at all levels, with progressive difficulty and challenge. Students are given many opportunities to develop personal style and creative expression in their writing and presentation of projects.

Social studies incorporate the study of geography, history and civics as well as communication and interpersonal skills. Each grade focuses on a different region of the world and expanding cultural awareness. Current events, concepts of government, decision-making and citizenship are also integral to social studies classes. Activities at all levels include research, individual and group projects, simulations, and discussions that are designed to broaden studentsÕ knowledge base and promote critical thinking skills.

Latin at Eton Upper is not a dead language. Students find it is a dynamic class with games and celebrations that introduce them to ancient Greek and Roman culture, as well as an intricately structured, graceful way of speaking and thinking. Beginning with Latin as part of the English vocabulary, the curriculum progresses to include reading, writing, and translating elementary Latin. A regional Junior Classical League convention is offered for fifth through eighth grade students, as are the National Latin and Mythology Examinations.

Colloquium (plural colloquia Ð from the Latin meaning conversation) is a purposeful block of the weekly schedule specifically designed to support cross-curricular projects. It allows time to extend depth of study and project based assignments. It is an opportunity to incorporate research skills, communication, technology, and fine arts in support of social studies, Latin and science.

Mathematics in fourth through eighth grade at Eton Upper gives a wide-ranging opportunity for critical thinking and problem solving to all the students. Basic arithmetic skills are honed as students are presented with challenging word problems that require multiple operations for solution. Many of our students come from a Montessori background that emphasizes the use of concrete materials. We take this basic core knowledge to the next level, giving the students an intermediate step between the concrete and the abstraction of algebra. The technique of diagramming word problems enables students to ÒseeÓ the problem and allows the introduction of very complex problems. The introduction of difficult prob-lems at these relatively early grades creates a sense of excitement and mathematical accomplishment, enabling students to confidently move into higher levels of math education.

Science for fourth through eighth grade is designed to expand knowledge and experience in life, physical and earth sciences, with progressively more challenging material and activities at each level. Hands-on activities integrate science and mathematics with other disciplines. Working with a science specialist and a classroom teacher, each grade level addresses specific skills with a focus on scientific inquiry from units including life and environmental sciences, chemistry, geology and physical science. Strands from the units of study are included each year, providing structure and continuity.

Artemathics is a unique course for all upper students, designed to give a new perspective on math and art. Artemathics infuses elements of math, science, nature and technology with art. Students explore concepts such as culture mandalas, the Fibonacci sequence, symmetry, scale drawing, the Golden Rectangle, and constellation patterns through artistic expression. Students learn to experience art in the math and sciences, as well as math and science in the arts.

Health and physical education are taught as separate classes at each level and supported by the science and social studies program. The goal is to teach skills and encourage habits and attitudes that promote life long physical, social and emotional well-being. P.e. classes promote physical conditioning, athletic skills, endurance and flexibility. Participation, personal growth, teamwork and sportsmanship are emphasized. Health classes promote positive communication, using skills from The Virtues Project. Each level focuses on a different aspect of human health systems.

Music/Drama at Eton Upper promotes an appreciation for music and music history through song, games and dance. Skills are developed that help students express ideas and feelings through music and drama. Students also participate in choral singing and a dramatic production each year. At the fourth and fifth grade level, students perform in a major musical production at a local theatre venue. The sixth, seventh and eighth grades perform a dramatic or comedic production, often coinciding with the study of Shakespeare. Every student participates as part of the ensemble: acting, singing, working backstage, and assisting with every aspect of the production.

Visual arts is offered as a class and also integrated with academic subjects. Individual skills are developed through a variety of projects designed to build competency in the use of various materials and techniques that support the six components of design: color, line, form, shape, texture and space. Creative expression of ideas, moods and feelings are encouraged. Appreciation and understanding the artistic achievement of past and present cultures is an important aspect of the visual arts program.


Privacy policy | School videos by Visual Contact
©2003 - 2012 Eton School. All Rights Reserved.