Program Overview

VIMSIA’s 4th and 5th grade program bridges the experience and philosophies of the Montessori and International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programs. 

Continuing with the values of our Montessori program, the 4/5th Grade Program fosters independent, self-motivated learners who are agents of their education. Our 4th and 5th grade students learn to set and execute their academic and non-academic goals and they are guided through a holistic process of learning in the following ways:

  • Throughout the day students have opportunities to participate within a community of learners by adding their ideas, valuing others’ opinions, and communicating effectively in groups. 

  • Students are held to high expectations while learning at their own pace.

  • Our curriculum is implemented through a variety of learning methods that support differentiated learning and promote deep and expressive thinking.

  • Holding true to our Montessori motto of offering “Education for Life,” students learn to transfer and apply their skills to real-world situations. 

Community Building

Every day begins with a Morning Meeting. Every individual is greeted and has a chance to share about the chosen topic of the day. Students practice listening and inclusivity by acknowledging each other's contributions and valuing all opinions. Students get to know each other and interact with everyone through class games and morning messages.

Mathematics

Math is a blend of Montessori and Progressive styles. In 4th grade, students engage in a Montessori-based math curriculum. Students are taught in small groups using hands-on Montessori materials that help bring students concrete knowledge to abstraction. They receive lessons for the week and manage their work independently or with small groups. In 5th grade, students are in a dedicated math hour everyday to help ease them into the MYP structure. Students are given a short lesson, then provided time to practice their skills and receive individual guidance from a teacher. In both 4th and 5th grade, students are focused on problem-solving, mathematical reasoning, communicating their ideas and process, and using models to help explain their thinking.

Reading and Writing

The workshop model is used for teaching reading and writing. Four days a week students attend a Reading Workshop and a Writing Workshop. Mini lessons are given at the beginning of each workshop, where students learn a new skill and how to apply it to their own reading or writing. Following the lesson, students put their learning into practice. In the workshop model, students choose books to read or topics to write. Students work independently, in pairs, and in small groups. During the practice time, the teacher works one on one with students to see what skills they are developing and what skills to introduce next.  

Grammar and Language

The adult's role in teaching language is to prepare the environment to be rich in language materials and experiences. These guide children in a range of areas such as grammar, research, varied forms and genres of oral and written language, language as self-expression, and foreign language study. The adult serves as a model for good spoken and written language and conveys their own fascination with the beauty and power of language. Grammar and language work is taught using the Montessori method and materials. Students learn grammar, sentence structure, word work, and spelling using a variety of visual materials. They manage their follow-up work independently.  Montessori Language studies nurture competence in all children in the many areas of communication and self-expression. 

Geometry

All students receive Montessori-based geometry lessons throughout the week. A unique emphasis on geometry in the elementary years helps introduce children to the logical processes and nomenclature used in algebra. An array of remarkable hands-on materials brings each of these areas to life allowing children to discover the inner workings of the math procedures that they explore. 

History

History is taught to all students in a Montessori method, with some Progressive styles woven in. History is never presented as simply a series of events or dates, but as a record of humanity's interaction with the universe. We begin with pre-history: the creation of the universe, the beginning and development of life on Earth, and the development of prehistoric human cultures. We work to understand each culture in the light of our shared fundamental needs,and unique gifts that people from each culture have created to make life better for us and for humanity. We focus on gratitude to those who have gone before, both known and unknown, and on positive human contributions, without hiding challenges and human failures. Timelines, research, and hands-on projects are common vehicles for this area of study.

Science

Using the NGSS (Next Generation Science Standards), students are introduced to scientific practices which include asking questions, developing and using models, planning and carrying out investigations, analyzing and interpreting data, using mathematics and computational thinking, constructing explanations, engaging in arguments from evidence, and obtaining, evaluating, and communicating information. Students practice these skills using a variety of content. Science materials and tools are available for students to explore, learn, and use. Students drive their experiments and learn from their successes and failures. They learn to make claims that are based on evidence from their investigations.

Technology

Students are given their own Chromebook to use in the classroom. They are introduced to Google Classroom and how to use Google docs, slides, and more. We implement a digital citizenship curriculum to help students manage their interactions with technology. Students use different platforms for practicing math, typing, coding, and communicating. Technology is also integrated into the regular curriculum.