2024 ES Programme

THE GRADE 3 EXPERIENCE

Key Developmental Milestones

Grade 3 often marks some key transitions toward greater independence and growth physically, emotionally and mentally. Key characteristics of a third grader: excitement for learning and willingness to take on new challenges, interest in peer relations and eagerness to have approval of their teacher and classmates. Third graders will often enjoy working in small groups and are willing to take risks, but also might take on more than they can handle. They will often recover quickly from mistakes or problems. With a fast growing vocabulary, children of this age will enjoy talking and sharing and explaining their ideas. They are often interested in logic, classification and how the world works.

The 3rd grade learning program is designed to support and develop these milestones.

Personalising Learning

In the Lower School, we embrace the unique potential within each learner craft individualised educational experiences that grow learner strengths empower learners to explore their passion and interests integrate technology into all subject areas cultivate critical thinking and collaborate using diverse perspectives develop learners who confidently navigate the current challenges of our world

BECOMING INTERNATIONAL CITIZENS

ISB believes that in order to be International Citizens, successful in and out of school, students need to learn and develop social and emotional competencies. These competencies are grounded in our Character Standards and our belief in Social Justice.

In tandem with our Character standards, we use the Learning for Justice Standards to support our goal of developing true International Citizens

Strand Areas of Focus & Development

Action Justice Diversity Identity

developing positive social identities & express this with pride without denying dignity of others

expressing comfort with people who are both similar to and different from them and engage respectfully with all people

recognizing stereotypes and relate to people as individuals rather than representatives of groups

speaking up with courage and respect when they or someone else has been hurt or wronged

R e a d i n g

CORE LITERACIES

ISB follows the globally recognized expectations outlined in the Common Core State Standards for Literacy & Mathematics.

Foundational Skills

Informational Text Literature

Strand Areas of Focus & Development W r i t i n g

Develop phonics and word recognition and read with sufficient accuracy and fluency to support comprehension

Ask and answer questions to demonstrate understanding of a text, referring explicitly to the text as the basis for the answers; Recount stories; Describe characters; Determine the meaning of words and phrases; Discuss how language is used to describe; Discuss texts in which characters, events and settings are portrayed in different ways, and speculate on the author's reasons

Determine the main idea of a text; Determine the meaning of general academic and domain-specific words and phrases; Use text features and search tools; Use information gained from illustrations; Compare and contrast the most important points

Strand Areas of Focus & Development

Text Types & Purposes

Write opinion pieces on topics or text, supporting a point of view with reasons; Write informative / explanatory texts to examine a topic and convey ideas and information clearly; Write narratives to develop real or imagined experiences or events using effective technique, relevant descriptive details, and clear event sequences

Use accurately grade-appropriate conversational, general academic, and domain-specific words and phrasesChoose words and phrases for effect; Use glossaries or beginning dictionaries, both print and digital, to determine or clarify the precise meaning of key words and phrases; Distinguish shades of meaning among related words

Conventions of Standard English

Production of Writing Vocabulary Use

Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English grammar, capitalization, punctuation, and spelling

With guidance and support from peers and adults, develop and strengthen writing as needed by planning, revising, and editing texts

CORE LITERACIES

Strand Areas of Focus & Development

Operations & Algebriac

Thinking

Numbers & Operations in Base 10

Numbers & Operations - Fractions

Geometry

Measurement & Data

Mathematical Processes

The ISB Mathematics program is designed to develop a deep understanding of mathematical concepts while nurturing critical thinking skills and problem-solving abilities. S T E M : M a t h e m a t i c s

Solve two-step word problems using the four operations Assess the reasonableness of answers using mental computation and estimation

Use multiplication and division w thin 100 to solve word problems

Identify arithmetic patterns and explain them using properties of operations

Fluently add and subtract within 1000

Fluently multiply and divide within 100

Use place value understanding to round whole numbers to the nearest 10 or 100

Understand a fraction as a number on the number line

Explain equivalence of fractions (½, ¼, ⅓, ⅙ and ⅛ ), and compare fractions by reasoning about their size

Compare two fractions with the same numerator or the same denominator by reasoning about their size

Understand that shapes in different categories may share attributes and that the shared attributes can define a larger category

Understand that shapes can be partitioned into equally sized parts, the measure of which can be expressed as a fraction of the original shape

Measure and estimate liquid volumes and masses of objects using standard units

Solve real world and mathematical problems invo ving perimeters of polygons

Recognize area as an attribute of plane figures and understand concepts of area measurement

Make sense of problems and persevere in solving them

Construct viable arguments and critique the reasoning of others

Model with mathematics

Attend to precision

CORE LITERACIES

Opportunities to build understanding of programming structures are integrated across the year The main topics of Grade 3 are: discovering algorithms debugging program construction

Through projects during year, students are introduced to the different design tools at ISB and the design process

As a 1:1 device school, quality technology is available for all students. With extensive design resources such as 3-D printers, laser and vinyl cutters, green screen studios, VEX robotics, and a Virtual Reality suite, Elementary students use one of the best DesignTech spaces in Belgium. S T E M : D e s i g n & T e c h n o l o g y

We emphasize using technology responsibly and effectively for communication, collaboration and creation Becoming proficient and postive members in a digital world is a primary goal

Within Design units at ISB, students follow the Stanford University Design School model

c i e n c e & S o c i a l S t u d i e s

CORE LITERACIES

Designed for deep inquiry into how our world works through hands-on experiences and by using a range of primary and secondary sources connected to historical and contemporary themes.

Using our campus environment, students observe the plants and animals in our forest and explore how plants, animals and humans are interdependent and how adaptation is a way living things survive and thrive. Students conduct experiments using their bean plants to discover how the environment impacts growth and practice completing close observations and drawings

Trying to solve the real-life problem of mailing an item so it doesn’t get damaged, students explore the physical properties of materials Students then look more closely at states of matter, changes that are reversible or irreversible, and exploring how matter can be combined as mixtures and solutions

Students develop an understanding of the scientific method for testing a hypothesis

Starting with interviewing family members and teachers about their childhood, students make comparisons about their own experience and others in years past Students look at 19th century Belgium and how changes in laws and attitudes changed what childhood looks like here now and how childhood can look different around the globe

CORE LITERACIES

r a n s f e r a

Transferable skills, also known as portable or universal skills, can be applied across various subjects and situations. These skills are not tied to specific disciplines but rather can be adapted and moved from one context to another.

Strand Key Questions

Collaboration

S k i l l s

Thinking

Self-Management Research

How do I share my ideas and build on the ideas of others?

How can I find the best evidence for my questions?

How does information from different sources connect to each other?

How do I set effective goals and where am I now in achieving them?

Personal Inquiry

Areas of Focus & Development

Participate in an Academic Discussion

Listen to understand, rather than reply

Record Evidence

Select the evidence that is most useful to record

Reason Across Multiple Examples

Identify Similarities & Differences

Set Effective Goals

Seek and use feedback as part of the process of monitoring goals

Each year, students have the opportunity to follow their own personal Inquiry into an area of interest or passion, further developing Character and Transferable Skills. Through this process, students develop planning and resilience skills and overcome challenges and reflect on their own growth. This process culminates in a Showcase where students share their learning with the school community.

To learn more about Personal Inquiry in the Elementary School, watch this video.

LANGUAGES PROGRAM

L a n g u a g e s P a t h w a y s

Students, who have demonstrated proficiency in English, access either the Dutch or French language. Additional languages are offered as part of the ISB+ program, based on demand.

ISB follows the Common European Framework for Languages.

French Discovery A1

Foundations A1.2

Consolidating A2.1

Building A2.2

Independent B1 / B2 / C1

Grade 5 & 6

Social Studies in French option

English Proficiency

Dutch Indpendent B2 / C1

ISB+ Plus Languages

Open to all regardless of English Proficiency

SPECIALIST PROGRAM

Specialist programs at ISB are essential components of a well-rounded education. These programs enhance problem-solving, critical thinking, decision-making, team work, and self expression.

Each program is taught by a Specialist teacher in the respective field.

Hand & Feet Skills

The Physical Education and Heath program focuses on the following areas:

Motor Skills & Movement Patterns

Concepts, Principles, Strategies & Tactics

Understanding Healthy Lifestyles

The Arts program focuses on the following areas:

Creating & Performing and

Responding & Connecting to visual and musical artworks

Praises others for their success

Recognizes the role of rules and etiquette

Throws overarm, demonstrating three of the five critical elements of a mature pattern

Dribbles with the feet in general space at slow to moderate jogging speed with control of ball and body

Chasing & Fleeing

Performs a sequence of locomotor skills, transitioning from one skill to another smoothly and without hesitation like changing speed and direction

Combines movement concepts (direction, levels, force, time)

Parkour / Gymnastics

Transfers weight from feet to hands for momentary weight support

Moves into and out of gymnastics balances with curling, twisting and stretching actions

Jumps and lands in the horizontal plane using a mature pattern

Visual Arts

Third grade students learn about the use of line, shape, color, and three-dimensional form in the creation of realistic and abstract works of art and in understanding how artists express themselves visually Students respond to artworks by reflecting on various artistic processes and by evaluating their own and others’ art based on given criteria

Units in Grade 3 are:

Line, Shape, Color: Stained Glass Windows & Underwater Seascapes

Three-Dimensional Form: Paper, Plastic, and Wire Sculpture

Expressing Ourselves: Abstract & Expressive Portraiture

Send, Catch & Track

Strikes an object with a shorthandled implement while demonstrating three of the five critical elements of a mature pattern

Strikes a ball with a long-handled implement, sending it forward, while using proper grip

Performing Arts

Third grade builds towards the performance of a canon, while also reinforcing the concepts of the beat and phrase

Major topics in third grade are: the distinction between music in duple meter and music in triple meter instrumental improvisation following a set of rules leading to the spontaneous creation of melodies on classroom instruments melodic reading

FIELD TRIPS & HOME LEARNING

Field Trips

In the Elementary School, we look to connect our curriculum to our local community so as to give students opportunities to acquire and apply learning in different contexts In addition to one-day trips to locations in Brussels throughout the year, in late-spring Grade 3 students also go to the Belgian Coast for an extended multiday field trip

This experience builds both student independence and self-belief, but also is a highlight of the student’s experience at ISB

Home Learning

Typical Assignments

Independent Reading

All ES students should spend at least 20 minutes per evening with a good book

Mathematics

ES students will have a Problem of the Week that they can work on independently

We value perseverance as much as solving the problem We expect all students to make a concentrated effort for at least 20 minutes and be able to show their attempts

There may also be brief assignments connected to other subject areas such as Science & Social Studies,

THE GRADE 4 EXPERIENCE

Key Developmental Milestones

Children of this age often become aware of the intricacies and subtleties of the world around them. This is a year of intellectual stretching, wondering, arguing, questioning and doubting – all signs of remarkable growth in resilience, curiosity, maturing character and capacity for independence. Fairness matters greatly to Grade 4s and there is greater concern for global justice. Fourth graders often enjoy small groups and enjoy coming together to play games or share collections. Working with industrious care on purposeful and appropriately challenged assignments, they are often willing to put a great deal of effort into final products.

The 4th grade learning program is designed to support and develop these key developmental milestones.

Personalising Learning

In the Lower School, we embrace the unique potential within each learner craft individualised educational experiences that grow learner strengths empower learners to explore their passion and interests integrate technology into all subject areas cultivate critical thinking and collaborate using diverse perspectives develop learners who confidently navigate the current challenges of our world

BECOMING INTERNATIONAL CITIZENS

ISB believes that in order to be International Citizens, successful in and out of school, students need to learn and develop social and emotional competencies. These competencies are grounded in our Character Standards and our belief in Social Justice.

In tandem with our Character standards, we use the Learning for Justice Standards to support our goal of developing true International Citizens

Strand Areas of Focus & Development

Action Justice Diversity Identity

developing positive social identities & express this with pride without denying dignity of others

expressing comfort with people who are both similar to and different from them and engage respectfully with all people

recognizing stereotypes and relate to people as individuals rather than representatives of groups

speaking up with courage and respect when they or someone else has been hurt or wronged

CORE LITERACIES

ISB follows the globally recognized expectations outlined in the Common Core State Standards for Literacy & Mathematics.

R e a d i n g

Foundational Skills

Literature

Informational Text

Strand Areas of Focus & Development W r i t i n g

Know and apply grade-level phonics and word analysis skills in decoding words; Read with sufficient accuracy and fluency to support comprehension

Refer to details and examples in a text; determine a theme of a story, poem or drama from details; summarize the text; Describe in depth a character, setting, or event in a story or drama, drawing on specific details in the text; Explain events, procedures, ideas, or concepts in a historical, scientific, or technical text

Determine the main idea of a text and explain how it is supported by key details; Explain events, procedures, ideas, or concepts in a historical, scientific, or technical text; Compare and contrast a firsthand and secondhand account of the same event or topic; Interpret information presented visually, orally, or quantitatively

Strand Areas of Focus & Development

Text Types & Purposes

Vocabulary Use

Conventions of Standard English

Production of Writing

Write opinion pieces on topics or text, supporting a point of view with reasons; Write informative / explanatory texts to examine a topic and convey ideas and information clearly; Write narratives to develop real or imagined experiences or events using effective technique, relevant descriptive details, and clear event sequences

Use accurately grade-appropriate conversational, general academic, and domain-specific words and phrases; Choose words and phrases for effect; Use glossaries or beginning dictionaries, both print and digital, to determine or clarify the precise meaning of key words and phrases; Distinguish shades of meaning among related words

Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English grammar, capitalization, punctuation, and spelling

With guidance and support from peers and adults, develop and strengthen writing as needed by planning, revising, and editing texts

CORE LITERACIES

Strand Areas of Focus & Development

Operations & Algebriac Thinking

Numbers & Operations in Base 10

Numbers & Operations - Fractions

Geometry

Measurement & Data

Mathematical Processes

The ISB Mathematics program is designed to develop a deep understanding of mathematical concepts while nurturing critical thinking skills and problem-solving abilities. S T E M : M a t h e

Uses operat ons with whole numbers to solve problems

Gain familiar ty with factors and multiple

General zes and analyzes problems

Understands place value for multi-digit whole numbers

Uses place value understanding and properties of operations to perform mu ti-digit arithmetic

Extends understanding of fraction equ valence and ordering

Builds fractions from unit fractions

Understands decimal notation for fractions

Draws, identifies and utilizes lines and angles

Solves problems involving measurement and conversion

Represents and nterprets data

Make sense of problems and persevere in solving them

Construct viable arguments and critique the reasoning of others

Model with mathematics

Attend to precision

CORE LITERACIES

As a 1:1 device school, quality technology is available for all students. With extensive design resources such as 3-D printers, laser and vinyl cutters, green screen studios, VEX robotics, and a Virtual Reality suite, Elementary students use one of the best DesignTech spaces in Belgium. S T E M : D e s i g n & T e c h n o l o g y

Opportunities to build understanding of programming structures are integrated across the year The main topics of Grade 4 are:

What is decomposition?

What is a variable?

What is local reasoning?

Through projects during year, students are introduced to the different design tools at ISB and the design process

We emphasize using technology responsibly and effectively for communication, collaboration and creation Becoming proficient and postive members in a digital world is a primary goal

Within Design units at ISB, students follow the Stanford University Design School model

CORE LITERACIES

Designed for deep inquiry into how our world works through handson experiences and by using a range of primary and secondary sources connected to historical and contemporary themes. S c i e n c e & S o c i a l S t u d i e s

Understanding how climate and other factors can lead to specialization of products, which often requires an interdependence on trade to meet the needs of the population

Students explore how innovation can give one group advantages over another and economic self-interest can create conflicts and the ways that Fair Trade can help our world be more equitable

Through exploring earth systems, students develop an understanding of how earth’s surface changes over time as a result of natural processes and human activity, such as erosion, volcanoes and earthquakes

Students also explore earth’s place in our solar system

Students develop the understanding of how living things depend on the same limited resources for survival Through case studies from around the globe, students explore examples of where limited resources are being used or spoiled faster than they can be replenished, with this use becoming unsustainable.

Trade & GlobalizationGeography & Economics

Earth & Space SystemsApplied Sciences

Water for LifeEnvironmental Science

CORE LITERACIES

Transferable skills, also known as portable or universal skills, can be applied across various subjects and situations. These skills are not tied to specific disciplines but rather can be adapted and moved from one context to another.

Strand Key Questions

r a n s f e r a

Collaboration

S k i l l s

Thinking

Self-Management Research

How do I share my ideas and build on the ideas of others?

How can I find the best evidence for my questions?

How does information from different sources connect to each other?

How do I set effective goals and where am I now in achieving them?

Personal Inquiry

Areas of Focus & Development

Participate in an Academic Discussion

Listen to understand, rather than reply

Record Evidence

Select the evidence that is most useful to record

Reason Across Multiple Examples

Identify Similarities & Differences

Set Effective Goals

Seek and use feedback as part of the process of monitoring goals

Each year, students have the opportunity to follow their own personal Inquiry into an area of interest or passion, further developing Character and Transferable Skills. Through this process, students develop planning and resilience skills and overcome challenges and reflect on their own growth. This process culminates in a Showcase where students share their learning with the school community.

To learn more about Personal Inquiry in the Elementary School, watch this video.

LANGUAGES PROGRAM

L a n g u a g e s P a t h w a y s

Students, who have demonstrated proficiency in English, access either the Dutch or French language. Additional languages are offered as part of the ISB+ program, based on demand.

ISB follows the Common European Framework for Languages.

French Discovery A1

Foundations A1.2

Consolidating A2.1

Building A2.2

Independent B1 / B2 / C1

Grade 5 & 6

Social Studies in French option

English Proficiency

Dutch Indpendent B2 / C1

ISB+ Plus Languages

Open to all regardless of English Proficiency

SPECIALIST PROGRAM

Specialist programs at ISB are essential components of a well-rounded education. These programs enhance problem-solving, critical thinking, decision-making, team work, and self expression.

Each program is taught by a Specialist teacher in the respective field. P h y s i c a l E d u c a t i o n & H e a l t h V i s u a l & P e r f o r m i n g A r t s The Arts program focuses on the following areas:

The Physical Education and Heath program focuses on the following areas:

Motor Skills & Movement Patterns

Concepts, Principles, Strategies & Tactics

Understanding Healthy Lifestyles

Get Up & Move

Reflects on personal social behavior in physical activity

Accepts “players” of all skill levels into the physical activity

Exhibits etiquette and adherence to rules in a variety of physical activities

Combines travelling with manipulative skills of dribbling, throwing, catching and striking

Throws to a moving partner with reasonable accuracy

Applies the concept of open and closed spaces

Strategies for using feet to find firm footings

Maintaining balance, including counterbalance

Using arms, hips and eyes to climb efficiently

Parkour / Gymnastics

Balances on different bases of support on apparatus

Transfers weight from feet to hands varying speed and using large extensions (e g mule kick, handstand, cartwheel)

Combines locomotor and movement concepts

Net Games

Underhand-volleys, using a mature pattern, in a dynamic environment Strikes with a two-hand overhead pattern, sending a ball upward while demonstrating four of the five critical elements of a mature pattern

Applies the concepts of direction and force when striking an object

Creating & Performing and

Responding & Connecting to visual and musical artworks

Fourth grade students learn about the use of line, shape, color in the use of different media to create drawings, paintings, collages, and relief prints The focus is on realism, Surrealism, and the use of symbols to communicate a chosen idea about a global issue Students respond to artworks by interpreting them with contextual information and by applying criteria to judge multiple artworks

Units in Grade 4 are:

Line, Shape, Color: Still-Life Drawing & Painting

Surrealism: Collage

Printmaking & Symbols: Social Justice Poster

Grade 4 Performing Arts incorporates skills of keeping a steady beat, movement, ostinato and canon while performing hand drums, mallet percussion, and non-pitched percussion instruments (shakers)

Major topics in fourth grade are: standard rhythmic vocabulary rehearsal cues mallet instruments

learning to read written music notation on the music staff

Visual Arts

Invasion Games Rock Climbing

Performing Arts

FIELD TRIPS & HOME LEARNING

Field Trips

In the Elementary School, we look to connect our curriculum to our local community so as to give students opportunities to acquire and apply learning in different contexts. In addition to one-day trips to locations in Brussels throughout the year, Grade 4 students also go on an extended multi-day field trip.

This experience builds both student independence and self-belief, but also is a highlight of the student’s experience at ISB.

Home Learning

Typical Assignments

Independent Reading

All ES students should spend at least 20 minutes per evening with a good book

Mathematics

ES students will have a Problem of the Week that they can work on independently

We value perseverance as much as solving the problem We expect all students to make a concentrated effort for at least 20 minutes and be able to show their attempts

There may also be brief assignments connected to other subject areas such as Science & Social Studies, French/Dutch, Music.

Grade 4 - 40 minutes

THE GRADE 5 EXPERIENCE

Key Developmental Milestones

Engaging productively in collaborative learning, Grade 5 children often love learning factual information and sharing their knowledge with classmates. With eagerness to learn and with longer periods of concentration result in pride in their work. Beginning to order their world is key for fifth graders as is working hard to produce tangible products that show their competence. Fifth grade is often a time of consolidation of the learning of earlier years and relaxing into childhood as they gather strength for the challenges of adolescence ahead. Positive adult feedback, recognizing contributions to the classroom, friends, school and family enhance the efforts and increase the joy of these enthusiastic children.

The Grade 5 program is designed to support and develop these milestones.

Personalising Learning

In the Lower School, we embrace the unique potential within each learner craft individualised educational experiences that grow learner strengths empower learners to explore their passion and interests integrate technology into all subject areas cultivate critical thinking and collaborate using diverse perspectives develop learners who confidently navigate the current challenges of our world

BECOMING INTERNATIONAL CITIZENS

ISB believes that in order to be International Citizens, successful in and out of school, students need to learn and develop social and emotional competencies. These competencies are grounded in our Character Standards and our belief in Social Justice.

In tandem with our Character standards, we use the Learning for Justice Standards to support our goal of developing true International Citizens

Strand Areas of Focus & Development

Action Justice Diversity Identity

developing positive social identities & express this with pride without denying dignity of others

expressing comfort with people who are both similar to and different from them and engage respectfully with all people

recognizing stereotypes and relate to people as individuals rather than representatives of groups

speaking up with courage and respect when they or someone else has been hurt or wronged

CORE LITERACIES

R e a d i n g

ISB follows the globally recognized expectations outlined in the Common Core State Standards for Literacy & Mathematics.

Strand Areas of Focus & Development

Foundational Skills

Literature

W r i t i n g

Informational Text

Use combined knowledge of all letter-sound correspondences, syllabication patterns, and morphology (e g , roots and affixes) to read accurately unfamiliar multisyllabic words in context and out of context

Quote accurately from a text when explaining what the text says explicitly and when drawing inferences from the text; Determine a theme of a story, drama, or poem from details; Compare and contrast two or more characters, settings, or events; Understand, interpret and experiment with sound devices and imagery, including simile, metaphor and personification; Describe how a narrator’s or speaker’s point of view influences how events are described

Determine two or more main ideas of a text and explain how they are supported by key details; Explain the relationships or interactions between two or more individuals, events, ideas, or concepts in a historical, scientific, or technical text; Analyze multiple accounts of the same event or topic, noting important similarities and differences in the point of view

Strand Areas of Focus & Development

Text Types & Purposes

Vocabulary Use

Conventions of Standard English

Production of Writing

Write opinion pieces on topics or texts, supporting a point of view with reasons and information; Write informative texts to examine a topic and convey ideas and information clearly; Write narratives to develop real or imagined experiences or events using effective technique, relevant descriptive details, and clear event sequences

Use accurately grade-appropriate general academic and domain-specific words and phrases, including those that signal contrast, addition, and other logical relationships; Consult reference materials (e g , dictionaries, glossaries, thesauruses); Use the relationship between particular words (e g , synonyms, antonyms, homographs) to better understand each of the words

Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English grammar, capitalization, punctuation, and spelling, including noun groups, complex sentences, and less common plurals

With guidance and support from peers and adults, develop and strengthen writing, using agreed-upon criteria, by planning, revising, editing, rewriting

CORE LITERACIES

The ISB Mathematics program is designed to develop a deep understanding of mathematical concepts while nurturing critical thinking skills and problem-solving abilities. S T E M : M a t h e m

Strand Areas of Focus & Development

Operations & Algebriac Thinking

Numbers & Operations in Base 10

Numbers & Operations - Fractions

Geometry

Measurement & Data

Mathematical Processes

Writes and interprets numerical expressions

Analyzes patterns and relationships

Understands place value

Performs operations with mu ti-digit whole numbers and with decimals to the hundredths

Uses equiva ent fractions to add and subtract fractions

Multiply and divide fractions

Graphs points on a coord nate plane

Classifies two dimensional figures based on their properties

Converts like measurements in a given system

Represents and nterprets data

Understands concepts of volume

Make sense of problems and persevere in solving them

Construct viable arguments and critique the reasoning of others

Model with mathematics

Attend to precision

CORE LITERACIES

Opportunities to build understanding of programming structures are integrated across the year

The main topics of Grade 5 are:

Repetition (Loops)

Programming with sensors

Pattern recognition

As a 1:1 device school, quality technology is available for all students. With extensive design resources such as 3-D printers, laser and vinyl cutters, green screen studios, VEX robotics, and a Virtual Reality suite, Elementary students use one of the best DesignTech spaces in Belgium. S T E M : D e s i g n & T e c h n o l o g y

Technology

Through projects during year, students are introduced to the different design tools at ISB and the design process

We emphasize using technology responsibly and effectively for communication, collaboration and creation Becoming proficient and postive members in a digital world is a primary goal

Within Design units at ISB, students follow the Stanford University Design School model

CORE LITERACIES

Designed for deep inquiry into how our world works through handson experiences and by using a range of primary and secondary sources connected to historical and contemporary themes. S c i e n c e & S o c i a l S t u d i e s

Thinking Like a ScientistScience as a Human Endeavour

Students build understanding of how Science helps us solve problems. By exploring common scientific phenomena using the experimental science process students develop understanding of how explanations are built on evidence This unit culminates in the annual Grade 5 Science Fair

Society & Values - History

Students explore eight cultural universals through examination of their own culture and the case study of Ancient Rome Concepts of conflict, societal stratification, impacts of key individuals on the direction of a society are developed Students engage in a culminating activity of creating a new culture to address some of the problems they uncovered in their inquiry

Migration - Geography / History

Through a range of historical and contemporary case studies, students explore reasons for migration and how prejudice can lead to differing rights afforded migrants from those already citizens in a country

Government SystemsCivics

Brussels as home to the European Parliament, students explore how representation works in democratic government and develop an understanding that democracy is maintained when citizens participate by staying informed, advocating and voting

In Grade 5, students who have a proficiency in French can join the Social Studies in French option.

CORE LITERACIES

Transferable skills, also known as portable or universal skills, can be applied across various subjects and situations. These skills are not tied to specific disciplines but rather can be adapted and moved from one context to another. T r a n s f e r a b l e S k i l l s

Strand Key Questions

Collaboration Thinking Self-Management Research

How do I share my ideas and build on the ideas of others?

How can I find the best evidence for my questions?

How does information from different sources connect to each other?

How do I set effective goals and where am I now in achieving them?

Electives Program

Areas of Focus & Development

Participate in an Academic Discussion

Listen to understand, rather than reply

Record Evidence

Select the evidence that is most useful to record

Reason Across Multiple Examples

Identify Similarities & Differences

Set Effective Goals

Seek and use feedback as part of the process of monitoring goals

In Grade 5, students begin the Elementary School Elective Program This gives students opportunities to further delve into areas of interest or passion while developing the ISB Character Standards and Transferable Skills

Examples of electives include Model United Nations, Robotics & Coding, Film Study & Creation, Textile Design, Sports Health & Nutrition, Book Study & Creation, Comic Book Art Although some electives run a full year, most electives are by semester giving students the opportunity to explore different areas

LANGUAGES PROGRAM

L a n g u a g e s P a t h w a y s

Students, who have demonstrated proficiency in English, access either the Dutch or French language. Additional languages are offered as part of the ISB+ program, based on demand.

ISB follows the Common European Framework for Languages.

French Discovery A1

Foundations A1.2

Consolidating A2.1

Building A2.2

Independent B1 / B2 / C1

Grade 5 & 6

Social Studies in French option

English Proficiency

Dutch Indpendent B2 / C1

ISB+ Plus Languages

Open to all regardless of English Proficiency

SPECIALIST PROGRAM

Specialist programs at ISB are essential components of a well-rounded education. These programs enhance problem-solving, critical thinking, decision-making, team work, and self expression.

Each program is taught by a Specialist teacher in the respective field.

h y s i c

The Physical Education and Heath program focuses on the following areas:

Motor Skills & Movement Patterns Concepts, Principles, Strategies & Tactics

Understanding Healthy Lifestyles

Engages in physical activity with responsible interpersonal behavior

Actively involves others with both higher and lower skill abilities into physical activities and group project

Combines locomotor and manipulative skills in a variety of practice tasks in game environments

Catches / receives with accuracy, both partners moving Applies movement concepts to strategy in game situations

Applies basic offensive and defensive strategies/ tactics

Combines jumping and landing patterns with locomotor and manipulative skills

Combines locomotor skills and movement concepts (levels, shapes, extensions, pathways, force, time, flow)

Performs curling, twisting and stretching actions with correct application

Strikes an object consecutively, with a partner, using a short-handled implement, over a net or against a wall, in either a competitive or cooperative game environment

Applies basic offensive and defensive strategies/ tactics

The Arts program focuses on the following areas: Creating & Performing and Responding & Connecting to visual and musical artworks.

Fifth grade students learn about space & depth, digital art, and Expressionism to create landscapes, stop-motion animations, and portraits The focus is on process (fundamentals of perspective, basic approaches to animation) and on personal exploration (the use of color, expression, and various media to communicate emotions & experiences) Students respond to art via analysis, art vocabulary, and cultural context

Units in Fifth Grade are: Space & Depth: Landscape Collage & Perspective Drawing

Digital Art: Stop-Motion Animation

Expressionism: Expressionist SelfPortraiture

In Fifth Grade, students choose between Band, Strings or Voiceworks

Each program focuses on musical elements such as rhythm, beat, pulse, pitch, and temp along with the fundamental skills of reading music, interpretation and habits of musicianship in the respective ensembles

Drama blocks are incorporated on a rotating basis throughout the year

FIELD TRIPS & HOME LEARNING

Field Trips

In the Elementary School, we look to connect our curriculum to our local community so as to give students opportunities to acquire and apply learning in different contexts. In addition to one-day trips to locations in Brussels throughout the year, in spring Grade 5 students also go on an extended multi-day field trip.

This experience builds both student independence and self-belief, but also is a highlight of the student’s experience at ISB.

Home Learning

Independent Reading

All ES students should spend at least 20 minutes per evening with a good book.

Mathematics

ES students will have a Problem of the Week that they can work on independently

We value perseverance as much as solving the problem. We expect all students to make a concentrated effort for at least 20 minutes and be able to show their attempts.

There may also be brief assignments connected to other subject areas such as Science & Social Studies, French/Dutch, Music.

Grade 5 - 50 minutes

THE GRADE 6 EXPERIENCE

Key Developmental Milestones

As adolescence begins, cognitive structures in the brain are rewiring themselves at an amazing speed. Sixth graders often enjoy arguing and debating as they learn the skills of social negotiation. Learning well in collaborative groups, there is interest in imagining themselves in adult roles making history, biographies and current events exciting. Projects and Service Learning are engaging, particularly when their ideas are incorporated. Thriving on exploring new areas of knowledge and opportunities to practice life-skills, Grade Sixes often speak passionately about their ideas, opinions and allegiances They challenge assumptions about the world, but appreciate solid connections with trusted adults with whom they can take their first steps towards establishing independence and identity.

The Grade 6 program is designed to support and develop these milestones.

Personalising Learning

In the Lower School, we embrace the unique potential within each learner craft individualised educational experiences that grow learner strengths empower learners to explore their passion and interests integrate technology into all subject areas cultivate critical thinking and collaborate using diverse perspectives develop learners who confidently navigate the current challenges of our world

BECOMING INTERNATIONAL CITIZENS

ISB believes that in order to be International Citizens, successful in and out of school, students need to learn and develop social and emotional competencies. These competencies are grounded in our Character Standards and our belief in Social Justice.

In tandem with our Character standards, we use the Learning for Justice Standards to support our goal of developing true International Citizens

Strand Areas of Focus & Development

Action Justice Diversity Identity

developing positive social identities & express this with pride without denying dignity of others

expressing comfort with people who are both similar to and different from them and engage respectfully with all people

recognizing stereotypes and relate to people as individuals rather than representatives of groups

speaking up with courage and respect when they or someone else has been hurt or wronged

CORE LITERACIES

R e a d i n g

ISB follows the globally recognized expectations outlined in the Common Core State Standards for Literacy & Mathematics.

Literature

Informational Text

Strand Areas of Focus & Development W r i t i n g

Cite textual evidence to support analysis of what the text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn from the text; Determine a theme or central idea of a text and how it is conveyed through particular details; Describe how a particular story’s or drama’s plot unfolds in a series of episodes as well as how the characters respond or change as the plot moves toward a resolution; Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including figurative and connotative meanings; analyze the impact of a specific word choice on meaning and tone

Analyze in detail how a key individual, event, or idea is introduced, illustrated, and elaborated in a text; Analyze how a particular sentence, paragraph, chapter, or section fits into the overall structure of a text and contributes to the development of the ideas; Determine an author’s point of view or purpose in a text and explain how it is conveyed; Integrate information presented in different media or formats; Trace and evaluate the argument and specific claims

Strand Areas of Focus & Development

Text Types & Purposes

Vocabulary Use

Conventions of Standard English

Production of Writing

Write arguments to support claims with clear reasons and relevant evidence; Write explanatory texts to examine a topic and convey ideas, concepts, and information through the selection, organization, and analysis of relevant content; Write narratives to develop real or imagined experiences or events using effective techniques

Demonstrate understanding of figurative language, word relationships, and nuances in word meanings; use accurately grade-appropriate general academic and domain-specific words and phrases

Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English grammar, spelling, capitalization and punctuation; Understand how ideas can be expanded and sharpened through careful choice of verbs, elaborated tenses, and a range of adverb groups / phrases

With some guidance and support from peers and adults, develop and strengthen writing by planning, revising, editing, rewriting

CORE LITERACIES

S T E M : M a t h e m a t i c s

The ISB Mathematics program is designed to develop a deep understanding of mathematical concepts while nurturing critical thinking skills and problem-solving abilities.

Strand Areas of Focus & Development

Ratios and Proportional Relationships

Number System

Expressions and Equations

Geometry

Statistics and Probability

Mathematical Processes

Understand ratio concepts and use ratio reasoning to solve problems

Apply and extend previous understandings of multiplication and division to divide fractions by fractions

Compute fluently with multi-digit numbers and find common factors and multiples

Apply and extend previous understandings of numbers to system of rational numbers

Apply and extend previous understandings of arithmetic to algebraic expressions

Reason about and solve one-variable equations and inequalities

Represent and analyze quantitative re ationships between dependent and independent variables

Solve real-world and mathematical problems involving area, surface area and volume

Develop understand ng of statistical variab ty

Summarize and describe distributions

Make sense of problems and persevere in solving them

Construct viable arguments and critique the reasoning of others

Model with mathematics

Attend to precision

CORE LITERACIES

Opportunities to build understanding of programming structures are integrated across the year

The main focus in Grade 6 is designing & coding an app.

Through projects during year, students are introduced to the different design tools at ISB and the design process

As a 1:1 device school, quality technology is available for all students. With extensive design resources such as 3-D printers, laser and vinyl cutters, green screen studios, VEX robotics, and a Virtual Reality suite, Elementary students use one of the best DesignTech spaces in Belgium. S T E M : D e s i g n & T e c h n o l o g y

We emphasize using technology responsibly and effectively for communication, collaboration and creation Becoming proficient and postive members in a digital world is a primary goal

Within Design units at ISB, students follow the Stanford University Design School model

CORE LITERACIES

Designed for deep inquiry into how our world works through hands-on experiences and by using a range of primary and secondary sources connected to historical and contemporary themes. S c i e n c e & S o c i a l S t u d i e s

Forces & Energy - Physics

In this unit, students ‘do science’ through a series of experiments to explore forces, light and energy transfer. Concepts of gravity, absorption, refraction, electrical generation, circuits and sustainable energy are tested as students evaluate scientific claims

Human Rights - Geography / History Creativity - History

By delving into key human right leaders, students explore concepts of power, exclusion, the impact of poverty and catastrophic events as students build understanding of the history of Human Rights, the roles of laws in society and factors that lead to discrimination or denial of Human Rights.

Using Tina Seelig’s creativity engine model, students analyze the case study of Leonardo da Vinci to determine how external and internal factors impacted his creativity Further testing the model, students choose a historical or contemporary figure and analyze the factors of their creativity while creating an oral argument defending their analysis.

CORE LITERACIES

Strand Key Questions

Collaboration Thinking Self-Management Research

Transferable skills, also known as portable or universal skills, can be applied across various subjects and situations. These skills are not tied to specific disciplines but rather can be adapted and moved from one context to another. T r a n s f e r a b l e S k i l l s

How do I share my ideas and build on the ideas of others?

How can I find the best evidence for my questions?

How does information from different sources connect to each other?

How do I set effective goals and where am I now in achieving them?

Electives Program

Areas of Focus & Development

Participate in an Academic Discussion

Listen to understand, rather than reply

Record Evidence

Select the evidence that is most useful to record

Reason Across Multiple Examples

Identify Similarities & Differences

Set Effective Goals

Seek and use feedback as part of the process of monitoring goals

In Grade 6, students take part in the Elementary School Elective Program. This gives students opportunities to further delve into areas of interest or passion while developing the ISB Character Standards. Examples of electives include Model United Nations, Robotics & Coding, Film Study & Creation, Textile Design, Sports Health & Nutrition, Book Study & Creation, Comic Book Art. Although some electives run a full year, most electives are by semester giving students the opportunity to explore different areas.

LANGUAGES PROGRAM

P a t h w a y s

L a n g u a g e s

Students, who have demonstrated proficiency in English, access either the Dutch or French language. Additional languages are offered as part of the ISB+ program, based on demand.

ISB follows the Common European Framework for Languages.

French Discovery A1

Foundations A1.2

Consolidating A2.1

Building A2.2

Independent B1 / B2 / C1

Grade 5 & 6

Social Studies in French option

English Proficiency

Dutch Indpendent B2 / C1

ISB+ Plus Languages

Open to all regardless of English Proficiency

SPECIALIST PROGRAM

Specialist programs at ISB are essential components of a well-rounded education. These programs enhance problem-solving, critical thinking, decision-making, team work, and self expression.

Each program is taught by a Specialist teacher in the respective field.

The Physical Education and Heath program focuses on the following areas:

Motor Skills & Movement Patterns

Concepts, Principles, Strategies & Tactics

Understanding Healthy Lifestyles

h y s i c a l E d u c a t i o n & H e a l t h

u a l & P e r f o r m i n g A r t s

Health, Fitness & Wellness

Employs correct techniques and methods of stretching

Describes the role of warm-ups and cooldowns before and after physical activity

Describes how being physically active leads to a healthy body

Defines resting heart rate and describes its relationship to aerobic fitness and the Borg Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) Scale

Invasion Games Rock Climbing

Performs pivots, fakes, and jab steps designed to create open space

Dribbles with dominant hand using a change of speed and direction

Reduces open space on defense by making the body larger and reducing passing angles

Executes at least one of the following offensive tactics to create an open space: moves to an open space without the ball; uses a variety of passes, pivots and fakes, give & go

Strategies for using feet to find firm footings

Maintaining balance, including counter-balance

Using arms, hips and eyes to climb efficiently

Parkour / Gymnatistcs Net Games

Varies application of force during dance or gymnastics activities

Demonstrates correct technique for basic skills

Performs a legal underhand serve with control for net/wall games such as badminton, volleyball or pickleball

Transfers weight with correct timing for the striking pattern

Creates an open space in net/wall games

Reduces offensive options for opponents

Visual Arts

The Arts program focuses on the following areas:

Creating & Performing and Responding & Connecting to visual and musical artworks

Sixth grade students learn about 3D forms, symbolism, and modern art to create clay vessels, watercolor paintings, and Pop Art self-portraits referencing Jean-Michel Folon and Roy Lichtenstein The focus is on process (coil building, watercolor techniques) and on communication (use of visual symbols, viewpoints on human rights) Students respond to art by identifying ideas & moods and developing evaluation criteria

Units in Sixth Grade are:

Three-Dimensional Form: Clay Vessels & Sculpture

Symbolism: Jean-Michel Folon & Symbolic Art

Modern Art: Pop Art & Human Rights (Self-Portraiture)

Performing Arts

In Sixth Grade, students choose between Band, Strings or Voiceworks

Each program focuses on musical elements such as rhythm, beat, pulse, pitch, and temp along with the fundamental skills of reading music, interpretation and habits of musicianship in the respective ensembles Drama blocks are incorporated on a rotating basis throughout the year

FIELD TRIPS & HOME LEARNING

Field Trips

In the Elementary School, we look to connect our curriculum to our local community so as to give students opportunities to acquire and apply learning in different contexts In addition to one-day trips to locations in Brussels throughout the year, in late-spring Grade 6 students also go to the Netherlands for an extended multiday field trip

This experience builds both student independence and self-belief, but also is a highlight of the student’s experience at ISB

Home Learning

Typical Assignments

Independent Reading

All ES students should spend at least 20 minutes per evening with a good book

Mathematics

ES students will have a Problem of the Week that they can work on independently

We value perseverance as much as solving the problem We expect all students to make a concentrated effort for at least 20 minutes and be able to show their attempts

There may also be brief assignments connected to other subject areas such as Science & Social Studies, French/Dutch, Music.

Grade 6 - 60 minutes