Elementary

Elementary

In elementary grades we start at 80% immersion in kindergarten, teaching all subjects primarily in the second language so our students become biliterate while developing the mental flexibility and enhanced cognitive ability that increases their proficiency. As they progress through the grades, English instruction increases incrementally, and students become equally comfortable and proficient in either language.

We are able to accept students for entry in the elementary years without prior background in the language. Students are able to successfully transition to an immersion program with supplemental support.

Language Arts

We develop and nourish a love of reading through Language Arts classes in English, Mandarin, or Spanish.

During these early years, we use the Fundations® curriculum, which is a multisensory, structured phonics-based, language arts instruction program. We also teach a literacy program that is aligned to the Common Core Standards balancing work in narrative, informational and persuasive texts. Students develop explicit skills in reading comprehension, word analysis, and writing mechanics.

Language arts in the target language mirrors the standards and skills taught in English. Mandarin curricula include “Better Immersion” and “Level Chinese,” and Spanish curricula include “Senderos” and “Level Learning” as resources to develop units that support critical thinking and analytical skills development. All skills, including listening, speaking, reading and writing. are developed in the target language.

Mathematics

HWIS elementary students use Math in Focus, (Singapore Math K-8) - a proven program focusing on problem-solving and learning the language of math. Math in Focus provides students with a flexible understanding of math concepts developed through a sequence that uses concrete manipulatives, pictorial representations, and then abstract representations. This sequence helps students acquire a deep understanding of mathematical concepts.

At HWIS, students are challenged to understand the “why” and “how” of number manipulation in addition to learning procedures and computations when problem-solving. Frequent group work allows students to understand the importance of discourse, collaboration, and diverse methods of solving problems.

Science

The HWIS science program includes experiments, predictions, and hands-on learning experiences that cultivate a curiosity for science. We use the FOSS Next Generation curriculum as a launching point for our units. While scientific concepts and skills are integrated into the units of study, we also use supplementary resources to enrich the learning experiences of our students in science. Specific units of study include life, physical, earth science and science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). Each year, students participate in a Science Fair conducted in both target language and English.

Social Studies

Social Studies provides the context for cultural awareness and civic participation. Our teachers provide authentic knowledge and cultural understanding that helps students broaden their perspective of the world. Children learn about values, families and communities. They understand the power of symbols and the passage of time. Many of our students have stories of migration to share. Students begin to understand economic forces and vocabulary, individual rights and responsibilities, and the causes and effects of conflict.

Physical Education

The elementary PE program teaches team and individual sports through a building-blocks approach in which students practice sport-specific movements and drills to develop competency and instill confidence. Difficulty and intensity progress by grade level and ability level of the cumulative group. Program priorities include promoting team building and group solving skills, building confidence and self-esteem, fostering characteristics of good sportsmanship and teamsmanship, and explaining how rules and proper techniques contribute to a fun and safe environment.

Arts

Elementary students work on projects that delve into aspects of global culture, studying the work of artists around the world while integrating the study of art techniques. Recently, students explored the work of Chinese artist Ai Weiwei. Fred Sandback was our inspiration for a study online. Across all grade levels, the arts play a crucial role in our educational model and figure significantly into our interdisciplinary curriculum. For every project they undertake, students begin with their own concept and are encouraged to gradually reveal it through a series of drafts.

In the Elementary music program, students learn to express themselves through weekly musical experiences designed to enkindle an intrinsic motivation for music. Beginning in Grade 2, all students learn to play the guitar.

Frequently Asked Questions

At what grades can a child join the program without a prior background in the language?


Is there a lag in English proficiency?


How can students do well on standardized assessments if most of the time the subjects are taught in the target language?


How are we celebrating diversity and addressing race issues?


What is the student to teacher ratio?


How do we develop problem-solving skills and critical thinking in various subject areas?


How are we developing character in elementary students?


How are parents expected to support their child with homework?

Meet Sage and Michael Morgan

Sage joined HWIS in Grade 2 without prior background in Mandarin and within one year she was able to complete assignments in the target language.

I had Sage take the SCAT to qualify for Johns Hopkins CTY summer programs and classes. She scored above the cutoffs for Advanced CTY level which reflects ability approximately 4 grade levels above the enrolled grade! I credit this to her fantastic teachers and education at HudsonWay. Her score on this SCAT exam now means that she will be able to qualify for all Johns Hopkins summer camps (commuter and sleep away) and virtual classes through high school!” – Colleen Eng

Meet Kira Redmond, NJ alumnae in Spanish program who joined in Grade 4 without prior Spanish.

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