Investigator Learning
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Our Approach to Academics
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Investigators (ages 9-12)
Children in this age group still love to explore and stay active, however, they desire more structured learning. They are able to focus for longer periods of time and think more abstractly. They also love to socialize and work together on projects. Students in this age range are given more responsibility for their learning. They make learning plans, choose their work for the day, and are taught the habits of a life-long learner. They also have time to spend outside, and are encouraged to learn how to balance break time with work time. |
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Literacy
By this age, reading and writing are usually fluent. We continue to teach writing using the Brave Writer model, working with students to write with more planning, organization, and purpose. Most literacy topics at this age are integrated into other classes, as children use literature to study a period in history or examine a theme. But students still work on creative writing in our Writer's Workshop on Thursdays. In addition to writing, students study literature as a way to connect with the world. Through literature, they can explore people and places they normally wouldn't get to visit. They can experience challenging situations without having to suffer.
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Through literature circles, shared reading, independent reading, and integrated classes, students investigate many different kinds of literature. MindSpark teachers help them to not only connect with the characters and situations in the stories, but also help them investigate the craft of writing, use of language, and underlying messages from authors.
Mathematics
We follow a Montessori-approach when teaching math to Investigators. Though topics are more abstract, students use concrete materials to develop a strong foundation in complex operations, fractions and decimals. Students progress through these topics at their own pace during math workshops, where teachers offer individual support as needed. Math topics in this learning group vary widely, but usually includes fluency in operations, decimals, fractions, and ratio & proportions.
We follow a Montessori-approach when teaching math to Investigators. Though topics are more abstract, students use concrete materials to develop a strong foundation in complex operations, fractions and decimals. Students progress through these topics at their own pace during math workshops, where teachers offer individual support as needed. Math topics in this learning group vary widely, but usually includes fluency in operations, decimals, fractions, and ratio & proportions.
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Science & History
Students in this learning group are moving beyond the simple act of exploring science and history topics. Investigators dig deeper into topics they can relate to and find ways to make connections. We integrate these topics into afternoon "Expedition Learning", where teachers guide students through thoughtful discussions, help them investigate deeper, and connect important science and history to their lives. |
