THE DAIS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL CURRICULUM

A GUIDE TO OUR ELEMENTARY SUBJECTS

• Literacy

  Our Elementary School students refine their literacy skills through integrated units of study. Underpinned by a reading and writing workshop model, students collaborate, enquire, and critically analyze fictional and non-fictional texts. They do this across a range of themes and Social Studies topics, in line with Common Core State Standards and American Education Reaches Out Standards.
• Mathematics

  Math is taught through an analytical approach and exploratory units of study, which align with Common Core Math Standards. Students strive to solve real-world problems, demonstrate perseverance, and find new ways to overcome challenges. Collaboration is a key element of our interdisciplinary program, which develops creative and critical thinkers.
• Science

  Our Elementary Science program is hands-on and collaborative, filled with investigative experiences that nurture 21st century learners. We take an inquiry-based approach, which requires creative thinking to solve real-world problems. Students explore topics including Life, Earth, and Physical Sciences, and then apply their learning through an engineering and design process. Progression is monitored through Next Generation Science Standards.
• Social Studies

  In line with American Education Reaches Out Standards, our Social Studies program is taught through integrated, project-based units of study that encourage research and inquiry, and have both a local and global focus. Students develop their presentation and research skills as they delve into topics including economics, citizenship, government, culture, and technology.
• Art

  Our Elementary School Art program nurtures learners’ creative understanding and expression through exploration, practice and reflection. Creative young minds discover different techniques and mediums, building a knowledge base by experiencing different materials and resources.
  
  The creative process also cultivates relationships between children, whilst simultaneously developing fine motor skills, concentration, coordination, sensibility, and freedom. Art provides new and rich experiences, too, which increase our learners’ cultural panorama and encourage artistic expression. 
• Host Country Language

  Our Host Country Language program develops an understanding of and appreciation for the Mandarin language and Chinese culture. Students explore their daily experiences of living in China, which supports their entry into local culture and everyday life. These experiences also grow their vocabulary and language fluency.
• Music

  Our Elementary curriculum develops our students’ musical skills through vocal and movement exploration, games, and by playing instruments, including the recorder, xylophone, and ukulele. Students also hone their musical literacy, including their familiarity with the conventions of written music. Our program covers a variety of musical traditions and cultures, too. Through experiences that require focused and sustained practice, our children develop discipline and confidence.
• Technology

  Technology is integrated across the curriculum at DAIS. Technology lessons are collaboratively planned, and students use a variety of tools to create, produce, and present their learning. We encourage our learners to develop the thinking skills they need to harness the power of technological tools, ensuring they’re prepared for 21st century life. These include effective internet research skills, the use of Microsoft suite to create reports and presentations, and digital communication methods. We also support our students to become global collaborators, creative communicators, and responsible digital citizens.
• Physical and Health Education (PHE)

  Our PHE program encompasses the mind, body, and spirit. In Elementary division at Dalian American International School, students refine their skills, playing tennis, table tennis, basketball, baseball, soccer, and more. We also encourage fitness and dance. PHE is divided into four strands – Affective, Psychomotor, Cognitive, and Social – which our teachers deliver in line with National Physical Education Standards and National Health Education Standards.