AGES 4 TO 7

LOWER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL CURRICULUM

In a challenging, exciting, and stimulating learning environment, our Lower Elementary School students develop their intellect and character. Our youngest learners’ educational journey follows the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) and American Education Reaches Out (AERO) Standards, with subjects taught using the latest teaching methods. 
Kindergarten

OUR US LOWER ELEMENTARY CURRICULUM

At our Lower Elementary School in Dalian, we teach a student-centered curriculum that encourages our children to explore, to question, and to work either independently, within a group, or with an adult.

At this early age, our curriculum emphasizes Literacy, Math, Science, Technology, the Arts, and Music and Movement. We nurture the development of the whole child, too, nurturing growth both in and beyond the classroom.

Through new and immersive experiences, our students develop their cognitive, social, emotional, physical, and fine and gross motor skills. Our holistic approach creates confident, well-rounded inquirers and critical thinkers.
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A GUIDE TO OUR LOWER ELEMENTARY SUBJECTS

  • Literacy
    Our Literacy program teaches fundamental 21st century skills, in line with the Common Core Language Arts Standards. Our workshop model cultivates skilled writers and readers, with a passion for literature. Students also develop their reading, writing, and oral skills through integrated units, literacy centers, small group instruction, and independent inquiry.
  • Mathematics
    Our Lower Elementary School Math program teaches 21st century skills, in line with Common Core Standards. The curriculum increases our learners’ familiarity with numbers, measurements, and geometry, using a hands-on approach. It also promotes problem-solving, reasoning, and the development of higher order thinking skills.
  • Science
    Our Lower Elementary Science program is hands-on and collaborative, and 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 in Science is monitored through Next Generation Science Standards.
  • Social Studies
    Our Social Studies curriculum is designed to develop global citizens, as teachers expand our students’ awareness of the world through American Education Reaches Out Standards. The program introduces important ideas spanning History, Geography, and other Social Sciences through hands-on, integrated study, which is centered around our children and their families, homes, schools, neighborhoods, and communities.
  • Art
    Our Lower Elementary School Art program instills an early love of creativity and artistic expression through exploration, practice and reflection. Creative young minds discover different techniques and mediums, building a knowledge base through experiences with 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 engage in an exploration of their daily experiences while living in China, which supports their entry into local culture and everyday life. These experiences also grow their vocabulary and language fluency.
  • Music
    Music gives every child the opportunity to explore, create, perceive, and communicate their thoughts, images, and feelings. Our Lower Elementary students develop their skills through vocal and movement exploration, musical games, and by playing simple percussive instruments. They also study a variety of musical traditions and cultures. 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 tools include basic computer use, internet research, and presentation skills. We also encourage our students to be global collaborators, creative communicators, and responsible digital citizens.
  • Physical Education (PE)
    Our PE program encompasses the mind, body, and spirit. In Lower Elementary at Dalian American International School (DAIS), students learn basic skills that help them to play tennis, table tennis, basketball, baseball, soccer, and more. We also encourage fitness and dance. PE is divided into three strands – Affective, Psychomotor, and Cognitive – which our teachers deliver in line with National Physical Education Standards.

LEARNING SUPPORT AT DAIS

Throughout their education at our Lower Elementary School in Dalian, we make sure our students have the help they need to realize their potential. Any child experiencing difficulties will be identified, supported, and looked after by our dedicated Learning Support Department. Support is tailored to the student and their needs, allowing them to develop personally, academically, emotionally, and socially.

We also offer an English as an Additional Language (EAL) program, which is designed to enhance our students’ English proficiency. Our programs, which are personalized to the individual learner’s needs, teach conversational and academic English, grammar, listening comprehension, speaking, reading, writing, and vocabulary.
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primary
  • Elementary School

A TYPICAL DAY AT DAIS

In our warm and welcoming surroundings, every day is an extraordinary adventure for our Lower Elementary School students.
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Sea Dragon morning assembly
We gather our students and prepare for the day ahead. 
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morning assembly
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Core subjects
Students enjoy Math, English, Science, Social Studies, and homeroom classes. 
Core subjects
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Lunch break
Learners come together for a healthy meal with friends.
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Specialist subjects
After lunch, our young students express their creativity and get moving in Art, Design, Music, Mandarin, and PE classes.
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Extra-curricular activities
After-school clubs offer your child the chance to develop their skills and discover new passions.
extra-curricular activities
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how we teach

THE VERY BEST INTERNATIONAL STAFF

DAIS is home to forward-thinking educators from around the world. Our highly experienced Lower Elementary School teachers belong to an elite group of professionals who set the highest standards and work hard to stay at the cutting-edge of best practice. Their energy and expertise will inspire your child, ensuring they achieve their full potential.
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OUR FACILITIES

DESIGNED WITH YOUR CHILD'S NEEDS IN MIND

Our modern campus has been expertly designed with our students’ education in mind, which ensures a calm, comfortable, and collaborative learning environment. In cutting-edge classrooms, outstanding sports facilities, and dedicated labs and art studios, your child’s talents will shine.
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Academics

A WORLD-CLASS EDUCATION IN DALIAN

At Dalian American International School (DAIS), we’ll make sure your child has everything they need to learn, grow, and succeed.

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