ages 8 to 10

UPPER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL CURRICULUM

Learning at our Upper Elementary School in Dalian is challenging, exciting, and rewarding, as students explore a breadth of subjects and develop their intellect, character, and wellbeing. Our learners make outstanding progress in line with Common Core State Standards (CCSS) and American Education Reaches Out (AERO) Standards. 
Upper Elementary

OUR AMERICAN UPPER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL CURRICULUM IN DALIAN

In Upper Elementary School at Dalian American International School (DAIS), our students enjoy a breadth of truly authentic learning experiences that span the subjects. These inspire our learners to explore our interconnected world, identify and solve problems, and be creative.

We want our children to take responsibility for their learning, too, and encourage them to be reflective, set personal goals, and meet agreed targets. Our exceptional teachers structure lessons around the unique needs of each child, delivering ongoing assessment strategies and timely feedback that support their progress.
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A GUIDE TO OUR UPPER ELEMENTARY SUBJECTS

  • Literacy
    Our Upper 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 Upper 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 Upper 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 Upper 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 Education (PE)
    Our PE program encompasses the mind, body, and spirit. In Upper Elementary at Dalian American International School, students refine their skills, playing 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.
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LEARNING SUPPORT AT DAIS

Throughout their education at our Upper Elementary School in Dalian, we make sure our students have the help they need to realize their potential. Any child experiencing learning 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.
primary
  • Elementary School

A TYPICAL DAY AT DAIS

In our warm and welcoming surroundings, every day is packed with extraordinary opportunities to learn.
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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

Our highly experienced Upper 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, ensuring 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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