Primary
first – third grade
At Marvelously Made – the School for Young Children we have multi-age classes by design. We know through research and experience that not only do multiage classrooms work; they work beautifully. Having a mix of ages, supported by teachers that meet each student’s learning needs, in an experience-based environment where the children are given time, space, and support to build academic skills, emotional intelligence, and social skills is the only way to educate the WHOLE child.
The Primary Class (traditionally 1st-3rd grade) consists of up to forty children with four teachers. Within the classroom, the children are separated into smaller groups according to each child’s developmental stage.
Groups are named accordingly:
Oaks – typically children in first grade
Maples – typically children in second grade
Willows – typically children in third grade
Our Rhythm of The Day
Rather than a strict schedule we opt for a routine that we call the “Rhythm of the Day”. This allows for a predictable flow of each day while still providing the children with time and space to accommodate conversations and deep involvement in working and learning.
Here is our daily rhythm:
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1. Arrival and First Work Block
The Oaks start their day in the Outdoor Classroom connecting with their peers and beginning their daily work by participating in free play, large art, science experiments, and nature explorations.
The Maples and Willows start their day inside connecting with their peers and focusing on their daily indoor work projects (handwork, math and literacy instruction and activities, art, and reading).
Small groups of children are invited to join the teacher for direct instruction in math, science, and language arts throughout the Work Blocks both inside and outside. -
2. Snack and All-Group Gathering
All groups come together inside to enjoy their snack, share stories, celebrate birthdays, and build community.
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3. Second Work Block
The Oaks remain in the Indoor Classroom to focus on their indoor work projects (handwork, math and literacy instruction and activities, art, and reading).
The Maples and Willows move to the Outdoor Classroom where they participate in free play, large art experiences, tinkering, science experiences, and nature explorations.
In both the Indoor and Outdoor Classrooms, children receive direct small-group instruction in math, science, and language arts. -
4. All-Group Gathering
The children all come together to listen to a read-aloud before leaving for the day.
Ideas on Paper
The children spend time writing, dictating, and illustrating stories. Getting ideas onto paper is crucial for confidence, building connections, and self-expression. We make time for all of these things as part of our daily learning.
Share Books
Share Books are child-appropriate research projects. They are another engaging and valuable way we support interesting and authentic learning at Marvelously Made. Through the use of Share Books, the children become the teachers as they share information about a topic that interests them with the class. From brainstorming and research to presenting their information and asking and answering questions, Share Books build so many important skills!
Book Club
Several times a year the children and parents are given a book to read at home. The children come to school one evening, in their pajamas, to discuss the book and enjoy snacks and an activity inspired by it.
Marvelously Made is truly a school that makes learning fun,
meaningful, and interesting!
We would love an opportunity to show you the Marvelously Made Difference!
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