Hands-on learning, instead of textbooks. Uninterrupted work cycles, rather than the use of blocks or periods of time. Multiage classrooms, rather than single-graded rooms. Students are active and move about the room, rather than sitting at desks. Art and music are infused into all subjects, rather than separate lessons.
Lessons integrate all subjects, rather than focusing on one at a time.
We don't just read about what happened in the past, we actually do it. As part of the non-traditional atmosphere, students are not sitting at their desk working passively. They are strewn throughout the room, talking with freedom to move around. Meanwhile, a group of students sits on the floor reading a book and answering questions, while some lie on their stomachs contemplating a long division math problem. It is common for students to spread out into the hallway as they work on joint projects.