Boys will explore how sound is made, and create instruments out of discarded materials. Introduction of new skills and reinforcement of math skills previously encountered continue throughout the year. A sequential mathematics curriculum designed by Scott Foresman-Addison Wesley will be the main source of regular lessons. In addition, classroom teachers will use other supplemental materials. Whenever possible math will be integrated into the theme study through problem solving activities.
Research is done in school as part of the daily curriculum.
Observing, classifying, categorizing, comparing, estimating, and making predictions are among the research skills used daily as the boys explore both themes. Oral and written findings are recorded, sometimes individually, at times with a partner or in a small group. Learning to paraphrase information they have read or heard is emphasized. Whole group and small group brainstorming, library resource materials, surveys and interviews, and experimentation are among the methods used by the boys for information gathering. For each of the themes, the boys will produce at least one written research report of some type.