Academics
Elementary School
Ages 6-10
Making Learning Fun and Engaging
IB PRIMARY YEARS Programme*
The school is in the process of introducing the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (PYP) in the Early Years and Elementary school. In the PYP, learning is based on inquiry and focused on real world context through transdisciplinary units.
Learning with the PYP takes a global approach, helping children to connect their learning to where they are living now, and using the perspective of other people in other countries. It incorporates knowledge, concepts, skills, and action. Children develop their knowledge and understanding of language, social studies, mathematics, science and technology, the arts, personal, social and physical education.
The educational programme is complemented by the presence of subjects such as physical education, drama, music, choir and visual arts, offered on a weekly basis by specialist teachers who are native speakers of English. The school also has a library, which each class visits on a regular basis to enhance literacy and the love of literature.
* The International School in Genoa is a Candidate School for the Primary Years Programme. Our school is pursuing authorization as an IB World School. These are schools that share a common philosophy: a commitment to a high quality, challenging, international education. The International School in Genoa believes this is important for our students. Only schools authorized by the IB Organization can offer any of its four academic programmes: the Primary Years Programme (PYP), the Middle Years Programme (MYP), the Diploma Programme, or the Career-related Programme (CP). Candidate status gives no guarantee that authorization will be granted. For further information about the IB and its programmes, visit www.ibo.org.
LEARNING
APPROACH
Teaching within the framework of the PYP, students develop critical thinking by making connections and exploring global topics. Providing opportunities for reflection and action empowers students to apply their learning in real life. Teachers act as facilitators, encouraging diverse perspectives and creativity.
Children develop their learning of literacy, languages, world studies, mathematics, science, technology, the arts, and physical education. We balance their understanding, skills, and knowledge of these subjects while prioritizing students’ social and emotional growth. We support our students in reaching their full personal and academic potential.
TEACHING STAFF
STUDENT PLACEMENT
The students’ placement is generally based on the child’s year of birth. We also consider previous schooling and social-emotional needs of the child.
Classes are organized into five main age groups:
- Grade 1 (Age 6)
- Grade 2 (Age 7)
- Grade 3 (Age 8)
- Grade 4 (Age 9)
- Grade 5 (Age 10)
SUBJECTS TAUGHT IN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
The elementary program uses the PYP inquiry based framework. Learning is based on transdisciplinary units that explore global topics where students have the opportunity to gain different perspectives and use critical thinking. Literacy and maths are integrated into these study units and developed through direct teaching to balance understanding, skills, and knowledge. Social and emotional development is fostered in positive classroom environments where a growth mindset is encouraged and students have many opportunities to collaborate in work and play.
The curriculum includes: Literacy, Mathematics, Italian, Physical Education, Science, Social Studies, Art, Music and Choir, and Library.
DIGITAL LEARNING PLATFORM
Google Classroom and SeeSaw are the primary digital platforms in the primary school. They are used to support and enrich students’ learning and to communicate learning experiences with parents.
A variety of other digital resources, such as Khan Academy, Reading A to Z, and Epic Books for support and enrichment are also included.
LANGUAGE SUPPORT PROGRAMME
Students from any linguistic background may join ISG at every grade level. In elementary school, students are admitted after reviewing their academic and personal information. In addition, English language proficiency is verified to program language support as needed. Language support might be individualized or in small groups during school hours, with the goal of teaching students the fundamentals of the English language in order to communicate and learn with their peers. International students will also participate in Italian language instruction.
SCHOOL HOURS
