Fireflies:
Envision’s Younger Group for ages 8-10
At Envision we are dedicated to providing a holistic approach to your child's education. Some of our foundational focuses are teamwork, problem-solving, and project-based learning. While academics are a big part of what we do, mentorship is an integral component of what we offer. We strive to help students build confidence, self-awareness, and work thoughtfully through inevitable challenges.
The Daily Flow
9:30-10am
Arrival and Independent Work
This rolling arrival provides students with time to meet and talk with Guides and/or work on homework and projects before class starts. It is a great time for asking questions and receiving independent mentorship and guidance.
10-11
We come together each morning with mindfulness practices. This is usually a meditation, grounding exercise, movement, or a check-in.
Math practice and math lesson for the day.
11-11:10
Class snack break and recess. Students have access to games and movement on campus.
11:11- 12:35
Main Lesson - this portion of the day corresponds to the block rotation plan for the year (scroll to see details on next year’s plan below) and the main subject area of focus changes every 4-5 weeks.
During this time the subject matter is presented to students as a drawing with corresponding notes and writing. Sometimes the guide will read stories, draw additional pictures, facilitate a game, sing songs, preform a demonstration or share visuals to help bring alive the content of the lesson.
Students will keep and compile a book of all the main lesson drawings and writings so they can share what they are learning with their families.
12:35-1:00
Lunch break and recess.
1:01-1:40
This portion of the day will shift depending on the time of year and the block we are currently studying. Some of the options include a Spanish Lesson, Music Lesson, Handicraft, Game, or the time may be used for a project they are working on. If we are going on a field-trip, they ususaly leave after lunch.
1:41-3:00
Field Study or Project Based Learning. Afternoons are when we bring the lesson to life in an experiential exploration of the world around us! Often times students will have a project or field study they are working on that corresponds to the main lesson. This in class time is used to help guide students through this real-world experience.
Our school has a 15-passenger van and we are very passionate about taking classes out of the school room and into the community to interact with experts and see first-hand the application of concepts we learn about in our studies. Whether it be outings to parks and rivers to observe and interact with the environment, or visiting groups and institutions that compliment our current educational block, we believe these outings greatly add to students' educational experience.
Subject Rotation (Block Rotation) for 2024-25
Fall
Agriculture Block:
This is an introduction to farming and basic agricultural practices. Lessons include planning and planting a garden, learning about different types of farms, and understanding the life cycle of plants. We will spend time engaging with a variety of different farm animals and learning their various roles and how to care for them.
Cultural Block:
Students will dive into the diverse aspects of culture, including traditions, beliefs, arts, and values. They will learn about different cultures around the globe, exploring food, clothing, music, and celebrations that reflect cultural identities. Students will have the opportunity to research, create, and present their findings through projects that showcase their understanding of cultural diversity and its significance in fostering understanding and appreciation among individuals and communities.
Reading Comprehension and Letter Writing:
Here students will be introduced to sentence structure, grammar, and how to formulate a letter. They will learn and practice the difference between formal letters and informal letters. The idea is to give students an early practical application for writing in today's world. Students will develop pen-pals where they will get a chance to engage in meaningful correspondence. Additionally, students will learn how to both read and write cursive during this time.
As a part of this unit of study, students will be practicing their reading comprehension skills with daily reading exercises with their class. this will include lessons in phonics and teach kids how to work through difficult or new vocabulary challenges.
Winter
Local History:
Students will delve into the captivating narrative of their local community, uncovering stories of Native American tribes, early settlers, and the development of industries like agriculture and mining. Through field trips to historical sites, engaging discussions, and hands-on activities, students will gain a deep appreciation for the region's cultural diversity and the significance of its natural resources. They will develop skills in historical inquiry, map reading, and storytelling, enabling them to connect personally with the past and understand its impact on their lives today.
Nature Studies:
Here we discover the diversity of plants, animals, and environments that comprise ecosystems in the Rogue Valley. Students will learn about the interdependence of living organisms, the importance of biodiversity, and the role of habitats in supporting life. During this block students get opportunities to explore the region through field trips, nature walks, and hands-on experiments to observe and understand ecological concepts firsthand. This block not only fosters a deep appreciation for nature but also encourages stewardship and responsibility towards our environment, nurturing a lifelong connection to the natural world and its preservation.
Building and Construction:
The Building and Construction block sparks students' curiosity about architecture throughout history. Through hands-on exploration and creative projects, students will explore the principles of design, engineering, and construction techniques used in ancient and modern buildings. They will learn about iconic structures from different cultures and civilizations, exploring how architecture reflects societal values, needs, and technological advancements. From building models of historical landmarks to experimenting with different materials and techniques, students will develop practical skills and an appreciation for the artistry and ingenuity behind human-made structures.
Spring
Time is Money
Students will learn how time and money are valuable resources that shape our daily lives. They will explore the basics of reading analog and digital clocks, mastering the progression of hours, minutes, and seconds, as well as understanding how calendars work. Simultaneously, they will delve into the fundamentals of currency, learning to recognize coins, count money, and understand its role in transactions. By connecting these concepts, we empower our students to appreciate the importance of time management and financial literacy from an early age, preparing them to navigate their futures with confidence and responsibility.
Art, Music & Class Play
The Art block is a dynamic exploration of creativity and self-expression through various artistic mediums. Students engage in hands-on activities that introduce them to different art techniques, such as drawing, painting, sculpting, and collage. Emphasis is placed on experimenting with colors, shapes, and textures to create their own masterpieces inspired by nature, stories, and cultural themes. Through guided lessons and open-ended projects, students will hone their artistic skills while exploring the importance of art in conveying emotions and ideas. This block fosters a sense of imagination, individuality, and appreciation for the beauty and diversity of artistic expression.
