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West Hartford Public Schools Curriculum Links |
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Program Components of a Classical Education at Norfeldt School Click on a curriculum area to learn more about that particular area. |
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A rigorous academic curriculum that supports and enhances the West Hartford Essential Curriculum
§ Study of a world language beginning in Kindergarten
§ Study of Classical literature
§ An emphasis on the importance of homework to reinforce skills, extend the classroom experience, and develop independent responsibility.
§ Consistent expectations for higher level thinking combined with required opportunities for meaningful memorization
§ An emphasis on study and organizational skills at all grade levels
§ An understanding and appreciation of the classics in art, music, and the theater through experiences at every grade
§ An emphasis on the Classical tradition of educating the whole child, including instruction in and encouragement of manners and proper etiquette; a focus on self-discipline; and emphasis on the connection between healthy minds and bodies; and an appreciation for the universal principles of truth, justice, honesty, and respect as contributing members of society
§ A commitment to inclusion of children with special needs, which emphasizes accepting differences and the special gift of all children
§ An appreciation for the universal principles of truth, justice, honesty, and respect as contributing members of society
§ An atmosphere that fosters pride in achievement and love of learning
The Study of World Languages: French
Students begin instruction in French in Kindergarten, and continue throughout their time at Norfeldt School. Students at each grade level receive 60 minutes of instruction in French each week. Kindergarteners participate in 20 minute lessons three times per week. First, second third, fourth and fifth graders participate in 30 minute lessons two times per week.
Reasons to Study a Foreign Language
The study of another language leads to
§ improved communication. Our goal is to teach all students to communicate beyond their native language in order to participate effectively in this world.
§ an understanding of other cultures. Our goal is to recognize what is common to all human experience and to accept that which is different.
§ supports critical thinking skills. Our goal is to enhance the ability to analyze, to compare and contrast, to synthesize, to improvise, and to examine cultures through a language and a perspective other than one’s own.
§ an interdisciplinary view of the curriculum. Our goal is to have every student begin language study as early as possible in an interdisciplinary environment.
The Benefits of Knowing a Second Language
Students who study foreign languages
§ score statistically higher on standardized tests conducted in English.
§ have access to a greater number of career possibilities.
§ develop a deeper understanding of their own and other cultures.
§ are more creative and better at solving more complex problems.
Americans fluent in other languages enhance economic competitiveness abroad, improve global communication, and maintain political and security interests.
Learning other languages broadens a child’s outlook and gives him or her the opportunity to communicate with more people.
The Benefits of Studying a Foreign Language at a Young Age
1. Earlier sequences of language instruction enable students to achieve much higher levels of proficiency in the second language.
2. Children who learn a language before the onset of adolescence are much more likely to have native-like proficiency.
3. The critical period for learning a foreign language comes at an early age. If a foreign language is not learned at this time, the ability to master the language may be lost.
How Can I Help My Child Study a Foreign Language?
1. Encourage your child’s interest in a foreign language.
2. Share the importance of learning a second language with your child.
3. Support extracurricular activities which promote learning a second language and about other cultures.
4. Give access to materials in or about the language.
5. Learn a language with your child and practice it together.
The Study of Classical Literature
“The ability to appeal across time is what makes a book a classic. It doesn’t feel dated. It also deals with the questions that we ask ourselves over and over again regarding our identify, relationships with one another, and finding our place in the world.”
Rudine Sims Bishop
Students read and study the classics, from fairy tales to Aesop’s Fables, from Mother Goose Rhymes and other favorite children’s poetry and literature to Persephone, Demeter, and the Midas Touch; from American historical documents and American folk tales to Native American legends and Greek myths.
Homework is an important extension of skills, activities, and work habits learned and/or acquired in school. Homework is assigned Monday through Thursday night. Selected long range projects at the upper grades will be assigned on weekends. Students must learn to budget their time in order to meet assignment deadlines. Norfeldt teachers encourage students to become independent learners; therefore, it is expected that each student will do his/her own work, although there is an understanding that occasional parent assistance may be needed. It is critical that parents support the homework policy. Parents are asked to provide the climate, space, and time for the successful completion of assignments. A brief check of homework upon its completion is an appropriate and effective way for parents to ensure that high quality work is completed. This check also provides parents with the opportunity to gain a better understanding of what is being taught in the classroom.
Assignments may include independent reading, creative and expository writing, reinforcement of language, spelling, and math skills and word problem reinforcement. Long-range assignments may include book reports, special science, social studies, and independent projects. Parents should contact their child’s teacher in the event that the child is taking too long or too short a time in completing daily assignments, or if the child is struggling with the work.
Nightly homework expectations, Monday through Thursday:
Kindergarten 0 – 15 minutes
Grade 1 15 – 30 minutes
Grade 2 30 – 45 minutes
Grade 3 45 minutes – 1 hour
Grade 4 1 hour – 1.5 hours
Grade 5 1.5 hours – 2 hours
The first Wednesday of each month is “Family Time.” No homework is assigned. Families are encouraged to spend time together playing games, reading, talking, and enjoying one another’s company.
An Understanding and Appreciation of the Classics in the Arts: Music
Program components include
§ an emphasis on Classical Music and, as, as integrated with the study of world language, French Music;
§ attendance at performances by visiting musicians; and
§ compositions by a Classical “Composer of the Month,” played inside the main entrance, welcome students and visitors to Norfeldt School and help set the Classical tone of the building.
Vocal Music:: Youngsters in grades K-5 receive two 30-minute instructional periods per week.
Instrumental Music: Youngsters in Grades 4 and 5 who choose to participate receive group instruction on a weekly basis and are eligible to participate in the band and string orchestra. Primary children who have a good foundation in Suzuki violin and study privately are also welcomed into the string orchestra.
An Understanding and Appreciation of the Classics in the Arts: Visual Arts
Program components include museum and field studies and visiting artists. Framed pieces of students’ art, interspersed among copies of “old masters” and Nineteenth and Twentieth Century French paintings, line the main hallways of Norfeldt School.
Youngsters in K-5 receive one 60-minute class per week.
Education of the Whole Child: Manners and Etiquette
§ Children are instructed on proper manners, including giving eye contact, shaking hands, and introducing on themselves properly.
§ Each classroom assigns a “greeter” who welcomes guests to the room.
§ Students are instructed on appropriate table manners.
§ Student participating in the Grade 5 Safety Patrol serve as polite escorts for special guests who might visit Norfeldt School.
Education of the Whole Child:
Connection Between a Healthy Mind and Body
The Physical Education program provides opportunities for children to hone their skills while integrating these physical activities with their studies of social studies and science in their classrooms.
Project Adventure engages students in cooperative problem solving activities.
Youngsters in K-3 will receive two 30-minute instructional periods per week. Youngsters in grades 4 and 5 receive two 45-minute instructional periods per week.
Children in Grades 4 and 5 are required to change for Physical Education class. Each student must have the following:
*sneakers with tie or velcro closures
*socks
*shorts or sweatpants
*T-Shirt or sweatshirt