Kindergarten
An enormous amount of learning takes place in the first few years of a child’s life, and it is at this time that the greatest care must be implemented to ensure that all children progress and move in the right direction.
An enormous amount of learning takes place in the first few years of a child’s life, and it is at this time that the greatest care must be implemented to ensure that all children progress and move in the right direction.
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At the American Academy School (AAS), we understand that our youngest learners are curious about the world and learn well through play and inquiry. We also believe that language development is critical, and support the students in reinforcing their first language, whilst also acquiring a new one.
At AAS, we follow the California Common Core State Standards for Kindergarten in English Language, Arts and Mathematics. We also follow the Next Generation Science Standards and provide hands on science investigations to engage students in their exploration of science. The American curriculum followed at AAS is based on high standards of achievement in all subject areas. This broad and balanced approach is supported by a wide range of co-curricular activities which equip all students with the skills they need for the 21st century.
In AAS Kindergarten, high-quality, standards-based physical education instruction helps students learn not only the skills and knowledge to be physically fit and active, but it also gives them the confidence and positive attitude necessary to participate in physical activities. Children are introduced to basic locomotors and non- locomotors skills and concepts. Spatial awareness is also presented. In addition, children learn directions and interact positively with classmates.
At AAS, we encourage natural curiosity and creativity and provide many opportunities for expressive learning including arts, music, drama, and stories. Children enjoy drawing, painting, and cutting, tearing, pasting, and playing with dough. They use different materials and techniques to make art creations that reflect thoughts, feelings, experiences, or knowledge.
Students apply vocal and instrumental musical skills in performing a varied repertoire of music. They arrange music and improvise melodies, variations, and accompaniments. In addition, they apply what they learn in music across subject areas. They develop competencies and creative skills in problem solving, communication, and management of time and resources that contribute to lifelong learning and career skills.
The personal and social developments of a child continue to progress. Children keep on demonstrating positive attitudes, social skills, independence, an awareness of health and safety practices and an awareness of their surroundings to build a foundation for lifelong participation in and appreciation for healthy living.
At AAS, we believe that field trips enhance the students’ critical thinking skills and gives students a chance to think about a topic or theme from a different perspective. Field trips are conducted at AAS to study something at first hand. Several children don’t get to experience the typical field trip locations with their families. A school trip gives students the chance to experience new venues. Some of the field trips we consider at AAS:
Recent research reveals that there has been a dramatic rise in the number of children with special educational needs (SEN) in kindergarten classes, so it is essential that our KG teachers at AAS are aware of their responsibilities and can fully support the children in their care.
Our KG Teachers work closely with parents and provide information on how they support children with SEN, regularly reviewing and evaluating the quality and breadth of the support they offer or can access. They also work in partnership with the local authority such as Sidra and other services or specialists where required.
AAS is committed to teaching Arabic, Islamic studies, and Qatari history for all students. We are keen to provide the students with knowledge and information required for guiding their behavior, developing their personality as good citizens and promotes Islamic and Arab values and culture. We aim at enhancing national identity and values for students in our school according to the aspirations of the Ministry of Education and Higher Education to instill citizenship values and principles.
AAS teachers are following The State of Qatar in its National Vision 2030 which aims at building a world-class education system aligned with best international standards in which it allows citizens to develop their skills and potentials through providing professional development opportunities that prepares them for success. We also encourage analytical and critical thinking, as well as creativity and innovation. Teachers aim to promote social cohesion and respect for Qatari society’s values and heritage, and advocate for constructive interaction with other nations.
For this purpose, teachers ensure implementing the curriculum standards that have been designed to include those three subjects, which constitute an important element of the education reform of the state of Qatar which identifies learning objectives, knowledge that need to be acquired by students at each grade level. In addition, they ensure that students are provided with a first-rate education comparable to that offered in the world to prepare learners to complete their higher education in leading institutions and compete in local and global labor market.
Kindergarten learning centers are one of our favorite components at AAS classes. We ensure creating different learning centers that would include the following:
All these centers have and always will be an essential part of our kindergarten classroom because we value the importance of hands-on learning is with five and six-year-olds. At AAS, we ensure changing often to keep our students engaged and on task. The skills can stay the same, but the presentation are changing as per the topics/themes. We ensure that the activities we provide in our different learning centers are differentiated and the appropriate level for our students. We use fun and engaging colors and clip art when possible and we try to keep the activities short so our students can complete a center in the time frame allotted.