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We use an inquiry-based workshop model of instruction for delivery in all major subjects. The model consists of key elements that provide for instructional coherence across the school. The workshop includes a mini-lesson or direct instruction, guided practice, independent application, assessment, and review/sharing.
For English Language Arts, we use the Fishtank Learning curriculum. Fishtank Learning is a rigorous, college ready, standards-aligned, culturally relevant program that puts authentic texts into children’s hands beginning in Kindergarten. Fishtank aims to instill a love of reading for every child through access to engaging, award-winning texts. Children read, reflect, discuss, and write daily, organizing their thinking around themes like “Welcome to School” in Kindergarten or “Believing in Yourself” in 4th Grade.
For Math, we use the Eureka Math program (formerly EngageNY) Eureka is a highly rated math program designed to ensure that students move beyond rote memorization to build enduring math knowledge. It features consistent math models, rigorous design, and coherence across lessons, modules, and grades.
Every lesson features four components: Fluency Practice, Problem of the Day, Concept Development, and Student Debrief. A daily “exit ticket” allows teachers to determine whether or not each child grasped the day’s lesson and subsequently provide tailored support to children that need differentiation or remediation.
For Science, we use PhD Science, a hands-on K-5 science program that sparks wonder as students build knowledge of how the scientific world works. Children develop their scientific practice skills through observing, communicating with their classmates and the community, asking questions, testing out ideas and systems, and measuring. All students keep a science notebook where they record their observations and results through drawings, diagrams, questions, tables, and their own explanations.
Based on the NYC Department of Education Social Studies Units of Study, our program includes history, economics, geography, and civics, citzenship, and government. Students learn about the community, workforce, connections to family, and diversity within and among cultural groups that span across time and geographical locations.
Our art program is designed to aid students in growing their own individual ideas and creativity. To this end, students are given “thinking jobs” instead of step-by-step projects. The Art Room is set up with different centers giving each student the freedom to choose his or her materials, concepts, and deadlines. Our artists all participate in two or more art shows over the course of the year and student work can be seen throughout the building all year round!
This program is designed around building confident, well-rounded musicians. All of our students receive vocal and instrumental instruction based on the strongest traditional and modern music education practices.
Our K-2 students focus heavily on developing their singing voices, and learn to play percussion instruments as an ensemble, particularly on drums and xylophones. Our upper school students focus more heavily on instrumental music, learning the recorder, ukulele, guitar, keyboard, and percussion.
BwCCS 2’s Physical Education program promotes each student’s physical, mental, emotional, and social development through a variety of carefully planned activities. Students will learn activities and sports to enjoy and pursue throughout their lives. Beginning in 2021, our 4th and 5th Graders will also begin participation in a formal co-ed sports league.
We believe that the work and joy of physical education will guide children toward a longer life through healthy living.
Health is to the body what wisdom is to the mind.
In addition to PE, upper school students in grades 3, 4, and 5 also participate in a theater education program for several weeks during the school year. In grade 3, performers focus entirely on improvisational theater games, building the tools of voice and body to communicate clearly. In grade 4, we build on this foundation and begin to memorize and perform text. Finally, in grade 5 we work more extensively with text to create performances that we share with our school community.
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