Special Focus Classes

The Physical Education program is designed to allow each student to develop confidence and derive enjoyment from physical activity in and out of the classroom. A positive attitude toward physical activity, sportsmanship, cooperation, maximum participation, and individual pride are the primary goals of all physical education classes. Kindergarten through Grade 3 classes emphasize practicing techniques and skills that will be built upon in Grade 4 and moving into Middle School, where both individual and team activities are included in the curriculum. Some examples of these activities are: tennis, badminton, skating, soccer, volleyball, pickleball, and basketball.

Students in Kindergarten through Grade 1 have three PE classes per week for 30-minutes each. In Grades 2-4, students move to two, PE classes for 45-minutes each. These PE classes are in addition to at least two recess periods per day.

Foreign language learning is an essential component of a well-rounded curriculum. Brain research indicates that foreign language learning should start at the earliest age possible. Language is a vehicle for communicating ideas and the study of a foreign language opens up new areas of literature and expression to the student. Foreign language study fosters an understanding of how languages are related and also increases an awareness of the logic and structure of language in general. Exposure to other cultures, languages, and perspectives encourages critical thinking, creativity, empathy, and builds confidence in self-expression.

Science education in the Lower School is enhanced through investigations in the science lab with our science specialist.  Students in Kindergarten do science investigations once a week for 30-minute blocks.  First grade through fourth grade students practice science skills, investigate, design solutions to STEM challenges, and experiment throughout the year during a weekly one-hour lab time.  Explorations for all students also include outdoor experiences and field studies.

The Lower School Art program provides a creative and enriching experience for students in Grades K-4. Students participate in weekly one-hour art classes, where they explore a range of mediums such as clay, paint, and more to create diverse 2D and 3D projects. Students engage in hands-on projects that have the potential to be showcased in various exhibits around the school and at the regional FAME Festival. Additionally, student artwork is thoughtfully selected for display at the annual Spring Arts Show, celebrating the artistic talents of our Lower School students.

The Canterbury LS Maker Space provides the opportunity to create, explore, innovate, and experiment using hands-on materials, collaboration and design-thinking. Through real-world applications and open-ended problem-solving, students will be given the freedom to think creatively, learn through experience, and build confidence in themselves as thinkers and makers.

Students in Grades 1-3 participate in seven Maker Space sessions each school year. Grade 4 students receive 14 Maker Space sessions per year. Each session of Maker Space includes either an end-project goal (i.e. Scribble Bots, paper circuits, etc) or a skill-building goal (i.e. use of new materials, new tools, etc). Occasionally students will have the opportunity to “free build.” This is a chance for them to use their creativity and imagination to build whatever idea comes to mind. Students are encouraged to take their projects home after each session to either continue making, showcase to their family, or rebuild into something new.

All Lower School students attend a weekly religion class. The Lower School religion classes seek to support the faith of every family by helping students develop a growing understanding of God in their lives. Students are invited to learn about ethical principles through stories, reflection, and in dialogue with each other. Though the foundation of the curriculum is the Christian Bible, students of all faiths and beliefs are welcome and encouraged to share perspectives and ask questions. The Canterbury community is made up of many religions including: Hindu, Muslim, Jewish, and Christian. With this in mind, classes are respectful of diversity and encourage students to wonder together with compassion and curiosity. Classes look for ways to connect the underlying themes and values of many religions, while respecting the unique beliefs of each student.

All students in Grades K-4 attend Drama weekly. These classes are a time for students to explore dramatic presentation and appreciation. In Grade 4, their Drama classes are extended as they prepare for the Lower School musical.

In music, we learn to perform with confidence, work in collaboration with peers, and create original, unique art. K-4 music builds a foundation of reading, playing and singing skills through a wide variety of activities, while also giving students a space to create original compositions and choreography.

In Kindergarten through Grade 2, students attend weekly music classes for 30-minutes, where students sing, dance, and learn simple classroom instruments. In Grades 3-4, students learn African drums, recorder, ukulele, hand chimes, bucket drums, and strings. They increase their weekly music class to 45-minutes, along with weekly strings class.

In Grade 3, all students receive violin instruction once a week using a school trainer violin. In Grade 4, every student is eligible for violin, viola, cello or bass for strings instruction twice per week. Students rent their own instruments to practice at home, school, and to use for concerts.