Elementary School: 1st – 5th Grade
By 1st Grade, Little Tiger students have developed strong Chinese language skills that enable them to delve into a wide range of subjects that includes Chinese Language Arts, Social Studies, Math, Science, Computer Science, Art, Music, PE, and SEL.
At Little Tiger, Chinese is not a subject—it is the medium we use for all of our activities, from morning meetings to math lessons to art & music.
Chinese & English Biliteracy
While Chinese remains the primary language of instruction throughout our elementary grades, English literacy — reading as well as writing — are also critical parts of the elementary curriculum.
In 1st grade, approximately 20% of instruction is in English. By 5th grade, roughly half of all instruction is in English. This approach enables students to develop exceptional Chinese language skills while also ensuring that they are fully prepared for an English language learning environment when they transition to middle school.
Inquiry-Driven & Interdisciplinary
Our progressive curricular approach prizes creativity, collaboration, and curiosity over passive learning or rote memorization. Students learn to ask questions, take initiative, consider multiple perspectives, and reflect critically. What does this look like in practice? If you walk into one of our classrooms on any given day, you might find students:
- Acting out vignettes from Chinese classical literature
- Using block-based computer programming to make a cartoon cat dance
- Presenting their Science Fair project in both Chinese and English
- Solving math challenges in teams
Differentiated & Individualized Learning
Our curriculum is rigorous because we believe in challenging students academically. We do this by providing a differentiated, individualized learning environment where students stretch to achieve their highest potential. At the same time, we emphasize a school environment that is supportive and collaborative to foster a love of learning. During these foundational years, our students develop skills to drive their own education, focus on process over results, and become confident life-long learners.
Future Leaders, Ready for Tomorrow
We hope – in fact, we expect – that Little Tiger students will become responsible citizens and leaders, capable of applying their academic and social skills to meet the challenges of tomorrow. Over time, our students build their social-emotional and teamwork skills that they will draw on throughout their lives.
Sample Elementary Schedule
| 8:15 | Drop Off |
| 8:15 – 8:30 | Independent Work |
| 8:30 – 9:00 | SEL Morning Meeting |
| 9:00 – 11:00 | Morning Learning Chinese Language Arts, Math, English Language Arts, Computer Science |
| 11:00 – 11:45 | Recess |
| 11:45 – 12:15 | Lunch / Meditation |
| 12:15 – 1:45 | Mixed Age Center Times Chinese Literature, Math, English Special Areas Art, Music, PE, Library |
| 1:45 – 3:00 | Afternoon Learning Center Literature Center, Writing Workshop, Math Center, Science/STEM, Social Studies Experiential Learning Special Events, Guest Speaker Program Study Hall Independent Work Time, Small Group Tutorial |
| 3:00 – 3:15 | Closing Circle |
| 3:15 – 5:15 | After School Program |
