STEM Studies

Clairbourn’s elementary grade students learn about science from books, educational videos and from participating in hands-on activities that encourage them to experience for themselves the processes, joy, and fascination of science. They study planets, the rainforest, cell structure, and much, much more!

Students in the elementary grades use computers, for whole or small-group instruction, and interactive SMART Boards are important instructional tools in every classroom. In addition, Clairbourn has a dedicated Innovation Lab with new computers, touch-screen monitors, 3D printers, programmable robots, and a full-time technology specialist teacher. In the weekly technology classes, students receive computer/technology instruction designed to enhance their use of technology in their daily lives. The ethical and safe use of online technologies is an important element of the curriculum.

In Grades K through Grade 5, the Everyday Mathematics curriculum developed by the University of Chicago School Mathematics Project forms the foundation of Clairbourn’s mathematics program. There is a systematic progression of skills, a strong focus on real-life problem solving, and many opportunities for hands-on learning in every grade.

When additional practice or enrichment is needed, teachers may use a variety of other resources to meet the needs of individual students or the class. At each stage of learning there is an emphasis on critical thinking, development of a deep understanding of the concepts being taught, and on the acquisition of solid computational skills.

Clairbourn believes that an excellent private school education must include a broad range of experiences in technology. In addition to exposure in their core classes, our middle school students also have opportunities for further and deeper exploration in their two quarterly elective classes. In these electives, a wide array of computer applications are taught and practiced. In addition to learning word processing, spreadsheet, and presentation software, students also learn 3D design, computer simulations, digital photography, coding, robotics, stop motion animation, and digital art design. The computer specialist also works closely with the librarian, art teacher, Spanish teacher, and classroom teachers supporting instructional objectives in those classrooms.

 

Clairbourn’s Middle School Math Program consists of both a regular and an accelerated track. The regular track allows students to complete high school algebra by the end of 8th grade. The accelerated track is designed to allow students to complete Geometry by the end of 8th grade. All students have opportunities to experience how mathematical concepts apply to the real world and to become strong mathematical thinkers.