PRIMARY

Outline of Primary Years Curriculum offered at Choithram International School, Freetown.

The curriculum used at Choithram International School, Freetown, integrates the Cambridge Primary Years Curriculum with elements of the National Curriculum of Sierra Leone. This curriculum is designed for young learners typically aged 5 to 11 and provides a robust framework for developing skills and understanding in key subject areas. Here’s an outline of its structure and components:

1. Curriculum Framework

Subjects:
  1. English
  2. Mathematics
  3. Science
  4. ICT (Information and Communication Technology)
  5. Global Perspectives
  6. Physical Education
  7. Art & Craft

Languages: French as a second language
Arabic/ Hindi as a third language in our inaugural year.

3. Assessment

  • Formative: Ongoing assessment through activities, observations, feedback
  • Summative: End-of-unit tests, Cambridge Primary Checkpoint (typically at the end of Stage 6)

4. Teaching Approaches

  • Student-Centered Learning: Emphasis on active, collaborative learning
  • Differentiation: Tailoring lessons to meet diverse student needs
  • Inquiry-Based Learning: Encouraging curiosity, exploration, problem-solving

5. Resources and Support

  • Teaching Guides: Detailed plans, activities, assessment guidance
  • Professional Development: Training, workshops for teachers
  • Online Resources: Digital tools, interactive materials

2. Subject Outlines

a. English
  • Reading: Phonics, comprehension, fluency
  • Writing: Composition, spelling, punctuation, grammar
  • Speaking and Listening: Communication skills, group discussion, presentation
b. Mathematics
  • Number: Operations, place value, fractions, decimals
  • Geometry: Shapes, space, properties
  • Measure: Length, mass, volume, time
  • Handling Data: Graphs, charts, data interpretation
  • Problem-Solving: Strategies, applying concepts
c. Science
  • Scientific Enquiry: Asking questions, planning, conducting experiments
  • Biology: Living things, plants, animals, humans
  • Chemistry: Materials, their properties, changes
  • Physics: Forces, motion, energy, sound, light
d. ICT
  • Digital Literacy: Basic skills, internet safety
  • Information Technology: Using software, presenting information
  • Computer Science: Basic programming, algorithms
e. Global Perspectives
  • Skills: Research, analysis, evaluation
  • Topics: Global issues, intercultural understanding, sustainability
f. Physical Education
  • Skills: Movement, coordination, team sports
  • Health: Fitness, well-being, healthy lifestyle
g. Art & Craft
  • Creativity: Expression through various media
  • Skills: Techniques, tools, art history
h. Languages
  • Communication: Basic vocabulary, phrases
  • Cultural Understanding: Customs, traditions
  • Skills Development: Listening, speaking, reading, writing

6. Progression and Transition

  • Continuity: Building on knowledge and skills year-on-year
  • Transition to Cambridge Lower Secondary: Ensuring readiness for the next educational stage

7. Global Context

  • International Perspective : Incorporating global issues, cultural awareness
  • Adaptability : Customizable to local contexts while maintaining a global standard