Lower School

List of 11 items.

• Hebrew Language

  Starting with daily Hebrew instruction in Kindergarten, our students develop textual skills along with an appreciation for the timeless lessons that strengthen Jewish identity and Jewish connections.

• Jewish Studies

  Our Judaic Studies program delves into the study of Prayer (Tefilot), Bible (Chumash), Holidays (Chagim), blessings (Brachot), and the weekly Torah portion (Parshat Hashavuah). Students learn insights and meaning of prayers. Textual Bible study (Chumash) begins in Second Grade when students receive their very first Chumash. Skill development is stressed in addition to emphasizing the content and moral lessons of the text. Weekly Shabbat celebrations (Kabbalat Shabbat) include singing and discussion of the weekly Parsha. Overall, the Judaic Studies program provides a meaningful, enriching and robust approach to teaching traditional Jewish values and a commitment to Torah and the State of Israel.   

• Science

  In a science lab filled with experiments and animals, the Lower School science curriculum exposes students to the wonders and joys of science as it is found all around them. Materials are presented in a “hands-on” interactive format. Students are encouraged to become involved in activities and to ask questions. The scientific process is stressed as a way to solve practical problems, explore observations and curiosities. 

• STEM

  Lower School students benefit from the integration of technology throughout both their general and Judaic studies curricula. STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) is a highlight of the school- wide curriculum.

  For more information, click here.

• Technology

  Technology is utilized in all instruction and learning at Beth Tfiloh and students are taught to navigate it seamlessly so that it enhances what they do. We are mindful and intentional in our use of technology, using it as tool to help students and teachers review and assess skills, learn valuable research methods, and develop digital safety and citizenship values. Students learn their manual skills in conjunction with technology skills, using iPads in the classroom when appropriate to deepen their understanding of subjects, learn coding, keyboarding, and how to use PowerPoint and Microsoft Word as educational tools. The Lower School provides a very conscientious foundation for use of technology, focusing on the social, emotional, and cognitive developmental needs of all students. 

• Social Studies

  The social studies program emphasizes map skills, the meaning of community, cultural differences and exploration of both our local and global community. There is a strong focus meaningful cultural differences as well as all that keeps us connected. It is an opportunity for our students to begin their exploration of our world. 

• Mathematics

  The core of our math program is mathematical problem solving, not as a separate activity but as central to every skill and concept discussion. It involves the acquisition and application of mathematics concepts and skills in a wide range of situations, including non-routine, open-ended and real-world problems. Students are encouraged to consider how they think, how they communicate, and how they solve problems, so they can apply their skills to subsequent problems. The learning process gives students a solid math foundation upon which to build increasingly complex skills. In addition, student attitudes and appreciation for mathematics are viewed as vital for success.  

• Language Arts

  The development of literacy skills – both oral and written – are learned through reading and writing. Beginning with working on phonemic awareness skills in kindergarten, our reading and writing instruction becomes more structured and advanced as students learn to decode the alphabet, understand how sounds, letters and syllables form the foundation of language, and then move towards reading fluency. While the development of reading comprehension skills begin as early as Preschool and Kindergarten, as children mature and become more confident, their critical and abstract thinking skills grow. Students develop organizational and study skills as well as continue to improve spelling and increase their vocabulary skills. At Beth Tfiloh, students learn to understand what they read, and then develop the self-assurance to analyze what they’ve read and see how that knowledge applies to the world around them. 

• Arts

  Students develop self-confidence and gain an appreciation for the arts through a program that integrates art history and elements of design with practical, age-appropriate art projects exploring a wide range of techniques and materials. Lively discussions based on artist exemplars and cultural imagery generate momentum and encourage unbridled creativity towards each project. Themes in this program often integrate with curricular topics in both General and Judaic studies. Students will experience the creative process through drawing, painting, collage, sculpture, ceramics and printmaking.

• Music

  Throughout the Lower School years, students develop core skills in vocal music utilizing the concepts of rhythm, melody, harmony, form, expression, vocabulary and listening skills. By performing, creating and describing music, each student will learn to appreciate Jewish, and American music. Classes meet with a music specialist once per week and also meet weekly for a Kabbalat Shabbat sing-a-long. In addition, contemporary and traditional Jewish songs are taught, along with liturgy, Shabbat songs, and American songs.

• Physical Education

  The physical education program is an integral part of the development of the “total” child. It provides a wholesome experience that develops children physically, socially, mentally, and emotionally. Through participation in physical education, a student can learn confidence, discipline, honesty, enthusiasm, and a positive attitude.  A key element of each class is a high level of active participation by each student. Overall, the physical education curriculum works to develop children who are physically active, mentally alert, and socially well-adjusted.