Junior School Specialty Program Overview
- Ballet
Ballet is part of the Junior School curriculum for students in JK to Grade 3 and is offered as an after-school activity for students in Grades 4 to 6.
The Classical Technique component of the curriculum is based on the syllabi of the Royal Academy of Dance, an internationally acclaimed institution. Other units of study in the ballet curriculum include Grooming and Preparation, Character Dancing, Creation and Performance, Deportment, Free Movement, Exploration of Themes, Musical Appreciation and Physical Conditioning.
Students in SK, Grades 1, 3, 4 and 6 wishing to be entered for Royal Academy of Dance Exams in May have the opportunity to train further.
- Core French
The core French program uses the AIM (Accelerative Integrated Method) and its corresponding program, Histoires en action! for Grades 1 to 6. This kinesthetic method develops strong oral and written communicative skills using an integrated, drama-based approach designed for students specifically at each grade level.
- Information and Communication Technology
The Havergal College Junior School curriculum for Information and Communication Technology was developed from the Bruce and Levin model (1997). The curriculum focuses on four application areas of technology: inquiry (e.g. visualization software, spreadsheets and databases), communication (e.g. word processing, email, conferencing and tutorials), construction (e.g. robotics, computer-aided design) and expression (e.g. presentation software). The Junior School program features a Macintosh computer lab, a portable laptop lab and classroom computers. The girls can also use colour scanners and digital or video cameras to integrate images into their computer-generated printed work or multimedia presentations.
- Library
As they progress from Kindergarten to Grade 6, students develop library-learning skills that enable them to locate materials, select and interpret, record and present information. These skills are taught in connection with projects and assignments. Throughout the year, the library hosts a number of guest speakers: authors, illustrators, storytellers, musicians, scientists and others with special skills and information to share. The library holds a Book Fair in February each year.
- Strings and Band Program (optional)
An introductory program for students with no previous string or band instrument experience is offered to students in Grade 5 and 6, three times a week. The course introduces students to basic techniques and note-reading, emphasizing both individual skills and ensemble playing in string orchestra and band through scales and a wide variety of literature.
Students from Grades 3 to 5 who have previous strings experience are welcome to participate in the Continuer Strings Program. In this course, students further refine their technical skills and ensemble skills continue to be developed.
All string and band students will participate in the Junior School Band/ Orchestra and will have opportunities to perform throughout the school year.
- Visual Arts
Specialist teachers teach the Visual Arts program from JK through to Grade 6. Curriculum planning is done in consultation with teachers from other disciplines. Projects are designed to deepen and enrich a student’s understanding of topics covered in the core curriculum. Links in art are made to English, History, Math, Technology, Science, French, Social Studies and Music. The goal of the Visual Arts program is to develop perceptual skills as part of the critical thinking process. Students develop integrated projects reflecting the elements of design and expression of visual ideas. Techniques are incorporated using a variety of media while developing fine motor and problem-solving skills. The program is also augmented by the study of artists and field trips to museums and art galleries. An after school art club is also offered during the school year.
- Vocal Music Classes
Vocal music classes from JK to Grade 3 follow an Orff-based program. Grades 4 to 6 classes are primarily vocal in emphasis with some Orff influences.
- Private Music Lessons (optional)
Piano Lessons – SK to Grade 6: A comprehensive study program is offered from beginning to advanced piano levels.
The program is classical in emphasis but students also experience a variety of styles. A more structured program in the form of preparation for Royal Conservatory of Music exams is also offered to suitable candidates. Piano lessons are offered to students in SK through Grade 6 on a per term basis, with payment in advance for each term.
Strings Lessons – Grade 2 to Grade 6: A comprehensive study program of private violin, viola and cello lessons is offered from beginner to advanced levels. Technical skills, an understanding of how the instrument works and note reading are stressed so that students develop confidence in playing.
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