The Pierce Elementary English Program

Our innovative English program for Grades 1 to 6 emphasizes communication, skill development and experiential learning through the acclaimed "Into Reading" textbook series by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. Designed to promote natural language acquisition, this program immerses students in English while engaging them with content based on the Science of Reading. The accompanying digital resources offer extra practice at home and provide additional support.

Students are exposed to a variety of songs, stories and informational texts that encourage meaningful language use, connecting their learning to real-life situations and nurturing their natural curiosity. Grammar and vocabulary are taught in context. Collaborative discussions with peers and adults help students express their ideas clearly and follow group discussion rules. Experiential learning, both inside and outside the classroom, empowers students to learn through hands-on activities, making the experience both effective and memorable.

Our program covers diverse genres, enabling students to break down texts for in-depth understanding and apply this knowledge to create original works. Through problem-solving activities, they sharpen their critical thinking skills by identifying similarities and differences, distinguishing facts from opinions, understanding cause and effect. Regular spaced-out revision and reflection reinforce their learning, helping students to consolidate their knowledge.

Our multi-modal approach gives students both a voice and a choice, making learning more exciting and engaging. We embrace Project-Based Learning (PBL), viewing projects not as the final product but as integral to the learning process. Students learn to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, while also learning to listen to others, building their communication and collaboration skills through age-appropriate activities.

Social-Emotional Learning is woven throughout the program, as classroom topics help develop key dispositions such as respect, empathy, and resilience. Encouraging children to become readers is a priority; they read in class, at home, and regularly visit the library.

This dynamic, holistic approach not only enhances linguistic proficiency but also deepens cultural understanding, fostering an environment where students grow as proactive, respectful and resilient individuals ready to navigate and contribute to the world. The Pierce English Department is committed to excellence; we regularly review and improve our program based on the latest best practices, providing professional development opportunities to support our passionate and dedicated educators.