Computer Class in First Grade
	Students in Kindergarten and First Grade begin learning about the Desktop metaphor by using "paper laptops" in conjunction with real laptops.  They use the paper laptops to learn the important keys on the keyboard.  The paper laptop also serves as a map, with color-coded keys, folders, and icons.  Students use these "maps" to guide them to the class folders where their work is saved as well as a folder for web sites that they use.  These lessons work to increase independence as students begin using computers in an academic setting.

	A "Book Talk” Taking Place in our Third Grade
	The Columbia Reading and Writing Project, being implemented through our Lower School, is designed to help children develop rich, literate, lives and a strong connection between reading and writing. We use "book talks" to teach children to “grow” their ideas beyond simple summarizing, retelling, or gathering facts.   We don’t just assume children know how to discuss literature and think critically; we use direct instruction to teach students how to do this.

	The Use of TPR in our Foreign Language Program
	TPR Used in a Lower School Spanish Class Total Physical Response, or TPR, is a method of language learning through motion. Total Physical Response couples physical activity with commands in the target language to facilitate the direct assimilation of language. TPR used in a Lower School French Class The basic instructional strategy of TPR at the early stage of language learning is that students respond to commands and mimic the movements. Students then become more comfortable and start producing language. This direct approach to language assimilation facilitates long term retention, increases the ratio of high achieving students, and improves confidence and attitude toward foreign language learning.

	Song and Movement in the First Grade Music Program
	The Lower School Music Program contributes to the emotional, intellectual, physical and social development of the child.  Our goal is for each child to engage in musical experiences of singing, chanting, moving and dancing, playing instruments, and playing singing games that will lead to reading and writing music.  The spirit of play is at the heart of learning in the early years of Lower School Music.  Singing games provide for social skills, cognitive development, creativity, language development, motor skills, and of course musical skills.  These games also provide for opportunities in building a sense of community with one another.

	Making Apple Cider in Kindergarten Science Class
	In kindergarten science class, we started this year studying apples. I thought this was appropriate since GFA has an abundance of apples on the grounds. I have inherited an apple cider press and always loved the family tradition of making cider each year. It was this process I wanted to share with the students. Traditional cider making starts with the picking of the apples. These are left to mature for a week and then washed and placed into a "grinder,” which chops up the apples. This grinds the apples into a pulp. Next the pulp must be crushed to extract the juice. This is done in a cider press. My press is a rack and cloth press (sometimes known as a pack press). In this type of press, a sheet of burlap is placed across the bottom of the frame above a trough. A layer of pumice, 4-5 inches deep, is poured onto the burlap. The burlap is folded over the pumice, completely enclosing it. The cider press is then turned in order to crush the apple pulp and the juice runs into the trough. The apple pulp is pressed until it is solid and no more juice runs out. Then you are ready to drink the cider, and it is so tasty.

	LEGO Club
	LEGO Club is a Lower School after-school activity run by Sofi Kurtz and Josh Burker. Students in grades one through three are invited to come build LEGO, explore simple machines, and let their imaginations run wild. Students in the fall 2010 club spent time constructing spinning tops out of LEGO. They also built a turntable that played a record, vehicles with motors, and fantastic LEGO bases. LEGO Club is a great place for students to collaborate to build exciting models. Along the way they learn a thing or two about engineering and physics, too!