Lower School Curriculum

Through a purposeful and rigorous academic program, students are encouraged to think critically, solve problems creatively, and engage deeply with their learning, thereby building the skills and curiosity that fuel discovery and innovation.

Our thoughtfully designed curriculum inspires higher-order thinking and a passion for inquiry while prioritizing the development of effective communication skills. We promote constructive dialogue as a cornerstone of understanding diverse perspectives and building a strong, inclusive community. Equally vital is social and emotional growth. We cultivate a respectful, empathetic environment where every voice is heard and valued. By nurturing meaningful relationships among students, faculty, and families, we create a supportive network that fosters belonging, well-being, and character development.

Kindergarten

Kindergarten marks the beginning of an exciting journey at BWL, where children grow academically, socially, and emotionally through engaging, hands-on experiences. As part of the BWL community, our youngest learners are supported, celebrated, and connected from day one. Students explore a wide range of subjects, including Language Arts, Math, Science, Social Studies, the Arts, Physical Education, and STEAM, all thoughtfully designed to spark curiosity, build foundational skills, and inspire creativity. Throughout the year, children develop essential social-emotional skills as they learn to collaborate, communicate, and take pride in their accomplishments. Kindergarten at BWL is a joyful, enriching experience that lays the foundation for a lifetime of learning, exploration, and connection.

Language Arts

READING
The Kindergarten Reading Program fosters a love of reading while developing essential literacy skills, including phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, and comprehension. The curriculum incorporates the Heggerty Phonemic Awareness program and Wilson’s Fundations for structured, engaging instruction. Through daily lessons, students develop phonological awareness by practicing rhyming, sound matching, syllable segmentation, and phoneme manipulation. They also develop decoding skills by learning letter-sound relationships and blending simple words, including those with digraphs. Students grow as independent readers by identifying sight words, sounding out unfamiliar words, retelling key story elements, and making predictions while engaging with decodable texts through multisensory activities.

WRITING
Kindergarten students take their first steps in written expression by learning to form uppercase and lowercase letters through a clear, pattern-based sequence. They begin developing foundational spelling skills and explore sentence structure, including proper use of capital letters and punctuation. Using their writing notebooks, students respond to prompts, practice constructing sentences, and incorporate high-frequency and trick words into their writing, laying the groundwork for confident communication.

Mathematics

In Kindergarten, the Math in Focus Singapore Math program engages students with hands-on activities that build a solid foundation in math concepts. Students explore numbers through counting, comparing, and basic addition and subtraction. They learn to write number sentences, recognize patterns and shapes, and explore measurement. Using manipulatives and math games, kindergarteners actively investigate new ideas and practice skills, strengthening their number sense and problem-solving abilities. With a focus on visual learning and real-world connections, the program helps foster critical thinking and a love of math.

Social Studies

Social Studies in Kindergarten starts close to home, focusing on the communities students know best—their family, classroom, and school. The year begins with an in-depth study of identity, where students share, explore, and celebrate who they are as individuals and as members of their unique families. They begin to explore essential questions, such as “What is a family?” and “What is a community?” Drawing on personal experiences, family stories, children’s literature, pictures, and videos, students express and organize their learning through discussions, writing, artwork, and dramatic play, building a strong foundation in understanding themselves and their communities.

Science

In Science, Kindergarten students ignite their curiosity by asking questions about the world around them. Hands-on activities make learning fun and interactive, encouraging exploration and discovery. Students express their understanding through drawings, discussions, and simple projects. Throughout the year, they investigate topics like apples, pumpkins, animals, shadows, and space. Each week, students visit the hydroponic farm to observe plants growing without soil and learn how they can incorporate these fresh ingredients into their meals. By planting and watching growth firsthand, they connect science to their daily lives.

1st Grade

The 1st grade year is one of tremendous growth. At this stage, children are curious and eager to explore the world around them. They move from learning to read to reading for meaning, expanding their vocabulary, and beginning to write complete thoughts with clarity and purpose. In math, 1st graders strengthen number sense and apply basic operations to solve everyday problems. They also develop critical thinking, persistence, and confidence in their abilities. Socially, students learn to build friendships, work in teams, and navigate group dynamics with empathy, cooperation, and respect. They begin to manage feelings, follow routines, and take responsibility for their learning and belongings. Being a 1st grader means growing more independent and resilient, laying a strong foundation for lifelong learning and success.

Language Arts

READING
In 1st grade, students build strong decoding skills by applying phonics strategies from the Wilson Fundations program to segment and blend words. By practicing regularly, they become more fluent readers, moving from simple decodable texts to confidently reading short novels. As their fluency grows, students begin to add emotion and inflection to their oral reading. They learn to identify essential story elements—characters, setting, problem, and solution—which deepens their comprehension. These skills enable them to make meaningful connections, understand character traits and emotions, and grow into thoughtful, reflective readers who engage critically with the texts they read.

WRITING
In 1st grade, students continue to refine their letter formation while exploring a range of writing genres, including narrative, poetry, and nonfiction. They learn to craft complete sentences with correct capitalization and punctuation, and begin using transition words to organize their thoughts and add clarity to their writing. As young authors, they are encouraged to reread, revise, and improve their work, developing a sense of ownership and pride in their writing. By applying their phonics knowledge to sound out and spell words, students strengthen the connection between reading and writing, building confidence and fluency across both areas.

Mathematics

The Math in Focus Singapore Math program inspires 1st graders to become critical thinkers and problem solvers. Using a variety of hands-on manipulatives, lessons guide students in building a deep, concrete understanding of mathematical concepts. Through exploration, discussion, and collaboration, students connect numbers to real-life situations in meaningful ways. The curriculum emphasizes essential skills, including counting and comparing numbers up to 100, adding and subtracting one- and two-digit numbers, recognizing shapes and patterns, measuring length and weight, and interpreting calendars, time, and money.

Social Studies

The 1st grade Social Studies curriculum introduces students to important ideas about their community and country. They learn about the rights and responsibilities of citizens, explore the geography of their neighborhood, and discover American symbols and traditions. Students also compare life today with life long ago, celebrate the diversity of people in the nation, and learn about different jobs that help the community run smoothly.

Science

In 1st grade Science, students begin by exploring the scientific method, learning to formulate clear hypotheses. This foundation supports the development of skills in making thoughtful predictions, conducting experiments, and analyzing results. Hands-on investigations, including experiments with floating and sinking, as well as bubble science, actively engage students in the learning process. Later in the year, students study animal classification, focusing on the differences between vertebrates and invertebrates. The year concludes with an in-depth exploration of butterflies and their life cycle, providing opportunities for students to enhance their observation skills and create detailed illustrations of living organisms.

2nd Grade

The 2nd grade year at BWL is a time of deepening skills and growing confidence. Students build on what they’ve learned in earlier years, becoming more fluent readers and expressive writers. They learn to ask thoughtful questions, make connections across subjects, and explain their thinking with clarity. Socially and emotionally, 2nd graders continue developing empathy, responsibility, and collaboration skills. They become more self-aware, set personal goals, and take pride in their work and growth. At BWL, 2nd grade is a joyful, enriching year that sparks independence, builds resilience, and encourages every child to explore their strengths and celebrate their unique voice

Language Arts

READING
In 2nd grade, students continue strengthening their foundational reading skills through Wilson’s Fundations program, which provides systematic, cumulative, and explicit instruction in phonics, decoding, and spelling. As students progress, they focus on improving reading fluency and automaticity while engaging with more complex texts. Comprehension skills are deepened through meaningful discussions, where students analyze characters, plot, and setting, and become more confident in making inferences, predictions, and drawing conclusions. Vocabulary development is supported by exploring advanced words encountered in stories and novels. Additionally, students refine their written responses to literature by composing complete sentences, using text evidence to support their ideas, and revising their work for clarity and accuracy.

WRITING
The 2nd grade writing program offers a balanced mix of creative writing, expository or structured writing, and free writing through personal journals. During formal writing sessions, students focus on developing handwriting, punctuation, and sentence structure skills. They also learn to edit their own work, with individual teacher conferences to guide them on using correct sentence structure and building strong story plots. Students follow the writing process, which involves planning, drafting, revising, editing, and publishing their work. The program includes a poetry unit, holiday-themed writing projects, and cross-curricular assignments that connect writing with other subject areas.

Mathematics

In 2nd grade Math, students build strong problem-solving skills using a variety of strategies. Through the Singapore Math approach, students progress from concrete to pictorial to abstract thinking, deepening their understanding. They develop number sense with numbers up to 1,000, reading, writing, comparing, ordering, and expressing them in different forms. Students use mental math and vertical algorithms to solve addition and subtraction problems, including regrouping, and are introduced to multiplication, division, and basic multiplication tables. Real-world problem solving is emphasized, with bar models helping students visualize and solve word problems. They also explore measurement (length, mass, volume) in metric and customary units, tell time to the nearest five minutes, and count coins and bills. In geometry, students study shapes and patterns and learn to read and interpret bar graphs and line plots to analyze data.

Social Studies

The 2nd grade Social Studies program guides students through an engaging exploration of families, communities, government, culture, and history. Students begin by learning about different family structures, life in the past and present, and their own family histories. They develop important map skills, including reading grids and understanding cardinal directions, while studying Earth’s landforms, continents, oceans, and types of communities. The curriculum introduces the purpose and structure of government at the federal, state, and local levels. Students also explore goods and services, natural resources, and the challenges producers face. Throughout the year, students learn about heroes who have shaped history and science, encouraging them to think about how they can make a difference. They also celebrate American culture by exploring diverse holidays, symbols, and landmarks.

Science

The 2nd grade Science curriculum offers students hands-on opportunities to observe and explore the natural world. The year begins with a study of plants, where students dissect seeds, track plant growth in journals, and experiment with growing their plants while learning about the process of photosynthesis. They then shift their focus to tropical rainforests, exploring the interconnectedness of organisms, the structure and geography of these ecosystems, and the natural resources they provide. In the final unit, students dive into the prehistoric world, modeling fossil formation and learning how scientists study Earth's history through the fossil record. They investigate dinosaur adaptations and evolution, culminating in a hands-on dinosaur dig where they take on the role of paleontologists. Throughout the year, students build scientific inquiry skills through observation, experimentation, and interactive learning.

3rd Grade

The 3rd grade year at BWL is a year of discovery, independence, and growing academic depth. Students begin to think more critically, approach problems with creativity, and express themselves with greater confidence. In reading, they dive into a variety of genres, analyze texts, and support their ideas with evidence. Their writing becomes more organized and purposeful, with a focus on structure, voice, and clarity. In math, 3rd graders tackle multiplication, division, fractions, and more complex problem-solving. Across all subjects, curiosity and ownership of learning are encouraged and celebrated. Students strengthen communication and leadership skills, learning to advocate for themselves, work through challenges, and support their peers. This year marks a shift toward greater responsibility, helping students grow as thoughtful, capable members of the BWL community.

Language Arts

READING
The 3rd grade reading curriculum is built around award-winning novels that provide a strong foundation for developing literacy and critical thinking skills. As students engage with these texts, they learn to gather and synthesize information, make inferences, interpret the author’s intent, and analyze literary elements such as character, plot, setting, and theme. They are also taught to draw conclusions, predict outcomes, and support their ideas with evidence from the text. Vocabulary development is emphasized, with students learning to determine the meaning of unfamiliar words through the use of context clues and a dictionary. Literature discussions play an important role in helping students articulate their ideas, listen to differing perspectives, and develop a deeper understanding of the novels. At the end of each unit, students complete a culminating project that demonstrates their comprehension and creativity. These projects are presented in various formats, including oral, written, and visual presentations, providing students with opportunities to express their learning in meaningful and engaging ways.

WRITING
The 3rd grade writing curriculum supports students in developing the skills to organize and communicate their ideas effectively and thoughtfully. Students learn to expand sentences using vivid language and organize their thoughts through strategies such as webbing, creating lists, using graphic organizers, and outlining. They engage in a structured writing process that includes drafting, revising, editing, conferencing, publishing, and illustrating. Throughout the year, they practice writing topic sentences, supporting their ideas with details, and crafting thoughtful conclusions. Grammar, spelling, and vocabulary are integrated into daily lessons. Students study parts of speech and enhance their spelling through the multisensory Words Their Way program, using word sorts to explore sound, pattern, and meaning.

Mathematics

The 3rd grade math program, grounded in the Singapore Math curriculum, begins by solidifying students’ grasp of place value and reinforcing essential addition and subtraction skills, including multi-digit problems. As students build confidence, they advance to more complex calculations involving numbers up to the thousands, as well as multiplication and division within 100. The curriculum also introduces concepts such as fractions, geometry, measurement (encompassing length, weight, capacity, and time), and data analysis through the use of bar graphs and pictographs. A strong emphasis is placed on developing conceptual understanding, mathematical vocabulary, and problem-solving abilities. Students learn to tackle multi-step word problems using bar models, a visual strategy that clarifies mathematical relationships and fosters critical thinking.

Social Studies

In 3rd Grade, students explore the world by studying countries across each continent. The journey begins with a review of essential mapping skills and an introduction to the continents and oceans. As the year progresses, students take a deeper dive into the cultures of various countries, learning about aspects such as tourism, food, entertainment, clothing, language, and education. Through a blend of class discussions, readings, and hands-on projects, students gain a broader understanding of global cultures. This immersive study helps children develop cultural awareness and an appreciation for the diversity of the world around them. Each unit concludes with a comparison between the country studied and the United States, encouraging thoughtful reflection on similarities and differences across cultures.

Science

The 3rd grade Science curriculum begins with an in-depth exploration of animal adaptations and behaviors. Students examine how specific traits are influenced by the environment and how these characteristics help animals survive in their habitats. The focus then shifts to Earth science, where students investigate water on our planet, particularly freshwater sources. Through guided experiments, they simulate the water cycle in the classroom and explore how local drinking water is sourced and delivered to our homes. Later in the year, students delve into physical science with a study of energy and electricity. They learn fundamental concepts by building their battery-powered circuits and are challenged to design circuits that perform unique functions. As the year progresses, there is an increasing emphasis on independent classwork and collaborative projects, allowing students to take greater ownership of their learning and apply scientific concepts in creative, hands-on ways.

4th Grade

At BWL, 4th grade is a transformative year marked by increased independence, responsibility, and personal growth. With their own desks and a stronger sense of ownership over their learning environment, 4th graders begin to see themselves as independent learners. Throughout the year, 4th graders develop self-awareness, resilience, and leadership. They begin to learn to manage time and tasks, contribute meaningfully to group work, and reflect on their progress. It is a dynamic, exciting year that prepares students for their final year in Lower School.

Language Arts

READING
The 4th grade reading program fosters a deeper appreciation for literature while guiding students toward becoming more independent readers. Throughout the year, they explore a variety of engaging novels across multiple genres, including realistic fiction, historical fiction, fantasy, nonfiction, and poetry, while reinforcing literacy skills through active practice of comprehension strategies such as making connections, visualizing, questioning, predicting, and inferring. Through class discussions, creative projects, and written responses, students learn to identify main ideas, sequence events, and draw logical conclusions. In addition to honing reading strategies, book club discussions emphasize active listening, respectful engagement with others’ ideas, and thoughtful discourse. Students focus on expanding their ideas, supporting them with evidence from the text, and improving fluency and expressive reading.

WRITING
Writing is a central focus of the 4th grade Language Arts curriculum, serving as a key tool for students to express their ideas clearly and confidently. Throughout the year, students engage in a variety of creative and expository writing assignments that challenge them to develop well-organized, coherent paragraphs and compelling narratives. They practice essential skills in editing and revising, learning to refine their work with attention to detail and clarity. Grammar instruction is seamlessly integrated into the writing process, covering sentence types, sentence structure, punctuation, and parts of speech. Students are encouraged to apply these concepts consistently, strengthening both their writing mechanics and overall communication.

Mathematics

The 4th grade Math program is designed to develop students’ critical thinking and problem-solving skills through the Singapore Math concrete-pictorial-abstract learning framework. This approach helps students build a deep and lasting understanding of mathematical concepts by moving from hands-on experiences, such as using base-ten blocks or fraction tiles, to visual representations like bar models and number lines, and finally to abstract thinking with numerical equations. In 4th grade, students explore a wide range of topics, including place value, multiplication, division, graphing, fractions, decimals, and geometry. Instruction is further enriched with engaging games and activities that make learning interactive and meaningful. Through this comprehensive and thoughtfully structured program, students gain the confidence and skills needed to tackle complex problems and apply mathematical reasoning in real-world situations.

Social Studies

The 4th grade Social Studies program centers on the five regions of the United States, explored through the lens of four key social sciences: economics, geography, political science, and history. Through interactive lessons and engaging, hands-on activities, students investigate each region’s landforms, natural resources, customs, and cultural traditions. As they “tour” the regions, students begin to think like social scientists, identifying the unique features that define each region, as well as the common threads that connect them across the nation.

Science

The 4th grade Science program emphasizes independent inquiry, critical thinking, and meaningful connections to the world around us. The year begins with a comprehensive study of Earth science, covering topics such as Earth's composition, rocks and minerals, tectonic plates, and volcanoes. In the energy unit, students explore the foundational principle that energy cannot be created or destroyed. Through hands-on activities and group investigations, they examine various forms and sources of energy, with a special focus on comparing fossil fuels to alternative energy options. A dedicated unit on environmental science deepens students' understanding of timely global issues. Topics such as recycling, conservation, and biodiversity are explored through discussions and interactive activities, helping students connect scientific knowledge to real-world environmental challenges. Later in the year, students study atoms, atomic bonding, and the formation of molecules, laying the groundwork for future chemistry concepts.

5th Grade

In 5th grade, students begin an important transition as they prepare for the challenges and opportunities of middle school. This year focuses on developing greater independence, responsibility, and organizational skills to help them succeed in the next stage of their academic journey. As leaders of the Lower School, 5th graders model positive behavior, demonstrate kindness, and take on roles that support their younger peers and the school community.

Language Arts

READING
The 5th grade reading program is designed to help students become more analytical and thoughtful readers through the careful study of a wide range of literary works. Students explore various genres, including realistic fiction, historical fiction, fantasy, nonfiction, and poetry, while developing strong reading skills such as annotating texts, summarizing key information, identifying main ideas, and recognizing literary elements and devices. These skills foster deeper comprehension, enabling students to thoughtfully analyze and discuss literature. Through active listening, participation in discussions, and respectful acknowledgment of others’ thoughts and opinions, students enhance their ability to engage in meaningful discourse. Additionally, they develop nonfiction reading and research skills by identifying main ideas and key details and practicing effective note-taking.

WRITING
The 5th grade writing program guides students in developing both creative and expository writing skills, with a strong emphasis on writing mechanics, effective organization, and the revision process. In creative writing, students craft original short stories, often making meaningful connections to social studies content to deepen understanding and relevance. Key writing skills include applying newly acquired vocabulary and spelling, using precise language, and integrating new grammar concepts. Students also learn to vary sentence structure, expand their ideas with detail, and use transitions to organize their thoughts logically. The writing process places a strong focus on brainstorming and prewriting strategies, encouraging imagination while teaching students to support their ideas with clear examples. Through these activities, students enhance their creativity and build confidence in their ability to communicate effectively through writing.

Mathematics

In 5th grade Math, students study a range of mathematical topics, including whole numbers and the four basic operations, fractions and mixed numbers, as well as multiplication and division involving fractions and mixed numbers. They also work with decimals and perform the four operations with decimals. Additional topics include volume, line plots and coordinate planes, polygons, ratios, and percents. Throughout their learning, students develop important mathematical skills such as applying concepts to real-world word problems, building strong number sense and reasoning abilities, and demonstrating perseverance when solving multi-step problems. These skills help students deepen their understanding and become confident problem solvers.

Social Studies

The 5th grade Social Studies program has students explore key historical and geographical topics, including geography and Native American cultures, European exploration, colonial life, the American Revolution, the Constitutional period, and the Industrial Revolution and immigration. As they move through these units, students develop essential social studies skills such as effective note-taking, highlighting key information, comparing and contrasting events or perspectives, and analyzing cause-and-effect relationships. They learn to sequence historical events chronologically and interpret them within their broader historical context. In addition, students engage with both primary and secondary sources, strengthening their ability to think critically about different types of evidence. They also build map-reading and analysis skills, conduct research, and write reports, deepening their understanding of history and geography while developing their critical thinking, communication, and analytical abilities.

Science

The 5th grade Science program offers an engaging exploration of biological and physical sciences. The year begins with a study of raptors, food chains, and ecosystems, emphasizing the role of top predators and the impact of environmental changes. Students then examine photosynthesis, learning how plants produce food and sustain life on Earth. In the neuroscience unit, students explore how the brain communicates with the body, using lab experiments to investigate sensation, memory, and problem-solving. A sheep brain dissection provides hands-on experience with brain anatomy. The year concludes with an engineering unit focused on structures. Students learn about forces acting on buildings and bridges, and apply design principles in hands-on construction and testing challenges.

Leadership & Communication Seminar

In this weekly seminar, 5th grade students build essential leadership and communication skills while preparing for future opportunities in middle and upper school. As part of the class, students attend presentations from middle and upper school Independent Studies participants, who share their passions and projects, inspiring younger students to explore self-directed learning and personal interests. Students collaborate to produce the school newsletter, developing teamwork, writing, and organizational skills in the process. They also prepare for student government by learning about leadership roles, responsibilities, and the democratic process. Through lessons on effective leadership and practice in constructive dialogue, students gain confidence in expressing their ideas, listening actively, and resolving conflicts respectfully. This seminar empowers 5th grade students to become thoughtful leaders and engaged communicators within their school community and beyond.

Foundations for the Whole Child: Expression, Innovation, and Wellness

At BWL, we believe that a strong education goes beyond core academics to nurture creativity, innovation, wellness, and global awareness. Our Lower School program provides students with a rich foundation in the arts, world languages, physical education, technology, and social-emotional learning, ensuring that every child is supported in mind, body, and spirit.

Through the arts, children discover their voices as visual artists, musicians, and performers, building confidence and imagination. In physical education and wellness, they learn to care for their bodies and minds, developing healthy habits and strengthening resilience through programs such as Responsive Classroom, Let Grow, and MindUp. With world languages, students broaden their perspectives and appreciation of global cultures. In technology, design, and STEAM, they grow as creative problem-solvers ready to innovate in a rapidly changing world.

Together, these experiences provide a well-rounded foundation that empowers students to express themselves, embrace challenges, and grow into capable, curious, and compassionate learners.

Arts

At BWL, creativity knows no limits. Our vibrant arts program offers students an immersive journey through a rich spectrum of artistic disciplines, including visual arts, music, and theater, where they are encouraged to explore and experiment with their own creative voices. This community of artists, actors, and musicians fosters self-expression that fuels both emotional growth and intellectual development. In the Lower School, the arts program is dedicated to providing a joyful, hands-on experience that invites students to discover their unique voices through engaging lessons and creative exploration. By cultivating a deep appreciation for diverse forms of artistic expression, this foundation sparks curiosity and supports students’ growth, not only as young artists but as enthusiastic learners across all areas of their education.

Visual Arts
Performing Arts

Visual Arts

The Lower School Art curriculum encourages students to explore a wide variety of materials and techniques while developing both foundational skills and personal creativity. Beginning with young learners, the program emphasizes hands-on experimentation with drawing, painting, collage, sculpture, and clay, often inspired by picture books and the world around them. Students engage with tools such as oil pastels, crayons, tempera and watercolor paints, and clay, learning mark-making, color mixing, and different ways to transform materials through cutting, tearing, and assembling. As students advance, they build on these early experiences by developing observational skills and refining their use of materials. Projects become increasingly complex, incorporating mixed media techniques like resist painting, printmaking, and construction using recycled or upcycled materials. Throughout, students are introduced to key art concepts, including elements of art (shape, line, color, texture, composition), symmetry and pattern, and essential vocabulary to describe their work.

The curriculum also integrates art history and cultural exploration, with discussions about master artists alongside contemporary and global street and mural artists, helping students connect their creative work to broader artistic traditions. Across all grade levels, the art program fosters an environment where students are encouraged to express themselves, take creative risks, and develop a lifelong appreciation for the arts. Each spring, students from Kindergarten through 12th grade have the opportunity to showcase their work in a school-wide art show, celebrating their creativity and growth.

Performing Arts

MUSIC AND CHORUS
In Lower School Music, students embark on a journey of musical discovery, expression, and collaboration, guided by a curriculum that supports their growth at every stage. Through singing, movement, and instrumental exploration, they gain a deeper understanding of music and its significance in their lives and in the world around them.

Beginning in Kindergarten, students are introduced to the foundational elements of music through engaging, age-appropriate activities. Using a variety of pedagogical approaches, including Kodály, Feierabend, and Orff, they explore rhythm, melody, expression, and form. Students engage with a diverse range of repertoire, genres, and composers, laying a strong foundation in both aural skills and visual music literacy. Starting in 3rd Grade, students participate in Chorus as part of the Lower School choral program. They sing in unison as well as in two- and three-part arrangements, including rounds, partner songs, and simple harmonies. Students continue to deepen their understanding of music history, notation, and global cultural traditions.

Students in 3rd and 4th grades take part in Carnegie Hall’s Link Up program, where they learn to play the recorder and perform alongside a professional orchestra. This immersive experience strengthens both their music literacy and performance skills through meaningful, real-world engagement. In 5th Grade, students learn to play the ukulele, accompanying songs with basic chords and introductory tablature.

Throughout the year, music instruction is intentionally aligned with each grade’s Social Studies curriculum, enabling students to make meaningful interdisciplinary connections between music, culture, and history.

INSTRUMENTAL
The Lower School Instrumental Music program offers 4th and 5th grade students an engaging introduction to learning and performing music. In 4th grade, students will have the unique opportunity to explore three different instruments: cello, clarinet, and violin. Through hands-on instruction, students will rotate between these instruments over the course of the year, gaining basic skills, discovering how each one works, and learning foundational music concepts such as note reading, rhythm, posture, and tone production. This exploration helps students make an informed decision about which instrument best suits their interests and strengths. In 5th grade, students will choose one of the three instruments to continue learning in greater depth. Alternatively, students may choose to join the 5th Grade Vocal Ensemble, where they will explore more advanced repertoire and technique outside of Lower School Chorus. No prior experience is needed–just enthusiasm and a willingness to learn!

MUSICAL AND THEATRICAL PERFORMANCES
Musical performance opportunities are thoughtfully integrated throughout the school year, providing students with numerous chances to showcase their growing skills and share their love of music with the community. All students participate in both the Holiday and Spring Concerts, which serve as important milestones in their musical development and offer families a joyful celebration of their progress. Additionally, students perform grade-specific songs during Arch Day, a beloved school tradition that highlights each class’s unique contributions.

Each grade in Lower School, from Kindergarten through 5th grade, participates in a theatrical production every year. Students rehearse and perform one show annually. Rehearsals take place during the school day over the course of 8–10 weeks, allowing students to gradually build confidence and stage presence. Throughout the rehearsal process, students are introduced to fundamental theater vocabulary and techniques, including spatial awareness, vocal projection, character expression, and effective peer-to-peer collaboration.

Library

In Kindergarten through 5th grade, students use the library as a key part of their learning experience. Regular library visits help students build strong reading habits, discover a wide range of books, and begin to develop important research and information-gathering skills. Library time often includes storytimes, book checkouts, and lessons on how to use library tools and resources responsibly. In addition to school library activities, students also take trips to the local public library. These visits introduce them to community resources, encourage reading beyond the classroom, and allow them to participate in special programs and events. Overall, the library plays a central role in supporting literacy, promoting curiosity, and enhancing learning across all subjects.

Physical Education

The Physical Education program is designed to support each student’s physical, social, and emotional development through a wide range of movement experiences. In the early years, students focus on building foundational skills such as body awareness, balance, coordination, and basic locomotor and manipulative movements. Activities include creative movement, rhythmic exercises, and low-organization games that encourage exploration, cooperation, and confidence. As students grow, they begin to refine these skills and apply them in more structured games and team sports. They learn the rules and strategies of activities such as soccer, basketball, kickball, badminton, and wiffle ball, while continuing to develop strength, flexibility, agility, and cardiovascular endurance. In addition, students in the 4th and 5th grades visit the fitness center throughout the year, working with our athletic trainer to learn about weight training, exercise techniques, and personal goal setting. Throughout the program, students are encouraged to work collaboratively, demonstrate good sportsmanship, and focus on effort and improvement. The overall goal is to help every student build the skills and confidence for a lifetime of physical activity.

Tech, Design, & STEAM

In today’s fast-changing digital landscape, students need not only the right tools but also the mindset to thrive. Throughout Lower School, students are empowered to become creators, innovators, and problem solvers who confidently express their ideas and unlock their creativity. Our approach is rooted in design-thinking principles that foster creativity, communication, collaboration, critical thinking, computational skills, and responsible digital citizenship. Whether through high-tech, low-tech, or even no-tech hands-on projects, Lower School students develop a versatile and resilient skill set that prepares them to navigate and shape the future with confidence.

Discoveries in STEAM

In Kindergarten through 3rd grade, Discoveries in STEAM classes, students participate in an interactive learning environment that integrates Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics. Through hands-on projects and collaborative activities, they create art, build structures, and solve problems, fostering both creativity and critical thinking. Students engage with the design process, asking questions, brainstorming, planning, creating, testing, and improving, which helps them develop problem-solving and thinking skills. Technology tools, such as Chromebooks, enhance their learning experiences and support exploration. These STEAM lessons are intentionally integrated with other subjects, allowing students to make meaningful interdisciplinary connections across the curriculum. This approach encourages curiosity, experimentation, and deeper understanding, preparing young learners with essential skills to succeed in all areas of learning.

Computer Science

The Lower School Computer Science program, for 4th and 5th graders, equips students with essential technology and digital literacy skills, fostering responsible and effective use of technology in both academic and real-world contexts. Students learn online etiquette, cyber safety, and digital citizenship, including how to make thoughtful decisions about sharing information online. Students develop their typing skills using interactive programs that teach correct finger placement and strengthen their abilities through engaging games and challenges. They learn about the basic components of computers, including hardware and software, as well as how to create, store, and organize their work. Throughout this course, students learn to navigate and use various Google Suite apps to support their academic and organizational skills. They use Google Calendar to manage their schedules, create documents in Docs, explore basic data science in Sheets by making charts to visualize patterns and trends, and use Slides to effectively present information.

Foundational coding skills are introduced and expanded through hands-on, creative projects using Code.org’s Sprite Lab. Through block-based coding, students gain a foundational understanding of programming logic and structure while being introduced to the syntax used in text-based coding languages, making it a valuable stepping stone in their development as future computer scientists. Students explore key programming concepts, including variables, loops, functions, user input, data types, conditionals, if-else statements, and control structures. These concepts are brought to life through engaging activities like creating interactive games, virtual pets, and simulations such as disease spread models and AI-powered ocean cleanup tasks. Students also explore real-world applications of technology, including an introduction to artificial intelligence and its role in solving global challenges. Throughout the program, students develop confidence, creativity, and a deeper understanding of how technology can be used thoughtfully and for positive impact.

LEGO® Robotics Club

Students in 4th–8th grade may join the FIRST LEGO League Robotics Club, an exciting opportunity to explore STEAM through hands-on challenges and collaborative learning. The program introduces students to the fundamentals of robotics, coding, engineering, and research as they take part in the annual FIRST LEGO League Challenge. Using LEGO Education SPIKE™ Prime kits, students will work to design, build, and program a robot capable of completing a series of missions. In addition to robotics, students will engage in a themed innovation project, where they research a real-world problem and develop a creative solution. Throughout the season, they will strengthen essential skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and teamwork, all while having fun and working toward a shared goal. The club encourages creativity and persistence, offering a space for students of all experience levels to grow as innovators and collaborators.

Wellness

In the Lower School, wellness is woven into every aspect of learning. Our program nurtures the whole child—socially, emotionally, and academically—by helping students build confidence, independence, empathy, and resilience. Through the Responsive Classroom approach, the Let Grow Experience, and the MindUp curriculum, children develop the tools they need to connect with others, care for themselves, and thrive both in and out of the classroom.

Responsive Classroom

In our Lower School classrooms, we embrace the Responsive Classroom approach, which is a research-based teaching framework that integrates social-emotional learning with academic instruction. This approach focuses on creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment where students develop strong relationships with their peers and teachers. Key practices, such as the daily Morning Meeting, help build a sense of community, promote respectful communication, and set a positive tone for learning. Responsive Classroom encourages student responsibility, cooperation, and problem-solving skills, empowering children to take ownership of their learning and behavior. By combining these social and academic strategies, we support the whole child’s growth and foster a love of learning.

Let Grow Experience

At BWL, we pride ourselves on developing students who are not only skilled readers, writers, mathematicians, and scientists, but also children who are confident, capable, and resilient. By partnering with Let Grow, our Lower School students are given the opportunity to take ownership of their own success. BWL is proud to be an official Let Grow Lighthouse School.

The Let Grow Experience empowers children to develop greater independence, embrace challenges beyond their comfort zones, and build resilience through real-world experiences. Through bi-monthly assignments, students are encouraged to try new and sometimes challenging activities independently, without adult assistance. These tasks can range from everyday responsibilities like “taking out the garbage” to more involved challenges such as “cooking dinner for the family.”

The diverse array of assignment options provides flexibility, allowing students and parents to choose steps that feel meaningful and appropriate for their individual comfort levels and family routines. This approach is rooted in the core belief that “when adults step back, kids step up,” fostering a sense of confidence, responsibility, and problem-solving skills as children navigate the world with increasing autonomy.

MindUp

MindUp is a comprehensive wellness curriculum designed to empower students with essential knowledge and skills related to their mental and emotional well-being. Grounded in the fundamentals of neuroscience, MindUp teaches students how their brains function, helping them understand the biological basis of emotions, attention, and behavior. Through engaging lessons, students learn mindfulness practices that cultivate present-moment awareness, reduce stress, and enhance focus.

In addition to neuroscience and mindfulness, the curriculum encourages students to build a strong foundation for lifelong wellness by fostering empathy, kindness, and positive relationships. It equips young learners with the tools they need to navigate challenges, maintain mental clarity, and make informed choices that contribute to their academic success and overall happiness.

Introduction to World Languages

Introduction to World Languages begins in Kindergarten and continues through 3rd grade, offering students an engaging introduction to both French and Spanish. Each year, students are exposed to both languages, developing foundational listening and speaking skills through age-appropriate and immersive activities. The program emphasizes phonetic awareness, vocabulary building, and cultural appreciation.

Students develop early language skills through songs, chants, audiovisual resources, and interactive games. They are introduced to the alphabet, greetings, colors, and numbers, with a focus on pronunciation and listening comprehension. By 3rd grade, students review and expand on prior knowledge, adding vocabulary such as days of the week, months, and numbers up to thirty. Oral proficiency continues to grow through role-play, thematic games, and engaging activities that strengthen communication skills and foster enthusiasm for world languages and cultures.

Survey of World Languages

In 4th and 5th grade, students participate in a Survey of World Languages course that introduces and builds upon foundational skills in French, Japanese, and Spanish. Over the two-year sequence, students explore each language through thematic units that include greetings, basic conversations, and vocabulary related to numbers, colors, days of the week, months of the year, and seasons. As they progress, students review and deepen their understanding while expanding into more advanced topics such as family members, clothing, and weather. Instruction emphasizes speaking, listening, and writing through a variety of interactive and age-appropriate activities. In addition to language acquisition, students engage in meaningful exploration of the cultures where these languages are spoken, encouraging global awareness and cultural appreciation.

Signature and Co-Curricular Programs

At BWL, learning extends well beyond the traditional classroom. Our signature and co-curricular programs give students unique opportunities to apply their knowledge, explore passions, and connect their studies to the world around them. Whether cultivating sustainability skills in our Hydroponic and Aquaponic Farms or transforming New York City into a living classroom through Lions Roam NY, these experiences deepen understanding, spark curiosity, and build lifelong connections between school and the wider world.

Hydroponic and Aquaponic Farms
Lions Roam NY: Journeys Beyond the Classroom

Hydroponic and Aquaponic Farms

BWL established a cutting-edge hydroponic and aquaponic farm in our Lower School Science Lab, developed in partnership with New York Sun Works. This innovative facility serves as a dynamic educational tool for students in grades K–8, offering hands-on opportunities to study plant development, biodiversity, and sustainable farming practices.

In these living laboratories, students explore how plants can thrive in soil-free, nutrient-rich water systems, and how aquaponics demonstrates the balance between fish and plants in a closed-loop ecosystem. By caring for the systems, students practice observation, problem-solving, and responsibility while gaining a deeper appreciation for environmental stewardship and global food systems.

The vegetables and plants grown by our Lower and Middle School bioengineers are not only part of the science curriculum, but also fuel multi-disciplinary projects. These include operating a student-run farm stand, promoting healthy eating habits, and providing hands-on examples of the plant life cycle that connect classroom learning to real-world applications.

More than a lab project, the farms embody BWL’s commitment to experiential learning and sustainability, inspiring students to think critically, act responsibly, and imagine innovative solutions to the challenges of tomorrow.

Lions Roam NY: Journeys Beyond the Classroom

As part of Lions Roam NY, students embark on a series of monthly excursions throughout New York City, transforming the city itself into a dynamic extension of their classroom. These thoughtfully curated trips connect academic concepts to real-world contexts by engaging students directly with the city’s rich cultural, historical, scientific, and artistic resources.

Over the course of the year, students will explore an array of iconic New York destinations, including the Queens Farm Museum, Central Park, the American Museum of Natural History, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Mathematics, the Central Park Zoo, the Liberty Science Center, Carnegie Hall, the Brooklyn Bridge, and Lincoln Center. Each visit is designed to complement and deepen classroom instruction, fostering interdisciplinary learning. Students also gain firsthand experience engaging with community institutions, interacting with professionals at local firehouses and banks, and sampling authentic cuisine that reflects the city’s diverse cultural heritage. These experiences nurture social-emotional skills, civic awareness, and global perspectives.

By taking learning beyond textbooks and traditional classroom walls, Lions Roam NY cultivates curiosity and a sense of belonging within the vibrant urban environment of New York City. Through these monthly journeys, students don’t just learn about the world—they live it.

Ready to Join the BWL Family?

Click on the button below to learn more about our admissions process.

Apply to bwl