IH Academics

Language Arts

Students in Grades 4 through 6 receive language arts instruction every day, for more than six hours per week. The emphasis is on building and deepening literacy skills including reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Language instruction includes grammar, word study and vocabulary. The program is designed to provide an interactive reading experience so that students read for meaning, from both fiction and non-fiction texts. Students use the writing process to create well-organized, detailed essays with evidence of careful selection of words and sentence structure. Additionally, students improve listening and speaking skills by engaging in meaningful dialogue and taking in and presenting information.

Mathematics

The focus of Intermediate House mathematics is for students to demonstrate their mastery of skills and apply them accurately when solving a variety of problems. Students learn to manipulate spreadsheets, create graphs, and complete hands-on projects which broaden their understanding of mathematical concepts. All students are taught in small groups. An important goal is that students learn to solve problems cooperatively, and recognize and employ a range of problem-solving strategies. In Grades 4 through 6, the mathematics curriculum is one grade level ahead of that taught in the public school. In Grade 6, further acceleration is provided for students as appropriate.

History

In the Intermediate House history program, students are taught to recognize, understand, and appreciate the differences and similarities between themselves and others in a respectful way. The program fosters this awareness by enabling students to discover more about their own histories and then enlarge their circle of reference to incorporate that of their classmates, their country, and the world. In Grade 4, the history curriculum is linked to the language arts curriculum; literature read typically depicts cultures, events or struggles being studied in history class. In Grades 4 through 6, students experience history through interactive projects such as the Civil War Wax Museum in Grade 4, Roman Day in Grade 5 and the Medieval Fair in Grade 6.

Science

The objective of the Intermediate House science program is to extend students' knowledge of concepts in the life, physical and earth sciences. Students use the scientific method and various experiments to solidify their understanding of science principles. Through the use of experiential learning, students become familiar with common tools and equipment used in the sciences as well as laboratory safety. In addition, students begin to develop an understanding of how to express scientific ideas and procedures in writing. A multi-sensory approach is employed; teachers use demonstrations, visual aids, field trips and many hands-on activities.

Intermediate House students also receive instruction in fine arts, performing arts (music and drama), physical education, foreign language, library, values and community service. Please click on any of these subjects for further information.