Developing Functional Literacy
We live in an era of rapid technological progress, where an endless stream of information reaches us every day. In this reality, the key skill is not merely memorizing facts but the ability to understand, analyze, and apply any information that comes our way.
That is why the focus of modern education is shifting from accumulating knowledge to developing functional literacy. A functionally literate person confidently navigates the world around them, acts in line with societal values, makes thoughtful decisions, and builds a clear personal and professional path. Such a person is independent, proactive, ready to learn throughout life, and capable of thinking creatively.
Starting from the age of five, our program is designed to nurture these qualities. We provide children with a solid foundation across all areas of functional literacy, ensuring that they gain skills that will remain relevant in the future:
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Reading Literacy — understanding texts and working with information.
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Scientific Literacy — observing, analyzing, and explaining natural phenomena.
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Mathematical Literacy — solving problems and applying numbers in everyday life.
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Digital Literacy — first steps into the digital world.
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Financial Literacy — understanding the value of work, money, and resources.
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Health Literacy — building healthy habits and awareness of well-being.
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Creative Thinking — exploring ideas and finding original solutions.
Thus, functional literacy becomes the core of our educational program from Kindergarten through 3rd Grade, helping children step by step to grow into confident, independent, and capable individuals.
Our Program
Our Upper Elementary program is designed to provide students with a well-rounded and forward-looking education. The curriculum combines strong foundations in mathematics, languages, science, and the humanities with modern disciplines such as computer science and robotics.
We also place great value on the arts, physical education, and experiential learning, helping students grow as confident, curious, and capable individuals. This balanced approach ensures that every child develops functional literacy and critical competencies.
Our program includes the following subjects:
Mathematics
Language Arts (English)
Science
History and Social Studies
Computer Science
Russian Language
Robotics
French Language (Elective)
Fine & Performing Arts
Physical Education
Experiential Learning
Mathematics
Advanced Elementary School Math (starting from K grade):
Our math program goes beyond the standard curriculum and includes topics that are typically studied in higher grades.
For example, by the end of the first year at this level, our students master material corresponding to the middle of 2nd grade (2.5).
Special attention is given to developing logical and analytical thinking, the ability to solve non-standard problems, and applying acquired knowledge in practice.
We actively engage children in math competitions such as Math Kangaroo, which helps them build confidence and learn to use mathematics as a tool for exploring the world.
The example below demonstrates part of our math program (Appendix 1).
Language Arts
Our English Language Arts program is designed to build a strong foundation in communication, literacy, and critical thinking from the earliest stages of learning. The curriculum integrates the key components of language development in a systematic and engaging way:
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Phonics and Early Reading Skills: Students learn to connect letters with sounds, develop decoding strategies, and gain the confidence to read independently. Phonics instruction is reinforced through games, songs, and hands-on activities that make learning enjoyable and effective.
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Spelling and Vocabulary Development: Children expand their word knowledge by practicing age-appropriate spelling patterns, high-frequency words, and vocabulary enrichment activities. These skills support accuracy in both reading and writing, and help our students demonstrate their skills in various competitions, such as Spelling Bee.
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Reading Comprehension: Starting with simple stories and gradually progressing to more complex texts, students learn to understand, interpret, and discuss what they read. They practice identifying main ideas, sequencing events, making predictions, and drawing conclusions, which strengthen both comprehension and critical thinking.
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Writing Skills: From drawing and labeling in kindergarten to crafting full sentences and structured paragraphs by grade 3, students learn to express their ideas clearly in written form, while starting cursive writing from early stages. Instruction covers narrative, informational, and opinion writing, giving children the tools to communicate across genres.
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Grammar and Language Conventions: Students build an understanding of sentence structure, punctuation, capitalization, and parts of speech. These elements are taught in context, helping children apply grammar rules naturally in their own writing.
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Writing using the Benchmark Advance curriculum for English Language Arts
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Grammar lessons are reinforced with Critical Thinking Co.'s Editor in Chief
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Vocabulary and spelling are practiced with Wordly Wise 3000
Science
Discussions and hands-on activities help students develop scientific communication skills — learning to observe, ask questions, think critically, solve problems, and collaborate in groups. Most importantly, students learn to interpret scientific data correctly, conduct practical investigations, explain natural phenomena, and identify existing evidence.
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Scientific Investigation, Reasoning, and Logic
Students learn to observe carefully, collect data, and draw evidence-based conclusions. They develop a systematic approach to problem-solving, building the foundations of logical thinking and sound decision-making. -
Earth and Space Science
By studying weather, natural resources, the solar system, and natural cycles, students explore the interactions of Earth’s systems and humanity’s place in the universe. Special emphasis is placed on how scientific knowledge helps us use resources wisely and care for the environment. -
Life Science
Students study plants, animals, habitats, and ecosystems, gaining an understanding of how living organisms interact and depend on one another. This fosters respect for biodiversity and awareness of the importance of preserving life on Earth. -
Health Science
Topics are closely tied to everyday life: the human body, nutrition, safety, and healthy lifestyle choices. Students develop functional health literacy — understanding how their decisions affect their well-being and learning to apply knowledge to maintain health. -
Physical Science
Students are introduced to matter, energy, motion, and simple machines. They discover how principles of physics and chemistry apply to real life — from construction to everyday technologies.
A student with scientific literacy is able to form well-grounded opinions about phenomena and situations connected to natural processes.
Social Studies
Our Social Studies program helps students understand the world they live in, their role in society, and the importance of making informed, responsible decisions.
Through discussions, projects, and real-world applications, students learn to analyze historical events, recognize cultural diversity, and connect past experiences with present challenges. The goal is to develop functional literacy in history, geography, civics, and economics so that students become active, thoughtful participants in their communities.
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World History
Students explore the major civilizations, historical figures, and global events that have shaped human society. They learn how different cultures developed, interacted, and influenced one another, building a foundation for understanding today’s interconnected world. -
World Geography
By studying maps, environments, and the relationship between people and their surroundings, students gain an appreciation for global diversity. They learn how geography influences culture, economy, and history, and how human activity affects the planet. -
Civics
Students are introduced to the principles of democracy, government structures, and the rights and responsibilities of citizens. They learn why civic participation matters and how communities work together to solve problems and support the common good. -
U.S. History
Students trace the history of the United States from its founding to the present, exploring key events, leaders, and movements. Emphasis is placed on understanding how the nation’s ideals and struggles have shaped its development. -
Virginia Studies
Focusing on the history and geography of Virginia, students explore the state’s role in U.S. history and its unique cultural heritage. They learn about Native American communities, colonial Virginia, the Civil War, and the state’s growth in modern times. -
Modern Economics and Finance
Students are introduced to basic economic principles, including trade, markets, and resources. They also begin to understand personal finance — saving, spending, and decision-making — building financial literacy as part of everyday life skills.
French Language (Elective)
Learning French gives students more than just another means of communication — it sharpens logic, strengthens memory, and trains attention to detail.
Through building vocabulary, practicing grammar, and engaging in conversation, children develop mental discipline and expand their linguistic skills.
At the same time, studying French opens the door to a rich cultural heritage, broadening horizons and fostering appreciation of global diversity.
Computer Science
Our Computer Science program equips students with the essential skills of the digital age — combining creativity, logic, and technology. From the earliest stages of learning, students explore the principles and practices of computer science, gaining confidence in solving real-world problems through computational thinking.
Key components include:
· Problem Solving through Computational Thinking — students learn to break complex challenges into smaller parts and develop logical, step-by-step solutions, applying both the art and science of computing.
· Hands-On Investigation — using mathematical, scientific, and engineering approaches, students engage in hands-on lessons and projects that make computing tangible, practical, and relevant.
· Keyboarding Skills — mastering efficient typing from an early age builds a lifelong tool for communication and productivity.
· Python Programming — students are introduced to programming concepts through Python, a powerful yet beginner-friendly language widely used in real-world applications.
· Modules and Applications — from creating graphics with Turtle to experimenting with multimedia processing, students gain practical experience working with a variety of computational tools.
· AI-Based Programming — artificial intelligence is the future. Learning to effectively collaborate with AI is an essential skill. Students learn to understand complex code, identify and correct errors, and apply AI-generated insights to design and build advanced programs.
Each academic year introduces new challenges and projects aimed at strengthening computer literacy, deepening understanding of computational systems, and fostering innovation through technology.
Robotics
Our unique Robotics course is designed to develop both technical and soft skills essential for future success. Our innovative approach goes beyond the fundamentals of engineering, physics, programming, and problem-solving — fostering creativity, teamwork, and leadership.
Introduction to Physics, Mechanics, and Coding — Using age-appropriate tools and methods, students design and build their own robots, bringing creative ideas to life through working models. Through hands-on projects, they learn key robotics principles while developing problem-solving skills in a dynamic and engaging environment. This process also helps students build leadership abilities and collaboration skills, making learning both meaningful and fun.
Engineering Design and Technology — Students take ownership of their projects, designing robots from the ground up. They explore the entire engineering design process — from brainstorming to implementation — gaining valuable experience in idea generation, prototyping, and presentation. Applying the “fast-fail” method, inspired by industry leaders like Google, encourages students to experiment, learn from mistakes, and improve their designs in real time.
Solving Real-World Problems — Each week, students tackle exciting, real-world challenges that foster critical thinking, teamwork, and innovation. They apply their acquired skills to collaboratively solve these tasks, gaining confidence and the ability to handle increasingly complex problems. By the end of the course, students create their own functioning robots while developing a strong foundation in STEM — preparing them for future success in the world of technology.
Fine & Performance Arts
Our program is designed to nurture creativity, self-expression, and cultural awareness.
• In visual arts, students explore the creative process through drawing, paper construction, sculpture, painting, and crafts, working with a variety of materials and techniques.
• Art history helps children understand the cultural context of artworks, develop critical thinking, imagination, and creative skills. It allows them to see the role of art across different eras, its connection to historical events, and to cultivate a sense of harmony and beauty.
• In performing arts, in partnership with Theater Studio ZERKALO, students explore acting, singing, dancing, and improvisation. Twice a year, most students participate in staged performances, gaining practical experience and confidence.
Through these activities, art education becomes a vital part of personal development, combining creative expression, cultural understanding, and self-assurance.
Physical Education
Physical education helps children discover the joy of movement and an active lifestyle, building habits that will stay with them throughout their lives.
Our program is built on activities that are both useful and enjoyable, helping students develop coordination, stamina, and overall health.
Key components of our PE curriculum include:
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Daily walks and active play — children run, jump, or participate in relays and other dynamic team games, gaining energy and joy through movement.
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Tennis — an introduction to the basics of the game, enhancing coordination, agility, and concentration.
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Karate lessons — offered in partnership with the US Karate Center, these classes foster discipline, self-confidence, self-control, and physical strength.
Through such activities, students not only receive essential physical exercise but also learn teamwork, perseverance, and respect for a healthy lifestyle.
The goal of these lessons is not only physical development, but also nurturing team spirit, initiative, and discipline.
Experiential Learning / Functional Literacy
In today’s educational landscape, we focus on developing functional literacy — the ability to apply knowledge in real-life contexts, use technology effectively, and navigate the digital world with confidence.
Our program moves beyond traditional paper-based projects and posters toward interactive and digital formats, such as multimedia presentations, research mini-projects, programming, and online collaboration.
Students actively use their theater and performance skills in digital presentations, making them expressive, engaging, and creative.
This approach not only strengthens communication and problem-solving abilities but also teaches environmental awareness by reducing paper use and promoting a more sustainable, technology-driven learning environment.