Elementary School
Elementary School is designed for our Grade 0 through 5 students.
It embraces the excitement and wonder of childhood, helping students develop the
fundamental skills, knowledge and attitudes to help them succeed and be happy
as lifelong learners and global citizens in an ever changing world
Developing World Citizens
At ISK, we believe the social-emotional development of our students is just as important as their academic development. The Elementary devotes time every day to Morning Meetings, which is a fun and engaging way to build community within the classroom. These meetings include opportunities for students to share experiences and thoughts with their peers and learn more about what makes them similar and different. We strive to create dynamic world citizens, which is why we focus on the IB Learner Profile in the Elementary, which consists of ten important traits, such as being Caring, Knowledgeable, and Open-minded.
Inquiry-based Learning
- We believe students should learn by doing. For this reason, we aim to provide our students with as many hands-on experiences as possible. Students collaborate to problem-solve in all subject areas, with teacher support to facilitate their learning and bolster their understanding of the concepts explored.
Workshop Model
ISK Elementary teachers use a unique method of teaching to meet all students at their academic readiness level and move them forward. The workshop model, developed at Columbia University, consists of a short 10-15 minute mini-lesson on a given topic applicable to all students regardless of their level followed by sustained, focused work in small groups or individually. Teachers work with students to assess progress and let them know what they are doing well and where to focus their work for improvement.
Frequently Asked Questions
ABOUT ISK’S ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PROGRAM
Do you have questions?
The International School of Krakow is dedicated to the development of world citizens by facilitating meaningful and structured service learning experiences as part of the whole school curriculum. As they progress from early years through elementary, middle and high schools, students develop greater civic responsibility by researching and identifying needs in both the local and world communities, planning and initiating student-centered activities and experiences, and reflecting on their learning. As they build toward the ultimate goal of creating reciprocal and sustainable service learning experiences, students will gain a deeper understanding of, and commitment to, ISK’s mission.
In the Elementary school, we do not have percentage or number grades. We also do not use the traditional A-F grades. Our grades are based on students’ progress toward the given standards in each class and are reported as N (not meeting), A (approaching), M (meeting), or E (exceeding). These are based on formative and summative assessments given within the classroom and are reported twice per year – in the Semester 1 and Semester 2 report cards.
Admission to the IB Diploma Programme in grade 11 is considered on an individual basis for all students. However, it is recommended that students have already earned all 18 credits by the end of grade 10, AND show product grades of 4 for subjects that they are interested in pursuing at SL, and 6 for subjects at HL. Additionally, grade 10 students who are on ILP’s or in EAL are given further guidance according to the following procedures:
- The student’s academic record, ILP / WIDA scores and teacher recommendations are reviewed at a secondary SST meeting.
- The student’s academic record, ILP / WIDA scores and teacher recommendations are reviewed at a secondary SST meeting.
- The student meets with the Learning Support and IB coordinators to discuss grade 11-course plan and accommodations available.
- There is a follow-up meeting to discuss this information with parents.
- Up-to-date psycho-ed assessments may need to be requested in some cases.
- The student then submits his or her final choice sheet, signed by the parents.