Specials
Art
Art at Princeton Junior School is a balance between exploration and direct instruction, creating student centered learning. The curriculum uses art objects and inquiry-based discussions to advance students’ prior knowledge. From Reggio through Sixth grades artists are exposed to a wide range of materials and artistic styles so they are able to discover what excites them as an individual, and instill an enthusiasm and love of Art.
A love for art is fostered from Reggio through Sixth Grade with each student encouraged to explore and take risks. All artists are encouraged to express themselves through active art making which helps them acquire skills in sensory observation. All artists are introduced to the Elements of Art (Color, Texture, Line, Form, Space, Shape, and Value) which are the foundation for all skill building. Students start keeping a sketchbook at the start of the year to fill with “daily doodles”(sketches) and ideas.
Art at Princeton Junior School is rooted in the creative cycle: planning, creating, and evaluating art. Students gain confidence and ability through immersion with different materials. They are encouraged to explore their individual creative abilities and master techniques appropriate to their chosen area of expression. Curriculum is designed to help students become developing artists with an observational eye, an inquiring mind, and an individual approach.
Music Students at Princeton Junior School are active in learning the fundamentals of music while playing instruments in a creative and collaborative environment. Musicianship, notation, harmony, rhythm, and history are studied while exploring contrasting styles of music from around the world. Classes perform at various school gatherings and concerts throughout the year.
Kindergarten through 2nd grade inquirers play drums, hand percussion, pitched percussion, xylophones, glockenspiels, and marimbas. 3rd and 4th graders rehearse and perform together on the soprano recorder, ukulele, piano, and other instruments. The 5th and 6th grade band studies jazz, pop, and traditional arrangements, and includes all levels of musicians who play piano, strings, wind, and percussion instruments. 5th and 6th grade students also collaborate on musical compositions using digital recording platforms.
Learning Through LandscapesOur Learning Through Landscapes (LTL) program is a unique, experiential approach that empowers our students to explore and connect with the natural world through a "place based" educational model. By integrating the six transdisciplinary themes of the IB PYP into our curriculum, LTL not only deepens students' understanding of sustainability and environmental stewardship but also enhances their skills in inquiry, observation, and self-management.
Through collaboration with our dedicated classroom teachers and specialists, LTL extends learning across disciplines, encouraging students to contribute to community sustainability. This involves nurturing a sense of wonder and compassion for nature, engaging in environmental projects, and connecting with experts to make a lasting impact.
We invite our students to embrace this journey of exploration and discovery, developing empathy and a deeper knowledge of the interconnected world we share.
Windows to the World
We are thrilled to invite you to explore our "Windows to the World" library collection at PJS. This unique compilation of multicultural children's literature offers our students a chance to understand what it means to be internationally minded. The books serve as both windows and mirrors—providing perspectives on diverse world cultures while reflecting their own experiences.
This collection aligns seamlessly with the IB Learner Profile, promoting deep understanding and appreciation of various cultures, genres, and languages. It's more than just reading; it's an invitation to our students to think globally and act locally, inspiring action towards creating a more just and understanding world.
We encourage everyone to dive into these stories, explore different realms, and discover the richness of being part of a global community.
SpanishAt PJS we embrace the diversity of languages, cultures and perspectives that our students and their families bring to our learning community, and we believe that exposing students to Spanish and in a positive and supportive learning environment will provide a foundation that will lead to lifelong language learning.
In language classes, the focus is on communication as opposed to how to say or write something in isolation without a meaningful context. By connecting language classes to the school’s program of inquiry when possible and communicating through real life situations that require collaboration with others, language instruction becomes more meaningful and more integrated into the school day. Students not only learn the language, but also content and culture.
Physical Education
Personal, Social, and Physical Education (PSPE)Physical Education at Princeton Junior School emphasizes the benefits and joy of being physically active, the development of age appropriate movement skills as well as sportsmanlike conduct. The children learn to approach a variety of cooperative games and skill building exercises with energy, resilience and mutual respect. Coaches work with the students to blend their varying styles and abilities into a cohesive group with common goals.
