The Rhythm of the Day

Each day begins with the Main Lesson, a two-hour period of concentrated activity focused around a particular subject of the curriculum. Movement, rhythmic activities, speech, singing, and recorder playing precede academic work. Each main lesson subject is taught in a three or four week block of time, with each block having a different focus. In structuring the year, class teachers will order the main lessons so that the subjects unfold in a varied and orderly sequence.

The Main Lesson is followed by an outdoor recess, after which there are two 50-minute classes in subjects such as Spanish, English or math skills, which require regular repetition. After lunch the children devote themselves to fine and practical arts, gardening, handwork, movement, and sports. What is being studied in the main lesson is integrated into the curriculum of these special subjects.