Building on the foundational skills developed in our Early Childhood program, the Elementary division at St. Mark’s Day School (Grades 1-5) fosters intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and a love of learning. Our curriculum is designed to challenge students academically while supporting their social, emotional, and spiritual growth.

Lower Elementary (Grades 1-2)

In the early elementary years, students transition from learning-to-read to reading-to-learn, applying foundational skills to more complex concepts.

• English Language Arts: Focus shifts to reading fluency, comprehension, and analysis of various texts. Students learn to write narrative, informational, and opinion pieces, with an emphasis on grammar, spelling, and the writing process (drafting, revising, editing).
• Mathematics: Students build number sense with addition and subtraction of multi-digit numbers, place value, and an introduction to multiplication and division. They explore geometry, measurement, and data analysis through hands-on activities.
• Science: Inquiry-based learning drives the curriculum. Students explore topics in life science (plants, animals, and ecosystems), physical science (properties of matter), and Earth science (weather patterns).
• Social Studies: Students learn about their local community, explore different cultures, and are introduced to basic concepts of geography, history, and civics, understanding their role as citizens.

Upper Elementary (Grades 3-5)

In the upper elementary grades, students develop greater independence and take on more complex academic challenges, preparing them for Middle School.

• English Language Arts: Students engage with more complex literary and informational texts, analyzing themes, character development, and author’s purpose. Writing becomes more sophisticated, with multi-paragraph essays, research reports, and creative writing projects.
• Mathematics: The curriculum deepens to include multi-digit multiplication and division, fractions, decimals, and algebraic thinking. Problem-solving and logical reasoning are emphasized across all topics.
• Science: Students conduct experiments and use the scientific method to explore more advanced topics, including the solar system, energy, forces and motion, and the human body. A yearly science fair encourages independent research and presentation skills.
• Social Studies: The focus expands to New York State history, American history, and ancient civilizations. Students develop research skills, learn to analyze primary sources, and understand historical events from multiple perspectives.

Special Subjects

In addition to our core academic subjects, all elementary students participate in a variety of enrichment classes designed to nurture their creativity, global awareness, and character.

• Religious Studies: Students explore stories from the Old and New Testaments, learning about faith, values, and ethics in a supportive environment. The curriculum emphasizes kindness, compassion, and service to others.
• Foreign Language: An early introduction to world languages, such as Spanish, builds a foundation for future fluency. Lessons focus on conversational basics, vocabulary, and cultural understanding through songs, games, and interactive activities.
• Music: Our music program introduces students to rhythm, melody, and harmony. Students learn to sing, play instruments, and appreciate a wide range of musical genres, culminating in school-wide performances.
• Arts: In our art studio, students unleash their creativity using a variety of media, including painting, drawing, sculpture, and collage. They learn about art history, technique, and the principles of design.