Philosophy | Pre-Primary | Grade One
Grade Two | Grade Three | Grade Four

Philosophy

Through geography and history, students explore the diversity of their school, community, city, country, and world, and develop an understanding of the complexity of the environment in which they live. Discussions and activities are designed to foster a capacity for thoughtful and intelligent communication. The curriculum engages boys in challenging discussions and activities designed to foster a capacity for responsible leadership and independent thinking, and it is structured to emphasize concern and respect for each individual. While exploring the cultural diversity of the school and the world, students also learn to appreciate and protect our human and natural resources and to interpret a variety of maps. Community service activities, undertaken when appropriate, encourage students to be responsible and caring citizens.

Pre-Primary

To help the boys to become independent, self-reliant, and sensitive to the needs of others, the year begins by exploring the Browning community and the ways in which individuals function as part of that community. This exploration of the individual, called “All About You,” is then expanded to include the world community by studying the many cultures found in the student population and by exploring the cultures of people from other parts of the world. Family traditions, history, art, and literature from countries around the globe are discussed. Guest speakers, walking tours, and field trips help the boys form an understanding of their position in the community and a respect for communities other than their own. Historical events and famous people who have helped shape the world are discussed.

Grade One

Boys begin an in-depth exploration of their environment by studying themselves and their families. Throughout their investigations, boys are exposed to the idea of accepting differences in themselves and others. They practice solving their own disputes using conflict resolution and compromise as they learn to get along in a group setting. A unit entitled “The Family” explores the many roles people play within a family. Next, the boys move on to study Browning in a unit titled “The Browning School.” Emphasis is placed on investigating the history and traditons of the school. The boys develop questions and interview Browning staff on a quest to learn more about their surroundings. Another unit on “The Neighborhood” explores the idea of community and recognizes the usefulness and importance of people with whom the students may come into contact every day. These activities become an important part of the overall understanding of the many cultural differences students will experience throughout their lives. In conjunction with these studies, geography and beginning map skills are introduced. Discussions of major holidays, historical figures, heroes, and current events, supported by field trips, invite the boys to become responsible citizens of the world.

Grade Two

Students study the geographical features of the earth. They study explorers ]]>