Percentage of teaching in French and English:

• In 2nd-3rd grade: 50% / 50%
• In 4th grade: 70% French / 30% English
• In 5th grade: 50% /50%

In German, the pupils discover a new language, beginning their studies in the 5th grade. The children's previous experience in English facilitates their learning and enables them to make links between the two languages.

The objectives at the end of the 8th grade are those of the Romand Program of Study. They must acquire and develop the skills, which enable them to understand short texts, simple stories, game rules, letters and forms. They must have a certain vocabulary and be able to identify certain language characteristics and patterns. They must be able to react to a given situation by expressing themselves in clear sentences.

At the end of their education at La Découverte, the children take the Genevan Cantonal exam in German. Our German teachers are all native speakers.

At La Découverte, we prioritise learning to read through context and meaning. Children's picture books are the main resource for the pupil's discovery and exploration of the written word. We do, however, use other types of written texts, non-fiction explanation texts, recipes, game rules and the pupil's own written work. Exposure to 'real-life' writing allows the reader to become aware of the complex and diverse world, which opens up to them as they learn to read..

During Cycle II, our learning objectives are worked on through immersion in both languages, according to the curriculum at La Découverte.

Reading (pdf)

Maths (pdf)

The attainment of all English objectives is not necessary in order to progress to Cycle II.

Artistic, cultural and environmental education:

• School, a place of culture for young people
• Culture, the source of knowledge and learning

Parent meetings with pupil and teacher in November and May

More information can be found in Evaluation

• Internal tests in French and in English
• Parent meeting at the end of the 5th grade followed by a written report.

From the age of six, all the children are given an initiation into information technology tools, for one afternoon a fortnight per fifteen pupils, in groups of 4 to 6.

Gradually, they learn to use a computer and to manage their digital folders in an autonomous way. They discover useful programs for the presentation of their class work and learn to use the Internet in an intelligent way, teaching them to research topics in complete security.

Information technology is integrated into the class work and may be a time to complete research project during a themed lesson, or to shape and record work intended to be read by a third party. Little by little, the children take on board the management of their own digital portfolio, which is available for families to view.

The Class Teachers and Information Technology Teachers work collaboratively so that the technology objectives are integrated into the program of study.

At La Découverte, it is considered essential to introduce, gradually, the practice of philosophy with the children as a way of building coherent arguments, nourishing critical reflexion and constructing thought processes.

As philosophy is key for developing critical thought, creative though, self-confidence and social skills, there has been growing interest in the practice of philosophy with children because of its contribution to the development of autonomous, free, responsible individuals.