What are Forms?
Lorien Wood utilizes a form system in the structuring of our grades.
Each form consists of two classes. These small, mixed-age classes give teachers greater flexibility to nurture children at different ability levels and allow students to progress at their own pace in particular skills. Math and Phonics programs are taught at grade-specific levels.
The Benefits of the Form System
Classroom Diversity
The form system provides students with greater classroom diversity throughout the course of their educational experience at Lorien Wood. Students benefit both from our small class sizes (approximately 16 students), while enjoying the variety of a slightly different composition of students in their class from year to year.
Sense of Community
The form system also enhances a sense of community amongst the students. From the oldest middle school students down to the kindergartners, all the children have many opportunities to interact with and get to know one another. The form system facilitates the development of character in each student, as older children find themselves in mentoring and leadership roles with those who are younger, while the newcomers to the class each year gain practice in following their older peers while adjusting to a new setting. The form system creates the possibility for a "fresh start" socially for every child.
Curricular Themes
In Lorien Wood’s integral curriculum, each Form uses a theme for the year to tie together a series of units that are approximately six weeks in length.
Form themes alternate each year, so the same theme does not repeat between one year and the next. During the two years, a student is in that form, he/she is able to complete the curricular two-year theme.
Foreign Language Curriculum
The following are components of our foreign language program at Lorien Wood:
Reading and Writing: Each language strives to grow strong reading and writing skills (even in ASL where we learn to write in ASL gloss!).
Listening and Speaking: We emphasize oral communication skills through listening and speaking activities. This includes discussions, presentations, and language labs to improve pronunciation and conversational fluency.
Grammar and Vocabulary: A solid understanding of grammar rules and a rich vocabulary are essential for effective language acquisition.
Cultural Competence: Language learning is not just about mastering grammar and vocabulary; it also involves understanding the culture associated with the language. We include cultural studies, exposing students to literature, customs, and traditions.
Interdisciplinary Approach: We foster a cross-disciplinary approach. For example, students also learn about history, science, and/or literature in their language studies.
Assessment and Feedback: Regular assessments, feedback, and evaluations are crucial. They help track students' progress and identify areas for improvement.
Real-world Applications: Language learning is often more effective when students can apply their skills in real-world situations. Our approach includes projects, simulations, or activities that mimic authentic language-use scenarios.
Differentiation: Recognizing that students have varying learning styles and paces, we differentiate instruction to cater to individual needs. This ensures that each student can progress at their own pace.