Interdisciplinary lessons
This week Max, Paul, Anne, and Maria are dealing with water as their central topic. They will approach this topic from a variety of angles, which are derived from the contents of the traditional subjects: they will learn a water poem and write a short text about the World Water Day – this is the German language aspect. They will learn about capacity and calculate volumes – the mathematics aspect. A pond will be examined – the biology aspect. A water picture will be painted with water colors – the artistic aspect.
These topics will, on the whole, be taught together in mixed-age groups. For example, the children will conduct an experiment with water in teams and record their observations. The central topic “water” will also be found in the children’s individual work plans, differing in detail according to age group and grade. This holistic approach sharpens the children’s awareness of interconnections between the various subjects.
At the PbG the various subjects such as German, mathematics, natural sciences or art are not taught separately. Instead, lessons focus around particular topics, which are selected according to the children’s needs and abilities. One example of such a topic is “water”. The lesson plans are designed to let children experience and truly comprehend this topic. Consequently, experiments and field trips are important components of the lessons. This method enables children to understand connections between various aspects of the topic much better. Also, the science side of things is introduced at an earlier age than would be possible with the gradual introduction of science subjects at public schools. Finally, the PbG offers choir, orchestra and theater and extracurricular activities.
The PbG is not only about imparting knowledge. Our school teaches children skills and methods for finding, preparing and presenting information, thus developing media literacy, which is so valuable in our time. For example, PCs are used right from the start, and the students can acquire a computer driving license.
The Hessian educational guidelines stipulate what the children should have learned by a certain age, and we at the PbG adhere to these guidelines. But beyond these guidelines, our school has its own curriculum, which also includes topics and subject matter not taught at public schools.