Instructional Core

The core curriculum of PS11 mirrors the New York State Education Department frame­work, which includes a well planned out and enriched instructional program aligned with the Common Core Learning Standards. Our curricu­lum incorporates a hands-on, discovery approach to learning. Creative problem solving, divergent thinking, research, independent study and self-evaluation are all enforced in each classroom. Curriculum orientations begin in late September. During the orientation, your child’s teachers will introduce themselves and share the year’s activities with you. This is not a Parent-Teacher conference and you will not be given private time to talk with the teacher about your child. You will, however, have an opportunity to ask general questions about the curriculum.

Math

The Math curriculum is implemented during a 60 - 75 minute math block for grades K through 5. Instruction stresses conceptual understanding of key ideas in mathematics along with the eight standards for mathematical practice we seek to develop in our mathematicians.

Science

Science instruction takes place in science labs using the FOSS (Full Option Science System) hands-on approach. Labs are filled with live animals the students observe and care for. Students participate in an annual Science Fair, Trout-in-the-Classroom and award winning robotics programs.

Social Studies

The Social Studies curriculum at PS11 is based on the New York State Education Department’s core curriculum that focuses on the history of New York State and the United States, geography of planet earth, world history and social issues facing today's youth and society.

Literacy

English Language Arts (ELA) instruction implements a Balanced Literacy approach which consists of: the interactive read aloud, independent, shared and guided reading; literacy centers, literature circles, genre studies, author studies; word work and the writing workshop; all focusing on building and strengthening the strategies, skills and habits proficient readers and writers use to make meaning of text and express ideas in a variety of ways.

Arts

PS11’s Arts programs offer in school instrumental music, band, violin, drum line, chorus and visual arts. All teachers follow the Blueprint Curriculum for Teaching and Learning in the Arts. Additionally, partnerships with Mark Morris Dance Group, the New York Philharmonic and Arts Horizons among other programs have been forged.