Instructional Methods
If you visit a class at Carolina International School, you will see our teachers use a variety of instructional methods to meet the needs our students. Teaching techniques will vary according to the learning objectives, student characteristics and aptitudes, and many other factors. We want learning to be challenging, engaging, and experiential.
By alternating instructional approaches, teachers can reach students with different learning styles and different strengths of intelligence. As learning styles experts say, “If they don’t learn the way we teach, we should teach the way they learn.” The Individual Learning Plans will help us identify student learning characteristics.
Instructional methods will include: direct instruction to the full class, small group instruction, cooperative group work, individual conferencing, research and laboratory projects and reports, community service projects, and more. Our teachers will also design interdisciplinary units that help students make connections between the subjects and provide opportunities for creativity.
Inquiry-Based Instruction
Inquiry-based instruction means teaching by asking, rather than teaching by telling. Teachers base their lessons on the NC Standard Course of Study, but seek ways to teach that engage students’ natural curiosity and joy of learning. Questions, stories, riddles, a paradox—lessons begin with a connection to students’ own interests. With their attention engaged, students develop multi-disciplinary projects that require subject area knowledge, problem-solving, and creativity—assets essential to the 21st century world of work.
Project Fairs and Exhibitions
At least twice a year CIS will host a project fairs in which students display products of their work for public review. All students will participate. An interdisciplinary array of student exhibits will be displayed and the entire school community will be invited to attend—family, friends, community leaders, and special guests. Student performances will also be featured.
