Academics

Elementary School

Elementary School (Kindergarten – Grade 4)

Excitement buzzes throughout our Elementary School. At GISC, we foster curiosity and encourage our students to explore and research the answers to their own questions. Our classrooms are student-centered. Teachers give students opportunities to lead learning activities, participate more actively in discussions, design their own learning projects, explore topics that interest them, and generally contribute to the design of their own course of study. We promote student agency, whereby our students joyfully become the architects of their own learning, and our teachers become guides to help students stay on track. The students’ voices, their experiences, their cultural and linguistic backgrounds, and their passions are valued and contribute to a rich and exciting learning atmosphere.

Highlights of our Elementary School

  • The Majority of Subjects Are Taught in German
  • Our Curriculum Is Based on German and U.S. Common Core Standards with the International Baccalaureate (IB) as a Framework
  • Inquiry- and Concept-Based Learning through the Primary Years Programme (PYP)
  • Student-Centered Approach
  • Differentiation
  • Individual Learning Time (ILT)
  • STEAM Workshops
  • Become Bilingual Program (BBP) (Students with Little German or English Language Knowledge Receive Extra Support)
  • Math Enrichment Program
  • Meaningful Incorporation of Technology Into Instruction

Classroom Showcase: STEAM

At GISC, our special emphasis is on the STEAM subjects. Through focusing on these, students develop an early interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, and Math. Our students’ creativity and artistic minds are enriched through early education in Music and Art, as well as the Performing Arts. Students’ achievements are showcased throughout the school year in events such as our Annual Winter Performance and Spring Concert & Art Showcase. To further promote intrinsic motivation and the STEAM subjects, students in K-4 are able to choose from a variety of STEAM electives once a week as part of the curriculum.



1726 W Berteau Ave, Chicago, IL 60613 | +1-773-857-3000 | info [at] germanschoolchicago.com
The German International School Chicago (GISC) is an IB World School authorized for the PYP that prepares students to become well-rounded, creative, and responsible global citizens. Located in Chicago's Ravenswood neighborhood, GISC provides students with a German-English bilingual education in a supportive and individualized learning environment. GISC graduates are prepared academically and socially to succeed in an increasingly global world. Now enrolling Preschool to Grade 9.

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