MSCS Daily Rhythm

Sample Schedule

 

The Daily Rhythm refers to the schedule of daily activities. The activities are structured in such a way that there is ebb and flow between group and individual activities, independent work periods, and open-ended imaginative play.  Structuring the day to honor the natural rhythm of the child helps the students move through the day easily because if feels right.  As we move through the day, we are mindful of the children’s different needs and moods. Also, we are respectful of the children’s internal rhythms that they create as a group.  Therefore, the times indicated may not always be precise, but provide us with a guideline to facilitate the daily rhythm.

 

 

OWL CLASS (PRESCHOOL)

 

8:45-9:00           Arrival

 

9:00-9:25           Morning Gathering Circle.  This will be a short circle designed to center the children on the day ahead and classroom community.  During this circle we acknowledge the calendar/season, a brief story based on a current topic or one brought up by the children, and may include a group lesson or activity. They will be dismissed from the circle to choose their work.

 

9:30 – 10:40     Independent Work Periods.  During this time, children will be able to choose materials to work with, read books, engage in imaginative play, participate in art activities, etc.  They will also be able to move between both primary classes during the morning work period.  Snack will be available to the children during this time.

 

10:50 – 11:40    Outside time. Children will have access to either playground structures or natural areas. They may participate in imaginary play, or projects/activities that are offered.

 

11:40 – 12:00     Second circle time. Children will have opportunity for sharing. There may be a story or a book read, music, movement, etc.

 

12:15                    Dismissal.

 

 

 

ACORN CLASS (LOWER ELEMENTARY)

 

8:30-8:40            Arrivals

 

8:45-9:15           Morning Circle and Centering.  This circle is designed to acknowledge the start of our day together as a group.  We may recognize the calendar/season; have a group lesson or story based on a current topic or one brought up by the children. 

 

9:15–11:00         Individual and Group Lessons integrated with independent work period where the child can choose from work, materials, and centers that have been introduced.

 

11:10-11:50       Outside Time. Children will have access to either playground structures or natural areas. They may participate in imaginary play, or projects/activities that are offered.

 

12:00-12:20        Recentering Circle.  During this circle, there may be a story told, student sharing, or songs may be shared.  A new yoga or movement exercise may be introduced to bring the circle to a close.  This circle may also be used for class meetings to reflect on consensus based group practices, problem solving, or the facilitation of peaceful conflict resolutions.

12:30-1:00           Lunch

 

1:00–1:30          Literature Circle.  A chapter book will be read aloud, students will be allowed to engage in quiet hand work, such as drawing, knitting while they listen.

 

1:30 – 2:45       Enrichment Classes such as Art, Music and Spanish or another work period.  Depending on the day this will also be additional independent and collaborative work time, lessons, and ecology studies.

 

2:45-3:00              Final Circle.  Closing of the day with reflections and class contributions

 

3:00                        Dismissal.

 

 

MONARCH CLASS (UPPER ELEMENTARY)

 

8:15-8:30           Arrivals

 

8:30-9:00           Morning Circle and Centering – sometimes followed by a group lesson.  To facilitate centering this circle will incorporate one or more of the following: a word, a song of greeting, movement, or breathing exercise.

 

9:00–11:30         Individual and Group Lessons integrated with independent work period where the child can chose from work, materials, and centers that have been introduced.

 

11:30-12:15        Outside time. Children will have access to either playground structures or natural areas. They may participate in cooperative games, imaginary play, or projects/activities that are offered. 

 

12:30-1:00           Lunch

 

1:00–1:30           Literature Circle. A chapter book will be read aloud, students will be allowed to engage in quiet hand work, such as drawing, knitting while they listen.

 

1:30 – 2:45        Enrichment Classes including Art, Music and Spanish OR another work period at least 2 days per week.  Depending on the day this will be additional independent and collaborative work time, lessons, and ecology studies.

 

2:45-3:00            Final Circle.  Closing of the Day and Contributions

 

3:00                     Dismissal.