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ABOUT MEEI

Mariam Bawardi Elementary School has 145 students enrolled from Grades 1 through 4 and has a long waiting list. The official curriculum of the Ministry of Education in Israel is the basis of all programs. The Elementary School strategically builds upon the experience of the Kindergarten program. This year a model research project, "The Field is our Text Book", was implemented. Following the unfolding of the four seasons, students were encouraged to identify various phenomena in the natural environment. In small groups students then used library research skills to add to their observations and to discover information about their specific questions. Building respect for and engagement with the natural environment are major objectives in this action research initiative.

Practical application of knowledge and skills development, and integration of learning experiences in students' daily lives is a key aim across the curriculum. Mathematics is a special focus for the implementation of programs and activities developed in workshops in the Mar Elias Regional Teachers' Center. Another unique focus is the integration of cultural aspects through the Arabic language program. Students are developing writing and comprehension skills as well as enjoying creative story writing, songs and poetry which enhance their understanding of their heritage. A love of and respect for the diversity of language is fostered as students also learn the official national language, Hebrew.

© 2002 by Mar Elias Educational Institutions