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When you were young, did you ever disregard your parents’ advice on a particular issue only to have a profound personal revelation (that was surprisingly consistent with your parents’ counsel) when you experienced the same issue for yourself? Did you ever wonder why your children seem destined to repeat this same pattern? |
There is a Chinese proverb that speaks directly to this point: “What comes in through the gate is not family treasure.” Stated differently, being told something by someone else simply does not resonate with the same power as arriving at the same conclusion on your own. |
| This principle applies to education, too. If you want to help students understand something deeply, you can’t just tell them what you think they need to know. Ideally, you need to help them figure it out for themselves. To be sure, there is an important place for explicit instruction. However, as much as possible, we need to embed explicit instruction within activities students recognize as purposeful and interesting and that involve the students taking control of their own learning, thinking, and problem solving.
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| One such model is an inquiry-based approach to learning. The essence of an inquiry-based approach is getting students to ask questions that direct their explorations of content. However, asking questions is just the beginning. In an inquiry-based approach, questions lead to:
• the consideration of how best to approach those questions
• the confrontation of obstacles
• the reformulation of plans
• the collection and analysis of data
• the summarization of findings
• the communication of conclusions, and
• the emergence of new questions that initiate the whole process again.
www.BenchmarkSchool.org
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| At Benchmark, we follow an inquiry-based approach to learning throughout the curriculum. Teachers provide descriptions, texts, visuals, and/or scaffolding that prompt the students to ask questions. The students predict the answers to those questions based on what they know. They then explore the answers to those questions.
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While inquiry generates enthusiasm, engagement, and deep understanding in the classroom, the approach’s greatest benefit is in how it prepares students for the future. To be successful in the 21st century, our children will need to be adept at seeing beyond what is currently known and be flexible and creative thinkers. It is about innovation and resilience, and that starts by critically evaluating what is known, asking what is possible, and persisting through many iterations until an answer or solution is found. That type of thinking is nurtured by getting in the habit of asking and answering questions while reflecting on multiple perspectives and collaborating and communicating with others. All of these qualities, skills, and practices are facilitated within an inquiry-based approach to learning at Benchmark School.
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| "The program was amazing! Our son's progress has improved dramatically; his confidence is through the roof. The teachers and counselors did an amazing job. Thank you!" - N.D.
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| Five-Week Program:
July 5-August 5
Benchmark’s five-week summer camp is designed for children entering grades 1-6 who can benefit from reading and writing instruction beyond the regular school year and would enjoy the fun of a recreational day-camp experience. The program combines Benchmark's nationally-recognized language arts program with a variety of activities including science discovery, sports, swimming, art, a 35-event Confidence Course, and a 40-foot high Zip Wire.
Choose from 3 Programs:
• Full-Day Language Arts and Recreation (8:15 AM to 4:00 PM)
• Half-Day Language Arts and Recreation (8:15 AM to 12:15 PM)
• Language Arts Only (8:15 AM to 10:00 AM or 10:30 AM to 12:15 PM)
After-Camp Care is available until 5:45 PM.
Summer Math Tutoring:
Tutoring by Benchmark Math Specialists is available for students in grades 1-9. To arrange for a math tutor, please call 610-565-3741.
For more information, or to register, click here.
Benchmark Summer Camp Online Info
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The Benchmark School Center for Empowered Learning presents
Kristie J. Newton, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Mathematics Education, Teaching & Learning at Temple University
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| Tuesday, April 5 at 7:00 PM
Benchmark School
Dr. Newton will discuss the latest thinking about the links between motivation, learning, and instruction in mathematics and the characteristics of high-quality mathematics instruction. To register for this FREE community event, click here.
The Benchmark School Center for Empowered Learning is dedicated to serving as a vibrant hub for discussions of innovative ideas and research-based practices that inspire, support, and empower success in school and life. The Center addresses this mission by providing presentations, forums, workshops, and resources by thought-leaders in education, technology, counseling, and creativity.
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| March 3, April 7, and May 12, 9:00-11:00 AM
Join us at an Open House to learn more about how Benchmark practices an inquiry-based approach to learning for children who learn differently. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to meet faculty, parents, students and alumni, ask questions, and get a tour of our campus. Register here or contact Linda Lattif, Director of Enrollment Management, at 610-565-3741.
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• A comprehensive academic program tailored to the way each student learns best, fostering a mastery of executive functions processes and 21st-century skills.
• The unparalleled expertise of gifted faculty who have a passion for their profession and individual student success.
• A dynamic continuum of communication and care with a collaborative team of teacher-mentors and a professional counseling staff who work with parents to develop the whole child.
• Bridges to Academic Success: Benchmark’s educational model is designed to facilitate the successful transition to a traditional high school environment, providing an intentional 1st through 8th grade experience.
• Our 46 years of proven student achievement is evidenced by the successes of our thousands of alumni, virtually all of whom have gone on to higher education, many attending our nation’s top colleges, universities, and graduate schools.
Benchmark School
2107 N. Providence Road, Media, PA 19063
BenchmarkSchool.org
610-565-3741
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