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Principal's Message

Empowering Leaders: Small Group Instruction

Hello Families,

As we move into this month, we continue our schoolwide theme of Empowering Future Leaders—a focus that shapes how we teach, how students learn, and how we partner with families.

In November, we shared how students were being encouraged to take greater ownership of their learning by thinking aloud, collaborating with peers, and engaging in meaningful discussion. That work laid an important foundation. When students are given opportunities to explain their thinking, listen to others, and reflect, they begin to develop the skills needed to lead their own learning.

This month, we are building on that foundation through our instructional focus on Small Group Instruction.

How Small Group Instruction Supports IB PYP Learning

Across our school, teachers use small group instruction to meet students where they are and help them grow with intention. Small groups allow teachers to provide targeted support while students practice essential IB PYP Approaches to Learning (ATL) skills, including:

Communication Skills – sharing ideas, asking questions, and listening actively
Thinking Skills – problem-solving, analyzing information, and applying strategies
Social Skills – collaborating respectfully and valuing different perspectives
Self-Management Skills – staying focused, managing time and materials, and reflecting on learning

These experiences empower students to build confidence, independence, and leadership skills—both academically and socially.

What This Looks Like in Early Years -

Grades K-Grade 1

In our Early Years classrooms, small group learning supports foundational skills in reading, math, inquiry, and social development. Teachers work closely with small groups of children in a nurturing environment that encourages curiosity and confidence.

Through small group learning, students develop key ATL skills such as:

Communicating ideas through words, drawings, and play
Practicing turn-taking and cooperation
Following routines and staying engaged in learning

Small groups give our youngest learners the support they need to grow while encouraging independence and a love of learning.

What This Looks Like in Early Years -

Grades 2-5

In the upper grades, small group instruction supports deeper thinking, collaboration, and student ownership. Teachers use small groups to reinforce skills, extend learning, and challenge students to apply strategies independently.

Students strengthen ATL skills by:

Explaining and justifying their thinking
Collaborating with peers to solve problems
Setting goals and reflecting on progress
Persevering through challenges

Small groups empower students to take responsibility for their learning and develop the skills needed to lead with confidence.

How Families Can Support at Home

(Lower Grades)

Ask your child to tell or show you what they learned through drawings or play
Encourage them to talk through their thinking during everyday activities
Play games that build turn-taking and listening skills

Celebrate effort, curiosity, and kindness

How Families Can Support at Home

(Upper Grades):

Ask your child to explain their reasoning, not just their answer
Encourage reflection with questions like, “What strategy worked best for you?”
Support goal-setting and perseverance
Create opportunities for discussion and collaboration at home

A Shared Commitment

Across all grade levels, small group instruction helps students grow as thinkers, communicators, and collaborators. When schools and families work together, we strengthen the skills students need to succeed as learners—and as future leaders.

Thank you for your continued partnership and support. We are proud of the growth we see each day and excited to continue this journey together.

Principal McAfee

School Calendar: January

January Breakfast & Lunch Menu

What is an IB PYP Assessment Policy?

Our Assessment Policy guides how we assess, support, and communicate student learning in the IB PYP. You can read the OWNCS Assessment Policy by clicking here.

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