Rigorous Instruction

In the STEAM Lab we use an inquiry based approach to learning. This approach encourages students to become independent thinkers who ask questions and actively search for answers. Students develop their understanding with the guidance of their teachers. Students follow the STEAM Inquiry Process by asking questions, planning, creating, revising and reflecting. In this inquiry-based class, students take responsibility for their learning by making informed decisions and using creative solutions.

The Inquiry Research Lab serves as nucleus for inquiry based interactive learning. This environment will promote the strategic use of library resources including technology for the development around critical thinking about global issues and content understanding.

The Technology Lab serves as a foundation for digital and information literacy. Students are exposed to computer science, coding and interactive online learning. Students also engage in lessons in digital citizenship, internet safety and carbon footprints. Lessons are planned using the Common Core Learning Standards as well as the NYC Scope and Sequence. Students are given the tools to succeed in the future through technology.

Students use software to make 3D models which are brought to life with 3D printers!

Students write programs to control and design robots.

The broadcast studio in P.S. 201 Q helps to build an inclusive atmosphere in the school. Students get firsthand experience using new technologies. The broadcast studio helps to develop speaking and listening skills, interview skills and builds self confidence.

Students participate in hands on projects that solve issues within their communities and the world by following the scope and sequence in science and social studies.

Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) is a commitment for improving the school community and the elements of the school experience that affect student outcomes every day. It is a way to support everyone – especially students with disabilities – to create the kinds of schools where all students are successful. At P.S. 201 Q, we have created the acronym, P.O.W.E.R. as our PBIS framework. This stands for perseverance, optimism, willingness, empathy and respect. These are the attributes we encourage in our students. Read the PBIS P.O.W.E.R. charts to see how these attributes are applied in various settings throughout the school.

Students in grades K-5 participate in shared reading on a daily basis. They follow a  5-phase shared reading process which focuses on a different skill and/or strategy that builds upon the previous day’s thinking. The main goal is to scaffold the reading process, building from literal to inferential comprehension. Read more about the 5-Day Shared Reading Protocol.

Leveled Literacy Intervention is a powerful, short-term intervention, that provides daily, intensive, small-group instruction, which supplements classroom literacy teaching. LLI turns struggling readers into successful readers with engaging leveled books and fast-paced, systematically designed lessons.

All classrooms in P.S. 201Q follow a Balanced Literacy approach. This ensures that our students are consistently participating in:

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• Read Alouds 

• Guided Reading 

• Shared Reading 

• Reading Workshop 

• Writing workshop

• Word study

Thinking Maps are consistent visual patterns linked directly to eight specific thought processes. These patterns help all students reach higher levels of critical and creative thinking – essential components of 21st century education. In a school-wide implementation, Thinking Maps establish a CONSISTENT LANGUAGE FOR LEARNING.