Learning / Curriculum

Weekly Number of Class Periods by Subject and Grade at KCI:

Standard number of instructional periods per grade (based on the Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology guidelines; calculated assuming 35 instructional weeks per year)
・Grade 1: 850 hours — approximately 24.3 periods per week
・Grade 2: 910 hours — approximately 26.0 periods per week
・Grade 3: 980 hours — approximately 28.0 periods per week
・Grade 4: 1,015 hours — approximately 29.0 periods per week
・Grade 5: 1,015 hours — approximately 29.0 periods per week
・Grade 6: 1,015 hours — approximately 29.0 periods per week

Sample Schedule for Grade 3

• English Language Arts

  Educational Standards: Common Core State Standards (United States)

  By combining high-quality textbooks, children’s literature, and reliable online resources, we develop students’ reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills in a balanced and integrated way. Rather than relying on a single textbook series, we carefully select the materials best suited to each learning goal, creating an environment where children can enjoy both reading and learning.

• Mathematics

  Educational Standards: Common Core State Standards (United States)
  Curriculum: Singapore Math Dimensions

  Singapore Math is a world-renowned mathematics curriculum recognized for its outstanding results. It emphasizes the development of logical reasoning and problem-solving skills by ensuring that students build a deep understanding of mathematical concepts before progressing to more abstract thinking. Combined with the Common Core State Standards, this approach equips students with strong mathematical reasoning skills that they can confidently apply in real-world situations.

• Science

  Educational Standards: Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)
  Curriculum: FOSS (Full Option Science System)

  FOSS is a world-renowned elementary science curriculum developed by the Lawrence Hall of Science at the University of California, Berkeley. Through hands-on experiments, observation, data collection, engineering activities, and collaborative learning, students develop scientific thinking and inquiry skills. Rather than simply reading about science in a textbook, children learn to ask questions, investigate, think critically, and make discoveries for themselves, fostering lifelong curiosity and enthusiasm for science.

• Social Studies

  Educational Standards: AERO Standards (American Education Reaches Out)

  Students study geography, history, civics, economics, and world cultures using a variety of learning resources aligned with the AERO Standards. Through this learning, they develop logical thinking skills and a global perspective as responsible world citizens while gaining an understanding of diverse values, cultures, and viewpoints.

• Japanese Language Arts

  Educational Standards: Japanese National Curriculum Standards
  Curriculum: Tokyo Shoseki and Kodomo no Nihongo materials

  Our Japanese Language Arts program is based on Japan’s national curriculum standards and is enriched with carefully selected supplementary resources. The program develops students’ reading, writing, vocabulary, grammar, comprehension, and communication skills in a balanced way.

  We also use specialized materials designed for international students and graduates of international school kindergartens, allowing instruction to be tailored to each child’s level of Japanese proficiency. In addition to developing strong reading and writing skills, we help students build the comprehension, critical-thinking, and expressive abilities essential for success in Japanese Language Arts.

• Bible

  Curriculum: Positive Action Bible Curriculum / The Biggest Story Curriculum

  Biblical teaching is woven throughout school life at KCI. Through Bible study, Scripture memorization, discussion, and practical application in daily life, students deepen their understanding of God, develop Christlike character, and learn to live out biblical values each day.

• Physical Education

  Educational Standards: SHAPE America National Standards

  Our Physical Education program is based on the SHAPE America National Standards and follows a curriculum designed by a specialist physical education teacher. Through a wide variety of physical activities, students develop not only motor skills and physical fitness but also teamwork, self-confidence, and healthy lifestyle habits. Our goal is to foster a lifelong enjoyment of physical activity and healthy living.

• Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)

  Using carefully selected Social-Emotional Learning resources, students develop self-awareness, emotional regulation, empathy, relationship-building skills, and responsible decision-making. These essential life skills are nurtured not only through dedicated lessons but also throughout daily school life and reinforced through our Christ-centered education.

• Music

  Educational Standards: National Core Arts Standards for Music

  Our music program uses engaging, interactive lessons to develop students’ musical skills and appreciation. Through singing, rhythm, movement, playing instruments, music appreciation, and music theory, students develop creativity, confidence, teamwork, and a lifelong enjoyment of music.

• Art

  Educational Standards: National Core Arts Standards for Visual Arts

  Through drawing, painting, crafts, mixed-media projects, and a variety of creative activities, students develop creativity, self-expression, observation skills, aesthetic appreciation, and problem-solving abilities. We also encourage students to appreciate the beauty of art and, through their creative work, discover the richness, diversity, and beauty of God’s creation.

• Spring & Summer Special Programs

  At Kumamoto Christian International School, we offer optional English-based seasonal programs during the spring and summer breaks.
  These programs are designed to provide students with enjoyable and creative activities, allowing them to engage with English in a relaxed and supportive environment.

  ・Spring Program: Held for 1–2 weeks in late March
  ・Summer Program: Held for 2–3 weeks from late July to August

  The program themes vary each year and may include activities such as crafts, cooking, science experiments, and outdoor play.
  Students from outside KCI who have a certain level of English proficiency may also participate; however, priority is given to KCI students and members of the Hilltop English Club. A separate participation fee is required, and registration for these programs must be completed independently from the regular tuition procedures.

• Physical Education Locations

  Kumamoto Christian International School’s Physical Education classes are conducted at multiple locations, depending on the type of activity and the duration of the lesson.
  (All locations are within walking distance from the school.)

  ・Small exercise area beside the school:Used for warm-ups, short games, and basic physical activities.
  ・Open field across the street:Used for full-scale exercises and group activities.
  ・Hilltop Studio Hall:Used for dance, fitness, and indoor physical activities.
  ・Large grass field within walking distance:Used only during extended 90-minute P.E. sessions.

  Please note that a short walk is required to reach the studio hall and the grass field. These classes are scheduled in advance, and parents will be notified accordingly.

• Daily Life & School Culture

  At Kumamoto Christian International School, we place great importance on daily devotions (worship), respectful behavior, and Social and Emotional Learning (SEL).
  During the weekly chapel service, students reflect on biblical truths and learn to develop Christ-like character.

  Through a calm and structured daily routine, we support students’ physical and emotional well-being.
  As part of this approach, KCI does not include a daily snack time. This policy is based on promoting good oral health and encouraging students to eat a proper breakfast and lunch.

• Lunch and On-Campus Food Policy

  Kumamoto Christian International School does not provide its own school lunch service; however, an optional catered lunch service is available daily through an external vendor.
  Families may choose either to use this service or to prepare and send a homemade lunch from home. Allergy-friendly meals can be accommodated through the lunch service, but depending on the severity of a child’s allergy, we may ask families to provide a lunch from home instead.

  Regardless of which option is chosen, we kindly ask that all students bring a healthy and well-balanced lunch. For health reasons, candy, sugary snacks, and carbonated drinks are not permitted. Students may bring water or tea as their beverage. Except for special circumstances, water is the only drink allowed during class time.

  Through the process of eating lunch independently, children learn responsibility, proper manners, and cleanliness. Teachers supervise lunchtime and foster a calm and enjoyable atmosphere for students.

• Communication with Parents

  Kumamoto Christian International School is currently reviewing communication systems to ensure more effective and user-friendly interaction between parents and the school.
  Details will be provided to families prior to the school’s opening.

  When communicating with foreign teachers who may not be fluent in Japanese, we kindly ask parents to first write their message in their own native language and then translate it into English using a reliable tool such as ChatGPT. This approach helps ensure that your thoughts and intentions are accurately conveyed.

  KCI will make every effort to provide important school-wide announcements in the major languages represented in our community.
  However, we ask for your understanding that our capacity to offer multilingual support is limited, and we appreciate your cooperation.

• Parent Orientation and School Manual

  Before the start of the new school year, Kumamoto Christian International School holds a Parent Orientation for all families of newly enrolled students. In this session, we provide an overview of the school’s policies, daily routines, and expectations for parents, and we offer time for Q&A as well as opportunities to meet key staff members.

  All families will also receive the KCI School Manual. This manual includes detailed information about arrival and dismissal procedures, daily routines, school rules, policies for illness and health matters, technology use guidelines, and attendance requirements.

  The orientation and the school manual serve as important guides for ensuring that your child’s experience at KCI is smooth, safe, and meaningful.
  We kindly ask that you read them carefully and refer to them throughout the year.

• Homework, Learning Expectations, and Assessment

  At Kumamoto Christian International School, we believe that homework plays an important role in supporting student learning both inside and outside the classroom.

• To reinforce learning

  Daily homework helps students review and practice what they have learned in class, reinforcing key concepts and supporting long-term understanding.

• Homework also helps develop students’ sense of responsibility and time-management skills.

  By working on homework independently, students develop lifelong skills such as responsibility, effective time management, and an awareness of deadlines.

• It connects learning at home and at school.

  Through homework, parents can gain insight into what their child is learning at school, making it an opportunity to support learning at home. When families and the school work together, it creates a stronger and more effective learning environment.

  At Kumamoto Christian International School, please expect that homework will generally be assigned every day. In the lower grades, students begin with short and light assignments, and as they move up in grade level, the amount and difficulty gradually increase. To check students’ understanding, teachers may also administer short quizzes or unannounced tests.

• Behavior Expectations and Approach to Discipline

  Kumamoto Christian International School values creating a safe, caring environment where every student is respected and supported. Discipline is not viewed as “punishment,” but as an opportunity for growth. Teachers provide consistent guidance with love, using age-appropriate approaches to help students learn how to make good choices. Our school places great importance on biblical principles such as taking responsibility for one’s actions, forgiveness, and restoration.

  In more serious situations, parents and the principal will work together to support the student in making better decisions. Our goal is not simply to raise children who “follow instructions,” but to nurture young people who grow in character and maturity.

• English Proficiency Assessment and Testing

  At Kumamoto Christian International School, we encourage students to take the EIKEN (Japan’s Practical English Proficiency Test) as part of their ongoing English development. While some preparation will be incorporated into classroom activities, the primary study time will take place at home. We ask families to support their children’s preparation during after-school hours and on weekends.

  The school will provide a study schedule that outlines which vocabulary students should learn by specific dates and when they should begin taking practice tests.

  As students progress into the upper grades and reach a certain level of English proficiency, we may also recommend other assessments such as TOEIC or IELTS as part of their continued language development.

• After-School Care and After-School Programs

  At Kumamoto Christian International School, we offer an After-School Program from the end of homeroom until 5:30 p.m. Students can enjoy a variety of activities such as crafts, art, games, and reading. We also provide supplemental Japanese lessons and hip-hop dance classes, making the after-school hours a meaningful and enriching time.

  This program is open to all KCI students, regardless of parental work schedules. Students may choose activities based on their interests and participate on the days they prefer. Participation is optional and requires an additional fee.

  Additionally, we provide special classes designed to support English language learning. Students who qualify for this support will be asked to attend.

  Details regarding the After-School Program will be explained during the admissions information session.

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