What will the kids be learning?

The school program during 40 Days/40 Nights exists to serve the school age children of the missionary personnel new to the Sub-Saharan Africa region. The main focus is to orient and ease the adjustment of the children to their new culture using an academic program. Children will continue with their own math and phonics programs, but the other subjects will be taught by 40/40 staff.

It is a deep desire to see that the kids will learn to love Africa, appreciate its beauty, understand its history, respect its culture, and relate to the national hosts in a positive manner. The underlying goal in all the school activities is to help the students to achieve the above. Academic subjects are woven into the acculturation process in a natural and beneficial way.

Science Program

The science program focuses on the environment of the SSA region. Its purpose is to introduce to their new country, giving them an overview of the plants, animals, insects, and physical environment. Children will also learn basic first aid, preventive health measures, common illnesses in Africa, as well as safety precautions with fire, water, lanterns, etc.

Social Studies Program

The children will study the geography and history of Africa. They will learn about ancient African history, maps, time zones, and create a project relating to their host county. Older students will keep abreast of current events happening in Africa.

Language Arts Program

Children will study African myths, folktales and fables. They will write daily and grammar will be taught in the context of their writing. Independent reading will be done daily as well as the teacher reading aloud. Great use will be made of good books, both fiction and non-fiction in teaching all subjects.

In addition to the above, children have a cultural learning time each day. They will learn to be observant in their new culture and use that skill to help in their adaptation and adjustment. They will learn about money, how to bargain, food, art, clothing, toys and games, education, homes and family life in various African cultures. There will be several field trips for both cultural observations and pure fun.