# Elementary School — Definition & Explanation

> From the SchoolBrowse Education Glossary.
> HTML version: https://schoolbrowse.com/glossary/elementary-school

**In short:** The first stage of formal education, typically covering kindergarten through 5th or 6th grade for children aged 5-11.
**Elementary school**, also called primary school, is the first stage of formal education covering approximately kindergarten through 5th or 6th grade. Students typically range from ages 5 to 11, depending on grade configuration.

## Curriculum and Structure

Elementary schools teach foundational skills in reading, writing, mathematics, science, and social studies. Students typically have one primary teacher for most subjects, with specialists for art, music, and physical education. Instruction is structured but may include learning centers and hands-on activities.

## Elementary School Organization

Elementary schools may be organized as K-5, K-6, or other configurations depending on the district. Class sizes typically range from 20-30 students. Many schools organize students by grade level, while some use multi-age or looping classrooms.

## Frequently asked questions

**Q: What grades are elementary school?**

Elementary school typically includes kindergarten through 5th or 6th grade, though configurations vary by district. Some districts have separate primary (K-2) and intermediate (3-5) schools.
**Q: What is the difference between elementary and primary school?**

The terms are often used interchangeably in the US. 'Primary school' is more common in other English-speaking countries and sometimes refers specifically to the earlier grades.
**Q: What subjects are taught in elementary school?**

Core subjects include reading/language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies. Students also typically have art, music, physical education, and sometimes technology or foreign language.

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