Growth Model
Tree of Life International School uses a unique academic and personal growth model in Costa Rica, reflecting its commitment to excellence in deep learning methodologies, languages, technology, and the development of its students' life skills.
Like a well-tended tree, Tree of Life International School provides each student with the necessary environment to grow strongly, flourish with purpose, and bear fruit that inspires the world.
Project-Based Learning or PBL
The Project-Based Learning methodology encourages students to learn by doing, while actively engaging in exploration, production, and connection-making . Projects are geared toward achieving learning objectives through practical and creative processes that allow for trial and error, reflection, and the integration of different disciplines.
Applied example:
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Semi-annual project fair at all levels.
Trilingual: Spanish-English-Mandarin
Learning all three languages is encouraged through natural immersion in each. In grades 5, 10, and 11, students take the Cambridge English exams to certify their level of English as a first language, and the YCT/HSK exams to certify their Mandarin proficiency levels.
Applied example:
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Approval of international exams.
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Trip to China in high school.
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Annual participation in the Puente Chino competition in primary and secondary school.
Leadership Development
Tree of Life is the first Leadership School in Latin America recognized by the Franklin Covey organization. It develops leadership and the greatness of its educational community through the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People , taken from Steven Covey's book.
Applied example:
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Practice these habits in all interactions—both in and out of class—to encourage students to be agents of positive change.
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Annual camp to practice the 7 Habits, at all levels.
Technology
Technology is a cross-cutting theme across the various subjects. Tree of Life students learn about programming, robotics, and even 3D printing , depending on their age.
Applied example:
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Annual Maker's Day for all levels in the company of families.
Multi-age Learning
Students learn in multi-age classrooms with a two-year span in each class, which encourages peer support, develops emotional intelligence and empathy, and motivates students to work toward a higher level while receiving necessary support if they are still developing skills.
Applied example::
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Multi-age groups at all levels.
Social service
Its objective is for students to learn about other realities, learn to be supportive, and become agents of positive change , both with other people and with the environment.
Applied example:
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Week of social service for organizations or communities.
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Secondary school electives for social service.
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Excursions for the purpose of raising awareness and caring for the environment.
Emotional Support
Students are empowered to see themselves as unique and significant, the cornerstone of their own success. Children and young people learn to identify and express their emotions and know when to take positive action.
Applied example:
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The Student Support Department and the 7 Habits Council work together with teachers, students, and parents to help them discover more about themselves.
International Focus
Tree of Life fosters a culture of international exchange, enabling children and young people to become global citizens. Knowledge of the traditions of different countries is respected and promoted. Among students, staff, and faculty, there are more than 25 nationalities.
Applied example:
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Celebration of festivals from different cultures.
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Celebration of United Nations Day.
Meal Included
To achieve optimal learning, students must maintain a balanced diet. Tree of Life provides this service at no additional cost.
Applied example:
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Snack included in the preschool fee.
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Lunch included in the monthly fee for primary and secondary school.
