Curriculum & Instruction:
* Emphasis on the basics: The focus was heavily on reading, writing, and arithmetic (the "three Rs"). These were taught through rote memorization and drills. Spelling bees were common.
* Limited electives: There were few, if any, electives. The curriculum was largely standardized across schools, especially within a particular state or region.
* Strict discipline: Discipline was often harsh, with corporal punishment (whipping, paddling) being common. Students were expected to be obedient and quiet.
* Age-graded classrooms: Students were grouped by age, rather than by ability level. This led to large class sizes with a wide range of learning abilities within each classroom.
* Lack of specialized instruction: There was little to no specialized instruction for students with learning disabilities or other special needs. These students were often left to struggle.
* Civics and patriotism: With World War I underway, a strong emphasis was placed on teaching patriotism and civic duty.
School Buildings & Resources:
* One-room schoolhouses: In rural areas, one-room schoolhouses were still common, with one teacher instructing students of all ages.
* Overcrowded classrooms: Even in larger schools, classrooms were often overcrowded.
* Limited resources: Schools generally lacked the resources found in today's schools. Textbooks were often shared, and other learning materials were scarce.
* Basic amenities: Heating and sanitation were often inadequate. Running water and indoor toilets were not always available.
Social Context:
* Segregation: Schools were largely segregated by race in the Southern states and many parts of the North. African American children received a far inferior education.
* Immigration: The influx of immigrants led to a greater need for schools, but also created challenges in educating children from diverse backgrounds.
* Rural vs. urban: There were significant differences between rural and urban schools. Urban schools tended to be larger and better resourced, but still faced overcrowding.
In summary: Primary schools in 1916 in the US were characterized by a rigid, basic curriculum, harsh discipline, limited resources, and significant inequalities based on race and geography. While education was valued, the experience was far less individualized and enriching than it is today.