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To achieve these goals, each student must have:
Science — Grade 7
The seventh-grade science programme explores earth and physical science. In the Earth systems unit, students are introduced to the Earth's biosphere, lithosphere, atmosphere, and hydrosphere, and learn how these interact. This full-year course examines the structure and composition of the Earth — its atmosphere, oceans, surface waters, landmasses, and interior. Students investigate the dynamics of the Earth's changing surface and the role energy plays in earth systems, learn how the Earth's ecological systems support life through environmental relationships and natural cycles, develop an understanding of ecological resources and wildlife conservation, and relate the flow of matter and energy within an ecosystem.
Science — Grade 8
Eighth-grade science is a full-year course focused on fundamental physics concepts. Its content deals with motion and energy, and includes topics such as waves, magnetism and electricity, and forces and motion. Hands-on, laboratory-style activities are used throughout to develop process skills. Students also investigate the similarities and differences among living organisms and how living things have changed over time, and they learn about the human body systems and the factors responsible for maintaining human health.
Mathematics — Grade 7
This course helps students develop the skills necessary to solve equations and inequalities. Students add, subtract, multiply, and divide decimals, fractions, and mixed numbers; understand and solve integers and square roots; write ratios and explore proportions; identify geometric and plane figures and find area, perimeter, surface area, and volume; and finally learn and use the Pythagorean Theorem.
Mathematics — Grade 8: Algebra I
This course helps students develop the skills necessary to solve algebraic expressions and multi-step equations, use formulas and literal equations, and apply proportional reasoning, probability, percentage, and statistics. It examines the basic structure of linear functions and slope. Throughout, students develop learning strategies, critical-thinking skills, and problem-solving techniques in preparation for future mathematics courses and college entrance exams.
English
In the middle school, students develop from dependent into independent readers and writers who read both to understand and for recreation. They respond to a variety of literature using literal and critical thinking skills and communicate orally in group settings. The curriculum promotes proficiency in reading, writing, listening, speaking, and research, with emphasis on developing vocabulary, comprehension, and effective writing.
The Grade 7 Language Arts programme emphasises the processes of reading, writing, listening, and speaking. It includes the study of a variety of literature; writing in the narrative, persuasive, and expository genres; vocabulary development, spelling, and grammar; and a balance of oral and written language activities.
The Grade 8 Language Arts programme emphasises the continued improvement of reading, writing, listening, and speaking to ensure success at the levels ahead. It includes the study of a variety of literature; writing in the narrative, persuasive, and expository genres; growing vocabulary development, spelling, and grammar; and the increasing development of oral and written language activities in an integrated, inter-related manner.
By the end of the programme, each student should also have acquired:
- the social skills needed to interact with culturally diverse people;
- basic skills across the various subjects;
- the skills needed to become a successful citizen and a life-long learner.