Middle School Program of Studies
The International School of Krakow is dedicated to excellence in the intellectual and personal development of tomorrow's world citizens.
Dear Students and Parents, The International School of Krakow’s Program of Studies booklet is an essential tool to assist you in planning your academic program. This booklet contains descriptions of courses offered in grades 6-8 and should be used to plan your program of studies. Before any subject is selected, a number of concerns need to be understood and addressed: 1. ISK’s Middle School requirements English Native Language Instruction Mathematics Science Social Studies Foreign Language Physical Education The Arts: Art, Drama, and Music (all three must be selected) Health IT (Information Technology) 2. Course prerequisites if required 3. Individual academic objectives. This booklet will be very helpful to you in providing this information. The Head of Middle School and the School Administration will assist you in making course selections and in designing your three-year program of study. Please do not hesitate to consult them as you make your decisions about course selection.
Sincerely, Mamie Heard Director
TABLE OF CONTENTS Middle School Philosophy and Curriculum Middle School Reporting Policy Language Arts / English Mathematics Science Social Studies Native and Foreign Languages Art Drama Music Information Technology Physical Education Health
The International School of Krakow is accredited by:
MIDDLE SCHOOL PHILOSOPHY AND CURRICULUM The International School of Krakow aims to provide children with an academically rigorous, intellectually stimulating, and caring environment. Instruction is geared to the individual needs of the student. The school seeks to nurture a learning environment based on trust, respect, integrity, responsibility and concern for others. Our international curriculum at once celebrates the rich and diverse backgrounds of our students and focuses on concepts common to us all. In order to continually provide the best, and most truly international, education for our students, ISK blends together aspects of several different curricula to facilitate learning. For our core courses, we draw on standards from the US State of Virginia. For our languages, arts and health courses, we draw on additional standards from American Education Reaches Out (AERO), from the province of British Columbia, and from the national curricula of Poland, France and Germany. Standards are reviewed regularly to make sure that we continue to provide the best learning environment for our students. The transition years between elementary school and high school are challenging ones, and ISK recognizes the need to guide students through this transition by providing them opportunities to express their unique creative and individual thoughts, find a balance between independence and interdependence, and provide a learning environment that meets the large variety of emotional and physical needs of middle school students. Students in grades 6-8 move around a lot more during the school day, visiting many different teachers, and enjoying the opportunity to practice many different types of learning. They also aim to develop greater personal responsibility for their work, while still benefiting from the exchange of ideas and emotional growth that come from constructive, supportive small-group interactions. Middle school is also an opportunity for students to learn more about the world, and to stretch their talents. Throughout the year, academic, athletic, dramatic and cultural events are hosted by different CEESA schools, giving ISK students exposure to different cultures and allowing them to achieve the best they can. ISK supports and encourages the participation of middle school students in these events.
MIDDLE SCHOOL REPORTING POLICY Each quarter students in Grades 6 – 8 receive comments, letter grades and number grades in order to help describe their learning growth. Letters are used for a product grade, and are meant to evaluate student work (major assignments, test, and other assessments). The letter grades are determined from graded work as follows:
Evaluation of Student Work (Product Grade) - percentages A+ 100 – 98 A 97 – 93 A92 – 90 B+ 89 – 88 B 87 – 83 B82 – 80 C+ 79 – 78 C 77 – 73 C72 – 70 D+ 69 – 68 D 67 – 63 D62 – 60 F 59 – 0
Numbers are used both as a measure of how well students are meeting individual course standards, and also for a process grade, which is an evaluation of the excellence, responsibility and respect with which they approach learning at ISK. The numbers range from 1 to 4, as follows: 1 2 3 4
student is not meeting grade-level expectations student is approaching grade-level expectations student consistently meets grade-level expectations student consistently exceeds grade-level expectations
Grade-level expectations are described more fully in the list of our curriculum standards, which is available to parents on the ISK website (Rubicon Parent). It is important to remember that not every standard is assessed or reported on each quarter.
LANGUAGE ARTS / ENGLISH PHILOSOPHY & AIMS The Language Arts Curriculum provides students with the foundation to become active learners and effective members of their community. The curriculum is designed as an integrated approach to literature, grammar, and composition. The Language Arts program stresses the development of basic language skills, critical thinking skills, an appreciation of literature, an exposure to diverse ideas, and an awareness, through literature, of the relationship between oneself and others.
GRADE 6 Grade 6 English builds on previous knowledge gained in elementary school. It introduces students to a broad selection of literature, encouraging reading, reflection and analysis. The class focuses on specific outcomes concerning the following: •
Oral Language - students will analyze oral participation in small-group activities; and listen critically and express opinions in oral presentations.
• •
Reading - students will read and learn the meanings of unfamiliar words and phrases; and read and demonstrate comprehension of a variety of fiction, narrative nonfiction, and poetry. Writing - students will write narratives, descriptions, and explanations; and edit writing for correct grammar, capitalization, punctuation, spelling, and sentence structure.
Length of Course: Grade Level: Prerequisites:
1 year 6 None
GRADE 7 Grade 7 English builds on previous knowledge gained in Grade 6. It introduces students to a broad selection of literature, encouraging reading, reflection and analysis. The class focuses on specific outcomes concerning the following: •
•
•
Oral Language - students will give and seek information in conversations, in group discussions, and in oral presentations; identify the relationship between a speaker’s verbal and nonverbal messages; and describe persuasive messages in non-print media, including television, radio, and video. Reading - students will read to determine the meanings and pronunciations of unfamiliar words and phrases; and demonstrate comprehension of a variety of fiction, narrative nonfiction, and poetry. Students will read and demonstrate comprehension of a variety of informational texts and apply knowledge of appropriate reference materials. Writing - students will develop narrative, expository, and persuasive writing; and edit writing for correct grammar, capitalization, punctuation, spelling, sentence structure, and paragraphing.
Length of Course: Grade Level: Prerequisites:
1 year 7 Successful completion of Grade 6 English
GRADE 8 Grade 8 English builds on previous knowledge gained in Grade 7. It introduces students to a broad selection of literature, encouraging reading, reflection and analysis. The class focuses on specific outcomes concerning the following: • •
•
Oral Language - where students will use interviewing techniques to gain information; develop and deliver oral presentations in groups and individually; and analyze mass media messages. Reading - students will apply knowledge of word origins, derivations, inflections, analogies, and figurative language to extend vocabulary development; read and analyze a variety of narrative and poetic forms; and read, comprehend, and analyze a variety of informational sources. Writing - students will write in a variety of forms, including narrative, expository, persuasive, and informational.
Length of Course: Grade Level:
1 year 8
Prerequisites:
Successful completion of Grade 7 English
MATHEMATICS PHILOSOPHY & AIMS The philosophy of the Mathematics Department of the International School of Krakow underlines the importance of providing a program that fulfills the mathematics needs of a multinational community. Students will develop mathematical knowledge, reasoning, and concepts needed in problem solving. Students will see mathematics as it relates to many other fields of knowledge and will see connections between mathematics and daily life. Overall, the program is designed to prepare students for further study in fields requiring mathematics. GRADE 6 In this course students focus on mastering rational numbers: fractions, decimals, percentages, and develop conceptual and algorithmic understanding of operations with rational numbers as well as estimation strategies. Students develop an understanding of the concepts and processes of measurement. They examine perimeter, area, and volume using concrete materials and practical situations. Students learn geometric relationships and apply them to describe, classify, and compare plane and solid figures according to their attributes. Students explore experimental and theoretical probability through experiments and simulations by using concrete, active learning activities. In addition, the skills are reinforced through problem-solving and application activities. Length of Course: Grade Level: Prerequisites:
1 year 6 None
GRADE 7 In this course, students focus on conceptual and algorithmic understanding of operations with integers. Students develop an understanding of the properties of operations on real numbers through experiences with rational numbers and by applying order of operations. Ratios and proportions are a major focus. Through Geometry topics students develop spatial reasoning competence essential to the formal inductive and deductive reasoning skills required in subsequent mathematics learning. Students also explore and develop an understanding of the Pythagorean Theorem, in addition to exploring methods of data collection, representation and interpretation. Grade 7 extends students’ knowledge of numerical and geometric patterns; teaches them who to represent relations by using ordered pairs, tables, rules, and graphs; and teaches students to use algebraic concepts and solve equations and inequalities by using concrete materials. Length of Course: Grade Level: Prerequisites:
1 year 7 Successful completion of Grade 6 Mathematics
GRADE 8 (ALGEBRA I) This course is designed to support problem solving, mathematical communication and reasoning, making mathematical connections and using mathematical representation to model and interpret practical situations. Topics covered include theory of number sets; solving and graphing linear equations, inequalities and systems of equations; laws of exponents with applications; algebraic manipulation of polynomials, rational and radical expressions; introduction to functions and their graphs; and solving quadratic equations. Graphing calculators will be used both as a primary tool in solving problems and as a way to verify algebraic solutions. Length of Course: Grade Level: Prerequisites:
1 year 8 Successful completion of Grade 7 Mathematics
SCIENCE PHILOSOPHY & AIMS We believe our science program should instill in students an understanding and appreciation of the basic laws which govern our physical and natural environment. In addition, students should develop the various analytical and practical skills necessary to function successfully and to make thoughtful, ethical decisions in an increasingly complex world. Making inquiries and solving problems are fundamental to science education and are guiding principles in the ultimate organization and selection of students’ activities. Students at all grade levels and in every domain of science should have the opportunity to use scientific inquiry by asking questions, by planning, and by conducting investigations. In this connection, students will focus on the following skill areas: how to use appropriate tools, techniques and technologies in the gathering of data; how to think critically and logically about the relationship between evidence and explanation; how to analyze and develop alternative explanations; how to formulate and communicate scientific arguments; and how to collaborate with others in order to improve the understanding of the group.
GRADE 6 (EARTH SCIENCE) Earth Science introduces middle school students to skills and concepts that they will use for all future secondary science classes. Students study what makes up the solar system and how our earth and moon interact, and they also focus on the various physical and chemical processes that make the earth a dynamic planet that is perfect for life to thrive. Students practice many basic science laboratory and analytical skills, such as observing, measuring, finding density, graphing, and constructing models. Length of Course: Grade Level: Prerequisites:
1 year 6 None
GRADE 7 (LIFE SCIENCE) The Life Science course focuses on the understanding of the structure of organisms -
from molecules to ecosystems, as well as the mechanisms behind the most important phenomena in organisms: energy processing in cells and in populations, genetics and inheritance, evolution. The course also presents a panorama of major taxonomic groups of organisms. Length of Course: Grade Level: Recommendations:
1 year 7 Successful completion of Earth Science or a similar Grade 6 course
GRADE 8 (PHYSICAL SCIENCE) Physical Science class introduces students to fundamental principles that are crucial for understanding of the physical world. The course covers a wide spectrum of topics, from classical laws of motion and description of electromagnetic forces in electric engines, to chemical bonds, light, and applications of physics in modern, everyday devices. Particular attention is paid to conservation principles and their widespread usefulness in all natural sciences. The class provides solid foundations for further study in all fields of science. Length of Course: Grade Level: Recommendations:
1 year 8 Successful completion of Life Science or a similar Grade 7 course
SOCIAL STUDIES PHILOSOPHY & AIMS At ISK, we recognize that every student is unique and that all students benefit from learning in different ways. Our social studies curriculum uses a variety of proven instructional practices that allow students of all abilities to master key concepts at any grade level. We aim to place a large variety of resources into the hands of our learners, introduce a solid foundation for developing creative inquiry, and deepen an understanding of the complex relationships between humans and their environment, both today and in the past. Big ideas and essential questions guide our spiraled curriculum. Students also learn progressively whereby increasingly difficult concepts are introduced through a process of step-by-step discovery from simple recall to higher-order thinking skills such as analysis and evaluation.
GRADE 6 The Grade 6 course introduces students to the beginnings of the human story. As they explore the great early civilizations of Egypt and the Near East, India, China, Greece, and Rome, students discover the secrets of these ancient cultures that continue to influence the modern world Length of Course: Grade Levels: Prerequisites:
1 year 6 None
GRADE 7 The Grade 7 course explores the legacy of civilizations from Europe, Africa, and the Middle East to Asia and the Americas. From the decline of feudalism to the revolutions in science, exploration, and thought that are the foundations of our modern world, students will discover rich connections to the past. Length of Course: Grade Levels: Prerequisites:
1 year 7 Successful completion of Grade 6 Social Studies
GRADE 8 The Grade 8 course creatively challenges students to use the tools of geography to view, analyze, and understand the world around them. The seven mapping labs and the program's case-study approach turn students into geographic thinkers. As an additional benefit, the program also builds on students' content area reading skills. Length of Course: Grade Levels: Prerequisites:
1 year 8 Successful completion of Grade 7 Social Studies
NATIVE AND FOREIGN LANGUAGES PHILOSOPHY A strong foundation in one's native language helps to aid communication in all other languages. Native English instruction courses follow a similar curriculum as Language Arts, emphasizing further development of English through writing, reading, research and drama. The non-English native instruction courses follow the national curricula of Poland, France and Germany, and are designed for students to easily return to their native countries in case they are not able to continue at ISK, and also to assist students seeking to attend university in these countries. Many parents who have moved away from ISK have taken the time to comment on how successfully their children have reintegrated back into the national school system, and it is a great strength of ISK that we are able to provide an international education while simultaneously maintaining students’ native language development. Learning a foreign language is both communication and interaction. Learning languages raises awareness of the multilingual and multicultural world. The aims of foreign language study at ISK are to prepare the student to function in a multicultural world and use the target language appropriately, in a wide range of situations and for a variety of purposes. In addition, it is hoped that the student will also gain an awareness of and an appreciation for the culture represented. In addition, it is our belief that students who study English as an Additional Language (EAL) or Intensive English (IE) are fully capable of grade level cognition and learning, and that with appropriate support, they can and will succeed within the mainstream curriculum. The EAL / IE classroom is designed to create a safe and supportive milieu for its students so that it becomes not only an academic support system, but also a psychological one. The major objective of the EAL / IE program is to equip
students to function successfully within the regular, English-speaking, mainstream classroom through language lesson support and a focus on mainstream content material.
ESSENTIAL AGREEMENTS • Topics studied in class will reflect the reality of life and culture of the target language. • The choice of topic should be student oriented, stimulating their interest and creativity. • Learning is promoted through interactive activities where content, form and purpose of activities motivate learners to participate and to develop language control. • A variety of approaches will be necessary to develop students' view of language learning and a positive experience. • Appropriate resources need to be utilized in order to extend the learning experience beyond the classroom walls. The International School of Krakow has a variety of Native and Foreign Language offerings. Native Language Offerings: English as a Native Language Polish as a Native Language French as a Native Language German as a Native Language Length of Course: Grade Level:
3 years 6, 7, 8
Native language ability will be determined by the language instructor. Students whose native language is not offered at ISK, and who need extra support in English, can choose Intensive English in place of a native language, even if they are already studying English as an Additional Language. Foreign Language Offerings: Polish as a Foreign Language French as a Foreign Language German as a Foreign Language Spanish as a Foreign Language English as an Additional Language / Intensive English Length of Course: Grade Level:
3 years 6, 7, 8
ART PHILOSOPHY Art is an important element of the human experience and is a universal language that transcends all national and individual differences. As a result, it is an integral part of
the school curriculum, developing the whole intellect through appreciating the students’ diverse historical and cultural heritage, and developing the students' creativity by producing art. With these concepts guiding our philosophy, the art program is discipline based, focusing on Creating Art, History and Culture, Perception and Evaluation, and Connections. AIMS • To develop an understanding of the elements and principles of Art and visual literacy in an ever-changing world • To enable students to discover, develop and enjoy a means of creative visual expression in the studio which recognizes student uniqueness • To stimulate and train the visual awareness, perception, and criticism of art through a variety of means • To expand students’ creativity and develop their aesthetic and imaginative faculties • To encourage the pursuit of quality, through technical training, individual experimentation and persistent endeavor • To foster and encourage each students’ sensitivity towards art and design in all its forms, from past to the present, through an inquiring and informed attitude of knowing, producing, and evaluating art Length of Course: Grade Level: Prerequisites:
3 semesters 6, 7, 8 None
DRAMA PHILOSOPHY & AIMS The International School of Krakow recognizes the importance of drama as a performing art. Speaking eloquently, acting, and creative improvisation are skills which are transferable to many other disciplines both in and out of school. The curriculum focuses on cooperation, character development, and dramatic presentation. Drama is designed for students who may or may not have previous theatrical experience. The aims of the course are to pursue drama as a means of fostering communication, to improve individual confidence, and to gain knowledge and experience through artistic collaboration. The course is based on a series of exercises, improvisational scenes, and rehearsed projects, each one touching on a variety of skills. Student development is assessed by an observation of the following: • • • • • •
Movement Trust exercises to develop team work Improvisation Use of voice for different purposes Acting techniques, especially in creating character Creation of original scripted/scored works
• • •
Creating and performing in a play and /or music theater Learning the process of theater production Mime
Length of Course: Grade Level: Prerequisites: Note:
3 semesters 6, 7, 8 None Students may be expected to commit themselves to out-of-class rehearsals
MUSIC PHILOSOPHY & AIMS The International School of Krakow recognizes that music plays an important role in the lives of all students. Our philosophy reflects the needs of individuals with a general interest, as well as individuals intending to continue their study of music further. Students will experience a broad spectrum of music, as ISK recognizes the benefits from the great variety of cultures represented by the multinational make-up of the student body, and from the musical history and resources Poland has to offer. GENERAL MUSIC This course will give students opportunities to undertake a balanced program of activities which builds on previous work and takes account of previous achievement whilst working individually, in groups, and as a class. Students practice, and are evaluated on, vocal skills, instrumental skills, musical literacy, and their ability to reflect, create and listen. There are two single lessons a week. One lesson focuses on instrumental skills, music history, and music theory, and is taught separately to each grade level. The second lesson is a choir lesson for the whole middle school, and focuses on melody and harmony, singing in parts, and preparing for school concerts and CEESA activities. It is possible during the school day for students to receive private tuition in piano, guitar or other instruments depending on availability of instructor. Length of Course: Grade Level: Prerequisites:
3 years 6, 7, 8 None
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY Foundations of Computer Science PHILOSOPHY & AIMS Foundations of Computer Science is a three-year course for Middle School students who have already mastered basic computer skills. The goal of the course is to
provide students with a solid foundation for further technology education by introducing them to a wide selection of topics. In particular, this course covers the following: • • • • • • • • • •
Computer hardware Computer software Basic net architecture History of technology, computers and the Internet Impact of computers and technology on society and language Applications of technology and data analysis in various disciplines Ethical, legal and privacy issues related to computer Stages of programming: problem analysis, algorithm design, flowcharts, program structure & implementation, debugging, documentation Data analysis Terminology covering all of the above topics
Length of Course: Grade Level: Prerequisites:
3 years 6, 7, 8 None
PHYSICAL EDUCATION PHILOSOPHY & AIMS Physical education emphasizes learning the rules and basic developmental skills in a variety of sport, fitness, and recreational activities. Students compete through matches, games, and tournaments (whenever applicable) to encourage them to reach their highest level of performance. Throughout each activity the highest priority is placed on effort, sportsmanship, and respect. In addition, students will set personal goals for both cardiovascular fitness and strength training. Team sports include volleyball, basketball, soccer, flag football, indoor soccer and softball. Racket sports include tennis and badminton. Swimming is treated as an after- school activity, and students receive instruction by instructors at that particular venue. Students are evaluated in physical education based on three equal categories: • • •
Motor skills and object control (proficiency and improvement) Fitness level (stamina and amount of physical activity) Team play and skill application (teamwork, cooperation, attitude, respect, sportsmanship, responsibility, enthusiasm, effort)
Length of Course: Grade Level:
3 years 6, 7, 8
HEALTH PHILOSOPHY The International School of Krakow believes in promoting a well-rounded knowledge of health and health-related skills for its students. The program aims to improve students’ overall well-being and improve students’ level of health education through the promotion of health literacy.
AIMS • Students will comprehend concepts related to health promotion and disease prevention to enhance health • Students will analyzed the influence of family, peers, culture, media, technology, and other factors on health behaviours. • Students will demonstrate the ability to access valid information and products and services to enhance health. • Students will demonstrate the ability to use interpersonal communication skills to enhance health and avoid or reduce health risks. • Students will demonstrate the ability to use decision-making skills to enhance health. • Students will demonstrate the ability to use goal setting sills to enhance health. • Students will demonstrate the ability to practice health-enhancing behaviours and avoid or reduce health risks. • Students will demonstrate the ability to advocate for personal, family, and community health. Length of Course: Grade Level:
3 years 6, 7, 8