Curriculum Highlights
Elementary School
Students from JK through fifth grade develop communication skills in a literature-based Language Arts program through units consistent with the philosophy of the IB Primary Years Program. Emphasis is placed on reading comprehension and fluency. Formal lessons in grammar and usage, spelling and vocabulary develop a foundation for successful writing. The students learn to write in a variety of forms: creative, expository and research writing.
Middle School
Language A objectives for the IB Middle Years Program are integrated into literature-based Language Arts units for grades 6 through 8. Students develop proficiency in the communication skills as they work toward mastery of the 12 MYP Language A objectives by the end of Grade 10. The students write in a variety of forms. Formal lessons in grammar, usage and vocabulary complement their development of writing and reading skills.
High School
The MYP Language A objectives form the core of the curriculum for Grades 9 and 10. In these grades students may be placed at honors, regular or A2 level. The A2 English courses are for students who are non-native English speakers. The Grade 10 honors English course offers an opportunity for interdisciplinary study of American Literature and United States History. This class, called “the Combo,” is team-taught by one member of the English faculty and one member of the Humanities (Social Studies) Department. Students receive credit for both social studies and English.
In Grades 11 and 12 students have several options: regular college preparatory literature courses; IB A1 and IB A2 literature courses geared to the needs of International Baccalaureate Diploma or Certificate students; or the Honors Humanities course, which is a two-year program offering an interdisciplinary study of Western Civilization. The Honors Humanities class is also open to selected tenth graders. It provides students with a unique opportunity to learn about certain periods of Western civilization through works of literature, art and music produced during those time periods. It also offers a variety of field study opportunities both in Greece and in other parts of Europe.