Middle School Curriculum Overview

The MYP programme follows the concept-driven curriculum framework which allows students to demonstrate levels of thinking that reach beyond facts or topics. Concepts are used to formulate the understandings that students should retain in the future; they become principles and generalizations that students can use to understand the world and to succeed in further study and in life beyond school.
Approaches to Learning (ATL) is central to the programme, as it is concerned with developing the intellectual discipline, attitudes, strategies, and skills which will result in critical, coherent, independent thought, and the capacity for problem solving & decision making.

Student assessment is conducted through pre-assessments, formative / summative / standardized assessments, and finally peer & self-assessment. School approved internal assessments include Arabic Development Reading Assessment (Grade 6), and Alquist Test (Math in Grade 6 & 7).

DAS students take all 8 subject groups in MYP years 1-3 with years 4-5 choosing between Arts and Design.
Language and Literature – English & Arabic

The study of MYP Language and Literature is to encourage and enable students to:

• use language as a vehicle for thought, creativity, reflection, learning, self-expression, and social interaction
• develop critical, creative, and personal approaches to studying and analyzing literary and nonliterary works
• develop a lifelong interest in reading widely and apply language skills in a variety of real-life contexts

Mathematics

In Mathematics, Algebra 1 & 2, and Geometry students develop analytical reasoning and problem-solving skills that contribute to the development of logical, abstract, and critical thinking. The MYP mathematics and extended mathematics courses are tailored to the needs of students, seeking to intrigue and motivate them to want to learn its principles. We teach mathematics in English for 6 & 8 whereas mathematics in Arabic is taught for grade 7.

Individuals and Societies

The MYP Individuals and Societies subject group incorporates disciplines traditionally studied under humanities and social sciences. This subject group encourages learners to respect and understand the world around them and equips them with the necessary skills to inquire into historical, geographical, political, social, economic, and cultural factors that affect individuals, societies, and environments.

Arts

In Visual Art and Drama, students function as artists as well as learners of the arts. Students create, perform and present arts in ways that engage and convey feelings, experiences, and ideas.

Design

MYP Design is taught through two courses: Digital and Product Design. The courses challenge students to apply practical and creative-thinking skills to solve design problems, explore of the role of design in historical and contemporary contexts, and raise their awareness of their responsibilities when making design decisions and taking action.

Physical Health Education

MYP Physical and Health Education aims to empower students to understand and appreciate the value of being physically active while developing the motivation for making healthy and informed life choices. To this end, physical and health education courses foster the development of knowledge, skills, and attitudes contributing to a balanced and healthy lifestyle.

Sciences

DAS students will have integrated science courses for years 1-4. General Science, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics are taught with inquiry at their core. The MYP sciences framework aims to guide students to independently and collaboratively investigate issues through research, observation, and experimentation by exploring the connections between science and everyday life. We teach science in Arabic for grades 6 & 8 whereas science in English is taught for grades 7.

Curriculum Guide