Academic Program
Middle School Curriculum and Learning Expectations
Middle School Curriculum Structure
Standardized Tests
MAP (Measure of Academic Progress)
IOWA Algebra Aptitude Test (IAAT)
Algebra Aptitude Test (AAT)
Geometry Aptitude Test (GAT)
Pre-TOEFL
S U B J E C T S
LANGUAGES ARTS
Reading Assistant
The Language Arts course is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding and mastery of the English language, including reading, writing, and communication skills. Through the exploration of various literary genres, engaging writing exercises, and effective communication activities, students will develop critical thinking abilities, enhance their writing skills, and strengthen their oral communication proficiency. This course fosters a deep appreciation for literature while equipping students with essential language arts skills.
Course Objectives:
Enhance reading comprehension: Students will analyze and interpret a variety of literary works, including novels, short stories, poetry, and plays. They will develop critical thinking skills, identify literary elements, and examine themes, symbols, and character development.
Improve writing skills: Students will refine their writing abilities through practice in various genres, such as narrative, expository, persuasive, and analytical writing. They will learn to organize ideas effectively, develop coherent arguments, and employ appropriate language and style.
Foster effective communication: Students will engage in verbal communication activities, such as group discussions, presentations, and debates. They will develop confidence in expressing ideas, active listening, and respectful and effective communication with peers.
Expand vocabulary and language usage: Students will enrich their vocabulary and refine their language usage through exposure to diverse texts. They will learn strategies to enhance their descriptive language, employ literary devices, and demonstrate proficiency in grammar and mechanics.
Develop research and information literacy skills: Students will learn to conduct research using reliable sources, evaluate information critically, and cite sources appropriately. They will develop skills in synthesizing information and presenting findings effectively.
LEARNING PERIODS
Language Arts: 4 periods/week (45-minute class)
Reading Assistant/ FastForWord : 2 periods/week (45-minute class)
Writing: 1 period/week: (45-minute class)
Writing Class
Writing Class
Students doing their research work in the library.
Research Work Report
MATHEMATICS
The Mathematics course is designed to develop students' mathematical proficiency, problem-solving skills, and critical thinking abilities. Through the exploration of various mathematical concepts, interactive problem-solving activities, and real-world applications, students will strengthen their mathematical foundation and cultivate analytical thinking. This course aims to foster a deep understanding and appreciation for the beauty and practicality of mathematics.
Ekamai International School offers flexible Math courses that are responsive to students' needs. Student course assignments may be adjusted when moving to the next grade level based on the performance for the full school year and the recommendation of the Math teachers.
Middle School Math policy includes the course sequence students must follow according to their performance, proficiency, and eligibility.
The following courses are offered in each grade level:
Grade 6 : Regular Math, Advanced Math
Grade 7: Pre-Algebra A & B, Algebra 1
Grade 8: Integrated Math, Algebra 1, Geometry
LEARNING PERIODS
5 periods/week (45-minute class)
SCIENCE
Grade 6 : Earth Science
A two semester course on Earth and Space Science covering earth structure, geologic changes: plate tectonics, earthquakes and volcanoes, weather and climate, water resources and the universe: sun-earth-moon system, solar system, stars and galaxies.
Grade 7: Life Science
Life science is a branch of science that deals with living organisms and life processes that covers a vast knowledge at the cellular and molecular level through embodiment of characterizing living organisms and their environment. This subject course encompasses topics that help us understand the nature of living organisms through organism classification and identification, exploration and adaptation, and the reproduction and development of living organisms. In order for the learning experience to be fruitful, there will be inclusion of various scientific disciplines including microbiology, ecology, biology, geology and biotechnology incorporated. Life science assimilates laboratory activities in order to enhance the learning through firsthand experience and acquiring new skills.
Grade 8: Physical Science
Physical Science explores the relationship between matter and energy. Students will investigate chemical and physical properties of matter, forces and motion, the ways in which matter and energy interact within the natural world and the forms and properties of energy.
The course includes the study of atoms and molecules, chemical bonding and reactions, Newton’s laws of motion, potential and kinetic energy, mechanical and electromagnetic waves. The focus of this course is designed to prepare students for the physics and chemistry courses taken in high school.
LEARNING PERIODS
4 periods/week (45-minute class)
SOCIAL STUDIES
Grade 6 : Social Studies
By the end of the course, each student will be able to:
Describe what is known through archeological studies of the early physical and cultural development of mankind from the Paleolithic Era to the agricultural revolution.
Analyze and explain the geographic, political, economic, religious, and social structures of the early civilizations of Mesopotamia, Egypt, and Kush.
Analyze and explain the geographic, political, economic, religious, and social structures of the early civilizations of the Ancient Hebrews.
Analyze the geographic, political, economic, religious and social structures of the early civilization of Ancient Greece.
Analyze the geographic, political, economic, religious, and social structures of the early civilizations of India, China, and Rome.
Explain how man has learned to use his environment.
Describe the life of the earliest humans.
Apply historical concepts on geography, culture, civilization, etc.
Study ancient societies’ development, and how their contributions led to future developments.
Show thinking skills by formulating ideas on situational problems and challenging questions.
Display quality use of time in taking a test and finishing required assignments.
Grade 7: Social Studies
Students will be able to
Summarize the essential Christian and Islamic beliefs
Identify the role of religions in the world
Value humanism
Categorize the advancements in economics that occurred due to trade and colonization.
Compare and Contrast the ideas of Hobbes and Locke
Analyze the role of economics in the American Revolution
Rewrite the boundaries that changed the world after World War I and II.
Collaborate information about world events prior to the World War.
Grade 8: Social Studies
Students will understand and appreciate the relationship between geography and the cultural role that geography can play in community engagement.
Students will read, interpret, and generate maps and other geographic representations and extract, analyze, and present information from a spatial perspective.
Through lectures and local, regional, and international travel, students will understand the interconnection between people and places and have a general comprehension of how variations in culture and personal experiences may affect our perception and management of places and regions.
Students will have a general understanding of global human population patterns, factors influencing the distribution and mobility of human populations, including settlement and economic activities and networks, and human impacts on the physical environment.
LEARNING PERIODS
4 periods/week (45-minute class)
VALUES & PATHFINDER
Grade 6-8: Values
GENERAL OBJECTIVES
By the end of the course, the students will:
Develop a personal understanding of truth and its applications to life issues based on their study of Scripture.
Have a deeper encounter with and commitment to the Lord Jesus.
See their relationships, lifestyles and careers primarily as avenues for sharing, celebrating
and serving Christ.
Develop the skill for critical thinking on the questions of life, its purpose, our existence, and basic truth in general.
LEARNING PERIODS
Values: 4 periods/week (45-minute class
Pathfinder 1 period/week (45-minute class)
MUSIC
Choir
CHOIR
This course provides the instruction and improvement of voice quality, intonation, ability to read music, ability to sight-sing, and the overall development of musicianship is stressed in conjunction with the learning of each piece of music. It also includes how to develop the voice as an instrument, learn music theory as well as diversity of singing styles and music history. This course is also designed to provide an atmosphere for the enjoyment, appreciation and performance of all types of choral music. Active participation in the classroom is strongly recommended.
LEARNING PERIODS
1 periods/week (45-minute class)
Band
BAND
This course provides students with an opportunity to create and participate in music through band performance. This large ensemble performance course is designed to include brass, woodwind, and percussion instruments. Individual student progress is often determined by repertoire selection, individual instruction, and accomplishment of stated progress requirements.
LEARNING PERIODS
1 periods/week (45-minute class)
Keyboard
KEYBOARD
This course focuses on keyboard basics including basic fingering techniques, fundamental music theory, sight reading, basic chord progression, song application and ear training exposure. The practical application of concepts learned in music will be seen in a student's performance:alone, in small or large ensembles. The keyboard course aims to nurture the sense of joy in playing the instrument, and to master performance skills overall, in order to give students the confidence and willingness to tackle various music examinations.
LEARNING PERIODS
1 periods/week (45-minute class)
CHINESE
MANDARIN
The Mandarin Chinese Language and Culture course is designed to introduce middle school students to the basics of Mandarin Chinese, one of the most widely spoken languages in the world. Through interactive lessons, cultural exploration, and practical exercises, students will develop fundamental language skills, including listening, speaking, reading, and writing in Mandarin. This course aims to foster an appreciation for Chinese culture while equipping students with essential language abilities.
This course aims at enabling students to:
Learn the basic combinations of Chinese phonemes and to pronounce them correctly in terms of both articulation and also the four tones.
Become skilled in basic oral communication through listening and speaking training to meet the demands of simple interpersonal dialogue, including: greeting, asking questions, self-introduction, etc.
Learn elements and constructions of Chinese characters and become capable of writing and recognizing Chinese characters.
Gain a better understanding of Chinese culture and society.
LEARNING PERIODS
1 periods/week (45-minute class)
THAI LANGUAGE AND CULTURE
The Thai department designed two courses that cater the needs of Thai and non-Thai students.
THAI LANGUAGE FOR THAI STUDENTS
This course is designed to introduce students to the fundamentals of the Thai language and provide them with a basic understanding of Thai culture. Through a combination of interactive lessons, practical exercises, and cultural exploration, students will develop essential language skills, including listening, speaking, reading, and writing in Thai.
THAI LANGUAGE FOR NON-THAI STUDENTS
This course is specifically designed for non-Thai students who have little to no prior knowledge of the Thai language. It aims to provide a comprehensive introduction to Thai language and culture, enabling students to develop basic communication skills and cultural understanding. Through interactive lessons, practical exercises, and cultural activities, students will build a foundation in the Thai language and gain insights into Thai customs and traditions.
LEARNING PERIODS
5period/week (45-minute class)
HEALTH
Grade 6-8
GENERAL OBJECTIVES:
Students will be able to
Recognize that good health habits can prevent illness, and improve the way they look, the way they perform in school and sports, the way they interact with others, and the way they feel about themselves.
Explain the interrelationships of mental, emotional, social, and physical health during adolescence.
Apply health skills to reduce risks related to adolescent health problems.
Analyze how media influences the selection of health information and products.
Construct their healthy lifestyle.
LEARNING PERIODS
1period/week (45-minute class)
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Grade 6-8
GENERAL OBJECTIVES:
Students will be able to
Recognize that good health habits can prevent illness, and improve the way they look, the way they perform in school and sports, the way they interact with others, and the way they feel about themselves.
Explain the interrelationships of mental, emotional, social, and physical health during adolescence.
Apply health skills to reduce risks related to adolescent health problems.
Analyze how media influences the selection of health information and products.
Construct their healthy lifestyle.
LEARNING PERIODS
1period/week (45-minute class)