Learning in Middle School

Middle School at AIS-R is a time of discovery, growth, and increasing independence. Our program is intentionally designed to meet the unique developmental needs of young adolescents, supporting them socially, emotionally, and academically as they continue to explore who they are and how they learn best.
Students engage in rigorous, concept-driven and inquiry-based learning that encourages them to think critically, make connections across disciplines, and apply their knowledge in real-world contexts. Through inquiry, collaboration, and reflection, learners develop the skills and confidence needed to navigate complexity and take ownership of their learning. 
Our approach nurtures the whole child, with a strong focus on relationships and belonging. In every classroom and advisory, we aim to cultivate inquisitive, independent, and resilient learners who are able to positively influence their communities with empathy and purpose.
For an overview of the Middle School program, click here.

Middle School Electives

The Middle School Elective program aligns with our core belief that young adolescents are discovering who they are and the world around them. During this time of transition, our learners are encouraged to inquire, explore, analyze and be courageous with their learning. While the core subjects play a vital role in providing the foundation for future endeavors, the elective program ensures that learners have choice and voice over their learning in order to follow their passions. The Electives program builds upon the skills and knowledge developed in the Core Classes, elements of mathematics, science and humanities will be used in authentic ways in order to further enhance understanding. Learners can decide on the pace they wish to move through certain Elective courses, such as completing Art 1 and Art 2 in Grade 6. Elective courses can not be repeated, therefore, with only four different types of Art class, the learner will have no Art options in Grade 8. If there are leveled courses, students are to start at level one, unless permission is granted from the MS Office.

The opportunity for students to participate in courses that are mixed grades is another benefit to the Electives program here at AIS-R. While all courses do not offer this cross grade level opportunity, there are courses that allow students to learn, think and communicate with both older and younger students.

The Electives program also allows for additional support for students, whether this be through Strategic Learning courses that are deliberately designed to address gaps in student learning or required classes such as Research Skills. These required courses ensure that every student is able to achieve at high levels.