Course Requirements
At Hong Kong International School, a student normally attends Middle School for three years and completes the following program of study:
- English Language Arts
- Social Studies
- Mathematics
- Science
- Physical Education
- Health
- Religious Education
Additionally, in Grade 6 students select one from each of the following:
- World Language: Mandarin or Spanish*
- Music: Choir, Strings or Band
They also complete units of study in the following subjects:
- Culinary Arts
- Drama
- Visual Arts
- Computing
In Grade 7 and 8 students may select from a range of elective options including
- Music: Choir, Strings or Band
- World Language: Mandarin or Spanish*
- Art and Design
- Culinary Arts
- Performing Arts
- Creative Writing
*Students enrolled in Learning Strategies will usually take this course in lieu of World Language
PEAK – Each academic year, all Middle School students participate in a week of activities outside of the classroom. PEAK (Programs of Extended Activities for Kids) are designed to enrich the curriculum with hands-on experiences and enhance students’ interpersonal and leadership skills. Our PEAK trips are planned to support students’ growth in the Chinese Culture Student Learning Result (SLR) as well as in the Character Development and Contributing to Society SLRs.
Self-Motivated Learning Project – Self Motivated Learning Project is an annual opportunity for students to follow a passion, develop an interest or skill, and perhaps leave a legacy to the school and wider community. They present their project in the Spring demonstrating an understanding of their learning.
Course Changes
- Requests for course changes must be submitted to the Associate Principal of Academics or Grade Level Counselor within the first 8 day cycle of the course commencement date. Many factors are taken into account before making changes to a students course load including course availability, scheduling constraints and an individual’s learning profile. Changes are made in consultation with the grade level counselor and the student’s family. The final decision on course placement is made by the school.
- Course changes in proficiency-based courses between Semester 1 and 2 are based on teacher or counselor recommendations.
- It is recommended that students remain in either Mandarin or Spanish during their time in the Middle School. Students may request to change languages by completing the World Languages Change Request form in February. These students will then complete a placement Assessment prior to the end of the Academic Year. Students are unable to request changes to their language once the Academic Year has begun.
Student Course Selection
- For returning students, the course registration process for the next academic year begins in February and ends in late April.
- The Middle School Leadership team, in consultation with Teacher Leaders, determines the program of courses to be offered for the following academic year.
- Major factors in determining course offerings are student interest as well as faculty availability and expertise.
- Students needing additional assistance with course selection are encouraged to consult with their counselors.
- Students new to HKIS will have schedules created once enrolled. If enrolled over a vacation, schedules will be created once faculty return to campus.