Grades 7 and 8

World Languages

Mandarin Novice 1 (N1)

Full Year

This course is designed for students with no prior or very limited mandarin experience. Starting from the novice level, students will gradually build familiarity of the language by exploring pinyin, simple conversational practice on topics selected to build basic skills, such as greetings, self and family, and routine activities related to our daily lives. Cultural elements are embedded in the units to foster cultural competence.

Primary text: Easy Steps to Chinese 1

Students will:

• Apply writing of 100 characters with additional 30 for recognition
• Develop an understanding of the Chinese Pinyin and Chinese character system
• Conduct simple situational conversation or presentation, introducing oneself, family members and friends, daily routine, transportation etc.
• Read in familiar context an inventory of approximately 150 characters
• Research and understand cultural elements of Chinese family and Chinese Culture

Some sample questions the students will explore during this course:

• What are the fundamental differences between Chinese language and English?
• How do I use Mandarin to talk about my family and myself?

Prerequisites/notes: This is a beginner’s class that does not require any prior exposure to Mandarin. There is no mid-year intake in the 2nd semester.

This course will be taught concurrently with Mandarin Novice 2.

Contact Ms. Daisy Shen dshen@hkis.edu.hk

Mandarin Novice 2 (N2)

Full Year

This course is for students who have had little experience with mandarin as a second language. Students who can understand basic contents in short and very familiar topics. It targets to develop to mid-Novice proficiency levels, topics included in this course are personal interests and hobbies, self-care related such as weather, seasons, food and dining, etc.

Cultural elements are embedded in the units of studies to foster a higher level of cultural competence.

Primary text: Easy steps to Chinese 2

Students will:

• Apply writing of 180 characters with additional N1 characters and recognition of 50 additional characters
• Focus on communication skills relating to expressing preference, questioning people and confirming time and place
• Create narratives, letters and dialogues relating to the focused topics
• Research and understand cultural elements associated with Chinese food

Some sample questions the students will explore during this course:

• How do I use Mandarin to share my interests?
• How do I use Mandarin to ask questions on weather?

Prerequisites/notes: Successful completion of MSL 1(N1) or equivalent as determined by placement test.

Contact Ms Daisy Shen dshen@hkis.edu.hk

Mandarin Novice 3 (N3)

Full Year

This course is for students who have had a few years of experience with mandarin as a second language. Students who display skills in handling basic everyday tasks. This course aims to develop high Novice proficiency in Chinese, selected topics focus on the community such as schools, living environments, and personal preferences and health.

Cultural elements are embedded in the units of studies to foster a higher level of cultural competence.

Primary text: Easy steps to Chinese 3

Students will:

• Apply writing of 250 characters with additional N1 and N2 characters and recognition of 70 additional characters
• Engage in speaking Mandarin 90% of class time
• Conduct simple situational dialogues related to seasons, occupations and hobbies, neighborhood, body and health and etc.
• Read and comprehend simple authentic materials, e.g. a teacher's excuse note, a simple letter from a friend, etc.
• Note and letter writing skills for a specified purpose on a related topic
• Differences between Chinese and western education system

Some sample questions the students will explore during this course:

• How do you describe different weather conditions in each season?
• How do you talk about symptoms and give suggestions when you get sick?
• What do you wear and shop for different season, places and occupations?
• What subjects do you take in school and why?
• How is school facilities impact your learning?

Prerequisites/notes: Successful completion of G6 N2 or equivalent as determined by placement test .

Contact Ms Daisy Shen dshen@hkis.edu.hk

Mandarin Novice 4 (N4)

Full Year

This course is to prepare students for the Intermediate Level of language proficiency. Topics are widened and language functions are deepened in this course to deal with practical real-life related scenarios, such as health, school-related, traveling, etc. Reading and writing skills are developed through authentic materials and a variety of passages including short stories and informational texts.

Cultural elements are embedded in the units of studies to foster a higher level of cultural competence.

Primary text: Easy steps to Chinese 3 – 4

Students will:

• Apply writing of approx. 250 characters, including N1-3 characters and recognition of 100 additional characters
• Reinforce Mandarin speaking 90% and listening skills in the classroom
• Practice reading and writing continuously
• Conduct situational dialogues related to recommend restaurants, school clubs, transportation, neighborhood, giving/asking for directions and distances, booking plane tickets.
• Read and comprehend simple, authentic materials, e.g. following a simple direction related to transportation and routing, a simple letter from a friend about daily routine, etc.
• Share daily routine at home and school and favorite activities.
• Different opinions about professions in different cultures.

Some sample questions the students will explore during this course:

• What makes a good restaurant?
• How do you deal with issues regarding your neighborhood?
• How have the school activities affected your school life?
• Do you think traveling is a good lifestyle?

Prerequisites/notes: Successful completion of Grade 6 Novice 4 or Grade 7 Novice 3 or equivalent as determined by placement test.

Contact Ms. Daisy Shen dshen@hkis.edu.hk

Mandarin Intermediate 1/2 (IM1/2)

Full Year

This course is for students who have had many years of experience with mandarin as a second language. Students who display skills in handling everyday tasks with some complexity. This course aims to develop Mid-Intermediate proficiency in Chinese, selected topics focus on covers on School Life, Dining Out, Community and Travelling.

Cultural elements are embedded in the units of studies to foster a higher level of cultural competence.

Primary text: Easy steps to Chinese 4 - 5

Students will:

• Apply writing of approximately 450 characters including N1-4 characters and recognition of 100 additional characters
• Talk about their school life
• Understand and interpret food culture
• Make preparations before and after traveling
• Describe sickness and write a sick note
• Express personal opinions on pros and cons on an issue
• Share things happened at home
• Tell personal expectations

Some sample questions the students will explore during this course:

• What makes your school life different? And what are you going to share with others?
• How is Chinese food different from Western food?
• How do I use Mandarin Chinese skills to travel and live in China?
• How do I describe the sickness symptoms to a doctor?

Prerequisites/notes: Successful completion of N4 or equivalent as determined by placement test.

Contact Ms. Daisy Shen dshen@hkis.edu.hk

Mandarin Intermediate 3/4 (IM 3/4)

Full Year

This is a 2-year combined course with IM3 and IM4 targeting intermediate high level of language proficiency with increased emphasis on literacy. This course will allow students to solidify their skills for the next proficiency level while providing flexibility for the ones who can reach the target in one year.

Cultural elements are embedded in the units of studies to foster a high level of cultural competence.

Primary text: Text binder with supplement materials

Students will:

• Describe the characters in a story responding too major events and challenges.
• Compare and contrast the most important points.
• Ask and answer a range of conversations by linking their comments to the remarks of others.
• Write a sequence of instructions.
• Tell a story of recount an experience

Some sample questions the students will explore during this course:

• What are the differences between neighbours and relatives ?
• What can we learn about a culture through food ?
• How the invention of media and modern communication provides a productive life ?
• How do you make travel arrangements on the internet ?

Prerequisites/notes: Successful completion of Grade 6 IM2/3or equivalent as determined by placement test.

Contact Ms. Daisy Shen dshen@hkis.edu.hk

Mandarin Intermediate 5 /Advanced 1 (IM5/ AD1)

Full Year

This 2-year course is aiming for students to solidify the Advanced Level of language proficiency. This course will focus on advanced literacy and sustaining high-level language discourse such as analysis, metaphor, comparison, and critics.

Cultural elements are embedded in the units of studies to foster a high level of cultural competence.

Primary text: Chinese Language for Secondary School High Chinese (1A&1B)

Students will:

• Demonstrating solid understanding of concepts/skills
• Asking questions to clarify a task or goal
• Identifying and summarizing the problem/question
• Keeping an open mind, perceiving and examining things differently and from different points of view

Some sample questions the students will explore during this course:

• What are the main identity challenges ethnic Chinese usually have and why?
• How do Chinese people share some similar food traditions, and how do these traditions reflect Chinese culture and society?
• What are the essential elements of a good mini novel?
• What is the most important lifestyle change we can make to be more sustainable?

Prerequisites/notes: Successful completion of Grade 6 IM4 or equivalent as determined by placement test.

Contact Ms. Daisy Shen dshen@hkis.edu.hk

Spanish Novice 2

Full year (Every other day)

This course is designed for students who have been exposed with Spanish as a second language for at least one year. Students will develop and solidify basic everyday language functions. It targets to develop novice-mid level of language proficiency. Topics in this course spiral through personal information, expanding more on the self, ordering at a restaurant, daily routine and ending the year with the sports unit. Cultural elements are embedded in the units of studies to foster a higher level of cultural competence.

Students will:

• Be in a learning environment where Spanish is used increasingly as the language of instruction and communication.
• Review vocabulary for introducing themselves, describing family and friends, hobbies, food and school life.
• Reinforce introductory verbs: ser, tener, estar, gustar and present tense verbs.
• Learn vocabulary and new grammar structures to be able to order food and express preferences due to dietary restrictions.
• Begin to connect previous knowledge on vocabulary and grammar structures with new content.
• Begin to understand their native tongue at a deeper level through studying a foreign language.
• Dive a little deeper into the diversity of the Spanish-speaking world through food, routines and sports.

Prerequisites/notes: This is an intermediate class that requires a minimum of one year of exposure to Spanish. Successful completion of Spanish A (N1) at HKIS or equivalent as determined by placement test.

Contact Ms. Cecilia Michán cmichan@hkis.edu.hk

Spanish Novice 3

Full year (Every Other Day)

This course is for students who have had at least two years of experience with Spanish as a second language. Students who display skills in handling basic everyday tasks. This course aims to develop high novice proficiency in Spanish. Topics in this course spiral through more about the self, preparing a Spanish food dish, neighborhood/city life and ending the year with vacations in a Spanish-speaking country.

Cultural elements are embedded in the units of studies to foster a higher level of cultural competence.

Students will:

• Be in a learning environment where Spanish is used increasingly as the language of instruction and communication.
• Review vocabulary for introducing themselves, describing family and friends, hobbies, food and school life.
• Reinforce introductory verbs: ser, tener, estar, gustar and present tense verbs.
• Learn vocabulary and new grammar structures to be able to prepare a food dish in the kitchen, describe their neighborhood and how to offer suggestions while on vacation in a Spanish-speaking country.
• Begin to connect previous knowledge on vocabulary and grammar structures with new content.
• Begin to understand their native tongue at a deeper level through studying a foreign language.
• Dive a little deeper into the diversity of the Spanish-speaking world through food, neighborhood layouts and tourist attractions.

Prerequisites/notes: Successful completion of Spanish B (N2) or equivalent as determined by placement test.

Contact: Ms. Cecilia Michán cmichan@hkis.edu.hk

Performing Arts

Symphonic Band

Full year

Throughout their time in Symphonic Band, students will further develop and expand their skills on a band instrument. Students are expected to have a high level of self-motivated learning and effective collaborative skills. The Symphonic Band learns exciting, interesting and challenging music, and includes opportunities for students to perform for the school and wider community. Additionally, students may, through an external audition, participate in music festivals throughout Asia, such as the AMIS Middle School Honor Band Festival and the AMIS Online Solo Festival.

In particular, students will:

• Enhance their joy of making music
• Share in the experience of performing with their peers
• Develop ensemble skills including the role and importance of their instrument within the total ensemble
• Develop skills that will allow for solo performance
• Develop skills that enhance performance in smaller ensembles
• Learn about and use music software and technology
• Develop and use organizational, teamwork, and leadership skills
• Perform for audiences on a regular basis
• Develop efficient practice habits
• Collaborate with their peers frequently in class

Learning will be guided by the following questions:

• What makes an outstanding musical ensemble?
• What makes a rehearsal great?
• What makes a performance outstanding?
• How do students respond to interactions with a conductor?
• How does individual preparation contribute to an ensemble?
• How might various interpretations of music notation impact the performance and/or expression?

Prerequisites/notes: Several years of playing a band instrument, and/or permission of the conductor, and/or performance audition.

Contact: Dr Pihowich - mpihowich@hkis.edu.hk or Mr Ward - chward@hkis.edu.hk

Concert Band

Full year

Students will further develop their skills on a band instrument while playing in an ensemble. Students will rehearse a wide variety of music and have opportunities to perform these for the school and wider community. Additionally, students may, through an external audition, participate in music festivals throughout Asia, such as the AMIS Middle School Honor Band Festival and the AMIS Online Solo Festival.

Students will:

• Enhance their joy of making music independently and with their peers
• Develop ensemble skills and their understanding of their instrument’s role and the role of others in the ensemble
• Develop solo skills on their instrument
• Learn to utilize specific music software/technology
• Use technology as a fun practice tool and to record assignments at home
• Develop organizational and teamwork skills
• Perform as a band throughout the year at organized concerts and school gatherings
• Develop efficient practice habits

Learning will be guided by the following questions:

• What makes a good band sound great?
• Is there more to a song than the melody?
• Is there more to making music than just playing the notes?
• How do students respond to and interact with a conductor?
• What makes a performance outstanding?
• Does focused practice make playing in band more enjoyable?

Prerequisites/notes: Students must have an interest in music and enthusiasm to play a band instrument. Students should have at least one year of experience on their band instrument. In special situations, some students may be considered to join the Concert Band with no prior band experience with permission from the conductor.

Contact: Dr Pihowich - mpihowich@hkis.edu.hk or Mr Ward - chward@hkis.edu.hk

Concert Choir

Full year

Concert Choir is appropriate for beginning and intermediate-level singers. Concert Choir is a mixed choir for changing voices and treble voices combined.

The class studies and performs a wide variety of music, including religious, modern, classical, and foreign-language pieces.

Opportunities to perform in solos and small groups are available but optional. Concert Choir will perform at public concerts, MS gatherings, and public HKIS venues throughout the year.

Students will:

• Develop vocal technique, especially pitch-matching, harmonization, and vocal technique
• Learn to read and write musical notation
• Produce high-quality, energetic performances for a variety of audiences, including concerts and assemblies
• Be required to attend occasional after-school rehearsals and evening performances

Pre-requisites/notes: No prerequisites. All students will be challenged according to their level and prior experience.

Contact Mrs Laura Pihowich lpihowich@hkis.edu.hk

Chamber Choir

Full year

Chamber Choir is appropriate for intermediate and advanced-level treble voices.

In Chamber Choir, students will continue to work on vocal technique and sight-singing. Members are expected to practice regularly and develop skills and knowledge about challenging choral music. Like Concert Choir, the repertoire will draw on a wide variety of works, including modern, classical, religious, and foreign-language pieces. The Chamber Choir collaborates with other ensembles in the Middle School.

Opportunities to perform in solos and small groups are available but optional. Chamber Choir will perform at public HKIS concerts, MS gatherings, and public venues outside the school throughout the year.

Students will:

• Develop vocal technique, especially pitch-matching, harmonization, and vocal technique
• Learn to read and write musical notation
• Produce high-quality, energetic performances for a variety of audiences, including concerts and assemblies
• Be required to attend occasional after-school rehearsals and evening performances and festivals at school and outside school.

Pre-requisites/notes: Students wishing to register for Chamber Choir must arrange an audition and interview with the MS Choral Director. Candidates should have at least one year of singing experience.

Contact Mrs Laura Pihowich lpihowich@hkis.edu.hk

Boys' Chamber Choir

Full year

Boys’ Chamber choir is appropriate for intermediate and advanced-level mixed voices.

In Boys’ Chamber Choir, students will continue to work on vocal technique with a focus on the male changing voice and sight-singing. Members are expected to practice regularly and develop skills and knowledge about challenging choral music. Like Concert Choir, the repertoire will draw on a wide variety of works, including modern, classical, religious, and foreign-language pieces. The Boys’ Chamber Choir collaborates with other ensembles in the Middle School.

Opportunities to perform in solos and small groups are available but optional. Boy’s Chamber Choir will perform at public concerts, MS gatherings, and public venues outside the school throughout the year.

Students will:

• Develop vocal technique, especially pitch-matching, harmonization, and vocal technique
• Learn to read and write musical notation
• Produce high-quality, energetic performances for a variety of audiences, including concerts and assemblies
• Be required to attend occasional after-school rehearsals and evening performances and festivals at school and outside school.

Pre-requisites/notes: Students wishing to register for Boys' Chamber Choir must arrange an audition and interview with the MS Choral Director. Candidates should have at least one year of singing experience.

Contact Mrs Laura Pihowich lpihowich@hkis.edu.hk

Sinfonia Strings

Full Year

The strings program offers a wonderful opportunity for violin, viola, cello or bass players to enrich their playing skills and be a part of an orchestra. We play a wide variety of music, ranging from the classical concertos of Bach to the jazzy tunes of Gershwin. The enjoyable and fulfilling strings program is an experience not to be missed! This course is designed to meet the need of developing first and second year strings students.

Students will:

• Enrich the joy of making music
• Develop ensemble skills and understanding of their instrument role in an ensemble setting
• Focus on skills specific to their level while being introduced to Easy intermediate’s repertoire
• Create music through technology and music software
• Develop team-building and personal organizational skills
• Develop efficient home practice habit
• Get the chance to perform at school assemblies and public concerts during the school year
• Be required to attend occasional after-school rehearsals and evening performance

Some sample questions the students will explore during this course:

• How do we produce a good sound?
• What is the different between solo playing and ensemble playing?
• How do player communicate with their conductor?
• What is effective practice?
• What is a good ensemble playing?
• What is an outstanding performance?

Pre-requisites/notes: Student who is interested in music and to play a string instrument. Some prior experience on an their instrument is required.

Contact: Ms Staver -astaver@hkis.edu.hk

Classical Strings

Full Year

Joining the strings orchestra program is an exciting musical opportunity for all students. With our four instruments: the violin, viola, cello, and bass, we play a wide variety of music, ranging from the classical concertos of Bach to the jazzy tunes of Gershwin. Students will further expand their playing skills on a string instrument. We also do a lot of performances, competition and overseas music festival outside school. The enjoyable and fulfilling strings program is an experience not to be missed!

Students will:

• Enrich the joy of making music
• Share music talent with peers through playing
• Strength ensemble skills including understand the importance of own role in an ensemble setting
• Increase their technical abilities while reinforcing correct playing techniques and exploring musical styles, composers, and periods
• Develop music appreciation skill
• Create music through technology and music software
• Develop team-building and personal organizational skills
• Develop efficient home practice habit
• Perform at school assemblies and public concerts/competition as an ensemble during the school years
• Be required to attend occasional after-school rehearsals and evening performances

Some sample questions the students will explore during this course:

• What is a good ensemble?
• How do players communicate with each other and with their conductor?
• What is my role in the ensemble? What do I have to do in order to contribute to a successful rehearsal?
• What is efficient practice?
• How do I improve my playing techniques & sound quality?
• What is an outstanding performance?

Pre-requisites/notes: Successful completion of Intermediate Strings, Grade 6 Advance Level and/or with teachers’ recommendation or equivalent.

Contact: Ms Staver -astaver@hkis.edu.hk

The Drama Studio

Half year (1 Semester)

The Drama Studio follows a workshop model that involves active, collaborative learning that is strengthened by teacher and peer feedback. Students will take a focused, hands-on look at physical theatre, the use of improvisation in developing ideas, and the creative process of storytelling in live performance and other media.

Students will:

• Work with physical performance techniques.
• Explore a range of improvisational theatre skills.
• Demonstrate developing performance skills.
• Analyze character and story in comedic and dramatic settings.
• Engage in the peer feedback process.
• Gain knowledge and practical experience in various performance genres and media.

Some sample questions the students will explore during this course:

• How do I tap into my creative energy and why should I?
• What can I do to develop strong physical comedy skills?
• How does improvisation help me manage anxiety and stress?
• How does storytelling help me develop empathy?
• What contributes to successful storytelling through video and other media

Prerequisites/notes:

• This course can be taken in both grades 7 and 8, as the units of this course are modified each year. The fulfillment of one assignment includes after-school time for rehearsal.

Contact: Mr John Mulhall jmulhall@hkis.edu.hk

Theatre Craft

Half year (1 Semester)

Theatre Craft will bring students through the various non-performance components of the world of theatre, from a theoretical and practical point of view.

Students will:

• Learn about the various off-stage roles in theatre
• Explore areas of scenic, costume and make-up design for theatre
• Approach theatre from a technical perspective through projection, sound, and video editing
• Create the non-performance elements of the MS Play or Musical

Some sample questions the students will explore during this course:

• How do sets and costumes go from "design" to 'reality"?
• How do make-up artists create strange and interesting creatures?
• What are some "tricks of the trade" in creating dramatic impact on a budget?
• How do I use my own skills and creativity in the context of a director's vision?

Prerequisites/notes:

• This course can be taken in both grades 7 and 8, as the units of this course are modified each year.
• The fulfillment of one assignment includes after-school time for rehearsal and/or performance.
• Students will participate in hands-on activities that require some after-school time in connection with the MS Musical

Contact: Mr John Mulhall jmulhall@hkis.edu.hk

Musical Theatre

Half year (Semester 2 only)

Enter the world of theatre via triple threat--acting, singing and dancing, as students prepare to perform in the Middle School musical.

Students will:

• Develop essential storytelling skills through acting
• Build their confidence as theatrical singers
• Explore movement, blocking, and dance set to a musical piece
• Create original staging and characterization for a musical scene
• Contribute as an active member of a collaborative ensemble with the goal of performing the Middle School Musical

Some sample questions the students will explore during this course:

• What makes musical theatre an engaging form of storytelling?
• How does a performer communicate a character and their world clearly?
• How does a performer balance exploration, critique, and reflection?
• How does an individual contribute to a successful theatre performance?

Prerequisites/notes:

• This course can be taken in both grades 7 and 8, as the units of this course are modified each year.
• The production in May is an integral part of the class, and participation includes some extra-curricular rehearsals and evening performances.

Contact: Mr John Mulhall jmulhall@hkis.edu.hk

Arts and Design

Studio A: Identity in Art

Half year (1 Semester)

Students will engage in a variety of art-making experiences with a conceptual focus on personal identity and expression. They will make authentic connections with historical and contemporary artists. This studio-based course allows students to explore and incorporate a range of two and three-dimensional media. Students will reflect upon their own experiences.

Students will:

• Explore a variety of concepts relating to personal identity and expression
• Create a variety of 2D and 3D art while developing technical skills and confidence in using a range of materials
• Engage with the creative process and a research-based approach to making art
• Connect with historical and contemporary references to frame their learning journey

Sample questions that students will explore:

• How can I share my personal story through art?
• What makes an artwork expressive?
• What methods and processes do artists use to develop their work?
• How can I expand my creativity in a personal and meaningful way?

Contact: Ms Brianna Bedessem bbedessem@hkis.edu.hk or Ms. Jules White jwhite@hkis.edu.hk

Studio B: Artists & Society

Half year (1 Semester)

Students will explore the role of artists in society and the ways that art reflects the world in which we live. They will reference artists who have made a social and cultural impact through their work. This studio-based course allows students to explore and incorporate a range of two and three-dimensional media. Students will reflect upon their own experiences

Students will:

• Explore a variety of concepts relating to the role of the artist and art in society
• Create a variety of 2D and 3D art to build upon skills and experiences relevant to project goals and needs
• Engage with the creative process and use research as well as historical and contemporary references to make key connections
• Investigate their social responsibility as an artistic commentator

Sample questions that students will explore:

• What is the role of the artist in society?
• What impact can my art have on others?
• How can art be used as a form of communication and a catalyst for action?
• How can historical and contemporary forms of art influence my decision-making process in a creative way?

Contact: Ms. Brianna Bedessem bbedessem@hkis.edu.hk or Ms. Jules White jwhite@hkis.edu.hk

Independent Art Studio

Half year (1 Semester)

* Confirmation for this course selection will involve meeting with the art teacher first. Please complete the student interest form if you are interested in taking this course.

This course is designed for students who have a strong interest in art and design and are highly motivated to work independently on their own personal projects. Students will develop a theme or focus for the semester that will drive their concepts and creative process. They will explore a variety of media, as well as contemporary art-making practices, in order to discover, challenge and connect with their chosen theme or area of focus. This studio course provides time and space for students to experiment with techniques, develop skills and enter into critical dialogue with peers and teacher mentors. Students will be expected to document their work and share progress of their ideas on a weekly basis.

Contact: Ms. Brianna Bedessem bbedessem@hkis.edu.hk or Ms. Jules White jwhite@hkis.edu.hk

Creative Computing

Half year (1 semester)

Creative Computing is a student-centered course in which students will learn to program through personalized projects. Learners will engage in challenges and projects where they build on key coding principles throughout the semester. Principles will be applied to multiple programming environments, both block and text-based, to have a well rounded understanding of coding. Creative Computing is designed to naturally develop creative minds, collaborative attitudes, and personal resiliency through a "hard fun" approach to learning.

Contact: Ms. Megan Godek mgodek@hkis.edu.hk

Playful Inventions

Half year (1 semester)

Playful Inventions is an introduction to the joy of tinkering, invention, and robotics. During this project-based course, learners will use the design thinking process to create projects of their own choosing. Students will experience building with multiple types of materials, understanding how to connect and build with purpose. As the semester continues, students will incorporate robotics into their designs. Learners will use imagination, design, construction, and programming within a collaborative and inclusive environment.

Contact: Ms. Megan Godek mgodek@hkis.edu.hk or Ms. Brianna Bedessem bbedessem@hkis.edu.hk

Digital Media and Design

Half year (1 Semester)

Digital Media and Design provides an opportunity for students to be content creators and designers. In these roles, they will explore and develop creative projects through digital media such as podcasting, graphic design, photography, filmmaking and emerging technologies.

Digital Media and Design students will employ and develop critical thinking skills within and beyond the HKIS Design Cycle. Necessarily, they will respond to their place in the world by exploring aspects of service and global understanding and sharing their products with an authentic audience.

Contact: Mr. Josh Wood jwood@hkis.edu.hk

Culinary Arts

Half year (1 Semester)

Students will explore the world of culinary arts and learn about nutrition, food preparation, and cultural cuisines from around the world. We will also discuss the science of cooking and baking. Throughout the course, students will learn how to manage their time, interpret recipes, and use techniques and equipment to perfect their culinary talent. Students will be given time to develop and perfect their culinary skills, and learn a variety of tips on food preparation. We will emphasize the importance of creating a safe and hygienic work space, as well as learning to cooperate with peers in the kitchen. By the end of this course, students will have a foundation that will enable them to tackle any challenge in the kitchen.

Students will learn:

• Food safety and hygiene in the kitchen
• A repertoire of recipes they are confident to create
• Various food preparation and cooking techniques
• That food preparation can be taken to artistic perspectives
• Self-confidence and self-sufficiency in regards to food preparation, production, and presentation
• Communication and team-building skills through practice classes

Contact: Mr. Barry Johnson bjohnson@hkis.edu.hk

Skills

Creative Writing

Half year (1 Semester)

Creative Writing students write several short pieces and poems during the semester. Students confer with the teacher individually to improve their writing. They also participate in writing workshops and focus on attending to peer feedback while improving their own editing skills. Throughout the semester, students examine examples of selected literary models to imitate effective writing techniques. Students will have the opportunity to submit work for consideration for publication in the Middle School literary magazine, Inklings.

Contact: Ms. Maureen McCann mmcann@hkis.edu.hk

Self Motivated Learning Studio

Half year (1 Semester)

* Confirmation for this course selection may involve meeting with the teacher first. Please complete the student interest form if you are interested in taking this course.

This course is designed for students who are highly motivated to work independently on their own personal projects. Students will delve into a passion or a curiosity while extending their learning beyond the classroom. Using the HKIS design cycle, they will inquire into an area of interest, connected to a need in the world, in order to imagine, reflect and create a project or series of projects. This studio course provides time and space for students to experiment with ideas, develop skills and enter into critical dialogue with peers and teacher mentors. Students will be expected to document their work and share progress of their ideas on a weekly basis.

Contact: Mr Josh Wood jwood@hkis.edu.hk

Learning Strategies

Full year

Learning strategies is designed for students with a documented special learning need and provides ongoing support in any of the following areas: reading, writing, math, work completion, organization of materials, efficient use of time, planning for project work, and self-advocacy.

Students will work towards proficiency in:

• Understanding and articulating individual learning needs leading to self-advocacy
• Effectively applying strategies for learning
• Persevering through challenging situations
• Using an organizational system that keeps materials easily accessible
• Using an effective method to record and track assignments and tests
• Test-taking/ Note-taking strategies

Additionally, time is allocated to reinforce understanding of grade-level curriculum.

Some sample questions students will explore during this course:

• What kind of learner am I?
• Which strategies help me learn?
• How do I know if I am learning?

Prerequisites/notes: Students are placed in this class through consultation with the learning specialist, counselor, parents and teachers in conjunction with a Student Review Team (SRT) meeting.

Contact: Mr. Nathan Kellar nkellar@hkis.edu.hk or Ms. Suzi Wah swah@hkis.edu.hk