HIS Academics

Primary Years at HIS
The Primary Years multi-age program at Hokkaido International School is built on a foundation of understanding the cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development of young children. We understand that the whole child must be nurtured. This is done by providing an environment that is child centered, experiential, stimulating, creative, and flexible. Activities are designed to offer children opportunities to explore, experiment and discover with hands-on materials. The multi-age learning environment, climate, and activities encourage students to develop confidence, skills, and attitudes that will benefit them throughout their lives.

Because children are active learners with innate curiosity, the program ensures that learning objectives are relevant to students and set in a joyful and playful atmosphere. This includes language development, self expression and creativity approached through puppetry, drama, literature, songs, dance, poetry, and games.

Listening and speaking in English is a large component of the Primary Years program. The rich language environment that is grounded in play, drama, music and stories, and that is beneficial to young native English speakers, is the same environment especially critical for second language learners. Vocabulary and grammar are developed in natural and authentic ways as students engage in the varied experiences of the classroom.

While providing developmentally appropriate activities, HIS Primary Years teachers understand that every child is on a unique path of growth, and also has a unique personality and learning style. Therefore, objectives and outcome goals are child specific while aligning with appropriate age-level school standards. Students enter Kindergarten having worked on learning letter names and sounds, conveying ideas on paper with pictures and letters, counting and recognizing numerals to 20, sorting, and patterning. Students begin First Grade with a solid foundation in those concepts, plus further work with math and problem solving and having engaged more deeply in early literacy activities including beginning reading. Children are given the opportunity to learn, grow and develop according to their own path, each in their own time and unique way.

While many children in the multi-age classroom may seem to be engaged in a similar activity, the teachers understand that each student may be taking different learning from the experience. A positive self image as well as core of knowledge results from the opportunity to grow and be nurtured individually in this type of rich and stimulating environment. Thus, three, four, five and six year olds can play and learn side by side in this program.

Above all, the Primary Years experience strives to ensure that the children are happy and eager to come to school.

Elementary School at HIS
Elementary instruction at HIS follows the IPC (International Primary Curriculum). The IPC was developed in 2000 as a cross-curricular thematic curriculum to meet the needs of international schools around the world. As of 2008, it is being used in more than 500 schools in 50 different countries. HIS was introduced to the IPC in the spring of 2004 and began implementing it from the 2005 school year.

The central purpose of everything connected with the IPC is student learning. Helping children develop academically, socially and emotionally through a focus on learning is the core goal of this curriculum. The curriculum takes into account the most recent research on the brain and how children learn.

IPC has been designed with a particular focus to help children develop an international mindset in connection with an awareness of their own nationality. Children are encouraged to develop the skills they need to take an active part in the world around them.

The subjects of geography, history, science and society are taught in integrated units. These units will also include some art, ICT (Information and Communication Technology), music and PE. Each unit contains an international element to raise children's awareness of the world around them. Each subject, in addition to being integrated into a unit, has clearly defined goals for knowledge, skills and understanding, which the children are expected to meet at the end of a milepost.

The goals differ according to the age of the children. The three, four, and five year olds at HIS use the Early Years Program. It is a separate part of the IPC and leads into the study of the elementary mileposts. For the elementary years, there are three mileposts. Milepost One includes study in Grades 1 and 2. Milepost Two includes study in Grades 3 and 4. Milepost Three includes study in Grades 5 and 6.

For more information, check out the International Primary Curriculum at: http://www.internationalprimarycurriculum.com/.

Junior High at HIS
Students entering 7th, 8th and 9th grade in the 2010-2011 school year will be beginning a three-year rotation of content that begins with a Survey of the World, then moves to Japan and the World in 2011-2012 and then to a Survey of the Ancient World in 2012-2013.

For the upcoming year students will be focusing the World, particularly South America, North America, Africa and Asia (except Japan) through most of their courses. World history and literature are the social studies and English courses for the year; science will include a study of world scientists and discoveries, arts courses will focus on art, music, and drama of around world and PE will give a taste of the sports, games and dances from around the world. Math, language and technology courses will focus on the specialized subject content and will include references to world influences where appropriate.

Classes are taught as multi-age classes with most having a mixture of 7th, 8th and 9th grade students in each class. Within the classes students can opt to take the course at a general or standard level, or to challenge themselves by taking the course at an honors level.

Jr. High students have three areas of electives: first they may choose to continue or begin with Japanese language, if they are still developing their English language skills and the ELL director recommends it, they may continue in ELL or they may take Spanish; second, students can opt for either art or choir; finally, students can enroll in either musical theater, drama, or computer applications. All entering 7th graders will be required to take a computer applications course one year of jr. high and all students must take one visual arts course, one musical arts course, and on dramatic arts course during their junior high years.

More HIS Junior High Information ...
Students and parents are encouraged to read the 2010-2011 HIS Secondary Handbook for further information about junior high at Hokkaido International School. You may view, save, and print a copy by clicking here.

2010-2011 JUNIOR HIGH COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
For a printer-friendly copy of the HIS 2010-2011 Junior High Course Descriptions, please click here.

HUMANITIES
Junior High History - Survey of World History
The Survey of World History curriculum is designed to involve students in the processes (Research, evaluation and interpretation skills) and resources through which we become informed on past human cultures. From our research and reading we analyze and come to conclusions specific themes in a wide sweep of history in order to lay the foundation of understanding in history. Specific studies will focus on World Geography, the Age of Exploration, Imperialism, Independence Movements and the Modern World.

Junior High English - World Literature
Junior high world literature is a one year survey of influential classic and contemporary literary works and movements from around the globe. The literature will serve as a foundation for vocabulary building, writing practice and the strengthening of English language ability. The writing focus for this year will be comparison/contrast and persuasion/argument. This class is aligned with junior high world history. An Honors option providing a more rigorous and intense course of study is available.

Book list highlights include Night, To the Edge of the World, Bless me Ultima, Remembering Slavery and A Girl named Disaster.

SCIENCE
Junior High Science
Science is more than just a class at school: it is a way of thinking, acting and looking at the world. In Junior High science, students will learn the skills and thinking processes to refine their nature as scientists. They will explore concepts in life, physical and earth science each year and connect up with other young scientists around the globe using programs from the Annenberg Foundation and the JASON project.

MATH
Introduction to Secondary Math
Pre-algebra provides the background needed to understand algebra. Students broaden and deepen their knowledge of variables, expressions, integers, the solving of multi-step equations and inequalities, factors, fractions, exponents, rational numbers, ratios, proportions, probability, percents, and data analysis. Linear functions are studied as well as polynomials and nonlinear functions. Real numbers, right triangles, angle relationships, transformations, area, and volume are also explored.

Algebra I
The main thrust of this course is the solving, graphing, and writing of linear equations, inequalities, and systems. Students will master skills dealing with expressions, real number properties, exponents and exponential functions. They will be introduced to quadratic equations and functions, polynomials and factoring, radicals with geometric connections, and rational equations and functions.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Junior High PE
Physical Education at HIS is concerned with the development of all aspects of the individual: physical, social, mental and emotional. This program promotes:

-- a healthy balanced lifestyle
-- an opportunity to participate in a range of sports, games and fun activities
-- application of movement concepts
-- drug, alcohol and sex education
-- positive social relationships in group and team settings
-- responsible personal and social behaviors.

Many (if not all) values, attitudes and skills learned here are transferable to other areas of students’ lives and lifelong learning. Evaluation is based on a student’s effort, participation, fitness, sports skills and knowledge, determination to improve, and interpersonal skills.

ARTS
Secondary Choir
“The Kitara Concert was one of most awesome experiences in my high school life.”
An HIS graduate

Prerequisite: A student should be able to sing relatively in good pitch.

Our main goal is performing. Any student who loves music is welcome to join this course, but please remember that a success of a choir will not come easily without your hard work. Since the choir requires a group work just like playing basketball or baseball, it is very essential that students are willing to work hard for the excellence of our organization. Therefore it will be not enough merely to SAY that you are interested in the group’s success; you must demonstrate by your actions that you are dedicated to the goal. And if you are strongly motivated, we guarantee you that you will have a wonderful experience in your school life at HIS.

The course will cover basic vocal skills, music theory, singing various styles of songs and music history. We will especially focus on Asian and European music this year as we integrate with the junior and senior high classes. Please note that there will be extra rehearsals before concerts and students are asked to attend these rehearsals.

Art Survey
This introductory course provides the beginning art student with an exploration of the elements of art by gaining basic skills in the techniques and tools of the two dimensional media of drawing, painting, printmaking and design. Emphasis will be placed on proper use of techniques and methods. Art history focusing on world art, art criticism, and aesthetics will be included as points for discussing art. A sketch-research book will provide the start of the personal portfolio development process.

Musical Theater
This course will be a performance-based course focusing on the wonderful world of musicals and musical theater. You will explore and perform musicals that connect to the world survey theme and learn the vital role that support staff play in creating a production.

Drama
Welcome to the theatre! This elective will begin with the elementary concepts of acting, where students will learn to speak, act and react on stage and it will culminate with a presentation that is directed, produced, and performed by all class members. Participation will be expected in lighting, make-up, costumes, stage sets as well as acting criteria for particular theatre styles as well as eras. Plays and scenes will be drawn from World sources to allow for integration with other classes.

Students will participate in various projects throughout the year with the goal of competency in written and oral communication using a variety of artistic and technological forms including individual writing assignments, collaborative assignments, technical contributions, and oral and dramatic presentations.

TECHNOLOGY
Middle School Applications
The internet is a vast ocean of information: this class will learn effective use of the internet to do high quality, topic specific research and cite it properly using citation specific tools. The advanced skills necessary to create stunning reports and presentations using the various tools available on the computers in the lab and on the internet will also be taught.

LANGUAGE
Japanese for Proficient Speakers
Japanese for Proficient Language Speakers (JPLS) is designed for students that are capable of freely communicating orally in Japanese. All students enrolled in this course must be fluent, or near fluent, in spoken Japanese. The aim of JPLS is develop student mastery of speaking, writing, and reading Japanese. Additional focus is on Japanese history and culture. Extensive use of Authorized Japanese textbooks and NHK programs enhance instruction.

Japanese for Non-Native Speakers Junior-High
Japanese for Non-Native Speakers is a multi-leveled course in which students learn Japanese according to their own proficiency levels, from beginning, to intermediate to advanced. Students are expected to learn and improve four languages skills: speaking, listening, reading, and writing, through communicative practices. Students learn the cultural aspects of Japanese as well.

Spanish
Participants can learn Spanish or improve their skills in it as they discover more about cultural traditions and daily life in Hispanic countries. Conversation, videos, music, and Hispanic speakers are featured in the activities of the courses.

English Language Learners
This class continues to support students learning the English language in the secondary within their regular classrooms as well as in the ELL classroom. Vocabulary, usage, grammar in both spoken and written English will be the accent. Coursework will often stem from students’ work in their other secondary classes.

Senior High at HIS
The curriculum at HIS is a three-year rotation of humanities content that extends to the arts, the sciences, math and physical education. Students entering 10th, 11th and 12th grade in the 2010-2011 school year will use World History and Literature as the focus for the year, then move to European in 2011-2012 and then to the United States in 2012-2013.

Classes are taught as multi-age classes with most having a mixture of 10th, 11th and 12th grade students in each class. Within the classes students can opt to take the course at a general or standard level, or to challenge themselves by taking the course at an honors level or an AP level. AP level work is generally most appropriate for 11th and 12th grade students.

AP Note
Available courses include English Literature and Composition, World History, Japanese, Calculus, Chemistry, and Studio Art. If there is another AP course you are interested in, please feel free to discuss this with Mr. Ratzliff.

More HIS Senior High Information...
Students and parents are encouraged to read the 2010-2011 HIS Secondary Handbook for further information about senior high at Hokkaido International School. You may view, save, and print a copy by clicking here.

2010-2011 SENIOR HIGH COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
For a printer-friendly copy of the HIS 2010-2011 Junior High Course Descriptions, please click here.

HUMANITIES
High School History - World (with AP option)
(required core course)

In World History you will develop a greater understanding of the evolution of global processes and contacts including interactions over time. The course highlights the nature of changes in international frameworks and their causes and consequences, as well as comparisons among major societies. Class format will be small and large group discussions, in class learning activities, on-line activities and written responses to historical questions and issues. Additionally students will write a research paper during the third quarter allowing them to hone their research skills, MLA understanding and written communication.

It can be taken, at teacher discretion, at a Developing, Standard, Honors or AP level. AP participants will prepare for the AP US History exam in May.

http://www.collegeboard.com/student/testing/ap/sub_worldhist.html?worldhist

High School English – American (US) Literature (with AP option)
(required core course)

Senior high world literature is a one year survey of influential classic and contemporary literary works and movements from around the globe. Aside from literary analysis, the writing focus for this year will be comparison/contrast and persuasion/argument. This class is aligned with
senior high world history. Honors and AP options providing more rigorous and intense courses of study are available.

Book list highlights include Siddhartha, Nectar in a Sieve, The House
of Spirits and Things Fall Apart.

http://www.collegeboard.com/student/testing/ap/sub_englit.html?englit

SCIENCE
Biology
This course takes an in-depth look at the profound observations and theories of modern biology. Students will develop the knowledge and techniques that will enable them to critically think about living systems. Entwined in the curriculum is an emphasis on how knowledge of cell dynamics, genetics, plant and animal physiology, and evolution can benefit one’s life and lead to better courses of action.

AP Chemistry
Students of this course develop a thorough understanding of the concepts and processes of general chemistry. A student’s analytical skills are strengthen and tested daily through problem-solving experiences and complex laboratory work. Completion of this course provides solid preparation for the Advance Placement Chemistry Exam.

http://www.collegeboard.com/student/testing/ap/sub_chem.html?chem

Student must earn a B or better in Chemistry, or permission of the instructor, to enroll in AP Chemistry.

MATH
(two years high school math required for graduation)

Geometry
This course is a detailed study of points, lines, planes, and solids. Students examine properties and prove relationships using points, lines, planes, and solids. They examine mathematical and geometrical reasoning and proofs. They should master topics dealing with parallel lines, congruence, similarity, right triangles, circles, and areas and volumes of polygons and solids. The use of transformations and coordinates in geometry is introduced.

Algebra II
Algebra II begins with a review of linear equations and an introduction to matrices and determinants. This course then requires the student to master skills dealing with quadratic equations, parabolas, powers, roots, radicals, exponential and logarithmic functions, polynomial functions, rational functions, quadratic relations, sequences and series. It ends with an introduction to trigonometry probability and statistics. Algebra I is a prerequisite.

Completion of Algebra II with a ‘C’ or better is required for graduation. (Not offered 2010-2011; can be taken online)

Pre-Calculus & Trigonometry
This course builds on the knowledge obtained in Algebra II. It includes a study of functions, graphs, applications of functions and graphs, trigonometry, discrete mathematics, data analysis, limits, and an introduction to calculus. Mastery of Algebra II is a prerequisite.

AP Calculus
Calculus begins with a review of functions and limits. Extensive time is then spent on differentiation and integration, learning many techniques to deal with different types of functions. Mastery of Precalculus is a prerequisite. This course also prepares students to take the AP Calculus AB exam in May.

http://www.collegeboard.com/student/testing/ap/sub_calab.html?calcab

PHYSICAL EDUCATION
(two years required for graduation)

High School PE
Physical Education at HIS is concerned with the development of all aspects of the individual: physical, social, mental and emotional. PE at HIS promotes:

-- ways to a achieve and uphold a healthy balanced lifestyle
-- an opportunity to participate in a range of sports, games and fun activities
-- application of advanced movement concepts
-- opportunity to promote a healthy, active lifestyle to others
-- appropriate health education topics
-- positive social relationships in group and team settings
-- responsible personal and social behaviors.

ARTS
(two years of arts are required for graduation)

Secondary Choir
““The Kitara Concert was one of most awesome experiences in my high school life.”
An HIS graduate

Prerequisite: A student should be able to sing relatively in good pitch.

Studio Art
This course will enable the student to explore a number of techniques and skills required for producing art works of quality in drawing, painting, printmaking, design, and sculpture. Emphasis will be place on enhancing creativity through problem solving and proper demonstration of methods and techniques. Art history focusing on world art, art criticism, and aesthetics
will be included. Portfolio development will be stressed.

AP Visual Arts Studio (offered as part of Art Studio)
Offered to 11th and 12th grade students, this course explores ideas and the resulting artwork of historical periods as it relates the student’s personal studio body of work. Students will describe, analyze, and criticize artwork and explore the interdependency of art and one’s environment.

Class activities stress independent thought and productivity. The student will produce research that demonstrates an independent, exploratory and integrated approach expressed both visually and in writing.

20+ studio pieces will be produced with this process culminating in the AP exam portfolio. The studio component will include: purposeful exploration, meaning and function, formal qualities, technical and media skills, growth and commitment demonstrated in personal, artistic expression. The Research Workbook (RWB) will show a methodical, critical examination of meaning in visual images to include analysis of aesthetic issues.

http://www.collegeboard.com/student/testing/ap/sub_studioart.html?studioart

High School Drama
Welcome to the theatre! This new elective will begin with the elementary concepts of acting, where students will learn to speak, act and react on stage and it will culminate with a presentation that is directed, produced, and performed by all class members. Participation will be expected in lighting, make-up, costumes, stage sets as well as acting criteria for particular theatre styles as well as eras. Plays and scenes will be drawn from world sources to allow for integration with other classes.

Musical Theater
This course will be a performance based course focusing on the wonderful world of musicals and musical theater. You will explore and perform musicals that connect to the world survey theme and learn the vital role that support staff play in creating a production.

LANGUAGE
(two years of language are required for graduation)

Japanese for Proficient Speakers (with AP option)
Japanese for Proficient Language Speakers (JPLS) is designed for students that are capable of freely communicating orally in Japanese. All students enrolled in this course must be fluent, or near fluent, in spoken Japanese. The aim of JPLS is develop student mastery of speaking, writing, and reading Japanese. Additional focus is on Japanese history and culture. Extensive use of Authorized Japanese textbooks and NHK programs enhance instruction.

Beginning, intermediate, and advanced level JPLS are all offered at HIS; These levels are interactively taught in mixed-level classes. Prerequisite for the course is passing a fluency test administered by the instructor. Those who are in the upper intermediate level and above have an option to take the AP Japanese course to prepare for the AP exam.

http://www.collegeboard.com/student/testing/ap/sub_japaneselang.html?japaneselang

Pre-AP content will be incorporated in the regular language instruction for students who wish to take the AP course but haven’t yet reached such level, so that they can make a smooth transition when joining the course.

Japanese for Non-Native Speakers High-School Courses
Japanese for Non-Native Speakers is a multi-leveled course in which students learn Japanese according to their own proficiency levels, from beginning, to intermediate, to advanced. Students are expected to learn and improve four languages skills: speaking, listening, reading, and writing, through communicative practices. Students learn the cultural aspects of Japanese as well.

Spanish
This course will incorporate culture as well as language study in order to give Spanish context and meaning. Study, accented with music, videos, history, art will aim at acquiring practical Spanish that you might encounter in your travels, as well as that which you'll find in a university setting. Conversational phrases, grammatical structure, and lots of cultural context will make up the bulk of the course.

OPTIONS
Community Service
Open to 11th & 12th grade students, community service requires a commitment to assist outside of the school community. This class is ungraded but one EIR credit for a full year of service can be earned.

Teacher’s Aide
Open to 11th & 12th grade students, being a teacher’s aide requires a commitment to assist a teacher either in elementary or secondary during or after school. In order to register for being a teacher’s aide, please mark the appropriate line.

Study Hall
Open to students 11th and 12th grade. Must be approved by the secondary coordinator.