Middle School Promotion Requirements

The UAS Middle School curriculum was cooperatively and collaboratively developed by a dedicated committee of teachers and administrators specializing in Grades 6-8. After researching several sources, the benchmarks and standards were adapted from the very highest American and international school aims. During the 2009-2010 school year, the teachers will be revising the standards and developing pacing guides to better deliver instruction.

High quality instruction is provided in the core subjects of English/language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, Arabic language, Islamic religion, and the Holy Quran. Students are expected to master basic knowledge as well as the application of information through the daily use of higher order thinking skills. The curriculum proffers a constructivist approach to learning where students use all modalities of acquisition and expression to understand and apply content and skills most effectively for themselves.

In addition to a solid core of classes, all students participate in exploratory courses of physical education, instructional technology, art, and creative drama. Instrumental band and an intensive introduction to the French language and culture are offered as electives. Only students who score at- or above-level in English reading comprehension, speaking, and writing are eligible to participate in the latter. If a student is accepted into band and French, he or she will not be able to participate in exploratory courses.

 Grade 6 students are expected to master Middle School Math II in order to be prepared for Grade 7 math. (Mastery means achievement of 80% or more of the specified content.)

Grade 7 students are expected to master Prealgebra in order to be prepared for Grade 8 math.

Grade 8 students are expected to master Algebra I in order to be prepared to start advanced mathematics courses in Grade 9.