Course Guide Grades 9 -12 2021/2022 - Frankfurt International School www.fis.edu
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1 Frankfurt International School Course Guide Grades 9 –12 2021/2022 www.fis.edu
FIS Course Guide
2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Purpose of the Course Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 COURSE DESCRIPTIONS:
Credit Requirements for Graduation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Arts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
College/University Entrance Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . 3 English . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Academic Pathways Offered at FIS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Non-English Languages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Course Placement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Humanities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
German Abitur Certification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Mathematics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
FIS IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) Science . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Course Offerings in Grades 11/12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Learning Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Required Courses (By Grade Level) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Other Courses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Sample Four Year Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Appendix
Planning Page . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Matrix of IB Prerequisites for Universities . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
TOC
FIS Course Guide
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Purpose of the Course Guide Credit Requirements for Graduation College/University Entrance Requirements
One of the most important decisions students make is the A full-time one year course equals one “credit.” Students in Colleges and universities consider a number of factors during
selection of courses for their academic program. Students need Grades 9 and 10 enroll in eight credits each year. Students in the admissions process. The most important factor considered
to consider which courses will best meet their abilities, needs Grades 11 and 12 must enroll in at least six credits each year. is the choice of courses and academic performance within
and future plans beyond high school. This booklet contains a these courses. Although each university establishes its own
wealth of information to support students in this process. All students who graduate from FIS will earn an American High entrance requirements, the recommended number of courses
Course descriptions are provided to familiarize students with School Diploma. completed by graduation, within subject areas, are as
the courses offered at FIS along with information to enable follows:
them to wisely plan an individualized program of study that Graduation requirements are as follows:
incorporates specific requirements necessary for graduation. English: 4 credits
• English 4 credits
Students should use this course guide to develop their aca- Social Studies: 4 credits
demic plan before selecting and find out as much information • Mathematics 3 credits
as possible about each course – its objectives, requirements, Science: 4 credits
prerequisites and path for progression. Students should also • Non-English Language 2 credits
consider the following questions when choosing their courses Mathematics: 4 credits
and academic track: • Social Sciences 3 credits
Non-English Language: 3 credits of the same language
What courses are required per grade level? • Experimental Sciences 3 credits
Particularly for Grades 11–12, it is important that students and
Are the courses I have chosen appropriate for my ability and • Physical Education 1 credit parents carefully review university entrance requirements prior
interests? to selecting their courses at FIS. The counselors will be able to
• Academic elective courses 8 credits assist in providing current information about various university
Will the courses I have chosen meet the prerequisites for uni- requirements, admissions procedures and other pertinent
versity admissions in a specific country? Minimum Total 24 credits material to create a plan with appropriate subject options.
Have I taken advantage of the breadth of course offerings to Creativity Activity Service (CAS) is required in Grades 11 and 12.
explore interests or future career paths?
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Academic Pathways Offered at FIS
FIS High School Diploma The IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) IB Coursework Candidates
All Grade 9–12 students at FIS pursue a High School Diploma. In Grades 11 and 12, students may pursue the International Grade 11 and 12 students opting not to pursue the IBDP are
Upon successful completion of all FIS graduation credit re- Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP), a rigorous two year enrolled in six courses per year. A student can opt to enroll in
quirements, students will receive an FIS High School Diploma program that is required by most European universities for six IB courses, a combination of IB and non-IB, or no IB courses.
accredited by the United States’ New England Association of admission and highly regarded by universities worldwide. Students who elect to study individual IB subjects will gain
Schools & Colleges (NEASC). Students must take six courses within specific subject areas in recognition as an individual IB coursework candidate. Candi-
addition to the Theory of Knowledge course (a course which dates are subject to both the full coursework and examinations
In addition to the High School Diploma, in Grades 11 and 12, explores what the nature of knowledge is and how it is ob- in these subjects. IB coursework scores may be used for uni-
students may opt to pursue and, if successfully completed, tained). In addition, students complete a 4000-word research versity credit or advanced placement in many universities.
earn the IB Diploma or IB coursework certificates. Students Extended Essay on a topic of their choice.
who do not undertake the IB Diploma Programme are flexible
to enroll in any combination of non-IB and IB courses, provided Whether students ultimately achieve the IBDP is determined
they meet the graduation requirements. by exams taken in each of the six subjects at the end of Grade
12 in conjunction with relevant coursework completed
throughout the two years. Each course is graded on a 1-7 scale
(7 being the highest). A maximum of 45 points can be achieved
and a minimum of 24 points are required to earn the IB
Diploma.
How students perform in Grade 10 is a good indicator of
whether they are suited for the IBDP. A solid foundation in
subjects and strong study skills are required to successfully
pursue the IBDP in Grades 11 and 12.
For more information, please see the full description on page
6 in this guide.
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Course Placement German Abitur Equivalency Certification
Courses will be offered based on student interest and enroll- Students should read the following information carefully if • Group 6: Could be a course from Group 6, or another ap-
ment. If a course is cancelled due to low enrollment, students intending to study in Germany as there are additional require- proved course from Group 1–4 including: Computer Science,
and parents will be notified and an alternate course may be ments for the German-approved IB Diploma Programme. Design Technology, Environmental Systems & Societies,
chosen. Please note that all course selections will need to be approved Sports Exercise & Health Science
by a counselor.
Language • All courses must be taken over two consecutive years and all
The following information can be used as a guide: exams taken in Grade 12.
Students will be placed in a language class based on past • No online courses allowed.
experience, placement testing and/or prerequisites taken at Abitur Recognition requires the following conditions:
FIS. The language faculty will consult with individual students
regarding their language placement and students will require • Groups 1 & 2 (Two Languages)
teacher permission for all levels. Two A Languages OR one A Language and one B Language
at Higher Level (HL)
Mathematics Language Ab Initio or Language B Standard Level (SL) not
approved
Students will be placed in a mathematics class based on
teacher recommendation. All students should consult with • Group 3 (Individuals & Societies): Business, Economics,
their current mathematics teacher or take a placement exam Geography, Global Politics, History, Psychology
to determine the most appropriate course to take.
• Group 4 (Science): Biology, Chemistry or Physics
• Group 5 (Math): All math courses are recognized.
Either Math or Science has to be at HL (or both if desired)
TOCFIS Course Guide
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FIS IB Diploma Programme (IBDP)
Course Offerings in Grades 11/12 Group 1
Language and Literature
The IBDP curriculum consists of six subject groups. Every IB English A
Diploma candidate must enroll in one course from each of German A
Groups 1–5 and a sixth course from either Group 6 or any other Group 2
Group 6 Korean A
course from Groups 1–4. A seventh course is the Theory of Japanese A Language Acquisition
Arts
Knowledge class. The following FIS offerings can be used as a French A English B
reference by potential IB Diploma candidates. All students Dance German B
Self-Taught Language
should consult teachers, heads of departments, the counselor Film French B
and the IB Coordinator as they make final choices. Music Spanish B
German Ab Initio
Theater
Course choices, and even decisions regarding the enrollment level French Ab Initio
of a course (Higher or Standard level), may determine where and Visual Arts Spanish Ab Initio
what subject areas students will be able to pursue higher educa- Core Requirements
or Another Group 1 Course
tion. Please consult the Appendix and your counselor for Theory of Knowledge
guidance. Extended Essay
Creativity, Activity, Group 3
Group 5
Service
Mathematics Individuals and Societies
Math Analysis Business & Management
Math Applications Economics
Group 4
Environmental Systems & Society
Sciences
Geography
Biology
Global Politics
Chemistry
History
Physics
Psychology
Computer Science
Environmental Systems & Society
Design Technology
Sports, Exercise & Health
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Required Courses (By Grade Level) Sample Four Year Plan
Grade 9 Grade 10 Grade 11 Grade 12 Grade 9 Grade 10 Grade 11 Grade 12
English / ELA English / ELA English English English L/L English L/L IB English A HL yr 1 IB English A HL yr 2
German German Language Language German L/L German L/L IB German A SL yr 1 IB German A SL yr 2
Humanities Humanities Humanities Humanities Geography/ History World History IB Economics HL yr 1 IB Economics HL yr 2
Science Science Science Science Physics Pre-IB Biology IB Biology SL yr 1 IB Biology SL yr 2
Mathematics Mathematics Mathematics Mathematics IB Math Analysis SL IB Math Analysis SL
Math High Math High
yr 1 yr 2
PE PE & Balance Elective Elective
PE/Drama PE & Balance IB Visual Arts HL yr 1 IB Visual Arts HL yr 2
2.5 Electives 2.0 Electives
Graphics
Art/DT TOK TOK
Programming
French 2/3 Performance Theater
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Planning Page Grade 9 and 10 Grade 11 and 12
The charts on the right are designed as a tool to aid you in Subject Grade 9 Grade 10 Subject Grade 11 Grade 12
developing your four year academic plan. Please reference the English English
sample four year plan, the course descriptions and the grade
level requirements to complete the chart. This chart will evolve German Other Language
as you progress through high school. Humanities Humanities
Science Science
Mathematics Mathematics
PE + 0.5 Elective
Elective (1.0 credit) Theory of Knowledge
X X
(required for IBDP)
Elective (1.0 credit)
TOCFIS Course Guide
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Arts developed and valued whether the students are writing papers presentation techniques including broadcasting. Students will
or creating/performing dances. The curriculum provides stu- learn how to use video and audio equipment as well as how
Dance 9 is a year-long course which meets three times per dents with a liberal arts orientation to dance. This orientation to edit, mix, and transmit media. Students will develop skills
eight-day cycle. This course aims to have students discover facilitates the development of students who may become in broadcasting live performances and sporting events as well
dance as a medium of expression and method of exploring choreographers, dance scholars or performers, or those, more as development of TV shows and public broadcasting. Oppor-
ideas. Students will learn to compose solo and duo move- broadly, who seek life enrichment through dance. The dance tunities exist within this course to develop skills in all areas of
ment sequences, performance and ensemble dance, and course has three main areas of study: two dance works created the online media world.
demonstrate knowledge of a genre of dance. Students will by the student, a formal written report, and one or two dance
learn about posture, alignment, choreography and perform works performed by the student. Credits: 1.0 / year
for audiences both informally and formally. Prerequisites: Media Production & Broadcasting I
Credits: 1.0 / year Grades: 10–12
Credits: 0.5/ year Prerequisites: Prior dance experience preferred
Prerequisites: None Grades: 11–12 IB Film SL/HL is a two-year online course in which students
Grades: 9 become proficient interpreters and makers of film texts.
Media Production & Broadcasting I is a one-year elective Through the study and analysis of film, and practical exercises
Dance 10–12 is a one-year elective course in which students course in which students will use a step-by-step approach to in film production, students develop critical abilities and ap-
discover dance as a medium of expression and method of ex- learn the latest in digital video, basic video camera techniques preciation of artistic, cultural, historical and global perspectives
ploring ideas. The class will study choreography in more detail, and concepts as well as editing using a variety of editing plat- in film. They examine concepts, theories, practices and ideas
making their own solo and trio dances. Guest choreographers forms and online presentation techniques including broad- from multiple perspectives, challenging their own views to
work with the group as they learn, rehearse and perform a casting. Students will learn how to use video and audio equip- understand the value of others. Students will acquire and de-
variety of genres of dance from different cultures. Dancers ment as well as how to edit, mix, and transmit media. Students velop critical thinking, reflective analysis and the imaginative
continue to hone their basic dance techniques and alignment will complete projects such as extracurricular packages, class- synthesis through practical engagement of the art, craft and
through regular warm-ups and technique classes. Students room packages, public service announcements and other study of film. Students will learn to examine film as an art form,
have many opportunities to perform for audiences both infor- types of special features. contextualize film across time and culture, explore film pro-
mally and formally. duction roles and phases of the filmmaking process. This is an
Credits: 1.0 / year online course supported by FIS.
Credits: 1.0 / year Prerequisites: None
Prerequisites: None Grades: 9–12 Text: A wide variety of films and readings will be accessed
Grades: 10–12 throughout the course.
Media Production & Broadcasting II is a one-year elective Credits: 1.0 / year
IB Dance SL/HL is a two-year course which aims for a holistic course in which students will use a step-by-step approach Prerequisites: Genuine interest in exploring film as an art form.
approach to dance, and embraces a variety of dance traditions which will build on skills learned in Media Production 1 of dig- Grades: 11–12
and dance cultures—past, present and looking towards the ital video, basic video camera techniques and concepts as well
future. Performance, creative and analytical skills are mutually as editing using a variety of editing platforms and online
TOCFIS Course Guide
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Band 9 is a year-long course which meets three times per eight- Concert Choir is a year-long course which meets two times Chamber Orchestra 9–12 is a year-long course where all play-
day cycle. In this course, students will further their abilities on per eight-day cycle during lunch. This mixed soprano, alto, ers of violin, viola, cello and double bass are welcome to take
a woodwind, brass, or percussion instrument. They will work tenor and bass choir works on 4- to 7-part music in various part, regardless of their previous experience. Rehearsals take
both individually and in group settings to gain performance styles from classical to favorite pop songs. The choir gives two place once a week after school. In the fall, students generally
skills on their individual instruments and as a band. Students concert performances a year and sometimes an additional begin preparing a program of classical and baroque works for
will also gain a greater understanding of musical concepts performance at a special event. This is a Pass/Fail course and the December concert, while the spring is often devoted to
relating to the music they are performing. Students are expect- all students are welcome to join. lighter selections, with the addition of solos and chamber mu-
ed to participate in the band performance each semester and sic. In our rehearsals, we hope to learn and enhance our instru-
are encouraged to audition for Honor Band Festivals and/or Credits: 0.5/ year mental and ensemble playing skills, but also to explore the rich
Jazz Band which have rehearsals at various times throughout Prerequisites: None repertoire and the tradition of classical music. This is a Pass/
the year. The final assessment for this course will be based Grades: 9–12 Fail course.
primarily on the student's most consistent performance level
during each semester. They will demonstrate their perfor- Concert Band is a year-long course which meets during lunch. Credits: 0.5/ year
mance level through both in-class and recorded playing This is a mixed band working on various pieces of music to- Prerequisites: None
assessments. wards performances throughout the year. This is a Pass/Fail Grades: 9–12
course and all students are welcome to join.
Credits: 0.5/ year A Cappella & More is a year-long course which meets three
Prerequisites: Ability to play a woodwind, brass, or percussion Credits: 0.5/ year times per eight-day cycle. This course focuses on choral en-
instrument. Prerequisites: None semble singing, voice training, note reading and performance.
Grades: 9 Grades: 9–12 Music of various styles will be sung, with an emphasis on a
cappella singing. This course will include public
Music 9 is a year-long course which meets three times per performances.
eight-day cycle. This course is designed to consolidate the
students' previous knowledge of music in areas of music liter- Credits: 0.5/ year
acy, theory, appreciation, performance, and composition. Prerequisites: Vocal audition required
Topics include music theory, 4-Chord songs, jazz and blues. Grades: 9
The students will have opportunities to listen to, perform, cre-
ate, and reflect upon a variety of musical styles. The final as-
sessment will be based primarily on classroom activities and
presentations.
Credits: 0.5/ year
Prerequisites: None
Grades: 9
TOCFIS Course Guide
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Music 10–12 is a year-long course designed to consolidate IB Music SL/HL is a two-year course where students will be Performance Theater 10–12 is a year-long elective course in
the students' previous knowledge of music in the areas of expected to develop and refine their performance skills on a which students will refine their skills in various theater tech-
music literacy, theory, appreciation and composition. The stu- chosen instrument or voice, create and develop a portfolio of niques including acting, directing, critiquing, ensemble work
dents will have opportunities to listen to and analyse music original compositions or arrangements, undertake self-direct- and text analysis. Students should come to appreciate and
from the Medieval period until the present day, create music ed research on music of interest to the student, have the op- understand some of the different styles, periods, practitioners
to given guidelines, and reflect upon a variety of musical styles. portunity to use music-writing software, follow a course of and genres of theater throughout history.
The student taking this course will have the opportunity to musical analysis covering Western art music and non-Western
learn or improve in the areas of composition, score-reading music of many kinds, and study musical works in depth. There Credits: 1.0 / year
and writing and musical analysis. In addition, the student will is no written exam paper for IB Music: assessment will be based Prerequisites: None
be introduced to topics in theory (particularly harmony and entirely on internally- and externally-assessed work (practical Grades: 10–12
form) and music history. Although one of the goals of this and written) created during the course.
course is to prepare the students adequately for continued IB Theater SL/HL is a two-year course encouraging discovery
studies in the IBDP Music program, participation is in no way Credits: 1.0 / year through experimentation, risk-taking and the presentation of
restricted to those who have this intention, and the course Prerequisites: Capable musicians already competent at read- ideas. The course is multi-faceted and gives students the op-
works equally well as a one-year foundation course in musical ing music and singing/playing at least one instrument. Stu- portunity to actively engage in theater as creators, designers,
history and analysis. dents must continue lessons with a specialist teacher through- directors and performers. It emphasizes working both individ-
out the course. ually and collaboratively as part of an ensemble. Students learn
Credits: 1.0 / year Grades: 11–12 to apply research and theory to inform and to contextualize
Prerequisites: None their work. Through researching, creating, preparing, present-
Grades: 10–12 Drama 9 is a year-long course which meets three times per ing and critically reflecting on theater, they gain a richer un-
eight-day cycle. Students will learn on their feet a variety of skills derstanding of themselves, their community and the world.
including how to use improvisation techniques as a way of ex- Students experience the course from contrasting artistic and
ploring ideas while gaining practical understanding of some of cultural perspectives. They learn about theater from around
the various forms and genres of theater. Students will develop the world, the importance of making theater with integrity,
performance skills while working successfully within a group and the impact that theater can have on the world.
and learn the use of visual, auditory, and spatial awareness.
Credits: 1.0 / year
Credits: 0.5/ year Prerequisites: None
Prerequisites: None Grades: 11–12
Grades: 9
TOCFIS Course Guide
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Art 9 is a year-long course which meets three times per eight- IB Visual Arts SL/HL is a two-year-long course for students
day cycle. The course asks the students to realize and appreciate who are seriously interested in the visual arts. This course has
that art is all around us, to explore the ways in which known and specific criteria set for three separate components (the Exhi-
unknown cultural aesthetics affect the appearance and impact bition, the Process Portfolio and the Comparative Study) which
of the visual world around them. It also asks them to express are clearly defined and quite demanding. The course stresses
complex and personal notions in their artwork, to appreciate practice in the use of various media, the acquisition of tech-
that creative efforts can reveal issues and ideas about them- niques, the mature development of creative ideas and the
selves and, finally, to demonstrate fluency with the fundamental ability to relate to multiple forms of art in social and historical
elements and principles of art and design. Units of prescribed contexts. A portfolio of the student’s artwork will be
study include exercises involving the fundamental elements of compiled.
art & design, color theory, mark making and mask making.
Over the final year of the course, the students will be working
Credits: 0.5/ year in a variety of techniques and media to develop their skills and
Prerequisites: None understanding of the elements of the visual arts in both two
Grades: 9 and three-dimensional formats. All students must exhibit their
studio work (usually 4 –7 resolved artworks for SL and 8 –11
Visual Arts 10–12 is a year-long elective course with the gen- resolved pieces of work for HL students), present their process
eral aim to familiarize students with the processes of planning, and development efforts and write a comparative study of
researching and experimenting in preparation for studio art- three artworks or artifacts. Students are expected to perform
work. The course also aims to familiarize students with the independent research and make tangible connections be-
common expectations regarding the development of a the- tween their developing work and the results of their research
matic approach to art. The emphasis on the sketchbook (Visual in their journal. This includes but is not limited to the work of
Arts Journal) is paramount, as the student needs to exit with other artists, the influence of social and cultural elements and
a working knowledge of the basics of keeping a daily art jour- the product of historical investigation.
nal and using it as a primary idea-development tool for studio
work at the IB level. The course often culminates where stu- Credits: 1.0 / year
dents devise their first studio work based upon a well-re- Prerequisites: Visual Arts 10–12 recommended
searched and well-conceived theme documented in their Grades: 11–12
sketch book.
Credits: 1.0 / year
Prerequisites: None
Grades: 10–12
TOCFIS Course Guide
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English
Grade 9 English Language & Literature is a one year course Grade 10 English Language & Literature is a one year course Grade 10 English Language Acquisition B Prep is a one-year
built around inquiry-driven concept based units, such as Cul- which prepares students for IB Language A courses. The course course which prepares students for the IB English B (language
ture or Communication. These units help students to see pat- is built around key concepts, such as Change or Perspectives, acquisition) course at both HL and SL. There is an increasing
terns and make connections between literary and non-literary and taught in thematic units. The course features an increasing emphasis on underlying concepts and implicit meaning, and
texts. Students build their speaking and listening skills in a emphasis on implicit meaning and formal development of on the formal development of a supported argument in dif-
variety of formats, such as speeches, role play, and class de- supported argument. Students build their speaking and lis- ferent communicative situations. The course achieves this
bates. In their reading and writing, they develop their under- tening skills in a variety of formats, such as speeches and class through a set of texts more suited to Language B students,
standing of central aspects of human experience, characters discussions. In their reading and writing, they develop their which invite the development of literary analysis skills, albeit
and relationships, and how writers use stylistic devices to guide understanding of central aspects of human experience, char- to a lesser degree than the Language & Literature course, as
readers' insights. There is an emphasis on critical analysis, and acters and relationships, and how writers use stylistic devices well as comprehension skills involving text-handling and lis-
essay writing skills are honed. Private reading is promoted, and to guide readers' insights. There is an emphasis on critical tening responses. Students extend their speaking and listening
students read a range of literature in class, including modern analysis, and essay writing skills are honed. A 1200–1500-word skills in a variety of formats, such as speeches, role plays, and
plays and novels. Students also study several visual texts and Independent Investigation on a question chosen by the stu- class debates. Students study a variety of fiction and non-fic-
complete a film study. Questions of rationality, emotion and dent is developed in the middle of the course, preparing for tion genres. There is an element of media studies, involving
bias are investigated in writing and speech. later research and sustained essay work. Private reading is the study of news media, and some analysis of visual texts such
promoted, but students also read a range of complex literature as film. A 1200–1500-word Independent Investigation on a
Recent texts: To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee, The Secret in class, including Shakespearean tragedy. question chosen by the student is written.
Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd, An Inspector Calls by J.B. Priestley,
and DNA by Dennis Kelly Recent texts: Macbeth and The Merchant of Venice by William Recent texts: Walkabout by James Vance Marshall, selected
Credits: 1.0 / year Shakespeare, The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald, and se- short stories, poems, and non-fiction texts
Prerequisites: G8 English Language & Literature or teacher lected short stories, poems, and non-fiction texts
recommendation Credits: 1.0 / year Credits: 1.0 / year
Grades: 9 Prerequisites: G9 English Language & Literature or teacher Prerequisites: G9 English Language & Literature, ELA or Teach-
recommendation er recommendation
Grades: 10 Grades: 10
TOCFIS Course Guide
14
English Language Acquisition (ELA) Emerging is a 2 period English Language Acquisition (ELA) Transitioning is a 2 English Language Acquisition (ELA) Independent is a one
course which will assist English Language Acquisition students period course which will assist English Language Acquisition year course which will assist English Language Acquisition
in acquiring the English knowledge and skills that they need students in acquiring the English knowledge and skills that students in acquiring the English knowledge and skills that
in order to function and communicate proficiently in all aca- they need in order to function and communicate proficiently they need in order to function and communicate proficiently
demic disciplines. The curriculum is aimed to improve the skill in all academic disciplines. The curriculum is aimed at devel- in all academic disciplines. The curriculum is aimed at devel-
areas of: critical reading and listening comprehension, oral oping the skill areas of: critical reading and listening compre- oping the skill areas of: critical reading and listening compre-
communication and writing. In the Emerging course, there are hension, oral communication and writing. In the Transitioning hension, oral communication and writing. Students complete
two sections that target these skill areas separately, subject course, there are two sections that target these skill areas various tasks based on fiction and non-fiction texts. The major
support and mechanics of language being the major focuses. separately, academic writing being the major focus. Students focus of the Independent class is improving students’ ability
Various text types are introduced throughout the course, help- complete various tasks based on fiction and non-fiction texts. to read and write academic texts fluently and accurately. This
ing students identify and understand the conventions, author’s Various text types are introduced throughout the course help- presupposes the development of a strong vocabulary and
purpose, main ideas and supporting details in these texts. ing students analyse the conventions, author’s purpose, main mechanics of language. As well as focusing on language ac-
Additionally, we devote a big percentage of class time to sub- ideas and supporting details in these texts. We also devote a quisition, we devote some class time to helping students un-
ject support during which we help students understand and significant amount of class time to helping students under- derstand and complete their assignments in the other subjects.
complete their assignments for their other subjects.This de- stand and complete their assignments in their other subjects. This devoted class time also includes helping them prepare for
voted class time includes helping them prepare for their as- This devoted class time includes helping them prepare for their their assessment tasks and guiding them with techniques that
sessment tasks and guiding them with techniques that will assessment tasks and guiding them with techniques that will will enable them to overcome language-related obstacles.
enable them to overcome language-related obstacles. enable them to overcome language-related obstacles.
Credits: 1.0 / year
Credits: 2.0 / year Credits: 2.0 / year Prerequisites: ELA Transitioning or teacher recommendation
Prerequisites: Meeting the descriptors for Emerging Level or Prerequisites: ELA Emerging or teacher recommendation Grades: 9–12
teacher recommendation Grades: 9–12
Grades: 9–10
TOCFIS Course Guide
15
IB English A: Language and Literature SL/HL is a two-year Recent texts: Othello by Shakespeare, Oedipus by Sophocles, students will be required to consider some texts in terms of
course which requires students to be either native or very The Bluest Eye by Morrison, A Man Called Ove by Backman, The how they address global issues, and the final assessments will
near-native speakers of English in terms of both their oral and Elephant Vanishes by Murakami and selected poems by Duffy include an individual oral examination, as well as written pa-
written skills, and will appeal to students who may be less in- or Plath. There is also an element of student choice for texts. pers. Higher Level students are also required to write a 1,200–
clined towards a course focused solely on literary study. The 1,500-word formal essay which develops a particular line of
course looks more openly at the method of inquiry embodied Literary selections may change according to teacher and class inquiry of their own choice regarding material from their
in critical literacy and is directed towards understanding the preference, but the syllabus will conform to IB guidelines for course.
constructed nature of meanings generated by language and Language A Language and Literature.
the web of relationships they share with the social world. Lan- Recent texts: The Assault by Mulisch, Chronicle of a Death Fore-
guage and Literature is built on three areas of exploration: Credits: 1.0 / year told by Marquez, Perfume by Süskind, Frankenstein by Shelley,
Reader, Writer, Text; Time and Space; and Intertextuality. Stu- Prerequisites: Recommendation of Grade 10 English teacher Death and the Maiden by Dorfman, The Bluest Eye by Morrison,
dents at Standard Level study 4 literary works, and a range of or placement test Othello by Shakespeare, Heart of Darkness by Conrad, Things
articles, advertisements, blog posts and other non-literary Grades: 11–12 Fall Apart by Achebe, and The Handmaid’s Tale by Atwood. Lit-
texts. Students at Higher Level study 6 literary works, as well erary selections may change according to teacher and class
as other non-literary texts. Students study literature in its cul- IB English A: Literature SL/HL is a two-year course designed preference, but the syllabus will conform to IB guidelines for
tural context, as well as in detailed textual analysis. Works for the student with a definite inclination towards the study of Language A Literature.
studied come from different genres and places, while some literature. The course is for motivated native speakers of English
works are read in translation. An understanding of the ways in or students with near-native speaker fluency. In English Liter- Credits: 1.0 / year
which formal elements are used to create meaning in a text is ature, the focus is directed towards developing an understand- Prerequisites: Recommendation of Grade 10 English teacher
combined with an exploration of how that meaning is affected ing of the techniques involved in literary criticism and promot- or placement test
by reading practices that are culturally defined, and by the ing the ability to form independent literary judgments, which Grades: 11–12
circumstances of production and reception. are then expressed orally and in written work. Students study
works from different genres and places, while some works are
The course is organised around seven key concepts defined read in translation. The course is built on three areas of explo-
by the IB, so that students study literary and non-literary texts ration: Reader, Writer, Text; Intertextuality; Time and Space.
that are linked by theme. All students are required to consider Through their study of literary texts, students are encouraged
some texts in terms of how they address global issues, and the to develop the ability to reflect critically on their reading with
final examinations will include an individual oral presentation, the goal of understanding how great writers create extraordi-
as well as written papers. Higher Level students are also re- nary effects and help shape human experience. Higher Level
quired to write a 1,200 –1,500-word formal essay which devel- students are required to study 13 texts, and are expected to
ops a particular line of inquiry of their own choice regarding show a deeper understanding of content and writers’ tech-
material from their course. niques than Standard Level students, who study 9 texts. All
TOCFIS Course Guide
16
IB English B SL/HL is a two-year language acquisition course College Prep English is a one or two year course that develops
designed for students with some previous experience of En- students’ skills, knowledge, and understanding in the main
glish. In English B, students further develop their ability to areas of English, namely writing, reading, speaking, listening
communicate in English through the study of language, and viewing. There is a particular emphasis on helping stu-
themes and texts. In doing so, they also develop conceptual dents develop English skills to a level that will allow them to
understandings of how language works, as appropriate to the succeed in college-level studies. This includes writing college
level of the course. The main focus of the course is on language application essays and resumes, for example. In addition, stu-
acquisition and development of language skills. This course is dents are required to complete independent reading from a
designed to provide students with the necessary skills and recommended list of modern classics, and to write book re-
intercultural understanding to enable them to communicate ports on their reading. This course may be followed for two
successfully in an environment where English is spoken. Class- years, as material covered will alternate each year.
work ranges from everyday oral exchanges to literary texts,
and is related to the English-speaking world. The texts and The thematic units of the course will cover a variety of fiction
topics studied are chosen to enable students to develop mas- and non-fiction genres, including media texts. The main units
tery of language skills and encourage the learner to go beyond are: Language and Identity, Reading the Media, Literature and
the confines of the classroom, expanding an awareness of the Life, Work for a Living, Freedom and Responsibility, Danger and
world and fostering respect for cultural diversity. Courage.
At Higher Level, students are required to read two works of Recent texts: Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck; short stories
literature originally written in English. The course comprises by Alice Munro, Andrea Levy, Berton Roueché, Penelope Lively,
five themes which will be explored throughout the course: and Kate Chopin; extracts from The Hate U Give by Angie Thom-
Identity, Experiences, Human Ingenuity, Social Organisations as, Into Thin Air by Jon Krakauer, and My Left Foot by Christy
and Sharing the Planet. Brown.
Recent texts: Of Mice and Men by Steinbeck and Friday Black Credits: 1.0 / year
by Adjei-Brenyah Prerequisites: None
Credits: 1.0 / year Grades: 11–12
Prerequisites: English Language Acquisition B Prep or teacher
recommendation
Grades: 11–12
TOCFIS Course Guide
17
Non-English Languages understanding of central aspects of human experience, char- intercultural understanding. Core topics include communica-
acters and relationships, and how writers use stylistic devices tion and media, global issues and social relationships. There
French Language Acquisition Level 1, 2/3, 3/4, 4/5 are each to guide readers' insights. are two options selected from a total of five topics. The topics
a one year course where students will be expected to demon- chosen at FIS are cultural diversity and health. At Higher Level,
strate the communicative skills of listening, speaking, reading Credits: 1.0 / year two works of literature are studied in relation to culture. At
and writing in everyday situations depending on the level Prerequisites: Native fluency and teacher recommendation Standard Level, the literature component is optional.
students are enrolled in. Students will be expected to learn the Grades: 9, 10
language, learn through the language, and learn about the Text: IB Course Companion French B
language. Students will learn how to select language appro- IB French Ab Initio SL is a two year course where students will Credits: 1.0 / year
priate to a particular cultural and social context, cultural inter- be expected to demonstrate receptive, productive and inter- Prerequisites: Successful completion of French Language
actions, and handle the French language accurately. active skills. Students will be expected to understand and re- Acquisition Level 3/4 (SL), Level 4/5 (HL) or teacher
spond appropriately in French to the spoken language; engage recommendation
Credits: 1.0 / year in conversation in order to express information fairly accurate- Grades: 11–12
Prerequisites: Teacher Recommendation or completion of the ly, in both writing and in speech, using a range of basic vocab-
previous level ulary and grammatical structures. They will be able to under- IB French A Language & Literature SL/HL is a course which
Grades: 9–12 stand simple authentic written texts and questions related to requires students to at native French levels in terms of both
them. Students will demonstrate some intercultural under- their oral and written skills. Students study four focused areas
G9 - G10 French Language & Literature are each a one year standing by reflecting on similarities and differences between including: works in translation, detailed study, literary genres,
course designed to engage students in the study of many as- the target culture and the student’s own. and an open option of three works. The course involves a crit-
pects of the language and literature of communities and their ical study of literary and non-literary texts. Students learn
cultures. It offers a study of a wide range of literary and non-lit- Text: Panorama Francophone 1 et 2 about the use of language in cultural contexts, and in mass
erary text types, writing styles and techniques, allowing stu- Credits: 1.0 / year communication. They also study literature in its cultural con-
dents to comment on the significance of any possible contexts, Prerequisites: Little or no previous experience with the French text, as well as in detailed textual analysis. An understanding
audiences, purpose, and the use of linguistic and literary de- language of the ways in which formal elements are used to create mean-
vices. While the course offers a full range of genre, themes, and Grades: 11–12 ing in a text is combined with an exploration of how that
opportunities for skill development, its design also promotes meaning is affected by reading practices that are culturally
students’ social and academic development. Over the course IB French B SL/HL is a two-year course that is focused on lan- defined and by the circumstances of production and
of the year, students will refine their essay writing skills and guage acquisition and development of language skills. These reception.
learn how to debate a contentious topic. Grammar and vocab- language skills should be developed through the study and
ulary enrichment are integrated into reading and writing in- use of a range of written and spoken material. Such material Credits: 1.0 / year
struction. Students build their speaking and listening skills in will extend from everyday oral exchanges to literary texts, and Prerequisites: Successful completion of French Language &
a variety of formats, such as speeches, role play, and class de- are related to the culture concerned. The material is chosen to Literature 10 or teacher recommendation
bates. In reading and writing work they develop their enable students to develop mastery of language skills and Grades: 11–12
TOCFIS Course Guide
18
German Language Acquisition Level 1, 1/2, 2/3 are each one of change, groups and leisure time in conjunction with current Prerequisites: Native or near-native level German
year courses where students will be expected to demonstrate event materials and selections from German literature, all of Grades: 9
the communicative skills of listening, speaking, reading and which ensures a broad preparatory basis for the IB German B
writing in everyday situations depending on the level students course the following year. G10 German Language & Literature is a one year course
are enrolled in. Students will be expected to learn the lan- designed for native or near-native speakers of German. This is
guage, learn through the language, and learn about the lan- Credits: 1.0 / year a literature course in which students read a variety of novels,
guage. Students will learn how to select language appropriate Prerequisites: G 9 German Language Acquisition Level 2/3 or novellas, ballads and plays. They are starting to develop ana-
to a particular cultural and social context, cultural interactions, teacher recommendation lytical and critical listening skills. Students practice creative
and handling the German language accurately. Grades: 10 writing as well as oral presentation skills.The aims of the course
are to emphasize literature and composition and to prepare
Credits: 1.0 / year G10 German Language Acquisition Level 4/5 is a one year students for the IB language A: Literature and/or IB A Language
Prerequisites: Teacher Recommendation or successful com- course designed for highly competent non-native speakers or and Literature courses.
pletion of the previous level for students with near-native speaker competence in Grade
Grades: 9–12 10. The emphasis is on reading and writing and listening; to Credits: 1.0 / year
expand vocabulary and idiomatic expression; to further fluency Prerequisites: Native or near-native level German
G9 German Language Acquisition Level 3/4 is a one year of speech, and to lead students to the appreciation of literature Grades: 10
course designed for highly competent non-native speakers or using critical analysis.
for students with near-native speaker competence in Grafe 9. IB German Ab Initio SL is a two year course where students
Students will review and improve the four language skills of Credits: 1.0 / year will be expected to demonstrate receptive, productive and
writing, reading, speaking, listening comprehension; to expand Prerequisites: G 9 German Language Acquisition Level 3/4 or interactive skills. Students will be expected to understand and
vocabulary and idiomatic expression; to further fluency of teacher recommendation respond appropriately in German to the spoken language;
speech, and to lead students to the appreciation of literature Grades: 10 engage in conversation in order to express information fairly
using first steps of critical analysis. accurately, in both writing and in speech, using a range of basic
G9 German Language & Literature is a one year course de- vocabulary and grammatical structures. They will be able to
Credits: 1.0 / year signed for native speakers or for students with near-native understand simple authentic written texts and questions re-
Prerequisites: G 8 German Language Acquisition Level 2/3 or speaker competence. The aims of the course are to review and lated to them. Students will demonstrate some intercultural
teacher recommendation improve basic skills (writing, reading, speaking, listening com- understanding by reflecting on similarities and differences
Grades: 9 prehension); expand vocabulary and idiomatic expression; between the target culture and the student’s own.
further fluency of speech; lead students to the appreciation of
G10 German Language Acquisition Level 3/4 is a one year literature through critical analysis; bring them in contact with Credits: 1.0 / year
course which will review some key issues of German grammar. ways of thought different from their own. Prerequisites: Little or no previous experience with the
The aim of the course is to expand and increase mastery of German language
vocabulary through continued attention to the global themes Credits: 1.0 / year Grades: 11–12
TOCFIS Course Guide
19
IB German B SL/HL is a two year course that is focused on Texts: SL has four selected pieces of literature while HL has six G9 Japanese Language & Literature is a one year course
language acquisition and development of language skills of pieces of literature. designed for native speakers or for students with near-native
speaking, writing, reading and listening. These language skills Credits: 1.0 / year speaker competence. The aims of the course are to review and
should be developed through the study and use of a range of Prerequisites: Successful completion of German Language & improve basic skills (writing, reading, speaking, listening com-
written and spoken material. Such material will extend from Literature 10 or teacher recommendation prehension); expand vocabulary and idiomatic expression;
everyday oral exchanges to literary texts, and are related to Grades: 11–12 further fluency of speech; lead students to the appreciation of
the culture concerned. The material is chosen to develop stu- literature through critical analysis; bring them in contact with
dents’ power of expression in both oral and written commu- IB German A: Literature SL/HL is a two year course designed ways of thought different from their own.
nication, to promote the ability to respond to the language for the student with a definite inclination towards the study of
demands of transactional and social contacts, to help students literature. The course is for native speakers of German or stu- Credits: 1.0 / year
gain insights into how users of other languages think, as well dents with near native speaker fluency. Throughout the course Prerequisites: Native or near native level Japanese
as to provide enjoyment and intellectual stimulation. students develop their analytical and critical writing and speak- Grades: 9
ing skills. Students study works from different genres. The
Texts: Two pieces of literature based on selected topics course is built on the assumption that literature is concerned G10 Japanese Language & Literature is a one year course
Credits: 1.0 / year with our conceptions, interpretations and experiences in the designed for native or near-native speakers of Japanese. This
Prerequisites: Successful completion of German Language world. Through their study of literary texts, students are en- literature course will explore fields such as the history of Jap-
Acquisition 2/3 (SL), 4/5 (HL) or by teacher recommendation couraged to appreciate the artistry of literature, and to develop anese language and culture, current issues in contemporary
Grades: 11–12 the ability to reflect critically on their reading. This course will Japanese society, and students will learn how to write a 3000
focus on exploration of the art of literary texts - novels, plays, character essay on a literary work. They are starting to develop
IB German A: Language and Literature SL/HL is a two year poetry, non-fiction, and things in between. In addition, stu- analytical and critical listening skills. Students practice creative
course which provides students of native or near-native Ger- dents will learn to analyze and compare the cultural contexts writing as well as oral presentation skills.The aims of the course
man proficiency an understanding of how language, culture of the works studied. Higher Level students study a wider va- are to emphasize literature and composition and to prepare
and context determine the ways in which meaning is con- riety of works, and are expected to show a deeper understand- students for the IB language A: Literature course.
structed in texts. Students are encouraged to think critically ing of content and writers’ techniques than Standard Level
about the different interactions between texts, audience and students. Credits: 1.0 / year
purpose. Students are introduced to a range of texts from dif- Prerequisites: Native or near native level Japanese
ferent periods, styles and genres; the development of students’ Texts: Literary selections may change according to teacher Grades: 10
ability to engage in detailed analysis of individual texts and and class preference
powers of expression, both in oral and written communication; Credits: 1.0/ year
the ability to recognize the importance of context of texts and Prerequisites: Successful completion of German Language &
the different perspectives of people from other cultures as well Literature 10 or teacher recommendation
as to appreciate formal, stylistic and aesthetic qualities of texts. Grades: 11–12
TOCFIS Course Guide
20
IB Japanese A Literature HL is a two year literary course for G9 Korean Language & Literature is a one year course de- IB Korean A Literature SL/HL is a two year course which is
native or near-native speakers of Japanese. Through the course signed for native speakers of Korean. The resources used are designed for the student with a definite inclination towards
the students develop their analytical and critical language skills Korean literature, Korean essays, and various texts from a Ko- the study of literature and who may intend to continue such
and improve their ability to write an essay and to discuss liter- rean school textbook. The students will learn advanced vocab- studies beyond the Diploma level. The course focuses on in-
ature, towards a more academic level. The general aims of this ulary, handling of texts and writing, and answer questions depth literary analysis and appreciation in both oral and writ-
course are to improve the understanding and appreciation of about the texts. Also, they will write many commentaries and ten capacity. Students will be required to write essays, conduct
literature and of the techniques used for literary criticism. essays about the texts using their opinions. Students will also independent research and participate in informal and formal
Through reading literature from different times and genres, learn Chinese characters due to their importance structuring orals for internal and external assessment. The total number
styles and cultures, the students will broaden their perspective Korean words. After this course, the students can analyze and of texts studied over the two years is 13, including 3 World
and develop their own voice of expression, in oral performanc- critique various texts by themselves. Literature works, which are read in translation.
es as well as in formal and creative essays. The students of the
Higher Level course study 13 works while the SL students study Credits: 1.0 / year Credits: 1.0 / year
9 works that are from Japanese and non-Japanese authors. Prerequisites: Native fluency Prerequisites: Native fluency and teacher recommendation
Grades: 9 Grades: 11–12
Credits: 1.0 / year
Prerequisites: Native fluency and teacher recommendation G10 Korean Language & Literature is a one year course de-
Grades: 11–12 signed for native speakers of Korean who will plan to study
Korean in the future. The resources used are Korean literature,
Korean essays, and various texts from a Korean school text-
book. The students will learn advanced vocabulary, handling
of texts and writing, and answer questions about the texts.
Also, they will write many commentaries and essays about the
texts using their opinions. Students will also learn Chinese
characters due to their importance structuring Korean words.
After this course, the students can analyze and critique various
texts by themselves.
Credits: 1.0 / year
Prerequisites: Native fluency
Grades: 10
TOCFIS Course Guide
21
Spanish Language Acquisition Level 1, 2/3, 3/4, 4/5 are each IB Spanish B SL/HL is a two year course that is focused on IB Literature A SL- School Supported Self Taught (SSST) is
one year courses where students will be expected to demon- language acquisition and development of language skills of a two year independent course designed to allow students to
strate the communicative skills of listening, speaking, reading speaking, writing, reading and listening. These language skills continue with their native language not offered by FIS. Stu-
and writing in everyday situations depending on the phase should be developed through the study and use of a range of dents are expected to be literate in their native language upon
students are enrolled in. Students will be expected to learn the written and spoken material. Such material will extend from starting the course as the main focus of the course is literature,
language, learn through the language, and learn about the everyday oral exchanges to literary texts, and should be related not language acquisition. Students must work independently
language. Students will learn how to select language appro- to the culture(s) concerned. The material should be chosen to with a qualified IB Literature teacher so that students can ben-
priate to a particular cultural and social context, cultural inter- enable students to develop mastery of language skills and efit from specialist feedback in the areas of language skills,
actions, and handling the Spanish language system intercultural understanding. academic writing, and cultural content. To enroll, students will
accurately. need to work closely with the outside teacher and the FIS IB
Texts: Spanish B, Spanish B Course Companion diploma coordinator. This course fulfills the FIS language grad-
Credits: 1.0 / year Credits: 1.0 / year uation requirement, as well as the Group 1 IB Diploma require-
Prerequisites: Teacher recommendation or completion of the Prerequisites: Successful completion of Spanish Language ment. This course is available as a Standard Level subject only.
previous level Acquisition Level 3/4 (SL), Level 4/5 (HL) or teacher
Grade: 9–12 recommendation. Credits: 1.0/ year
Grades: 11–12 Prerequisites: Fluency with reading and writing in your Self
IB Spanish Ab Initio SL is a two year course where students Taught language, approval by IB Diploma Coordinator and
will be expected to demonstrate receptive, productive and counselor
interactive skills. Students will be expected to understand and Grades: 11–12
respond appropriately in Spanish to the spoken language;
engage in conversation in order to express information fairly
accurately, in both writing and in speech, using a range of basic
vocabulary and grammatical structures. They will be able to
understand simple authentic written texts and questions re-
lated to them. Students will demonstrate some intercultural
understanding by reflecting on similarities and differences
between the target culture and the student’s own.
Text: Diverso Basico
Credits: 1.0 / year
Prerequisites: Little or no previous experience with the
Spanish language
Grades: 11–12
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