The very important introduction to Senior School Life begins at Year 7 at the ages of 11-12 years. During this year, children begin the Senior School curriculum and have access to fully equipped Science Laboratories, Computer Technology and Art & Design facilities.
At Senior School, (Key stages 3 and 4) we aim to promote the five areas of thinking skills; information processing skills, enquiry skills, reasoning skills; creative thinking skills and evaluation skills.
From Year 7 to Year 8, students are taught in groups designed to suit their ability. All students follow a wide range of academic and co curricular subjects; Mathematics, English, Science, Geography, History, Computer Studies, UAE Social Studies, Art, Drama, and Arabic with Advanced Arabic for Arab students. All students have the option of choosing at least one Modern Foreign Language from French, Filipino and Urdu. The Muslim students take Islamic Studies and non-Muslim students take Values Education.
English
At Key stage 3 and 4 the students learn the use of language confidently for public and formal purposes. They use and evaluate complex features of language. They read classic and contemporary texts and make articulate and perceptive comments about them. Students develop confidence in writing for a range of purposes. They develop their own distinctive styles and recognise the importance of writing with commitment and vitality. They learn to write correctly, using different formats, layouts and ways of presenting their work.
Literature - A step higher, the children now begin critically interpreting literary texts in terms of the issues and the attitudes of the subject matter. They not only recognise and appreciate ways in which the novelists use language, but also are required to provide literal, analytical and personal responses through oral and written exercises.
Mathematics
The aim of the Math course is to consolidate and enrich student's understanding of basic mathematical concepts. Topics covered include arithmetic skills, time co-ordinates, angles and areas, sequences and patterns, decimals, fractions, percentages, ratio and geometry in 2 and 3 dimensions. They also study algebra from the idea of generalisation to simultaneous equations. A variety of homework is set ranging from open-ended investigations and write-ups to the practice of basic techniques to consolidate work in lessons.
Science
The Science courses cover all aspects of - Biology, Chemistry and Physics - and they are topic based. Each topic is taught by carrying out practical activities, conducting practical demonstrations, watching videos, and class discussions.
Students build on their knowledge and make connections between different areas of Science. They investigate and evaluate the strength of the evidence they have collected. They select and use a wide range of reference sources and also learn about the importance of experimental evidence in supporting scientific ideas.
Computer Studies
Students use ICT tools and information sources to review, modify and evaluate their work as it progresses. They become more focused, efficient and reliable in the use of ICT.
History
Students learn about significant events and individuals in the history of Britain and about Key concepts of European and World History. They make connections between events and changes and compare the structure of societies and cultural, economic and political developments. They evaluate, analyse and interpret their historical knowledge in different ways.
Homework includes background reading, written exercises, research, learning and project work.
Geography
Students study a wide range of geographical aspects such as, settlements, different weather conditions, places and environments of the world. They learn about environmental, conservation and population related issues and how different factors affect globally. They carry out geographical enquiry, collect and analyse evidence and develop their own opinions. They rely on skills and resources like maps, ICT and satellite images.
Modern Foreign Language
Students become familiar with the sounds, written form and grammar of the language and use this to express themselves in role-plays, conversations and writing. They increase their cultural awareness by communicating with people who speak different languages and expressions, which overcome their language inadequacy.