Upper School
Upper School text coming soon
» Mathematics
The International School of Minnesota offers some of the most comprehensive mathematics courses available to high school students. Math is taught as an integrated discipline based on fundamental concepts that allows for the fluidity of the boundaries between the different branches of math.
Math 1 begins with the basics of Set Theory and applies them to solutions of equations, particularly first degree equations in one variable.
Math 2 continues the study of Algebra and initiates our logically-structured Geometry program.
Math 3 completes the integrated study of the traditional Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II sequence.
Several advanced courses are offered, including Calculus and Advanced Placement Statistics. Advanced students often take post-Advanced Placement level courses in Multivariable Calculus, Linear Algebra, and Differential Equations. Completion of a minimum of Math 3 is required for graduation.
» English
In Grades 6-9 reading, grammar and composition skills are refined in an accelerated literature-oriented program.
Course work for Grades 10-12 focuses on the in-depth study of American, European and World Literature.
Advanced placement courses are offered to qualified and interested students in Grades 11 and 12.
» World Languages
Taught by teachers who are native speakers or at a native level of proficiency, World Language courses range from entry level to both sections of Advanced Placement Language and Literature in French and Spanish.
The language program goes beyond merely the study of language to encompass the literature, culture and history of the peoples.
The plan of study includes oral and aural skills, reading, grammar and composition at every level of instruction.
» Science
In a curriculum designed to teach true science, rather than information about science, our emphasis is on higher order thinking and is not limited to "hands-on" only projects.
In Grades 6-8, Science includes Earth, Life and Physical Science classes.
In Grades 9-12, unusual opportunities exist, not only for the science-oriented students, but also for those whose interests are more broadly based. A three-track science curriculum is offered, including survey coursework in Biology, Chemistry, Astronomy and Conceptual Physics, as well as extensive Advanced Placement classes in Biology and Physics extending into third year college level classes.
» Social Studies & History
Classes include Ancient World History and culture for Grade 6 and Geography for Grade 7. Grades 8 and 9 cover a two-year American history course.
Advanced Placement courses in U.S. Government and Politics, Modern European History, and Art History are available for the upper grades.
Elective courses in Current Affairs, Philosophy, and Social Studies Survey (Economics, History of Modern China, and Psychology).
» Computer Science
Computer classes are required for students in Grades 6-9. Each student is assigned an e-mail account and is instructed in the use of spread sheet programs and integrating word processing and data base management skills.
Functional literacy is a requirement in several areas of computer utilization, including manipulation of the Internet.
Programming in Microsoft Q-Basic and Visual Basic begins in Grades 7-9 and continues with exploration in Visual C++.
Website design and Advanced placement courses are available to interested and qualified students in the upper grades.
In the Physical Education Department, the focus is on skill development, improving fitness levels, and appreciating a variety of physical activities. We believe that physical education contributes to the total development of the student.
Our Physical Education program emphasizes sportsmanship, teamwork, leadership, and self-esteem. We want our students to have an appreciation for both team sports and lifetime activities.
» Music & Drama
The Performing Arts Department offers a comprehensive program in the study of music and drama. Performing groups include Middle and Upper School Concert Choir, Orchestra, Band, Madrigal and Vocal Jazz Ensembles, Middle and High School Show Choir and High School Show Choir Band.
Students also follow a sequential curriculum of study in theory, history, ear training, sight reading, and composition which culminates in the AP Music Theory class.
Many performances are planned annually in the school and community as well as an out of town tour for the High School Show Choir each spring.
Drama students may take classes in acting and dance and perform in the musical and one-act play held each year.
» Studio Art
The goal of the Art Department is to offer all students a fundamental experience of a range of media, balancing free ideas with the discipline of observational work.
The Art program is based on a direct observational approach and explores primarily two-dimensional media. The exploration includes development of the elements of line, shape, form, tone, texture, and color, and the relationship of these to each other.
Art plays a fundamental role in any learning environment. It is used as a tool to stimulate interest, inquiry, investigation, research, exploration�in short, learning and understanding. Designed as a multi-disciplinary program, Fine Art integrates Sociology, Cultural Anthropology, Art History and other disciplines into its themes.
Finished selected artwork is exhibited in all areas around The School.
» Advanced Placement Course Offerings
AP® COURSES OFFERED, 2010-2011
AP® courses are offered in:
Art History
Art: Studio Drawing
Biology
Calculus AB
Calculus BC
Computer Science A
English Literature & Composition
English Language & Composition
European History
Human Geography
French Language
Music Theory
Physics C (Mech and E & M=2 exams)
Spanish Language
Spanish Literature
Statistics
US Government & Politics
» Performing Art
Choral Classes
6th Grade Music
Sixth grade is a combination of general music and choir. Students continue to study advanced levels of the elements of music introduced in the Lower School. Recorders, keyboards, and classroom instruments are used extensively. Students also explore world music as well as composers of western music. As a choir, they study concert and show repertoire, healthy vocal techniques and perform in the Upper School music concerts.
7th & 8th Grade Music
All 7th and 8th graders participate in Concert Choir and perform in the two choral concerts during the school year. In this class they learn healthy vocal techniques and concert repertoire. 7th and 8th grade students also have the opportunity to select General Music, Jazz Band, Show Choir, Concert Band, Strings, and Orchestra. Students in General Music continue to study advanced music theory, music history, and music as it relates to culture and identity. Students who participate in Show Choir learn further performance technique, dance and stage presence. They perform at the annual Upper School Show choir dinner Shows. Instrumental students perform at school and community concerts.