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Characteristics of an American Education
In many fields and industries, the American educational system is recognized as offering the most cutting-edge, sought-after programs at the world's best schools. That is why we believe graduating from an accredited American school and being exposed to the rigors of the American educational system is a sound investment in your child's future.
American schools offer a holistic program that encourages a broad educational experience in both curricular and co-curricular areas.
Normally, students will attend three levels of schooling prior to graduation from high school:
- early childhood and elementary school (EC – grade 5, ages 3 – 10)
- middle school (grades 6 – 8, ages 11 – 13)
- high school (grades 9 – 12, ages 14 – 18)
Click here for a table showing the equivalent placement for students coming from other national systems.
Early Childhood and Elementary School
A good elementary school instills a love of learning. For this reason, maintaining a balance that encourages the development of the whole child and promoting an appreciation for life-long learning, a balanced and healthy lifestyle, respect for others, global awareness and community service are all considered important aspects of a good elementary school education.
A high value is placed upon encouraging students to question, discover and evaluate information and sources of information. Self-awareness of individual strengths and weaknesses is encouraged. Nurturing those areas in which students excel is important as is supporting students to develop in areas in which they may be less gifted.
Language arts, mathematics, science, social sciences, fine arts, physical education, reading and computer technology form the basis of the core curriculum.
Middle School
Middle schools acknowledge the unique characteristics and physical and emotional development of the 11 – 13-year-old child. As such, in addition to providing academic rigor, the quality middle school must provide an inviting, supportive and safe environment in which students experience a high quality curriculum. Learning activities should create opportunities for students to pose and answer questions that are important to them.
Since young adolescents learn best through engagement and interaction, learning strategies involve students in dialogue with teachers and with one another. Teaching approaches enhance and accommodate the diverse skills, abilities, and prior knowledge of young adolescents, and draw upon students’ individual learning styles.
Language arts, mathematics, science, social sciences, fine arts, physical education, reading, computer technology and an introduction to the study of foreign languages form the basis of the middle school curriculum.
High School
The ninth through twelfth grades (ages 14 – 18) are most commonly referred to as high school. Upon completion of twelfth grade, students are awarded a certificate called the high school diploma. In the American education system most students must obtain a high school diploma before they are admitted into college or university. Foreign students seeking to attend an American college or university must have completed coursework that is equivalent to what is taught at an American high school.
There is wide variance in the curriculum required in each year of high school, but most American high schools require that courses in English, science, math and social sciences be taken by the students every year. Each high school requires students to complete a specific number of credits (courses) to meet graduation requirements.
Generally, three science courses are required; biology, chemistry, physics and environmental science are standard options. The sciences courses offered will vary between schools.
High school mathematics subjects include algebra, geometry, and trigonometry. Students in grades 11 and 12 generally have the option of enrolling in more advanced study options including pre-calculus, calculus and statistics, with or without Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) accreditation.
English/Language courses are usually required for four years of high school although many schools count journalism, public speaking/debate, English as a Second Language, literature and writing (both technical and creative) courses as English/Language courses.
Social science courses often include world history, U.S. history and comparative government, economics, sociology and psychology.
The amount of physical education and health required varies from school to school, although most will require a minimum of two years.
