Program Grade 9

In this course, we will study the period  from the Scientific Revolution through Industrialization and its impact. Students will be asked to identify conflicts, issues and solutions within their historical studies and make connections with the world today. Throughout the course, students will be asked to reflect on essential themes/questions that reoccur throughout this period of human history.  Students will simultaneously develop and sharpen essay writing, critical thinking, and public speaking skills. Expository/persuasive essays, creative and reflective writings, debates, research projects, group and class discussions will be used to facilitate historical understanding and critical analysis.

The science program for 9th and 10th will be divided into 4 semesters: Biology, Earth/Environment, Chemistry and Physics. Courses are guided by the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS).

Biology I

In this semester-long course, students will aim to explore the interactions between & within organisms, often focusing in on the problems that threaten humans’ health. We will investigate how homeostasis is maintained by feedback systems in our body, explore how and why genetic disorders may manifest in one child but not in another, and figure out why our antibiotics don’t work as well as they used to. The final inquiry will be into our diets and tracking the movement of energy in a closed system. We follow the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) as a framework for understanding core ideas, developing scientific and engineering skills and practices, and solidifying concepts that are common to all areas of inquiry.  This course also serves as a foundation for multiple topics in the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program students will encounter in grades 11 and 12.

Science of the Earth and Environment

In this semester course, we will explore the interaction of celestial bodies as well as dynamic parts of our own planet, inquire into the ways trees might hold the answer to climate change, and analyze how small changes can make big impacts in ecosystems.  We follow the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) as a framework for understanding core ideas, developing scientific and engineering skills and practices, and solidifying concepts that are common to all areas of inquiry. This course also serves as a foundation for multiple topics in the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program students will encounter in grades 11 and 12.

Chemistry I

This semester course is designed to give students a sound base in chemistry and demonstrate the practical applications of chemistry in our world. The course topics include atomic structure, chemical names, bonding (ionic, covalent and metallic), formulas, chemical reactions, equations ( molecular and ionic), stoichiometry, redox reactions , batteries and organic chemistry (hydrocarbons, functional groups, reactions including combustion, oxidation, addition and substitution).  Students study both conceptual and analytical applications. Weekly lab experimentation supports the development of essential concepts.

Physics I

A basic introduction to physics is given during this semester course, covering a broad range of topics both conceptually and analytically. Basic algebra skills are required as problem solving skills with formulas are developed. Topics to be covered include Kinematics and Forces, Energy and Waves, and Electricity.  All scientific practices, concepts, and content will be covered using the Next Generation Science Standards.

The objective of this course is to learn about the History, Literature and society in Spain during the 16th and 18th centuries.  We will also focus on the geographic, social, political and economic characteristics of Spain and Europe. Students will be exposed to different texts from this period and will learn how to approach them analytically keeping in mind the historical and socio-political context.  In order to achieve this goal, we will apply different strategies that will lead to a better comprehension of this crucial time of Spanish History, as well as Spanish Literature. Note: Non-native speakers of Spanish whose level of Spanish is not high enough to take part in this course take leveled Spanish Language Learners (SLL) with the goal of achieving fluency so that they can eventually be integrated into regular Spanish classes.

The ASB Catalan program allows Spanish students to meet requirements set out by the Generalitat de Catalunya. It gives all students the opportunity to learn the language and customs of our host society through a combination of communicative and content-based teaching methods and appreciation of the unique culture of Catalunya. Classes are offered 2-3 times per week. International children who have not yet mastered the Spanish language or who need English language support may be exempt from Catalan.

Our physical education curriculum focuses on developing motor skills, promoting physical fitness and wellness, emphasize building a classroom community, sportsmanship, and creating a learning environment that allows every child to improve his/her level of success in sport. Students interact in a variety of interactive and collaborative games focusing on working together as well as developing fine and gross motor skills. Students learn the basic skills of many sports and activities including volleyball, basketball, badminton, soccer, running, circuit training and fun games.