Grades 9 & 10

Newman's program emphasizes intellectual growth and individual challenge. It encourages students to make practical connections between their studies and the real world, preparing them for success in further study and in life.

Each year, students in the MYP also engage in at least one collaboratively planned interdisciplinary that involves at least two subject groups. Students also complete one long term project, deciding what they want to learn, identifying what they need to know, and planning the process through completion.

Grade 9 & 10 students expand their coursework by engaging in electives. Students can choose from a selection of stimulating options to pursue topics of their interests and passions. Electives vary from year to year, and can be introductory courses, here is a sample of this year's electives:

Mythology	Introduction to Physics
Marine Biology	Film
Computer Science	Music
Independent Art Study

Newman MS students experience: volunteering, tennis, kayaking, ice skating, rock climbing and traditional sports as well as studying healthy ways of living.

Core Areas of Study

Language and Literature

Language is fundamental to learning, thinking and communicating, therefore it permeates the whole curriculum. The power of language is best experienced through quality literature. The study of language and literature enables students to become highly proficient in their understanding and use of their language. Students need to develop an appreciation of language and literature, of the nature of language and literature, of the many influences on language and literature, and of the power and beauty of language and literature. They will be encouraged to recognize that proficiency in language is a valuable life skill, a powerful tool both in societal communication and as a means of personal reflection. Learning that language and literature are creative processes encourages the development of imagination and creativity through self-expression.

MYP Language and Literature is academically rigorous, and equips students with linguistic, analytical and communicative skills that can also be used in an interdisciplinary manner across all other subject groups. There are six skill areas: listening, speaking, reading, writing, viewing and presenting, which develop as both independent and interdependent skills. Students develop these skills through the study of both language and literature. The choice of texts also provides opportunities for and influences students in further developing the attributes of the IB learner profile.

Language Acquisition

The IB acknowledges that learning additional languages greatly contributes to the holistic development of students and to the strengthening of lifelong learning skills. Language is central to learning, as well as to literacy. The purpose of Language Acquisition is to enable students to become competent in a language other than their mother tongue, and is based around proficiency in speaking, reading and writing. Students are encouraged to communicate as far as possible in the target language and to learn about the parts of the world in which their language of choice is spoken. This knowledge should in turn develop understanding of and nurture respect for cultures other than their own.

The Arts

The arts are a universal form of human expression and a unique way of engaging us in effective, imaginative and productive activity. Learning through the arts helps us to explore, shape and communicate our sense of identity and understanding of the world, while providing opportunities to develop self-confidence, resilience and adaptability. (Adapted from MYP Arts Guide)

At Newman, students will be instructed in Visual Art and General Music.

Individuals and Societies

Individuals and Societies encourages learners to respect and understand the world around them and equips them with a skills base appropriate for a learner in the 21st century. Individuals and Societies involves inquiring into historical, contemporary, geographical, political, social, economic, religious, technological and cultural contexts that influence and have an impact on individuals, societies and environments. (Adapted from MYP Individuals and Societies Guide)

Mathematics

Mathematics plays an essential role both within the school and in society. It promotes a powerful universal language, analytical reasoning and problem-solving skills that contribute to the development of logical, abstract and critical thinking. Moreover, understanding and being able to use mathematics with confidence is not only an advantage in school but also a skill for problem- solving and decision-making in everyday life. Mathematics is well known as a foundation for the study of sciences, engineering and technology. However, it is also increasingly important in other areas of knowledge such as economics and other social sciences. MYP mathematics aims to equip all students with the knowledge, understanding and intellectual capabilities to address further courses in mathematics, as well as to prepare those students who will use mathematics in their workplace and life in general. (Adapted from MYP Mathematics Guide)

Science

The vision of MYP sciences is to contribute to the development of students as inquirers, scientifically literate, caring and responsible individuals who will think critically and creatively when solving problems and making decisions about aspects affecting them- selves, others and their social and natural environments. Science and its methods of investigation offer a way of learning that contributes to the development of an analytical and critical way of thinking. Inquiry is at the heart of MYP sciences and aims to support students’ understanding of sciences by providing them with opportunities to independently investigate relevant issues through both research and experimentation. Learning science relies on understanding and using the language of science, which involves more than simply learning technical scientific terminology. Science is taught in an investigative approach, providing students with a way of knowing through inquiry that contributes to the development of analytical and critical thinking. Science topics are designed to be relevant to the needs and interests of students, providing them with opportunities to explore the role of science in everyday life and the dynamic interactions between science and society.(Adapted from IB MYP Science Guide)

Design

Technology and technological developments have given rise to profound changes in society, transforming how we access and process information, how we communicate with others and how we work and solve problems. The MYP holistic approach to teaching and learning acknowledges that inquiry and problem solving contribute to students’ development of thinking skills and strategies that will equip them to face the rapidly changing demands of the 21st century. MYP technology aims to provide the means and the context to help students become skillful problem solvers, who can appreciate the role of technology in everyday life and society and who can respond critically and resourcefully to real life challenges. (Adapted from IB MYP Design Guide)

Physical and Health Education

Physical education in the MYP is concerned with more than just participating in sports and games. Its primary aims are to encourage the development of “intelligent performers” and to encourage students to understand the importance of a balanced, healthy lifestyle. Throughout the three years of the MYP, students should develop knowledge, critical thinking and reflection skills, and a sense of responsibility, as well as interpersonal and self-motivational skills. This in turn should encourage choices that will contribute to long-term healthy living. (Adapted from MYP Physical and Health Education Guide)

School Guided in Grades 7 & 8.