JHB MS Course Description Guide Current

Dear Students and Parents

Welcome to the Middle School of the American International School of Johannesburg!

This booklet aims to introduce you to our planned Program of Studies for the academic year. The Middle School strives to ensure that each student achieves their educational and personal potential. Our learning community works hard to do so in the context of the extensive cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development a student will experience during these early years of adolescence. 

The Program of Studies reflects high expectations for academic achievement. The program also represents a deep understanding of the importance of a caring and supportive learning environment during these middle years.   We aim to provide structure and clear boundaries in our learning program while, at the same time, encouraging exploration.  Our goal is to take advantage of the intellectual power of this group of learners and their drive to belong while appreciating the different gifts and needs of the individual. 

On the following pages, you will find descriptions of the core classes, elective courses, and exploration opportunities.  Students enroll in eight courses that meet across a rotating two-day schedule.  Five of the eight are required: Physical Education, English, Math, Science, and Social Studies.  The three other courses are Electives and Exploratories, some that take place for one full year, others for one trimester or one quarter, in the areas of World Languages, Visual and Performing Arts, Technology Education, and other special interest areas.  Health education is also a required elective for Middle School students in all three grade levels.

The means for developing your child’s academic program for the course registration process via PowerSchool and this Program of Studies booklet. The Middle School Counselor and Principal will facilitate this process in collaboration with the students, teachers, and parents. Please call, e-mail, or visit the Middle School administrative office if you have any questions about the registration process.

Dan Machacek

JHB Middle School Principal