The regular US High School Curriculum (English Language Arts, Math, Social Studies, Science, Technology and Electives) will be taught by 'certified' American teachers. Art, Music, Physical Education/Health will be covered by 'qualified' teachers. From the 3rd year of the school, the STEM curriculum offers AP Science, Math, Engineering, Robotics and Computer Programming for the STEM track diploma.
The overarching goal of the English department is to prepare students to be successful at the college level by providing them with a comprehensive understanding of the English language. At all grade levels, reading, writing, speaking, and analytical thinking will be emphasized and assessed. We believe these skills will help strengthen students’ ability to interpret the world around them. During their English studies at Saint Paul American School, students begin by mastering the foundations of English composition, and progressively move to a variety of specific writing, speaking, and literature courses. Students will analyze and respond to a wide range of literary texts that encompass a global perspective, with an emphasis on highly energetic, discussion-based learning experiences. Along with the core English curriculum, each student must also enroll in at least one Speech course. The purpose of this requirement is aimed at helping students build confidence, refine verbal and nonverbal communication skills, and, ultimately, be able to successfully deliver a wide variety of practical speeches. Students are also encouraged to engage in programs like Student Newsletter, Yearbook, and Creative Writing contests. These extracurricular pursuits provide students the opportunity to experiment with their writing skills and deepen their understanding in unique settings. Ultimately, we hope to instill in our students a love of literature, as well as the confidence to communicate effectively.
Courses in the Math department follow as much as possible a traditional American progression of high-school Mathematics classes. These start in Algebra I and continue through college-level Calculus. Emphasis is placed on graphing, functions, and critical thinking. Higher level classes require a high level of English because of the types of questions asked. Students are placed during their first term at Saint Paul American School in the class that best reflects their current Math level with consideration given to English ability. Students who finish our Math program will not only be ready for college courses, but will also be problem-solvers in many aspects of their lives; including finance, statistics, and applied sciences.
The Social Studies Department at St. Paul American School offers Government, History, Geography, and Economics classes that seek to prepare students to become educated global citizens. As students progress through their course of study at St. Paul American School, the department hopes that students will be made aware of various cultures and understand how they have developed over time. Students begin with the foundational courses of Geography and American Government. These courses provide a framework for both American and World History, with culminating courses analyzing economic principles that drive current industrial markets. Along with the standard Social Studies curriculum, students also have the opportunity to enroll in Social Studies electives, which include Current Events and Social Issues. These courses allow students to read and discuss real-world news events, case studies, and legal proceedings, thereby furthering their understanding of how the world functions as a global community. Finally, the model UN is a great opportunity for students to come together to collaborate and discuss contemporary world issues. The overarching goal of the department is to provide students with the skill set necessary to help them become informed decision-makers that will them to make a positive impact in the world.
The Science department follows a sequential, inquiry-based learning program, dedicated to fostering an appreciation for the essential concepts of scientific thought. At all grade levels of science studies, students learn through a variety of hands-on experiences, including experiments, observations, and discussions regarding foundational scientific concepts. Students are encouraged to learn through the process of discovery, with emphasis on critical thinking and analysis. Students begin with an introductory Physical Science course, covering the basic makeup of the world, from atoms to Newton’s laws. Students then progress to Biology, learning about the basics of anatomy, ecology, and the fundamentals of biochemistry. Chemistry follows, with an emphasis on precision and accuracy in scientific writing. Finally, students culminate their studies with high-level classical and modern Physics. The ultimate goal of the department is to allow students to learn and arrive at their own understanding of the world through exploration. We also hope to equip students with the confidence to utilize the scientific method in various aspects of their examination of the world around them