Girls from grades between 6 and 10 sharing a table while studing

Middle Years

IB Middle Years Program

The IB Middle Years Program (MYP) at International Scholars Academy serves students in Grades 6–10 and provides a challenging, inquiry-driven learning experience grounded in global perspectives and Islamic values. The MYP Program is designed to develop scholars who think critically, communicate effectively, act ethically, and engage meaningfully with the world around them.

Curriculum

The MYP offers a balanced and interconnected curriculum across eight subject groups, ensuring that every scholar experiences a broad, holistic education. These subject groups are:

Language & Literature (English & Arabic)
Individuals & Societies (Social Studies, History, and Islamic)
Mathematics
Sciences
Language Acquisition (Arabic as an Additional Language / English as an Additional Language)
Arts (Visual Arts & Drama)
Physical & Health Education
Design (Digital Design, Product Design, Engineering, Robotics, and Computer Coding)

How it works

At ISA, these subjects work together to create an engaging, concept-driven programme where learning is connected across disciplines and rooted in relevance to the real world. Our scholars are supported academically, socially, and personally by:

Encouraging inquiry and curiosity in every subject
Building conceptual understanding through real-world contexts
Strengthening ATL skills (research, communication, self-management, collaboration, thinking)
Supporting student identity, voice, and agency
Fostering international-mindedness and global citizenship
Preparing students for success in the IB Diploma Programme (DP) or any rigorous high school pathway

MYP Courses overview

Grade 6 — Year 1: Foundations of Algebra

Integers, Algebraic Expressions & Equations
Students begin with number sense (integers, the number line) and move into writing and simplifying algebraic expressions. They solve one-step equations and represent equivalent relationships symbolically.

Proportional Relationships, Statistics & Geometry
The year concludes with ratios and proportional reasoning, data analysis using measures of central tendency, and an introduction to geometric concepts. Authentic projects (Shopping Spree, Teacher for the Day) connect math to real life.

Grade 7 — Year 2: Pre-Algebra
Real Number System / Pre-Algebra / Equations & Inequalities
Students expand their number system knowledge and deepen algebraic thinking — solving multi-step equations, working with patterns and models, and reasoning through inequalities using puzzles and real-world projects.

Geometry / Statistics
Geometric concepts are explored through scale, space, and patterns. Statistics reinforces data interpretation, with students conducting authentic projects comparing populations.

Grade 8 — Year 3: Algebra I
Real Numbers / Solving Linear Equations / Graphing Systems
Students formalize their algebra skills — solving multi-step linear equations, graphing linear equations on a coordinate plane, and solving systems of equations graphically and algebraically.

Pythagorean Theorem / Geometry
Students apply the Pythagorean theorem for indirect measurement and explore geometric forms in space. Authentic projects connect algebra and geometry to real-world problem-solving.

Grade 9 — Year 4: Geometry
Lines, Angles & Architecture / Polygons & Triangles
Students apply geometric reasoning to the real world — studying lines, angles, and polygons through the lens of architecture and design. Projects include designing a logo and creating a business identity using geometric shapes.

Circles / Trigonometry
The year concludes with circle geometry (including Islamic architecture tile design projects) and an introduction to trigonometry — using sine, cosine, and tangent to solve real-world spatial problems.

Grade 10 — Year 4: Algebra II
Speaking Mathematics / Balancing Equations & Inequalities / Linear Functions
Students work with the full algebra toolkit — variables, expressions, multi-step equations, inequalities, and linear functions. Projects include cell-phone plan analysis and world population modeling.

Systems of Equations / Power of Exponents / Polynomials & Factoring
The year advances into systems of equations, exponential growth models, and polynomial operations including factoring — critical foundations for calculus and higher mathematics.
Grade 6 — Year 1: Earth & Space Science
Universe & Its Stars / The Solar System / Earth, Moon & Sun
Students begin with astronomy by exploring the structure of the universe, the life cycle of stars, and the role of gravity within the solar system. Through hands-on activities and 3D modeling projects, students investigate the planets, moons, and other celestial bodies while studying Earth-Moon-Sun relationships such as moon phases, tides, seasons, and eclipses.

History of Earth / Earth Systems / Weather & Climate
The second half of the year focuses on Earth science, including plate tectonics, geological history, rock formation, earthquakes, volcanoes, soil conservation, and the water cycle. Students also examine weather systems, climate patterns, global warming, renewable resources, and the human impact on Earth’s environment.

Grade 7 — Year 2: Life Science
What Is Science? / Life’s Structure & Function
Students begin by developing scientific inquiry skills and mastering the scientific method before transitioning into cell biology. They study cell structures and functions, conduct microscope investigations, and create 3D cell models to better understand how living organisms function.

Heredity / Human Body Systems / Ecology / Plant Biology
The curriculum continues with genetics and heredity, including traits, DNA, selective breeding, and GMOs, accompanied by classroom discussions and ethical debates. Students then explore the major human body systems, ecosystem interactions, biodiversity, food webs, environmental sustainability, and the essential role of plant biology in supporting life on Earth.

Grade 8 — Year 3: Physical Science — Matter & Motion
Does Science Matter? / Discovering the Atom / How Do Elements Connect?
Students investigate the history and philosophy of science while building a strong foundation in chemistry. Topics include atomic structure, subatomic particles, the periodic table, chemical bonding, and molecular interactions. Students apply their understanding through laboratory investigations and 3D atomic modeling projects.

Kinematics & Dynamics / Work, Power & Energy / Waves & Electromagnetic Radiation
The second half of the year introduces classical physics concepts including motion, velocity, acceleration, forces, and Newton’s Laws of Motion. Students also study work, power, energy transformations, sound and light waves, and the electromagnetic spectrum, connecting scientific theory to real-world applications and technology.

Grade 9 — Year 4: Biology — Cells & Living Systems
Cell Biology / Genetics / Evolution
Students deepen their understanding of biology through advanced study of cells, cellular processes, genetics, and heredity. Topics include DNA structure, protein synthesis, mitosis, meiosis, and evolutionary theory. Laboratory work emphasizes observation, experimentation, and data analysis.

Human Systems / Ecology & Environmental Science
The course expands into human anatomy and physiology, examining how body systems interact to maintain life. Students also study ecosystems, population dynamics, biodiversity, conservation, and environmental challenges affecting global sustainability.

Grade 10 — Year 5: Physics — Energy & Systems
Let’s Talk Science / Are We Moving Yet? / Let’s Go to Work
Building on earlier physics concepts, students use algebraic models and scientific formulas to analyze motion, forces, and energy transfer. Topics include kinematics, dynamics, momentum, mechanical energy, and engineering applications that connect scientific principles to modern technologies.

Transferring Energy / Exchanging Heat / Magnetism & Electricity
The year concludes with the study of thermodynamics, heat transfer, electricity, and magnetism. Students investigate circuits, electromagnetic fields, and energy systems while exploring how electromagnetism powers everyday devices and large-scale technologies.

Grade 10 — Year 5: Chemistry
Can You Split an Atom? / Chemistry ID & Making Connections
Students transition into advanced chemistry through the study of atomic theory, electron configuration, periodic trends, and chemical properties. They learn how elements interact and how chemical structure influences behavior and reactivity.

Naming Compounds / Chemical Changes / Acid-Base Systems / Stoichiometry
Students continue with chemical nomenclature, reaction types, balancing equations, acids and bases, titration experiments, and quantitative stoichiometry. Laboratory investigations emphasize precision, analytical thinking, and preparation for advanced science coursework in chemistry and related fields.
Grade 6 — Year 1

Physical Fitness and Health / Soccer / Putting on a Clinic: Basketball / Nutrition / Parkour and Movement (Gymnastics) / Flying Gravity (Badminton) / Volleyball

Students establish a fitness baseline and learn how dietary choices support a healthy lifestyle. The sports rotation includes volleyball, basketball, and gymnastics (performing an aesthetic routine). A health unit on nutrition runs alongside physical activities throughout the year.

Grade 7 — Year 2

Curls n Crunches / Intermediate Football (Soccer) / Basket Hounds (Basketball) / Personal Safety and Protection / Gymnastics Floor Skills / Super Smashers (Badminton) / Volleyball

Students investigate personal safety and risk decision-making alongside their sports curriculum. Intermediate soccer develops energy system awareness, basketball deepens spatial and tactical thinking, and gymnastics refine balance and movement through performance routines.

Grade 8 — Year 3

Fitness and Wellbeing / Soccer, Football, or The Beautiful Game / Basketball / Tobacco, Alcohol and Drugs / Hockey / Badminton / Volleyball

The PHE course focuses on fitness assessment with self-reflection, a health unit examining the influence of choices and communication on drug use decisions, and advanced-level play in soccer (energy systems and movement quality), basketball, and volleyball.

Grade 9 — Year 4

Raise The Bar / Soccer Proficient / Basketball / International Dance Around the World / Serve Aces (Badminton) / Volleyball

Students develop a personal fitness project and explore how balance and adaptation improve team performance. A unique Dance History unit examines how human interactions and culture shape artistic expression. Badminton develops strategic choice and energy transfer.

Grade 10 — Year 5

Foundation of Health, Safety, Nutrition and Physical Activity / Body Systems and Diseases / Mental Health and Drug Addiction / Addictions: Alcohol, Tobacco & Other Drugs

Grade 10 is health-focused: students research breast cancer for a Dig-Pink service event and earn CPR certification. They then examine how biological systems can be modified and the implications of biotechnology and conclude with a mental health unit exploring psychological balance, drug addiction, and how to develop and present an advocacy campaign.
Grade 6 — Year 1: Personal Voice & Narrative

Reader's & Writer's Workshop / Crafting Life Stories

Students launch their writing lives through independent reading and personal narrative. They explore how purpose and self-expression drive communication, producing a personal narrative essay.

Character Study / Literary Essay / Historical Fiction / Poetry

Students analyze how setting shapes character perspective, write their first literary theme essay, explore historical fiction, and close the year with a poetry unit focused on identity and stress.

Grade 7 — Year 2: Character, Story & Argument

Investigating Characters / Authors at Work (Fiction Narrative)

Students analyze how authors use perspective to drive characterization, then craft their own fiction narratives — including graphic novel options — showcasing personal style and values.

The Past Haunts Us (Historical Fiction) / Art of Argument

Historical fiction deepens students' understanding of civilization and social history. Students develop argumentative writing and speaking skills for civic engagement by studying claims, evidence, and reasoning.

Grade 8 — Year 3: Analysis, Media & Dystopia

Investigative Journalism / Literary Nonfiction

Students explore how analysis and argument shape communication — producing a video newscast and a podcast as their summative projects, connecting academic skills to real-world media.

Literary Analysis Essay / Dystopian Literature

Students write formal compare-and-contrast literary essays, then study the dystopian genre — examining systems of security and freedom through texts like The Hunger Games or The Giver.

Grade 9 — Year 4: Mythology, Culture & Allegory

Myths & Legends / The Odyssey

Students analyze how myths encode cultural values, then undertake an extended study of The Odyssey — examining the hero's journey, narrative structure, and ancient belief systems.

Of Mice and Men / Short stories by Mark Twain / Peter Pan and Wendy / Animal Farm

Students explore American culture and social inequality through Steinbeck and Twain’s work, the archetype of eternal youth in Barrie’s novel, and political allegory in Animal Farm, concluding with a Museum Exhibition project.

Grade 10 — Year 5: Colonialism, War & Man’s Search for Meaning

Colonialism / The Pearl / When Things Fall Apart

Students examine the effects of colonialism on indigenous societies and forms of resistance — analyzing the importance of human relationships as well as Man’s relationship with Nature and the Divine.

The Things They Carried / The Alchemist / Poetry

Students analyze how fictional stories serve as vehicles for truth in O’Brien’s work, then explore the concepts of Personal Legends and Hidden Treasures in The Alchemist. The year concludes with a unit on contemporary poetry and a creative project.
The MYP Language Acquisition curriculum is designed around engaging themes and authentic communication that support students’ linguistic and intercultural development. Topics and texts are aligned with the IB MYP global contexts, including identities and relationships, orientation in space and time, personal and cultural expression, scientific and technical innovation, and globalization and sustainability. Through these contexts, students develop language skills and cultural understanding and needed to communicate effectively and meaningfully in real-world situations.

Year 1: Language Foundations & Culture – Emergent Phase 1

Students begin developing foundational Arabic literacy through the study of basic greetings, personal information, and everyday topics. Instruction focuses on building skills in reading, listening, speaking, and writing. Students work toward expressing themselves independently and describing familiar people and environments using simple language.

Year 2: Language Foundations & Culture – Emergent Phase 2

Students expand their language skills by discussing identity, daily life, preferences, and past experiences. They develop greater confidence using Arabic in a variety of practical contexts and begin communicating more independently, while continuing to build accuracy and fluency across the four language skills.

Year 3: Capable Phase 1

Students engage with a wider range of texts and topics to identify explicit and implicit meaning, make connections, and analyze information. They develop the ability to communicate more complex ideas with increasing independence, adapting language appropriately for audience and purpose.

Year 4: Capable Phase 2

Students engage in more authentic and spontaneous communication to express understanding, ideas, and opinions on every day and select global topics across familiar and unfamiliar cultural contexts. They continue developing independence in expressing complex ideas while strengthening their ability to adapt language appropriately for audience, purpose, and situation.

Year 5: Proficient

Students interpret and analyze both explicit and implicit information across a range of text types and contexts, drawing informed conclusions and connections. They demonstrate comprehension through increasingly sophisticated spoken and written communication and can discuss, justify, and support opinions on a broad range of personal and global issues using complex language structures.
Grade 6 — Year 1: American History I

Native Americans / 13 Colonies / Revolutionary War / Civil War

Students trace the arc of early American history — from the sustainable civilizations of Native Americans through the formation of the 13 colonies, the causes and experience of the Revolutionary War (written from three different perspectives), and the road to the Civil War.

Rights in Law / Africa

Students examine how explicit rights must be codified in law for a free society, then conclude with a global perspective: an Africa-focused 'TED Talk' style presentation on interconnected sustainability.

Grade 7 — Year 2: American Government & World Regions

American Government / A More Perfect Union / United We Stand / Far East

Students explore the structure of US government and citizenship responsibilities, debate the foundations of American democracy, study how shared viewpoints drive cooperation, and research how a nation's identity is shaped by its systems (with a focus on East Asia).

Ancient Greece

The year concludes with a comparative study of ancient Greek governance, democracy, and how geography influences economic development and political structure.

Grade 8 — Year 3: Ancient Civilizations

Beginning of Civilization / Development of Cultures & Cities / Ancient Greece & Rome

Students trace human civilization from its origins — the shift from hunter-gatherers to agricultural communities — through the growth of ancient cities, the political innovations of Greece, and the rise and fall of the Roman Empire.

Fall of Rome / Development of Cities / Brother Against Brother (Civil War)

The year closes with interdisciplinary units on the development of modern cities from ancient roots, and a research paper on the American Civil War — examining how differing cultures and perspectives create conflict.

Grade 9 — Year 4: American History II & Industrialization

European Explorers / Birth of a New Nation / Articles or Constitution? / Two Steps Forward

Students study the European exploration and colonization of North America, the American Revolution and Declaration of Independence, the Constitutional Convention, and how rapid societal change requires new systems of governance.

US Expansion / Industrial Revolution / Immigration

The year covers westward expansion and its tensions, the Industrial Revolution's technological and social impact (with team video projects), and how immigration and cultural change shape national identity (Melting Pot vs. Salad Bowl debate).

Grade 10 — Year 5: World History — Renaissance to Imperialism

Wake Up, Europe! (Renaissance) / Born to Rule! (Monarchies) / Gunpowder Empires

Students explore how trade and the Renaissance transformed Europe, analyze the power dynamics of absolute monarchy across Europe, and engage in a role-playing video interview of leaders from the three major Gunpowder Empires (Ottoman, Safavid, Mughal).

Nationalism / French Revolution / Imperialism

The year concludes with a study of how societies develop inward-looking national identities, the unintended consequences of the French Revolution, and how imperialism created conflicts that continue to shape the modern world.
Grade 6 — Year 1: Faith, Worship, and Character

Well-Being in This Life and the Hereafter / Following the Prophet’s Example / Salah (Prayer) / Zakah and Fasting

Students learn how sound beliefs and a strong Islamic identity lead to happiness and success in this life and the next. They study the pillars of Islam, the meaning and conditions of the Shahadah, an introduction to the life of Prophet Muhammad, the stories of Nuh and Hud, and inspiring Muslim character through figures such as Khadijah and Abu Bakr. In worship, they learn the complete steps of performing Salah as taught by the Prophet, create a Salah booklet in Arabic and English describing the steps of each prayer, explore Zakah and the wisdom behind it, experience Ramadan through a focused unit on fasting, and learn how to perfect their character through the Quran and Sunnah. They also study the remembrance of Allah, supplication, good morals, and kindness to animals.

Grade 7 — Year 2: Building Islamic Character and Faith

Types of Tawheed / Greatness of Allah & His Attributes / Al-Seerah Al-Nabaweyah / Purification & Tayammum / Detailed Study of Salah / Stories of Prophets & Companions / Al-Sabr and Avoiding Al-Gheeba

Students deepen their understanding of Tawheed, the greatness of Allah, and His Names and Attributes. They study selected lessons from Al-Seerah Al-Nabaweyah, stories of Prophets and Companions, and key rulings of purification and Salah, including its conditions, Arkan, Wajebat, and Sunan. The course also develops Islamic manners such as patience (Al-Sabr) and avoiding backbiting (Al-Gheeba).

Grade 8 — Year 3: Sweetness of Faith & Worship

Sweetness of Iman / Voluntary Prayers / Sujood Al-Sahu,Al-Shukr and Al-Telawah / Rulings of Fasting / Ramadan Booklet, Ruling of Al-Hajj , Seerah Nabewyah ( section 3), Story of a Prophet and a Comp anion and Unit of Islamic Manners

The objective of this course is to strengthen students’ faith and connection with Allah through understanding the sweetness of Iman and the importance of sincere worship. Students learn the virtues and rulings of voluntary prayers, Sujood Al-Sahu, Sujood Al-Shukr, Sujood Al-Telawah, fasting, and Hajj, while applying these teachings through activities such as the Ramadan booklet. The course also develops appreciation for the Seerah Nabaweyah, lessons from the stories of Prophets and Companions, and the practice of Islamic manners in daily life.

Grade 9 — Year 4: Islamic Faith, Worship & Ethical Living

Tawheed and the Names & Attributes of Allah / Types of Al-Sabr / Islamic Rulings on Speech and Conduct / Food and Drinks in Islam / Unit of Fasting / Seerah Nabaweyah / Manners from the Sunnah / Good Deeds & Islamic Morals / The Effect of the Quran on Our Lives through Surat Al-Hujurat / Gratitude and Islamic Values

This course develops students’ understanding of Islamic belief, worship, and moral character through the study of Tawheed, the Names and Attributes of Allah, and the meaning and types of Al-Sabr. Students explore Islamic rulings related to speech, food, fasting, and daily conduct while strengthening their connection to the Quran and Sunnah. Through Seerah Nabaweyah, Surat Al-Hujurat, and lessons on Islamic manners and gratitude, students learn to apply Islamic values, good deeds, and ethical responsibility in their personal lives and communities.

Grade 10 — Year 5: Aqeedah, Heritage & Islamic Morals

Islam & Principles of Aqeedah / Status of Learning in Islam / Effects of Muslim Scholars on the World / Seerah Nabaweyah / Rights & Responsibilities / Hajj & Umrah / Islamic Morals / Story of a Prophet and a Companion.

Students study the six pillars of Iman and how beliefs positively transform identity and behavior. They research Muslim scholars of the past in an interdisciplinary unit on Islamic heritage, reflect on scientific miracles in the Quran (gallery walk), examine the rights and responsibilities of Muslims in a sustainable community, and conduct a close analysis of hadith to understand how Islamic morals
Grade 6 — Year 1: Arts

introduces students to the basics of drawing, painting, collage, and sculpture. Students explore the elements of art and principles of design to create original artworks inspired by personal experiences, nature, and different cultures.

The course includes connections with other subjects, where students create artwork based on stories, characters, and important themes such as survival and resilience.

Students develop technical skills, creativity, and critical thinking while documenting their process, final artworks, and reflections in portfolio.

Grade 7 — Year 2: Visual Arts

Ingredients of Art / Art of Communication / Looking at Artwork (Art Criticism)

builds on the foundations of visual art through drawing, painting, and mixed media. Students explore how artists use the elements of art and principles of design to communicate ideas, emotions, and stories.

Units include The Ingredients of Art, Art of Communication, and Looking at Artwork (Art Criticism). Students experiment with different materials and techniques, create original artworks, and study artistic styles such as abstract art, cubism, and cultural heritage art.

Students develop technical skills, creativity, and critical thinking while analyzing artworks from different cultures and time periods. All work is documented in a portfolio that includes research, sketches, final artworks, and reflections. Student learning is assessed using the four MYP Arts criteria.

Grade 8 —year 3: Visual Art

helps students strengthen their artistic skills and develop their own creative style through drawing, painting, and mixed media. Students use the elements of art and principles of design to communicate ideas, emotions, and stories.

Units include Art of Storytelling, Abstract Art, Cubism, and Cultural Heritage Art. Students create artworks inspired by personal experiences, social issues, and different cultures.

The course includes connections with English Language Arts through The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins, where students create poster covers, character illustrations, and symbolic artworks exploring themes of survival, power, and hope.

Students also analyze artworks from different time periods and cultures.

Grade 9 — Year 4: Visual Arts

Impression, Composition & Expression / Design in Reality / 3D Elements of Art

develops students’ artistic and design skills through drawing, painting, and three-dimensional projects. Students explore composition, design, and 3D art while refining their technical skills and creative thinking.

Units include Impression, Composition and Expression, Design, and 3D Elements of Art. Students study Islamic Art and create geometric patterns, , and artworks inspired by cultural heritage.

Students design posters, build three-dimensional objects, and solve creative design challenges. All work is documented in a portfolio that includes research, sketches, final artworks, and reflections, and is assessed using the four MYP Arts criteria.
Grade 6 through Grade 9 – Year 1 through Year 4

The MYP Design course for students in Grades 6 through 9 engages learners in a dynamic, inquiry-based process centered on the MYP design cycle. Students investigate real-world challenges, develop clear design briefs, and generate innovative solutions through research, creativity, and critical thinking. Following the stages of Inquiring and Analyzing, Developing Ideas, Creating the Solution, and Evaluating, students build practical skills in problem-solving, collaboration, and reflection. By applying design thinking to authentic contexts, the course empowers students to become thoughtful creators, capable of designing purposeful solutions that meet user needs and demonstrate iterative improvement.
Grade 10- Year 5

The MYP Personal Project in Year 5 (Grade 10) is a culminating experience that empowers students to explore a topic of personal passion through independent inquiry, creativity, and action. Guided by the MYP approaches to learning and the design process, students set meaningful goals, conduct in-depth research, develop a product or outcome, and reflect on their learning journey. The project encourages students to demonstrate initiative, critical thinking, time management, and self-reflection while making connections between their interests and real-world impact. Through this process, students grow as confident, self-directed learners prepared for future academic and personal challenges.

School project where students drew Martin Luther King Junior

Signature MYP Experiences

At ISA, the MYP is woven into daily teaching and learning through a clear, student-centered framework that empowers students to take ownership of their learning journey.

The Personal Project is the culminating experience of the MYP in Grade 10. It allows students to explore a topic they are passionate about, set a clear goal, create a meaningful product, and reflect on their learning journey. Through this independent project, students demonstrate the inquiry skills, personal growth, and academic readiness they have developed throughout the programme. The year concludes with a schoolwide showcase where students present their work to the ISA community.