Aims
This policy aims to:
1). Provide clear guidelines on the AKAIS approach to formative and summative assessment
2). Establish a consistent and coherent approach to recording summative assessments, external benchmark outcomes and reporting to parents
3). Set out clearly how and when assessment practice will be monitored and evaluated
4). To measure student’s attainment and progress accurately and consistently
Academic Expectations
The learning process is not a one-way process. Apart from the in class instruction, students are required to be responsible. The educational objectives are outlined each day keeping in mind the educational goals for the year. Therefore, it is important for students to come up with an academic plan. Throughout the year, students are required to do the following to be successful at Al Kamal:
– Develop an academic plan – creating a good balanced studying routine
– Develop good study skills – estimate adequate time for studying class material
– Come to class prepared – Students are responsible to complete all assigned tasks
– Take full advantage of all available academic resources
– Be an active participant in class and extracurricular activities
– Follow all AKAlS rules
AKAIS Curriculum
Al Kamal American international school is committed to providing a unique, advanced, and exceptional education program for all students. AKAIS provides an American curriculum for all grades.
Grade KG-12 Curriculum
Al Kamal American International School derives its educational standards from Common Core Standards of Education (general) and NGSS for students in grade KG through 12. Educational standards describe what students should know and be able to do in each subject in each grade. In California, for example, the State Board of Education decides on the standards for all students and helps schools make sure that all students are meeting the standards. To truly educate and prepare children for a very different world than what we have experienced, means to cultivate a specific educational foundation. This foundation must develop children’s critical thinking and synthesizing capacities, design strategies, and the ability to apply knowledge in fluid ways with an entrepreneurial mindset. Programs that require tireless perseverance and the adaptation of ideas through teamwork such as STEM enhance engagement initiatives at the school in all academic disciplines.
Since 2010, a number of states across the nation have adopted the same standards for English and math. These standards are called the Common Core State Standards (CCSS). Having the same standards helps all students get a good education, even if they change schools or move to a different state. Teachers, parents, and education experts designed the CCSS to prepare students for success in college and the workplace.
Test of English as a Foreign Language (IELTS/TOEFL)
IELTS or TOEFL is a requirement for colleges across the globe. Students may choose either of the two exams. However, AKAIS offers the IELTS preparation program. Locally, most students who wish to attend good universities must score well. The test is meant to help colleges assess whether the student’s English skills are adequate to understand college-level texts. Universities abroad also require students to do very well to be admitted along with a strong student profile. Apparently, to meet the requirement, it takes time to obtain the necessary skills throughout the school year. The IELTS program begins in grade 11, so students may take it prior to entering 12th grade. If students have not taken the IELTS, they have another opportunity during their senior year in high school. Students must pass the IELTS/TOEFL prior to graduation.
AP (Advanced Placement)
AP are courses are provided to students in grades 11 and 12. Students who have completed a prerequisite course in subjects such as biology, math, physics, foreign language, geography and many other courses during their 9th and 10th year are eligible to choose from 38 courses. However, not all of them are provided by the school, but may register for assistance in preparation for the AP exam, which is always in May. For further information, students my collegeboard.org website. Grades 11-12 are very crucial college preparation. Students have a great opportunity to complete some college level based courses and earn credit prior to entering their college, which saves them money and time in college.
SAT
The SAT is exam is out of 1600 points. It has a math and English part. It is governed by the collegeboard site. Most students who are travelling abroad take it. It is not a requirement by the Ministry like the EMSAT if studying here. It is a requirement for some universities outside the UAE, especially to the US. Students can inquire further in preparation for this particular exam.
Student Academic Responsibilities
Students are required to do their very best every day. Students are expected to maintain the highest standards of academic conduct. There are high levels of ethical code at AKAIS. Good behavior, classroom participation, homework, assessments are all important in academic advancement.
At AKAIS, rules must be followed by all people in order to maintain a coherent and effective school year. The rules and regulations are as follows:
Homework Policy
Homework is an opportunity for parents, students, and teachers to work together to improve academic performance and so communication between home and school is fundamentally essential.
The assigned work that teachers send home is designed as an opportunity for your child to solidify the learning that has taken place in the classroom. Teachers will provide specific details for each assigned task. We highly recommend that parents encourage their children to be proactive and independent learners. Students may submit their work from any of the application channels made available during this hybrid learning time: MS TEAMS, Google classroom, email, or any other available resource available for the students.
The table below specifies the suggested time that your child should dedicate towards their learning. Homework time is calculated based on a standard homework formula.
Homework Guidelines
Homework is an opportunity for parents, students, and teachers to work together to improve academic performance and so communication between home and school is fundamentally essential.
The assigned work that teachers send home is designed as an opportunity for your child to solidify the learning that has taken place in the classroom. Teachers will provide specific details for each assigned task. We highly recommend that parents encourage their children to be proactive and independent learners.
The table below specifies the suggested time that your child should dedicate towards their learning:
|
No. |
Grade |
Minimum Time |
Focus |
|
1 |
KG 1 |
20 min |
· Reading in Arabic for 7 min · Reading in English for 7 min · Count numbers or sorting exercises for 6 min |
|
2 |
KG 2 |
30 min |
· Reading in Arabic for 12 min · Reading in English for 12 min · Counting numbers or sorting exercises for 6 min |
|
3 |
G 1-2 |
45 min |
· Reading in Arabic · Reading in English · Math & Science Work |
|
4 |
G 3-4 |
50 min |
· Reading in Arabic · Reading in English · Math & Science Work |
|
5 |
G 5 + |
60-70 min |
· Vary |