Education
Cambridge
Secondary 6-8 grades
Lower Secondary

Welcome to Lower Secondary Grades 6-8 Curriculum Overview!

At Spectrum International School, we believe in nurturing young minds during their formative years, and our Lower Secondary Curriculum showcases this commitment to excellence. This section serves as your gateway to understanding the dynamic and comprehensive educational journey we offer for students in Grades 6 to 8.

We consider lower secondary to be a critical stage in your child's academic journey. Our Lower Secondary program is carefully crafted to promote holistic development, encourage critical thinking, and foster a deep understanding of a diverse range of subjects. This enables us to provide a solid foundation for lifelong learning.

Subjects

Mathematics: Our Mathematics curriculum aims to develop students' problem-solving skills, mathematical reasoning, and computational fluency. This is achieved through engaging lessons and real-world applications, students explore concepts such as algebra, geometry, statistics, and more.

Sciences: Our Science classes, students dive into the fascinating world of scientific inquiry and discovery. From biology and chemistry to physics and environmental science, students explore key scientific concepts, conduct experiments, and develop a deeper understanding of the natural world.

Languages: Our Language curriculum focuses on developing proficiency in English, Kazakh and a third language. This is achieved through immersive language instruction, literature studies, and language acquisition strategies, students enhance their communication skills, cultural awareness, and appreciation for diverse linguistic traditions.

Humanities: Our Humanities subjects, including Global Perspectives, History, History of Kazakhstan and Geography, provide students with valuable insights into human societies, cultures, and civilizations. Through inquiry-based learning and critical analysis, students gain a deeper understanding of historical events, geographical phenomena, and societal issues

Arts: Our Arts curriculum encompasses visual arts and music, providing students with opportunities for creative expression and artistic exploration. Through hands-on projects, performances, and exhibitions, students develop their creativity, imagination, and appreciation for the arts. 

Computer Science: In our Computer Science classes, students learn essential digital literacy skills and explore emerging technologies. From coding and computer programming to robotics and digital media production, students develop the skills and competencies needed to thrive in a technology-driven world.

Physical Education: Our Physical Education classes promote physical fitness, health, and well-being. Through a variety of sports, games, and fitness activities, students develop motor skills, teamwork, and a lifelong appreciation for physical activity and healthy living.

PSHEOur PSHEE classes focus on nurturing the personal, social, health, and economic well-being of our students. Through engaging discussions, interactive activities, and real-life scenarios, students explore topics such as personal development, relationships, mental and emotional health, and financial literacy. Our PSHEE curriculum is designed to empower students with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to make informed decisions, build positive relationships, and lead healthy and fulfilling lives.

Each subject in our Lower Secondary curriculum is taught by qualified educators who are passionate about inspiring students to reach their full potential. By offering a diverse array of subjects, we aim to provide a well-rounded education that prepares students for success in both academic and personal pursuits.

Assessment

Our Lower Secondary Assessment framework is thoughtfully crafted to assess student progress, pinpoint areas of strength, and offer personalised support for growth. This comprehensive system embraces a variety of evaluation methods, such as formative and summative assessments, standardised tests, and teacher observations. Through this diverse range of assessment tools, we guarantee that every student receives individualised feedback and assistance tailored to their unique learning requirements.

Our commitment to excellence extends beyond conventional boundaries as we incorporate globally recognised assessment frameworks into our curriculum. This is achieved through the integration of Cambridge Lower Secondary Checkpoints and MIDYIS/YELLIS assessments.

Cambridge Checkpoint Exam: The Cambridge Lower Secondary Checkpoint Exams are internationally recognised assessments administered by Cambridge Assessment International Education. These exams are designed to assess your child's knowledge and understanding across various subjects, including Mathematics, Science, English, and more. They are typically taken at the end of the Lower Secondary stage (Grade 8) and provide valuable feedback on students' strengths and areas for improvement. The Checkpoint Exams help us as a school and our educators to track students' progress, inform teaching and learning strategies, and prepare students for further academic pursuits, such as the Cambridge IGCSE and other qualifications.

MIDYIS (Middle Years Information System): MIDYIS is an assessment tool which we use at Spectrum International School. It is used to measure students' cognitive abilities, academic attainment, and potential for academic success. MIDYIS assesses students' skills in areas such as Mathematics, English, Science, and Non-Verbal Reasoning. The assessment results provide us valuable insights into students' strengths and weaknesses, helping our educators to tailor instruction and support to meet individual student needs. We use MIDYIS assessments to inform setting and streaming decisions, identify students who may benefit from additional support or enrichment, and track students' progress over time.

YELLIS (Year Eleven Information System): At Spectrum International School, we employ the YELLIS assessment tool to forecast students' academic performance and anticipate their potential outcomes in the General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) exams or equivalent qualifications. This assessment is complemented by teacher observations and various other assessments. YELLIS assesses students' cognitive abilities, academic attainment, and other relevant factors to generate predictions about their likely IGCSE grades. The assessment results are used by our school and educators to identify students who may need additional support or intervention, set realistic academic targets, and track students' progress towards their goals. YELLIS predictions can help students, parents, and educators make informed decisions about future academic pathways, such as post-16 education options or career choices.

Connecting with Upper Secondary

The curriculum delivered in Lower Secondary serves as a vital bridge to the Upper Secondary level, paving the way for a smooth transition and continued academic excellence. The Lower Secondary curriculum lays a robust academic foundation, ensuring that students possess the necessary knowledge, skills, and competencies to excel in Upper Secondary subjects.

Learner profile

Assessment

Subjects offered

Checkpoint Exam / Progression Exam

Contact Us
Leave contact details and we'll call you.

Download List of documents for enrollment for the academic year 2023-2024

Koshkarbayev Avenue, 11, Astana
Admissions office
09:00–17:30
Open hours
how to get there
scan me
Посмотреть на карте Нур-Султана