Grade 6 to 10 Academic Guide

Grade 6 to 10 Academic Guide

Welcome to the Middle Years Programme

Introduction to the Curriculum Guide for the International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years Programme (MYP) at Beau Soleil for Grades 6-10

At Beau Soleil, we are committed to providing a comprehensive education that prepares students for success in the 21st century. As an authorized IB World School, we offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years Programme (MYP) for Grades 6-10. Our academic program is designed to promote intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and a love of learning.

The MYP is a challenging, inquiry-based programme that emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, international-mindedness, and the development of the whole person. The MYP is designed to provide students with a well-rounded education and to prepare them for success in the IB Diploma Programme and/or American High School Diploma in Grades 11 and 12.

Subject Groups

The MYP is organized around eight subject groups: Language Acquisition, Language and Literature, Individuals and Societies, Sciences, Mathematics, Arts, Physical and Health Education, and Design. Each subject group is designed to develop specific knowledge, skills, and values, and to provide opportunities for students to engage in inquiry-based learning, critical thinking, and creativity.

Language Acquisition:

The Language Acquisition subject group is designed to develop students’ language skills in a second language. The objective of this subject group is to promote communication, cultural understanding, and the development of lifelong learners.

Language and Literature:

The Language and Literature subject group is designed to develop students’ communication skills in their first language. The objective of this subject group is to improve language proficiency, develop critical thinking and analytical skills, and encourage an appreciation for a range of literary genres and texts.

Individuals and Societies:

The Individuals and Societies subject group is designed to help students understand the world around them by examining the social, political, and economic factors that shape our society. The objective of this subject group is to promote critical thinking, research, and analysis of contemporary and historical events, and to encourage an understanding of the principles of democracy, citizenship, and human rights.

Sciences:

The Sciences subject group is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in scientific principles and skills. The objective of this subject group is to develop an understanding of scientific principles and concepts, critical thinking and problemsolving skills, and an appreciation of the role of science in addressing contemporary global challenges.

Mathematics:

The Mathematics subject group is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in mathematical principles and skills. The objective of this subject group is to develop problem-solving and critical thinking skills, practical skills in mathematical modelling, data analysis, and interpretation, and an appreciation for the role of mathematics in addressing contemporary global challenges.

Arts:

The Arts subject group; Dance, Drama, Art and Music is designed to foster creativity, expression, and cultural appreciation. The objective of this subject group is to develop practical skills in creating and presenting art, critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and an understanding of the role of the arts in society.

Physical and Health Education:

The Physical and Health Education subject group is designed to promote physical fitness, healthy lifestyles, and teamwork. The objective of this subject group is to promote physical fitness, practical skills in various sports and activities, teamwork, sportsmanship, and leadership skills.

Design:

The Design subject group is designed to foster creativity, innovation, and problemsolving skills. The objective of this subject group is to develop creativity, practical skills in various design areas, an understanding of design thinking, and an appreciation of the role of design in society and the environment. The Design subject group is comprised of two seperate subjects; digital and product design.

Additional language:

In addition to the eight subject groups explained above. Our students also have the opportunity to study their mother tongue language or an additional foreign language.

Arabic*, Chinese*, German, Italian, Japanese*, Portuguese*, Russian* and Spanish are available language choices.

*Additional charges apply. Please refer to our terms and conditions.

Additional Essential Components

In addition to the subject groups, the MYP includes two other essential components: Service and Interdisciplinary Learning. The Service component is designed to promote social awareness, compassion, and a sense of social responsibility. The Interdisciplinary Learning component provides an opportunity for students to explore.

Service:

The Service component of the MYP is designed to encourage students to be active, responsible members of their community and the world. Through service, students are able to apply the knowledge and skills they have developed in the classroom to real-world situations. This provides them with a deeper understanding of the world around them and fosters social awareness, compassion, and a sense of social responsibility. Service opportunities can take many different forms, such as community service projects, environmental initiatives, or fundraising for charities. Students are encouraged to reflect on their service experiences and to consider the impact they have on themselves and others.

Interdisciplinary Learning:

The Interdisciplinary Learning component of the MYP provides an opportunity for students to explore complex issues that transcend disciplinary boundaries. Through interdisciplinary learning, students are able to connect concepts and knowledge across different subject areas and develop a more holistic understanding of the world. The interdisciplinary approach encourages critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration. It also provides opportunities for students to explore complex issues that transcend disciplinary boundaries, and develop problem-solving skills and the ability to apply knowledge across different subject areas.

Interdisciplinary learning is organized around units of inquiry that incorporate two or more subject groups. These units are designed to be engaging, relevant, and challenging, and are structured to allow students to explore a particular theme or issue from different perspectives. For example, a unit of inquiry on climate change might incorporate the Sciences, Individuals and Societies, and Language and Literature subject groups. This would allow students to explore the scientific, social, and ethical dimensions of the issue, and develop a more comprehensive understanding of it.

Overall, the Service and Interdisciplinary Learning components of the MYP are essential to the philosophy of developing well-rounded, compassionate, and socially responsible individuals. By engaging in service and interdisciplinary learning, students are able to develop a deeper understanding of the world around them and to apply their knowledge and skills to real-world situations. This prepares them for success in Grades 11 and 12, and beyond, as they become active and responsible global citizens.

Grade 10

One of the key benefits of the MYP at Beau Soleil is the opportunity for students to personalise their learning through a range of subject choices in Grade 10. These options allow students to explore their interests, develop their strengths, and begin shaping an academic pathway for Grades 11 and 12.

The Grade 10 curriculum offers a broad selection of subjects across Mathematics, Sciences, Humanities, Languages, and the Arts, helping students build a balanced and well-rounded education.

The benefits of these subject choices include:

Personalisation:

Subject options in Grade 10 allow students to personalise their learning experience and to focus on areas of study that are of particular interest or importance to them.

Preperation for Grade 11 and 12:

Subject choices help students prepare for the academic expectations of the IBDP/HSD programmes.

Skills and knowledge development:

Students develop important skills such as critical thinking, independence, organisation, and communication.

Broader range of academic disciplines:

Exploring a variety of disciplines encourages curiosity and helps students discover new areas of interest.

In conclusion, the subject options available in Grade 10 for pre-IBDP/HSD at Beau Soleil offer students greater personalisation and flexibility in their learning. They provide valuable preparation for the academic demands of the IB Diploma Programme while allowing students to develop key skills, deepen their knowledge, and explore a broad range of disciplines. This helps students maximise their potential and make informed choices about their future academic and career pathways.

Grade 10 Bilingual Programme

At Beau Soleil, we are committed to providing a well-rounded education that prepares students for success in the 21st century. One of the distinctive features of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years Programme (MYP) at Beau Soleil is the opportunity for Grade 10 students to study selected pre-IBDP/HSD subjects in either English or French. This bilingual approach provides students with valuable academic, linguistic, and cultural advantages as they prepare for the next stage of their education.

Studying subjects in both English and French enables students to further strengthen their language skills in academic contexts. In an increasingly globalised world, bilingualism is a highly valued asset that opens doors to international universities and future career opportunities. Fluency in both languages is particularly beneficial for students considering higher education in countries such as Switzerland, France, and Canada.

Beyond language development, learning through two languages encourages students to engage with different perspectives and cultures while broadening their access to academic resources. Exposure to literature, research, and subject content in both English and French helps students develop critical thinking skills, intercultural understanding, and a more nuanced view of complex global issues. This experience also builds confidence and flexibility as students prepare for the academic demands of the IBDP/HSD programmes in Grades 11 and 12.

By offering bilingual pre-IBDP/HSD subject pathways in Grade 10, Beau Soleil equips students with the skills and mindset needed to thrive in a multilingual and interconnected world. Our students graduate as internationally minded young people, ready to succeed academically and contribute positively to global communities.

The Personal Project

The Personal Project is an essential component of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years Programme (MYP) at Beau Soleil for Grade 10 students. It is an opportunity for students to demonstrate their creativity, critical thinking, and communication skills. The Personal Project is a culmination of the MYP and allows students to pursue a personal interest or passion and apply the knowledge and skills they have developed in the programme.

The Personal Project is an independent project that allows students to choose a topic of interest and develop a research question. Students work with a supervisor to develop a plan of action and timeline for the project. The project should be challenging, engaging, and relevant, and it should reflect the student’s interests and passions. The Personal Project can take many different forms, such as a research paper, a performance, a product, or a community service project.

The objectives of the Personal Project are as follows:

• To encourage students to pursue a personal interest or passion.

• To develop research skills, including the ability to identify and use appropriate sources of information.

• To promote critical thinking and problemsolving skills.

• To develop communication and presentation skills.

• To promote self-reflection and selfmanagement skills.

The Personal Project is an opportunity for students to demonstrate their learning and their understanding of the world. It provides a platform for them to explore their interests and passions, and to develop the skills and attributes they will need to succeed in Grades 11 and 12 and beyond.

At Beau Soleil, we provide support and guidance to students throughout the Personal Project process. Students work with a supervisor who provides feedback and advice, and they have access to a range of resources to support their research and project development. The Personal Project culminates in a final presentation and exhibition, where students share their work with their peers, teachers, and parents.

In conclusion, the Personal Project is an essential component of the MYP at Beau Soleil for Grade 10 students. It provides an opportunity for students to pursue a personal interest or passion, develop research and critical thinking skills, and to demonstrate their learning and understanding of the world. We encourage students to embrace the Personal Project as a challenging and rewarding experience, and we provide them with the support and guidance they need to succeed.

Exploring subject choices

In Grade 10, students begin to personalise their learning programme through a range of subject choices linked to their interests, strengths, and future pathways in Grades 11 and 12.

Alongside the core MYP curriculum, students have the opportunity to select optional subjects across the humanities, sciences, arts, and technology. These choices allow students to explore different disciplines while preparing for the academic expectations of the IBDP/HSD programmes.

All Students Study:

o Mathematics (EN/FR)

o Science (EN/FR)

o English

o French

o World Language

o Physical Education

o PSHE

o College Counselling

o Life Skills

o Service as Action

o Personal Project

Subject Option

Each student must select a total of four subjects from the list provided:

One subject from the Humanities list

One subject from the Creative list

Two additional subjects from the overall list

Humanities:

o Geography

o History

o Individuals and Societies

o Histoire & Géographie (FR)

o Business & Economics

o Gestion des Entreprises & Économie (FR)

Creative Subjects:

o Art

o Dance

o Drama

o Film

o Music

o Design

o Computer Scinece

Sciences:

o Biology

o Chemistry

o Physics

*Please choose Biology, Chemistry or Physics if you plan to take it at higher level in Grade 11 & 12

Curriculum Overview

Language and Literature

Language Acquisition

Subjects

English Language and Literature

French Language and Literature

English B (Second Language)

French B (Second Language)

Arabic*

Chinese*

German

Mother Tongue / Foreign Language

Italian

Japanese*

Portuguese*

Russian*

Spanish

Individuals & Societies**

Individuals and Societies Sciences

Mathematics

Arts

Physical and Health Education

Design

Geography

History

Business & Economics

Science**

Biology, Chemistry, Physics

Mathematics

Extended Mathematics

Art

Drama

Music

Dance

Physical Education / Ski

Health Education

Computer Science

Design

Mandatory subject

* additional costs occur for these languages

** a blend of Geography, History, and Business & Economics

Either English or French Literature

English B or French B, depending on First Language choice

Mother tongue language if available, or an additional language

Must choose at lease one Individuals & Societies subject

** a blend of Biology, Chemistry, and Physics

Science or Biology, Chemistry, Physics Class Placement

Must choose at least choose one Arts subject

Computer Science and / or Design

Daily Life at Beau Soleil

At Beau Soleil, the rhythm of life is built around the academic day which lasts from 8.30 am until 4.15 pm.

The school day is followed by clubs and activities, in-house study periods and some free time to wind down from a busy day before bed time.

A typical week at Beau Soleil will look something like this:

Get in Touch With Our Team

Mr Stephen O’Hara Director of Studies stephen.ohara@beausoleil.ch

Collège Alpin Beau Soleil Route du Village 1 1884 Villars-sur-Ollon Switzerland