OUR SCHOOL The British School Al Khubairat (BSAK) is Abu Dhabi’s leading British not-for-profit, co-educational day school. From Nursery to A Level (3 – 18) our dynamic school culture offers students an enriching experience and outstanding results.
OUR PURPOSE We are a community committed to inspiring our students to create an impactful legacy
OUR VALUES Empathy and Care | Respect and Inclusivity Honesty and Integrity | Endeavour and Resilience
FOREWORD BY DEPUTY HEAD Dear Parents & Students, As we approach the end of the academic year, I hope you are looking forward to the next stage of your child’s education as much as we are. Transitioning into Year 7 is a significant and exciting milestone, and we are delighted to be welcoming our new students into the Secondary School at BSAK. At BSAK, we are proud to offer a curriculum that is thoughtfully designed and continually refined. It reflects both the best of educational research and the experience of our staff, ensuring that it responds to the needs, interests and ambitions of every student. Our aim is not only to support academic success, but also to develop confident, curious and motivated learners. The Year 7 curriculum builds carefully on students’ experiences in Key Stage 2 while introducing the greater depth and challenge of secondary education. Our Heads of Department have planned each subject to ensure clear progression in knowledge and skills, while also fostering a genuine enthusiasm for learning. Alongside this, we place a strong emphasis on high expectations, positive learning habits and a sense of belonging within our school community. We recognise the importance of working in partnership with parents. Your support plays a vital role in your child’s success, and we hope this booklet provides a clear overview of what to expect in the year ahead, as well as how you can support learning at home. We very much look forward to the year ahead and to working together to ensure that every student thrives - academically, socially and personally - during their time in Year 7. With warmest regards, Mr Gareth Jones Deputy Head gjones@britishschool.sch.ae
YEAR 7 CURRICULUM BOOKLET 2026/2027 CONTENTS Subjects In Alphabetical Order P06 P07 P08 P10 P11 P12 P13 P14 P15 P16 P17 P18 P19 P20 P23 P24 P25 P26 P28 P29 P30 P31
Arabic A Arabic B Art Computer Science Design & Technology Digital Fluency Drama English French Geography History Islamic Studies A Islamic Studies B Inclusion Mathematics MELS Music Physical Education & Games Science Social Studies A Social Studies B Spanish
ARABIC A Arabic A is for native Arabic speaking students. The course aims to expose students to variety of informational texts as well as a variety of literature texts. Both of these are used as a vehicle to deepen students’ vocabulary, grammar usage and writing composition skills. This is a compulsory course within the UAE, students follow the Ministry of Education Arabic curriculum, with additions and adaptations to meet their learning needs. COURSE CONTENT Students complete one unit of lessons each half term which covers three main areas of study: ● Reading ● Comprehension ● Language structures ● Writing Texts vary between classic and modern poetry and prose, mostly linked to UAE identity, Islamic and Arabic history and background. SKILLS DEVELOPED ● Speaking ● Listening ● Reading ● Writing RESOURCES ● Ministry textbooks ● Worksheets ● Websites ● Lessons developed by the teacher SETTING Teaching will be delivered in form groups.
ASSESSMENTS Students complete half-termly and termly exams in reading, writing, speaking & Listening. The end of year exam covers all the essential skills.
ARABIC B Arabic is a key 21st century language, being the official language of the UAE and ranked as the second most vital language for the UK in the British Council’s 2013 Languages for the Future report. Knowing Arabic is vital for understanding the UAE, its culture. Therefore, students follow the Ministry of Education Arabic curriculum, with additions and adaptations to meet their learning needs.
The Year 7 curriculum will begin to lay the foundations for the rigours of GCSE and build on previous knowledge acquired in early years and primary Arabic lessons by developing listening, speaking, reading and writing skills as well as a focus on skills such as translation and spontaneous speaking. The Year 7 course will also emphasise the fact that learning Arabic is not just about vocabulary and grammar, but having an appreciation of Arabic culture and customs. We aim to foster an inquisitive and curious student who can take advantage of where we are and foster a genuine passion for Arabic as well as a sense of enjoyment and curiosity about the subject. It is after all, all around us! COURSE CONTENT Term 1 - Me & My Family - Home & Town
Term 2 - Health & Safety (Part 1: Sports & Hobbies) - School
Term 3 - Jobs -General Revision
SKILLS DEVELOPED Students are required to develop confidence in: ● Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing ● Grammar - There is a greater emphasis on grammar, requiring students to use and manipulate a variety of key grammar structures and patterns. ● Vocabulary - There is also a greater emphasis on vocabulary, including vocabulary that goes beyond students’ immediate needs and interests. RESOURCES ● Pre-GCSE Arabic (My Language is my Identity) Coursebook ● Languagenut digital learning platform ● Languagenut is provided by school, but students may also access other websites independently such as Textivate, Gimkit, Wordwall, Blooket or Quizlet. SETTING Students will be setted according to their ability in the foreign language. Movement either up or down is a fluid process commensurate with the individual's linguistic needs.
ASSESSMENTS Arabic is assessed summatively through one summative assessment per term, linked closely to the skills developed. The end of year assessment follows a similar format but will include all modules studied. Arabic is also assessed formatively as in ongoing daily informal assessment. Both types of assessment contribute to a students assessment grade.
ART Art, Craft and Design enables students to explore and understand the world through the acquisition and development of observational and communication skills. Self-expression, creativity, moral and social awareness and an active engagement of the impact of art, craft and design on culture are what we aim to foster in our young artists. In Year 7, our young artists develop their observation and creative skills through a rich and varied curriculum. Traditional and contemporary artists, designers, cultures and genres are explored through an exciting range of media, techniques and processes. The Formal Elements are central to all art knowledge and activities with an emphasis in Year 7 on the themes of Landscape, Still Life and Portraiture. COURSE CONTENT Landscape All students will explore and develop skills in: ● A range of artists and artworks investigating Natural and Urban Landscape genre. ● Exploring media, techniques and processes. ● Exploring artist and contextual sources related to landscape genre. ● Creating and developing a range of ideas and concepts leading towards personal outcomes. ● Interpretation and response to artwork and artefacts through the development of Visual and Written Literacy. Still Life All students will explore and develop skills in: ● A range of artists and artworks investigating traditional and contemporary Still Life. ● Composition and Narrative within Still Life Composition. ● Investigating symbolism. ● Observational drawing and mark making. ● Planning a drawing and building Still Life compositional arrangements. Portrait All students will explore and develop skills in: ● A range of artists and artworks investigating traditional and contemporary Portraiture. ● Observational drawing. ● Establishing proportion and structure ● Introducing colour and tone. ● Three-dimensional clay sculpture unit exploring relief slab building techniques and abstraction.
ASSESSMENTS Term 1 Assessment structure and taxonomy is derived from GCSE and A-Level Assessment language Term ● 2 Students are assessed against Assessment language taxonomy End ● of year Assessment exam sheets are located in each student art portfolio and Google Classrooms ● The Formal Elements are central to all assessment whether self, peer, group or teacher led
ART Formal Elements ● Central to art skills acquisition and development as artists, the Formal Elements are a consistent reference point in creating and understanding art and culture in all forms. ● Within our art curriculum the Formal Elements are integral to exploring developing and communicating Visual and Written Literacy. LINE / SHAPE / FORM / TONE / TEXTURE / SPACE / PATTERN / COLOUR / COMPOSITION SKILLS DEVELOPED ● Develop knowledge and understanding of artist, designers, genres and contextual sources to inspire and influence personal responses. ● Develop knowledge, appreciation and application of the Formal Elements. ● Developing a creative confidence in the use of a range of media, techniques and processes. ● Developing skills in communication, visual interpretation, individual and collaborative creative practices. ● Developing confidence in Visual and Written Literacy. SETTING Teaching will be taught in mixed form groups. EQUIPMENT REQUIRED Whilst we have excellent facilities and resources for art, all students are expected to bring to every lesson the following items. HB and 2B/6B Pencil Eraser Sharpener Black fine liner Ruler Glue stick Set of coloured pencils Homework and next lesson preparation activities will often require the above items.
ASSESSMENTS Assessment structure and taxonomy is derived from GCSE and A-Level Assessment Term 1 language Term ● 2 Students are assessed against Assessment language taxonomy End ● of year Assessment exam sheets are located in each student sketchbook and Google Classrooms ● The Formal Elements are central to all assessment whether self, peer, group or teacher led
COMPUTER SCIENCE A key area in Year 7 is for students to develop an understanding of computational thinking and apply it by creating computer programs using text-based coding. They will also learn about the Internet, data transmission, and become fully aware of how to stay safe online, including understanding the impact of cyberbullying.
COURSE CONTENT ● Students learn how to protect themselves online by understanding the risks of phishing, social media, viruses, and identity theft. ● Students discover how computers use binary to represent numbers and characters. They will practice converting between binary, hexadecimal and decimal, and learn how text is stored using ASCII codes. ● Students learn about developing essential problem-solving skills. Students learn about decomposition, abstraction, pattern recognition, and algorithms. They apply this thinking to real-world scenarios and computing tasks, preparing them for programming challenges. Students will also take part in the UK Bebras Challenge, a national competition that introduces computational thinking through a series of engaging, logic-based problems. ● Students are introduced to text-based programming through Python. They begin with simple tasks involving inputs, outputs, and variables, gradually progressing to using selection. Students learn to plan, write, and debug their own algorithms while developing confidence in coding. ● Students learn how the internet works, including how data is transmitted through networks using packets, IP addresses, and protocols. Students learn about the structure of the internet, the role of hardware like routers and servers, and how digital communication is made possible. SKILLS DEVELOPED ● Computational thinking ● Problem solving ● Troubleshooting ● Knowledge and understanding of computers SETTING Taught according to Maths sets.
ASSESSMENTS Students will be assessed every half term based on the work covered up to that point. There will also be an end of year assessment, where students will be assessed on the topics covered throughout the year. This will consist of both a practical and written paper.
DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY In Year 7 students students will experience three aspects of Design and Technology and complete approximately 12 weeks of lessons in each of these areas: Food and Nutrition Product Design Textiles
COURSE CONTENT Food and Nutrition Students will learn where food comes from, how to cook a range of dishes safely and hygienically and to apply their knowledge of healthy eating. They will learn basic food preparation and cooking techniques, learn to follow recipes using appropriate ingredients and equipment to prepare and cook a range of predominantly savoury dishes. They will gain knowledge from The Eatwell Guide to make informed choices about their own diet and will develop the creative, technical and practical expertise needed to complete tasks confidently. They will evaluate and test their ideas and products and the work of others.
Product Design Students will build their skill and understanding of this subject through a range of tasks that will cover many key skills including, designing, making, evaluating and also technical knowledge. Design skills will focus on visual representation of ideas, and the creation of physical models. There will be a manufacturing module where students will be required to work with a range of tools and equipment, manufacturing an accurate product in the workshop. There will be theory topics delivered which will help develop students’ technical understanding of the subject.
Textiles This is an introduction to textiles and making a quality textiles product. Students learn how to set safely use a sewing machine to create products. In their project work they are introduced to textiles safety and equipment. During the project they are taught about the sources and origins of fabrics and fibres.
SKILLS DEVELOPED All focus areas ensure that students can confidently use a range of materials and understand their properties whilst developing a student’s ability to understand the processes that materials undergo to transform them from raw stock items to finished products. All students will understand the design process when tackling design and make tasks.
RESOURCES Students will require their Chromebooks in lesson and resources will be provided on the google classroom. Food items are required, if they are cooking in a lesson. SETTING Teaching will be delivered in form classes.
ASSESSMENTS Assessments are carried out at key points throughout the unit and summative assessment will take place once the unit is complete and final products are completed. One combined Design and Technology paper will be sat during the summer examination period and will form part of the overall Design and Technology assessment.
DIGITAL FLUENCY This course is designed to help students develop transferable skills in using technology. Students will have one lesson a fortnight to develop their ability in effectively using a range of Google applications through task based modules. They will also complete lessons on a variety of digital citizenship topics.
COURSE CONTENT Google Applications ● Google Drive ● Google Docs ● Google Slides ● Google Sheets ● Google Mail/Calendar ● Google Sites ● Google Forms Digital Citizenship ● What is the cloud? ● Fake news and social media ● Online safety ● eSport and Gaming Addiction SKILLS DEVELOPED Students will develop their ability to effectively use online productivity software whilst building a critical awareness of key digital citizenship issues which have arisen through the increased usage of technology. RESOURCES Students will require their chromebooks in lesson. SETTING Teaching will be delivered in form classes.
ASSESSMENTS Term There1are no assessments on this course. Term 2 End of year exam
DRAMA Students begin to use a new and exciting range of Drama strategies and conventions in order to examine the world, varying cultures and social issues. The confidence and communication skills which are fostered through learning in Drama, are a valuable and transferable skills set and the impact on other subjects is obvious. Students often find secondary speaking and listening situations more manageable and enjoyable from skills developed in Drama lessons.
COURSE CONTENT
Devising Skills Students will learn how to create and build dramatic material focused on a particular theme or topic. They will learn how to use their bodies and voices imaginatively and creatively. Students will develop their independent and group work techniques with an emphasis being put on personal and social skills such as listening, empathising, cooperating and negotiating.
Exploring a Play Script
This will involve the exploration of a playscript. Students will develop their understanding of the plot and themes as well as interpreting characters and key moments in the play. Acting skills are developed as students prepare for a polished performance in front of an audience.
Technical Theatre
Work focusing on technical aspects of Theatre such as set, costume, lighting and sound design. It will incorporate watching an critiquing a Live Performance. Students will study what makes an effective theatrical moment in terms of acting and design. SKILLS DEVELOPED ● Skills in this subject are transferable across the curriculum. It will allow students to develop confidence and communication skills. Students will be equipped with analytical skills and they will be encouraged to voice their opinions on a range of topical issues. ● Drama skills and techniques – a range of skills are taught to enable students to experiment with style within a range of performances. ● Developing and performing varied characters in an effective manner for an audience. ● A wide range of social and personal skills such as communication, confidence, analysis negotiation, problem solving, organisational etc. RESOURCES Resources will be provided on the google classroom. SETTING Teaching will be delivered in mixed ability classes. ASSESSMENTS Term 1 each unit of study every student will have a summative assessment on one or more of the 3 During Term 2 assessment areas: Making, Performing and Reflecting. There will be a practical exam at the end of the year. End of year exam
ENGLISH English is a key curriculum subject and our inspiring thematic curriculum aims to encourage a love of reading, creativity with language use and a fascination for words and communication in all forms. Each term, Year 7 will focus on developing specific speaking and listening, reading and writing skill sets linked by a common theme and drawing on fiction and non-fiction writing across the ages.
COURSE CONTENT Texts are varied, engaging and challenging, with Year 7 students studying the following: Term 1 ● The Island ● Introduction to Poetry Term 2 ● Introduction to Shakespeare ● Marketing Term 3 ● Kensuke’s Kingdom - Descriptive Writing ● Spies SKILLS DEVELOPED ● The ability to read and make connections across a wide range of literature and non-fiction, analysing and evaluating a writer’s choice of language and structure features. ● Use of a wide ranging vocabulary, along with accurate and effective standard English, to produce their own transactional and creative writing pieces for specific audiences and purposes. ● The ability to speak confidently and effectively in a range of contexts, including small group and whole class discussions and debates, presentations and dramatic roles. RESOURCES Full resourcing for lessons and homework will be provided by the department. Students should supplement this with their daily wider and independent reading. Access to the ReadTheory programme. Access to Literacy Planet - on online literacy platform with teacher led and student led activities. SETTING Students will be broadly grouped according to ability in English.
ASSESSMENTS As a skills based subject, our focus is on continually improving a wide range of linked skills across each term, rather than learning separate sets of content. Formative and summative assessment will take place throughout each half term. We encourage students to see all assessments as an opportunity to reflect on their learning and identify targets for improvement.
FRENCH The Year 7 curriculum aims to develop the confidence to communicate in French. It helps ease the transition from Primary to Year 7 and moves at the right pace for students. It also emphasises the fact that learning French is not just about vocabulary and grammar but having an appreciation of French and indeed francophone culture and customs. We aim to foster an inquisitive and curious student who has a genuine passion for ‘all things’ French as well as a sense of enjoyment and curiosity about the subject.
COURSE CONTENT ● Personal Information ● School Life ● Hobbies SKILLS DEVELOPED ● Listening and Speaking ● Reading and Writing ● Grammar - There is a greater emphasis on grammar, requiring students to use and manipulate a variety of key grammar structures and patterns. ● Vocabulary - There is also a greater emphasis on vocabulary including vocabulary that goes beyond a student’s’ immediate needs and interests. RESOURCES ● Pearson online textbook: Dynamo 1 ● Languagenut digital learning platform Languagenut and Pearson online resources are provided. Students may also access other sites independently such as Languages Online, Duolingo, Memrise or Quizlet. SETTING There is no ability setting in year 7.
ASSESSMENTS French is assessed summatively through at least one assessment per module, linked closely to the skills developed. The end of year assessment follows a similar format but will include all modules studied. French is also assessed through informal assessments which are conducted in each lesson. Both types of assessments contribute to students’ overall assessment grade.
GEOGRAPHY Geography is the study of Planet Earth: the natural world, people, and how they interact with one another. We aim to instill an ‘awe and wonder’ of the natural world, as well as building on local and international examples to spark students’ interest. Year 7 focuses on the core geographical skills that are then embedded into the rest of secondary school Geography.
COURSE CONTENT Term 1 ● What is Geography? ● Atlas and Map skills Term 2 ● Oceans Term 3 ● Urban Environments SKILLS DEVELOPED ● Atlas skills ● Map skills ● Spatial awareness ● Enquiry based learning ● Extended and argumentative writing ● Comparison making ● An understanding of settlement location, type, form and function. ● Knowledge of the different characteristics of settlements and an understanding of the features of a sustainable settlement. ● Importance of oceans and how they are being impacted by human actions RESOURCES ● Mapzone Website ● BBC Bitesize - KS3 Geography ● GeoGuessr ● Geography Map Games SETTING Teaching will be delivered in form classes. ASSESSMENTS Students will complete mini assessments throughout the year when the class teacher deems appropriate to check knowledge, understanding and application. End of year exam will be based on selected content taught across all 3 topics. The paper will be approximately 40 minutes.
HISTORY History aims to engage the curiosity and imagination of students and present them with the dilemmas, choices and beliefs of people in the past. It helps students develop their own identities through an understanding of history at personal, local, national and international levels. It also develops critical thinking and metacognitive skills as we explore deeper themes and concepts within the past. Year 7 is all about preparing students with the skills they will need at KS3 and beyond. COURSE CONTENT Term 1 ● An introductory unit to History ● Events of 1066 and why did William win the Battle of Hastings? Term 2 ● Is it fair to call the Middle Ages the ‘Dark Ages’? Term 3 ● How far has migration changed over time? SKILLS DEVELOPED ● Chronology - what happens when? ● Cause and Consequence - why do things happen? ● Change and Continuity - what changes and stays the same? ● Significance - what made something important? ● Interpretations - what do other people think? ● Using Evidence – what evidence do I have? RESOURCES Resources will be provided online via Google Classroom. SETTING Teaching will be delivered in form groups.
ASSESSMENTS History is assessed formally through one assessment per topic, linked closely to the History skills above. Formative assessment takes place through teacher feedback on preparatory work. The end of year assessment is through a 45 minute written paper, covering a selection of the skills from the whole year, though content will be focused on the final unit.
ISLAMIC STUDIES A This is a compulsory course within the UAE for all those of Muslim faith. Students follow the Ministry of Education curriculum, with additions and adaptations to meet their learning needs. The Islamic values education curriculum called for here focuses on personality and character development of students, close attention to the real needs and concerns of students, and preparation of students with the critical thinking and problem-solving skills needed to function successfully as Muslims in society.
COURSE CONTENT As per the Ministry of Education curriculum, the course covers a range of topics that allow students to: ● ● ●
Practice recitation and memorisation of the Holy Quran and Hadith Learn different rulings related to the five pillars of Islam Learn about the life of Prophets and their companions
SKILLS DEVELOPED ● Holy Quranic pronunciation and recitation ● Hadeeth memorisation ● Understanding of acts of worship and basic rules of dealings RESOURCES Ministry textbooks and the teacher’s own resources
ASSESSMENTS ● Half term test ● End of term exam ● End of year examination
ISLAMIC STUDIES B This is a course within the UAE for all those of Muslim faith. Students follow the Ministry of Education curriculum with additions and adaptations to meet their learning needs. The Islamic values education curriculum called for focuses on personality and character development of students, close attention to the real needs and concerns of students, and preparation of students with the critical thinking and problem-solving skills needed to function successfully as Muslims in society. COURSE CONTENT As per the Ministry of Education curriculum, the course covers a range of topics that allow students to: ● Practice recitation and memorisation of the Holy Quran and Hadith ● Learn different rulings related to the five pillars of Islam ● Learn about the life of Prophets and their companions SKILLS DEVELOPED ● The rules of recitation for the Holy Quran ● Understanding and comprehension for the significance of the the Holy Quran and Hadith ● Memorising some verses from the Holy Quran and the Hadith ● Understanding of acts of worship and basic rules of dealings RESOURCES Ministry textbooks and the teacher’s own resources
ASSESSMENTS : ● Half term exam ● End of term exam ● End of year exam
INCLUSION The Inclusion Department is an integral part of the Secondary School at BSAK and our approach is entirely child-centred according to students’ individual needs. We are very fortunate to have a caring and highly skilled Secondary Inclusion team dedicated to supporting students throughout their Secondary School journey. The Inclusion team are experienced in finding solutions to the difficulties faced by our students in busy classrooms. We like to help students build on their strengths and reach their goals in a practical, sensible way. We also support teachers to understand specific learning challenges and how to support these in the classroom.
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We support students who experience a range of specific learning difficulties, such as dyslexia, dyspraxia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, ADHD and autism. Other students have difficulties with speech, language and communication, managing anxiety or social relationships. We provide targeted interventions in order to equip students with the necessary key skills to access the curriculum to the best of their ability and with confidence. Learning is hands on and fun, and aims to develop visual and auditory processing, phonological skills, memory and concentration, as well as core subject vocabulary and knowledge. Students supported by Inclusion follow personalised programme of study during which they work on key concepts and skills from their mainstream core subjects. We teach them to understand their specific challenges and support them to find tools and strategies to overcome these. We also teach techniques to help them cope with examinations, alternative revision skills and how to manage their workload more effectively.
AIMING HIGH Two of our main priorities are showing students how to persevere when they experience difficulties, and that there should be no limit to their aspirations, whatever those may be, whether achieving a Sporting award or winning a Poetry performance competition. Together we create a secure learning environment so that students acquire the courage to take risks and accept challenges. They realise that they are expected to try their best, to stretch themselves and that the our team is there to help them to build a reliable problem-solving skillset.
‘My Inclusion teacher makes learning fun in a way that it helps me understand and remember for my next mainstream lesson..’
INCLUSION PEOPLE OF DETERMINATION (PoD) CARD Background Information ● Issued by the Ministry of Community Development. ● Gives access to a package of services and privileges. ● It aims to improve the quality and well being of individuals. ● It is an official document indicating that the card holder is a PoD (adults and children). ● It is a free service which is processed in around 10 working days. ● Contact the call center on 800623 for more information or apply here Eligibility This gives the holder rights and services outlined in the Person with Disabilities law 2006. People of determination from the following categories are eligible: (mental, auditory, visual, physical, autistic, multiple, psychological, communication, attention deficit and hyperactivity, specific learning difficulties) of citizens and residents. Required Documents ● Copy of the ID card (front and back). ● Medical report (physical, visual, hearing, communication disabilities) psychological (mental disabilities, autism, attention deficit hyperactivity, and psychological) from a government hospitals authorised official body stating the existence of the disability. ● Personal photo with a white background. Benefits ● Support for insurance from the MoH. ● Priority housing support for UAE Nationals. ● Discounts for certain public services and facilities including RTA Salik, NoI Card, Etisalat and Du, Insurance from Ministry of Health, parking permits and discounts on a range of facilities and attractions across the UAE. ● (Terms and conditions apply, some discounts are only available for persons of determination with specific conditions). Parental Concerns If you have any concerns around your child or questions about inclusion then you can contact The Secondary Head of Inclusion (Mrs Fran Marshall) directly using her email address which is: fmarshall@britishschool.sch.ae. If you are seeking a diagnostic report then you should contact Mrs. Marshall directly; we refer to specific centres to ensure that reports use a range of diagnostic tests so that they are robust and useful. For exams access arrangements, it is essential that you collaborate fully with the Inclusion Team to ensure that they provide the evidence required by the examination boards. If you choose to seek a report without our consultation then we can not necessarily accept this as evidence and do not take responsibility for this, you may be asked to provide an alternative report with one of our partner centres.
Please be aware that recommendations made on a report are only recommendations and not an entitlement to exams access arrangements, we also need to provide a wealth of evidence including cognitive and academic performance which is collected in school.
INCLUSION
MATHEMATICS Mathematics in Year 7 aims to provide students with the ability to reason mathematically, an appreciation of the beauty and power of mathematics and a sense of enjoyment and curiosity about the subject. In Year 7 there is an emphasis on understanding and confidently using different forms of calculation. New concepts in Number, Algebra, Shape & Space are also introduced. COURSE CONTENT
Term 1
Term 2
Term 3
Analysing and displaying data
Angles and shapes
Sequences and graphs
Number
Decimals and percentages
Transformations
Equations, functions and formulae
Ratio and proportion
Probability
Fractions
Measures and shapes
SKILLS DEVELOPED The Year 7 course is built around a unique pedagogy that has been created be leading educational researchers and teachers. The innovative learning structure is based around the following key principles designed to nurture confidence and raise achievement. ● ● ● ●
Fluency Problem solving Modelling Relevance
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Linking Reflection Mathematical reasoning Progression
ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT NEEDED ● Geometry set ● Scientific calculator - we recommend the Casio FX-991CW calculator RESOURCES BSAK Maths Website Maths Progress International Year 7 Student Book. ISBN 9781292327150 Maths Progress International Year 7 Workbook. ISBN 9781292327167 SETTING Students will be broadly grouped according to ability in Mathematics.
ASSESSMENTS Assessment every half term based on the work covered up to that point. An end of year exam, based on the topics covered throughout the year.
MELS Moral Education and Life Skills (MELS) is an essential part of modern day education. It covers content on personal wellbeing, economic well being, careers guidance, digital safety, morality and community wellbeing. Whilst the theory is important, MELS also helps to develop skills in critical thinking, positive decision making, how and where to ask for help and how to engage positively in the world around them. Whilst this subject is not examined it is a compulsory part of UK and UAE curriculum and its importance has been highlighted in a number of educational studies including the Oxford Impact Study, 2020, by Dr Lindorff. This is one of the most robust studies into student wellbeing. The results found a clear correlation between wellbeing, which MELS promotes, and academic success.
COURSE CONTENT As part of our commitment at BSAK to a whole school approach to wellbeing we have worked to provide a framework for MELS that runs throughout Year 7-11 giving students a chance to learn, practice and extend their own knowledge and skills based on 6 important areas: Careers, Living in the Wider World, Mental and Physical Health, Mindfulness, Relationships and Study Skills. Linked here you are able to access information on the objectives and projects undertaken in each of the year group areas. MELS also incorporates the UAE Federal Government's Moral Education initiative, designed to promote tolerance and instill universal principles and values shared by humanity. TOPICS ● Individual Moral Duties and Responsibilities ● Making Good Decisions - Self worth, risk and crime SKILLS DEVELOPED ● Positive psychology and techniques to benefit wellbeing ● Problem solving ● Critical thinking ● Resilience ● Positive decision making ● Engaging positively in the world around them SETTING Lessons are taught in form groups once per week.
ASSESSMENTS No formal assessment. The impact of the program is seen through the interactions, beliefs and behaviours of those in the school community. Work and reflections can be recorded in the MELS / Wellbeing Journals.
MUSIC Music is a universal language that embodies one of the highest forms of creativity, it is a subject which is held in high regard by universities all over the world. Research suggests that a high-quality music education helps strengthen learning in all areas of the curriculum, as well as improving self-confidence, cognitive function and focus. Music has the potential to make a significant contribution to children’s development.Year 7 Music builds on previous knowledge and skills through performing, composing and listening activities.
COURSE CONTENT: Unit 1 - Rhythm, Pulse, Beat ● Rhythm notation ● Chair drumming ● Writing & performing 4 part rhythm scores ● Samba
Unit 2 - Pitch & Melody Writing ● Pitch notation ● How to write the perfect melody ● Keyboard skills ● Group performance
Unit 3 - Exploring Scales ● Major/Minor ● Pentatonic ● Modes SKILLS DEVELOPED ● Play and perform confidently in a range of solo and ensemble contexts using their voice, playing instruments musically, fluently and with accuracy and expression. ● Improvise and compose; extending and developing musical ideas by drawing on a range of musical structures styles, genres and traditions. ● Use staff and other relevant notations appropriately and accurately in a range of musical styles, genres and traditions. Identify and use the interrelated dimensions of music expressively and with increasing sophistication, including use of tonalities, different types of scales and other musical devices. Listen to a wide range of music from great composers and musicians. ● Develop a deepening understanding of the music that they perform and to which they listen and it’s history. RESOURCES All Music resources are provided. Students will use their chromebooks to access flat.io and bandlab.com music software. SETTING Lessons are taught in form groups in the secondary music classroom.
ASSESSMENTS Music is assessed through both group individual performance. At the end of each unit the students perform and record their compositions and together they listen and appraise their work. There will be a listening exam for Music at the end of the year.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION & GAMES At BSAK we aim to give the students a fantastic offering of Sport and Physical Education. Students have over five hours over a two week cycle: Physical Education - Core PE Development of Physical Fitness, Skills in Isolation, knowledge of Sports Science GamesDevelopment of Coaching, Leadership and Performance in a competitive setting.
We adopt a holistic approach to Physical Education & Games, providing students with the knowledge and understanding that will allow them to live a healthy, active lifestyle throughout their adult life. We aim to embed many of the school values within Physical Education lessons such as resilience, integrity and endeavour. Students will be expected to wear their blue BSAK Physical Education kit for all lessons. COURSE CONTENT In order to provide the students of BSAK with a wealth of experiences, we offer a varied and vast curriculum. Our aim is to enrich the lives of the students by offering them many opportunities. Some of the Sports we offer are as follows: ● ● ● ● ● ●
Cricket Rugby Football Netball Athletics Swimming
We also offer lessons that will develop the students physical prowess: ● ● ● ●
Performing at maximal levels Outwitting opponents Accurate replication of performance Exercising safely & effectively
ASSESSMENTS All physical activities will be assessed and criteria shared to assist with future development. Students will be encouraged to be part of this assessment process. There will be self and peer assessment opportunities, via video analysis.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION & GAMES The aim is not just to develop sporting prowess, but to give the students a true education. Enhance knowledge of Sports Science Develop communication skills Improve analysis and evaluation skills Develop a love of learning and promote well being
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The focus is to develop the students' understanding of how the theoretical concepts underpin sporting performance. This will be done through the creation of a Personalised Exercise Program. ADDITIONAL SKILLS DEVELOPED A range of skills are developed and refined with a key focus on: ● Teamwork ● Collaboration ● Communication ● Overcoming challenges ● Resilience ● Endeavour ● Tactics ● Strategies ● Students are also encouraged to analyse their performance using ICT KIT POLICY At BSAK we have a policy, where all students are expected to bring a kit to every lesson. If they are injured or unwell, they must have a parental note that excuses them from the practical element of the lesson. However, they must still get changed and they will develop their coaching and leadership skills. BOYS PE & Games Kit ●
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Blue, navy & white PE top Navy shorts (culturally acceptable length) House Colour Sport Shirt (optional) Zip Up Long Sleeved PE sweater (optional) Trainers for PE must not be school shoes, ideally white & sports socks
Games First term Football, shin pads, long socks (sky blue) and football boots
Games Second term
GIRLS PE & Games Kit ●
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Blue, navy & white PE top Navy shorts (culturally acceptable length) or navy leggings Zip Up Long Sleeved PE sweater (optional) House Colour Sport Shirt (optional) Trainers for PE must not be school shoes, ideally white & sports socks
Games First term Girls - netball
Games Second term
Rugby, gum shield (compulsory) and long socks
Girls - football, shin pads, long socks (sky blue) and football boots
Swimwear ● Jammer ● Swim cap & BSAK Microfibre Towel (optional)
Swimwear ● Full swimsuit ● Swim cap & BSAK Microfibre Towel (optional)
SETTING All lessons are mixed ability classes.
SCIENCE At BSAK, Science offers students a rich foundation of knowledge that deepens their understanding of how and why the world works. Alongside this, there is a strong emphasis on developing practical skills, laying the groundwork for success in IGCSE and A Level study. Science empowers students to ask questions and seek evidence-based answers. By learning science, students gain the tools to understand the world around them and contribute to solving global challenges, both today and in the future. Our students gain the knowledge and skills needed to understand new concepts, make informed decisions, and explore their interests with confidence. We also place a strong emphasis on developing critical thinking, enabling students to evaluate the vast array of scientific information they encounter. In Year 7, Science is taught as a combined subject, with key principles of Biology, Chemistry, and Physics delivered in a way that highlights the connections between these disciplines. COURSE CONTENT Term 1 ● Working scientifically Term 2 ● Cells ● Forces ● Sound ● Chemical reactions ● Particles and their behaviour ● Skeletal and muscular systems Term 3 ● Elements, atoms, mixtures and ● Light compounds ● Reproduction* (*optional independent Earth Science project for those who opt out of this topic) ● Separation techniques ● Space SKILLS DEVELOPED ● Describe and explain scientific ideas ● Application of knowledge, including problem solving ● Data analysis and interpretation, including calculations ● Scientific literacy ● Practical skills RESOURCES All students will be issued with login access to www.kerboodle.com where they will be able to use an extensive bank of learning resources including videos, animations, podcasts, worksheets and digital versions of the Oxford KS3 Science Activate 1 and 2 textbooks. Another very useful resource is the KS3 Science Website. If you would like your son or daughter to have access to a printed resource then the CGP KS3 Science revision guide (while not specific to our KS3 course) has decent coverage of most of the topics we teach in Years 7 and 8.
ASSESSMENT Students will be assessed in class at the end of each topic. There will also be an end of year assessment, consisting of one paper that will assess some of the core topics and skills covered in Year 7.
SOCIAL STUDIES A Arabic Social Studies is an essential topic in the UAE and in our curriculum at BSAK. It is the subject that allows local students to learn about and be proud of their heritage and history, whilst also learning essential information about the culture of their country. Students also learn about the history of the other countries in the GCC, specifically their alliances with these countries and their cultures.
COURSE CONTENT Term 1 ● I maintain my national identity ● National Service ● The natural characteristics of the Arabian peninsula ● Climate and natural vegetation in the Arabian peninsula Term 2 ● Geographic information systems ● Remote sensing ● The natural and human characteristics of the UAE Term 3 ● Perennial plants in the UAE ● Shaikh Zayed’s trips and tours in the UAE and North America SKILLS DEVELOPED The students learn how to research efficiently and correctly, and are also asked to do one project a term. They will also learn about the shape of the Gulf and how to draw it and will develop their History and Geography skills. RESOURCES Ministry textbooks, worksheets developed by teachers and websites SETTING The Social Studies A course is compulsory for the majority of Native Students (those in Arabic A (who speak fluent Arabic).
ASSESSMENTS Students complete half-termly and termly exams on the specified subjects, testing their knowledge and how much information they have retained. The end of year exam covers all the essential skills.
SOCIAL STUDIES B Non native Social Studies is an essential topic in the UAE and in our curriculum at BSAK. It is the subject that allows students to learn about the culture, customs and heritage of the country they live in. Students also learn about the history of the other countries in the GCC, specifically their alliances with these countries and their cultures.
COURSE CONTENT Term 1 ● The ancient history of the UAE ● The development of society in the UAE ● The age of Islam in the UAE Term 2 ● Culture and customs of the people of the UAE ● Culture and customs of the people of the Arabian Gulf Term 3 ● Achievements of the UAE in the last 50 years SKILLS DEVELOPED The students will learn through a variety of experiences using a range of sources and activities to develop their enquiry skills. Working both independently and in small groups, students will complete a project each term. There is ongoing teacher assessment to track progress and ensure students are developing their history and Geography skills. RESOURCES Ministry textbooks, worksheets developed by teachers and websites SETTING Teaching will be delivered in small form classes to non native students.
ASSESSMENTS Students complete half-termly and termly exams on the specified subjects, testing their knowledge and how much information they have retained. There is no end of year exam.
SPANISH The Year 7 curriculum aims to develop the confidence to communicate in Spanish. It helps ease the transition from Primary to Year 7 and moves at the right pace for students. It also emphasises the fact that learning Spanish is not just about vocabulary and grammar but having an appreciation of Spanish and indeed Hispanic culture and customs. We aim to foster an inquisitive and curious student who has a genuine passion for ‘all things’ Spanish as well as a sense of enjoyment and curiosity about the subject. COURSE CONTENT Term 1 ● Personal Information Term 2 ● Free Time Term 3 ● School Life SKILLS DEVELOPED ● Listening and speaking ● Reading and writing ● Grammar - There is a greater emphasis on grammar, requiring students to use and manipulate a variety of key grammar structures and patterns. ● Vocabulary - There is also a greater emphasis on vocabulary including vocabulary that goes beyond a student’s immediate needs and interests. RESOURCES ● Viva 1 online textbook via Pearson ● Languagenut digital learning platform Languagenut and Viva 1 resources are provided. Students may also access other sites independently such as Languages Online, Duolingo, Memrise or Quizlet. SETTING There is no ability setting in year 7.
ASSESSMENTS Spanish is assessed summatively through at least one assessment per module, linked closely to the skills developed. The end of year assessment follows a similar format but will include all modules studied. Spanish is also assessed through informal assessments which are conducted in each lesson. Both types of assessments contribute to students’ overall assessment grade.