Our Approach
How we Learn
Our approach to the structure of each day is based on key concepts rather than time. In a traditional school the day is divided into minutes by subject with little if any connection. At our school connections are at the heart of each day – the more, the better.
Integrated Subjects
Math, English, Arabic, Religion, Art, Music, Social Studies, French/German, Science, and PSPE are completely integrated, meaning that children learn by inquiring about concepts, rather than learning them as stand alone subjects. This way the children are invested in solving a conceptual problem that they understand and is relevant to their lives. It all begins with something they already know a little about – themselves, their families and their community. They often do not realise they are learning “math”, but instead realise the need to “count, subtract, divide, or multiply” as a means to solving the problem of inquiry.
Our Approach to Teaching Skills
As a school dedicated to life-long learning under the framework of the IB standard, our approach to teaching skills are…
1- based on inquiry
2- focused on conceptual understanding
3- developed in local and global contexts
4- focused on effective teamwork and collaboration
5- differentiated to meet the needs of all learners
6- informed by formative and summative assessment.
Our Class Sizes
We have a maximum of 18 students in each class and every homeroom class has two teachers at the same time. Our ratio of 9 students per teacher helps to guarantee that each student is given the due attention needed to help them develop and learn, and is amongst the best in the country. Other international schools average between 24-28 students per teacher.
Technology in Education
Our dedication to the use of technology in education has its basis in the belief that technology can help us to widen the scope of learning for our students. Whilst many schools now provide technological tools, we focus its use in promoting inquiry and offering a gateway to multiple mediums of engagement. ICT is fully integrated. Our students are digital natives – technology is part of their lives and although we also use our fully equipped computer lab to practice computer skills, we make using technology of all sorts – part of daily life at MHIS.
Homework
Like most schools, students at a PYP school will have some homework. Most homework assignments are inquiry based. Don’t be surprised if your child comes home with a lot of questions, or wants to discuss how problems can be solved in different ways. That is the natural response to motivated learning and inquiry based lessons. The homework assigned is not overwhelming and children still have time for a variety of after school activities. We feel that is important. Long-term and large projects are given ample time to complete.
Benefits of the IB
The IB enables students to direct their own learning pathway and develop the skills and confidence they need to thrive and make a lasting difference. It empowers teachers as the architects of learning excellence, working alongside engaged colleagues in a rewarding career supported by a strong global network. And it brings schools a strong reputation for successful outcomes that uplift the whole community.