A'Takamul International School
Grade 10 Course Selection Guide
2016 - 2017
CEEB Code: 683088
Phone: (965) 2 552 2204 Fax: (965) 2 552 3248
Address: Block 1, Street 1, Sabah Al Salem
State of Kuwait
P.O. Box 33106, Al Rumaithiya, State of Kuwait 25562
Homepage: www.atakamul.edu.kw
ATIS 2 Course Description Guide 2016/2017
A’TAKAMUL INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS (for Classes of 2015-2019)
GENERAL DIPLOMA (for the Classes of 2015 to 2019)
Earn a General Diploma by completing minimum 28 credits and the following
requirements:
ENGLISH 4 credits
English 9 1 credit
English 10 1 credit
English 11 1 credit
English 12 or
AP English Literature and Composition 1 credit
MATH 4 credits
Grade 9 Algebra I 1 credit
Grade 10 Geometry 1 credit
Grade 11 Algebra 2 or Pre-Calculus 1 credit
Grade 12 Pre-Calculus or Business Statistics or
AP Calculus 1 credit
SCIENCE 4 credits
Grade 9 Earth Science 1 credit
Grade 10 Biology 1 credit
Grade 10 Chemistry 1 1 credit
Grade 12 Physics or AP Physics or
Environmental Science 1 credit
SOCIAL STUDIES 4 credits
Grade 9 World History 1 1 credit
Grade 10 World History 2 1 credit
Grade 11 American History 1 credit
Grade 12 Economics 1 credit
ARABIC 4 credits
Arabic 9 or AFL 9* 1 credit
Arabic 10 or AFL 10* 1 credit
Arabic 11 or AFL 11* 1 credit
Arabic 12 or AFL 12* 1 credit
(*AFL, Arabic as a Foreign Language, requires Ministry of Education approval)
ISLAMIC STUDIES/KORAN 4 credits
Islamic Studies/Koran 9 1 credit
Islamic Studies/Koran 10 1 credit
Islamic Studies/Koran 11 1 credit
Islamic Studies/Koran 12 1 credit
IM
ATIS 3 Course Description Guide 2016/2017
REQUIRED ELECTIVES 4 credits
FINE ARTS 1 credit
2 1/2 credit courses
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY 1 credit
2 1/2 credit courses
WORLD LANGUAGES 1 credit
2 1/2 credit courses
French or Spanish
(To be taken consecutive)
PHYSICAL EDUCATION 1 credit
2 1/2 credit courses
(ONLY two 1/2 credit courses permitted)
ADDITIONAL ELECTIVES 2 credits
2 credits earned in any other courses
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Courses offered are contingent on faculty availability.
ATIS 4 Course Description Guide 2016/2017
2016/2017 COURSE DESCRIPTION GUIDE
(In alphabetical order by department)
ARABIC DEPARTMENT
Four Arabic credits are required for graduation from ATIS.
ARABIC 10 Length: Year
Course # 405 Credit: 1.0
This course emphasizes the major branches of reading, grammar, and writing.
Students will develop comprehension, listening, and vocabulary skills through reading
(both oral and silent) and writing. Emphasis will be placed on comprehension and
recitation of poetry from many sources such as the Koran and the sayings of the
Prophet, verses of poetry from the Pre-Islamic age and the Islamic reign. The study of
grammar will be incorporated into the correction of students’ writings and oral
readings. Grammar topics will include nouns, infinitives, and the use of verbs.
ARABIC AS A FOREIGN LANGUAGE
Four Arabic as a Foreign Language credits are required for graduation from ATIS for
those students enrolled in AFL program.
AFL 10 Length: Year
Course # 414 Credit: 1.0
Arabic as a Foreign Language is taught to those students who are not proficient
enough in Arabic to take the full Arabic language course. The curriculum is one set
forth by the Ministry of Education. Vocabulary, polite and situational conversation,
beginning and advanced writing are the major components of the course. The aim
of this course is to prepare students to move into regular Arabic as soon as possible.
ATIS 5 Course Description Guide 2016/2017
ENGLISH DEPARTMENT
The knowledge of English forms the foundation for each student’s continuing
academic growth. The four components of language arts (reading, writing, listening,
and speaking) are necessary to develop clear communications skills and the ability to
think critically and constructively. A minimum of four credits are required for
graduation from ATIS.
Four English credits are required for graduation from ATIS.
Flow Chart of English Courses:
Required courses are:
9th Grade English 9
10th Grade English 10
11th Grade English 11
12th Grade English 12 or AP English Literature
NOTE: Drama, Advanced Reading and Writing, Pre-AP English Literature, Psychology –
Media Studies 1, and Sociology – Media Studies 2 are elective English courses but do
NOT count toward the required four credits of English.
ATIS 6 Course Description Guide 2016/2017
ENGLISH 10 Literature and Composition Length: Year
Course # 005 Credit: 1.0
Pre-requisite: English 9
This course will help students develop descriptive, narrative, and expository writing
skills while studying various short stories, non-fiction, autobiographies, biographies, and
novels. Students will also advanced their speaking and listening skills through small
and large group and individual speaking and listening discussions. Students will
continue to develop writing skills while studying poetry, novels, and Shakespearean
drama. Students will advance their research and analytical kills by completing a
research paper.
ENGLISH ELECTIVES
ADVANCED READING AND WRITING Length: Year
Course # 023 Credit: 0.50
Grades 9 - 10
NOTE: Advanced Reading and Writing is an elective English course but does NO
count toward the required four years of English.
This class is designed to improve language arts skills in writing, reading and
communication for students with advanced abilities. In this class you will improve your
reading skills, especially in vocabulary, attention to detail, identifying theme and
tone, and analyzing the effect of literary techniques on meaning. The writing will
focus on content, organization, style, complex sentence structure, and conventions.
You will practice writing revised work, as well as in-class essays such as those required
on the AP writing tests. To develop communication skills you will practice discussion
techniques, dramatic exercises, and presentation projects in oral, written and visual
formats to share your learning with others.
ATIS 7 Course Description Guide 2016/2017
FINE ARTS DEPARTMENT
The goals of the Fine Arts department at ATIS are to inspire in the students a love of
the Arts and to help students gain an understanding of the Arts throughout human
history.
At all levels, student artwork is considered for displays and contests. As students gain
experience in basic processes, they may then choose to use more complex materials
and tools. In addition to creating artwork, students will study other artists and their
artworks. Students may be asked to bring a minimum of personal supplies.
One Fine Arts credit is required for graduation from ATIS.
ART I Length: Year
Course #503 Credit: 0.50
Pre-requisite: None
This course will allow for experimentation in a variety of media as well as initiating an
appreciation of visual arts. The following concepts will be introduced: design, color,
form, line, space, and texture. Students are encouraged to explore personal
expression through both two-dimension and three-dimensional art forms. Elements of
art history will be introduced as they relate to work in class.
ART 2 Length: Year
Course # 504 Credit: 0.50
Pre-requisite: ART I
This course is an intermediary art course. Further refinement of drawing and painting
skills will be the primary focus, but various art making practices and new media may
be introduced such as pastel painting, colored pencil, mixed media, scratchboard,
and mask painting. Visual literacy and visual communication skills will be further
developed. Historical and contemporary topics will be evident in student work and /
or through class discussion.
ATIS 8 Course Description Guide 2016/2017
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT
The technology program offers one-semester electives, which meet graduation
requirements. These courses are designed to improve student skills in using software
applications and to teach students how to use software to complete class and
school projects.
One Information Technology credit required for graduation from ATIS.
INTERNET POLICY –
Access to the computer network, including the Internet is designed for educational
purposes. All users of school computer equipment MUST agree to abide by the
following rules at ATIS.
Please be aware that we at ATIS will do the best we can to monitor students’ use of
the Internet. Currently, the school has put a block in place so that inappropriate
material is not accessible. The Internet system at ATIS is to be used only for
appropriate educational activities related to a student’s classroom assignments
and/or library activities.
Acceptable Use Rules and Responsibilities:
Students, Parents, and Teachers must sign an Internet Policy Agreement and
Form.
Students will use the Internet exclusively for educational purposes (this may
include personal needs searches if approved by the supervising teacher).
Students must follow appropriate Internet use instructions.
Chat rooms are not allowed.
No commercial CD’s allowed and disks from home or other need to be
cleared by the teacher before use. (This will ensure the safety of our school-
wide network from viruses and other problematic programs.)
Teachers are expected to instruct their students regarding use of the Internet
and to monitor student use at all times.
The use of the Internet is restricted to students:
Whose teachers have given an assignment requiring the use of the Internet
who have a valid Internet use agreement signed by parent, teacher and
student on file in the school’s database
ATIS 9 Course Description Guide 2016/2017
ICT 2 Length: Year
Course # 604 Credit: 0.50
Pre-requisite: None
This course applies advanced concepts and principles using word processing,
spreadsheets, databases, and electronic presentation software. Students will
integrate applications learned. This course builds on skills included in ICT 1.
ATIS 10 Course Description Guide 2016/2017
ISLAMIC STUDIES DEPARTMENT
Four Islamic Studies credits are required for graduation from ATIS.
ISLAMIC STUDIES 10 and KORAN 10 Length: Year
Course # 424 / Course # 434 Credit: 1.0
The content of this course centers around the pillar of the Islamic faith and personal
morality based on the spirit of Islam. Students will gain a better understanding of the
creation of the universe and conclude that Allah is Lord of the world. The following
concepts will be covered: the legal system of Islam and how it leads to the general
welfare of the individual and society, the fundamental rights of humanity which are
laid down by Islam and must be respected, and the simple and straightforward path
of Islam.
ATIS 11 Course Description Guide 2016/2017
SPECIAL ISLAMIC STUDIES AND SPECIAL KORAN
Three Special Islamic Studies and Special Koran credits are required for graduation
from ATIS for those students enrolled in this program.
SPECIAL ISLAMIC STUDIES 10 and SPECIAL KORAN 10
Course # 444 / Course # 454 Length: Year
Credit: 1.0
Special Koran is taught to those students who are not fluent enough in Arabic to take
religion education in Arabic. The Ministry of Education sets the curriculum. This course
is the study of Islam: its beliefs, the Koran, and Islam as a way of life.
ATIS 12 Course Description Guide 2016/2017
MATHEMATICS DEPARTMENT
The Math department strives to meet the needs of each student by providing courses
that allow the student to develop a competency in mathematical skills, and in critical
and analytical thinking.
Four Mathematics credits are required for graduation from ATIS.
Courses taken in the eighth grade may not be used to satisfy ATIS graduation
requirements or the core curriculum requirement. Students planning to go to college
should complete a minimum of four credits in mathematics. If a highly motivated
student wants to take two math classes concurrently, he/she should talk to the
counselor.
Flow Chart of Math Courses:
Algebra 1 to Geometry
Geometry to Algebra 2
Algebra 2 to Pre-Calculus or Business Statistics
Pre-Calculus to AP Calculus or Business Statistics
ATIS 13 Course Description Guide 2016/2017
GEOMETRY Length: Year
Course # 105 Credit: 1.0
Pre-requisite: Algebra 1
Note: With a teacher recommendation, this course may be taken concurrently with
Algebra 2. Recommended: B or better in Algebra 1
The key content for Geometry includes a formal development of geometric skills and
concepts. This course introduces plane and solid geometry. They will develop the
ability to construct formal logical arguments and proofs in a geometric setting.
Students will build their reasoning skills through studying the following topics: properties
of triangles, quadrilaterals, circles, compass constructions, transformations, volume,
area, similarity, the Pythagorean Theorem, coordinate geometry, and an introduction
to basic trigonometric functions. Emphasis will be placed on formal proofs and
students are expected to have a firm grasp of Algebra 1 concepts. Geometry meets
the graduation requirements and prepares a student for Algebra 2.
ALGEBRA 2 Length: Year
Course # 106 Credit: 1.0
Pre-requisite: Geometry
Note: With a teacher recommendation, course may be taken concurrently with
Geometry. Recommended: B or better in Algebra 1
This course expands and reviews the mathematical content of Algebra 1 and
Geometry. Emphasis is placed on abstract thinking skills, the function concept
including domain and range, extension from the real to the complex number system,
and the algebraic solution of problems in various content areas. Polynomial,
logarithmic, exponential, rational, and conic functions and relations comprise the
core material through which equations and graphs are studied and applied.
Additional topics include probability, basic statistics, sequences, and series.
Calculators are used to aid in the solution of problems and in making estimates for
realistic solutions.
ATIS 14 Course Description Guide 2016/2017
PHYSICAL EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
Personal physical fitness and wellness are important life skills that create a future
activity and good health. Classes are structured to create positive attitudes towards
personal fitness, activity, and nutrition. Classes are offered to meet a variety of skills
levels, interests, and abilities.
Participation Requirements: all students will be expected to participate in classroom
and field activities.
Dress Requirements: Students are expected to wear clothes and shoes appropriate to
the activity. Shorts, t-shirts, and sneakers are required as well as a sweat suit or warm-
up suit for outdoor activities in the late fall and/or early spring.
One Physical Education credit is required for graduation from ATIS.
P.E. 10 Length: Year
Course # 704 Credit: 0.50
P.E. 10 is a continuation of the fundamentals of various individuals and team activities
stressed in P.E. 9. Emphasis is placed upon participation, dressing for class, knowledge
and rules of physical activities, and any written skill testing or physical testing for
assessment purposes.
ATIS 15 Course Description Guide 2016/2017
SCIENCE DEPARTMENT
Through a variety of courses, students will learn to apply scientific skills in problem
solving as well as apply scientific principles to everyday life. Students will develop an
inquiry approach to the study of science through laboratory experiences. It is strongly
recommended that students preparing to attend university to take 4 years of
Sciences. University bound students should consider courses in Physics, Environmental
Science and Chemistry 2.
Four Science credits are required for graduation from ATIS.
Flow Chart of Science Courses:
Earth Science to Biology 1
Biology 1 to Chemistry 1
Chemistry 1 to Physics or AP Physics
or Environmental Science
ATIS 16 Course Description Guide 2016/2017
BIOLOGY I Length: Year
Course # 204 Credit: 1.0
Pre-requisite: Earth Science
This course is designed to provide the student with a general overview of biological
systems. It reviews material on cell structure and function. It then covers topics in cell
biology, genetics, heredity, and genetic engineering, classification of organisms,
human biology and ecology. It also includes a survey of the five kingdoms of living
things.
ATIS 17 Course Description Guide 2016/2017
SOCIAL STUDIES DEPARTMENT
The Social Studies department provides students with the skills and knowledge
needed to function as useful citizens by giving them an understanding of themselves
and the world around them. All students are required to complete 4 credits in Social
Studies. Most four-year universities require a minimum of three years of study in Social
Studies classes.
Four credits in Social Studies are required for graduation from ATIS.
WORLD HISTORY 2: 20th Century History Length: Year
Course # 304 Credit: 1.0
Pre-requisite: World History 1
The Grade 10 course combines the study of historical, geographic and cultural
sources in order to provide students with a greater appreciation of 20th Century
History. Themes studied include over-arching concepts such as imperialism and
nationalism, culture and modernity, peace and conflict. Students will also
understand and evaluate “narratives” in history leading to the establishment of the
modern nation-state. Although the study of European civilization is prominent in this
course, the experience of peoples from other regions will also play an integral role in
understanding the social, economic and political complexities the 20th Century.
Students will continue to develop their abilities in geographic and historical analysis
with increasing sophistication and independence.
ATIS 18 Course Description Guide 2016/2017
WORLD LANGUAGE DEPARTMENT
World language classes provide instruction in reading, writing, speaking, and
understanding the world language as well as a study of the culture. In today’s world,
the ability to communicate in another language offers many advantages to students
seeking employment or further study. In addition, research has shown that world
language students develop a greater understanding of the structure of their own
language, and develop a broader vocabulary in English.
ATIS requires that students complete one credit (two credits recommended) of study
in a world language in preparation for university admission. A number of universities
include world language proficiency as a graduation requirement. Students are
encouraged to continue world language study throughout high school to meet the
demands of universities admission policies.
One World Language credit is required for graduation from ATIS. World Language
credit must be taken consecutive.
ATIS 19 Course Description Guide 2016/2017
FRENCH I Length: Year
Course # 803 Credit: 0.50
Pre-requisite: None
In this course, the four language skills are developed in their natural order: listening,
speaking, reading, and writing. Emphasis is placed on acquisition of vocabulary and
an in-depth understanding of grammatical structures. In addition, students will gain
information about French-speaking civilization, culture, and customs.
FRENCH 2 Length: Year
Course # 804 Credit: 0.50
Pre-requisite: FRENCH 1
The course will reinforce and expand the foundation established in FRENCH 1. There is
continuation in the learning of grammatical structures with an emphasis on reading,
writing, and speaking the language. Vocabulary is increased and correct language
patterns are encouraged. Throughout this course, a greater use of French with less
dependence upon English also strengthens the student’s ability to communicate in
the French language.
SPANISH I Length: Year
Course # 813 Credit: 0.50
Pre-requisite: None
This course introduces the fundamental elements of the Spanish language within a
cultural context. Emphasis is on the development of basic listening, speaking,
reading, and writing skills with emphasis on enabling students to function in practical
situations.
SPANISH 2 Length: Year
Course # 814 Credit: 0.50
Pre-requisite: SPANISH I
SPANISH 2 builds upon knowledge gained in Spanish 1. This course will also reinforce
the skills learned in Spanish I: listening, speaking, reading and writing. Emphasis is on
perfecting pronunciation, mastery of the basic grammatical structures, and
increased communicative proficiency. Acquisition of functional vocabulary is
expected. Students will be exposed to the past tenses, future, conditional and
subjunctive mood. Students will be expected to apply them in their writing and
speaking.
IM