THE CURRICULUM
Specific details of the curriculum can be referred to in the curriculum brochures which apply to the three stages of student life at Island School. The great aim of the curriculum is, at least up until the Sixth form, to offer students a broad, varied and balanced curriculum which encompasses the following areas:
Languages
English Language and English Literature are compulsory subjects until the end of the Fifth form, and the vast majority of students pursue another language until the end of their Fifth year. It is worth noting that for many of Island School's students French, German or Mandarin is often their third or sometimes even their fourth language. Great emphasis is placed upon the ability to use the language. At examination level up to 25% of marks are given for a student's facility with the spoken word.
Mathematics and Science All students study Mathematics and a Science subject until the end of year five. In both areas there is great emphasis on the Nuffield approach to investigative and experimental work. Science is studied in the early years as a General Science course and the trend in English education is to follow such Integrated Science up to the Sixth Form level where the separate sciences of Physics, Chemistry and Biology still hold sway. Humanities/Social Studies
The school offers Geography, History, Religious Education and in the early years a combined course based on the community of Hong Kong. Basic Cantonese is a compulsory subject in Form One. The richness of the school's ethnic and cultural diversity is a great benefit to all teachers of humanities. A Modern World History lesson about Israel, Ireland, India, Vietnam or South Africa with Muslims, Israelis, Hindus, South Africans, Protestants, Catholics and a host of non-Caucasian nationals, is as lively as can be imagined; the school prides itself on taking a multi- cultural approach to its teaching. In the higher grades such Social Sciences as Economics, Business Studies, Sociology and Psychology are popular options.
Measurement in Science.
Improvization in drama.
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Home Economics.
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