Secondary
Grades 7 to 12

As a middle school, the Lower Secondary team works hard to foster a sense of community and a learning environment where adolescents can thrive and feel a sense of belonging.

Students will study the following core subjects throughout the year:

• Mathematics

• Language Arts

• Science

• Social Studies

• Mandarin*

In Grades 7 and 8, students will have two option courses per semester, which may include:

• Drama

• Music

• Art

• Information and Communication Technology (ICT)

Students in Grade 9 will have additional option choices.

*Mandarin students are grouped by proficiency level rather than age, allowing learners at all levels to improve their language skills.

We also offer classes for students new to English, both during and after school, to support their content learning in the classroom.

One School, Two Diplomas: Options for TIS Students

All students at TIS are enrolled in the Alberta High School Diploma program. Students who pursue the Full IB Diploma and maintain good academic standing may be exempt from certain Alberta graduation requirements. With this in mind, four high school options are available to TIS students:

• Full IB Diploma

• Alberta Diploma and Full IB Diploma

• Alberta Diploma with selected IB courses  

Both Alberta and IB courses are delivered concurrently, allowing students who choose one of the IB options to earn credit towards both diplomas.

Student Eligibility and Prerequisites for the Full IB Diploma Programme

Since the IB Diploma Programme is a rigorous academic program, students must meet specific eligibility requirements in their Grade 10 year before enrollment. To ensure student success, TIS strives to assist students in choosing the option that provides the greatest opportunities for them. Students must demonstrate the necessary aptitude, work ethic, and previous academic results to be considered for admission into the IBDP. The requirements are as follows:
                           
Grade 10 students interested in the Full IBDP must:                     

• Complete all prerequisite courses in good standing                           

• Earn a minimum grade of 3 in all prerequisite courses for each of their IBDP Standard Level course selections   

• Earn a minimum grade of 5 in all prerequisite courses for each of the IBDP Higher Level courses

• Demonstrate that they are meeting school expectations in their Approaches to Learning (ATL)

Students make the decision to enroll in the Full IBDP when registering for their Grade 11 courses, typically in April of their Grade 10 academic year.

Approaches to Learning Skills (ATL)

ATL (Approaches to Learning) skills are essential learning tools that benefit students during their educational journey and beyond. Essentially, ATLs encompass a set of practical strategies, skills, and attitudes utilized by leading educational programs, such as the International Baccalaureate Programme, and by teachers worldwide. They support the idea that a significant influence on a student's education is not only what is learned but also how it is learned.

As an International School, we strive to help each child succeed and provide a fulfilling learning environment. ATLs assist students in reaching their full potential, regardless of their learning level. Below are the ATLs that TIS has prioritized as areas of focus.