SPECIALS
The following subjects are called ‘Specials’ at HIS as they add a unique but intentional growth and learning dynamic within the educational philosophy of the school. The list of these subjects is growing each year and is offered each year or in rotation as per the design of each grade level and academic year.
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At Harbour International School, our philosophy of Specials is that the Elementary School (KG-Gr 5) years are designed to be a well-rounded and wholesome exposure and experience of a variety of different subjects and fields, so as to enable students to identify their inclination, passion, and desire for specific subjects as they move on Middle School. One primary goal for HIS in the ES is to develop a joy and love for learning in the students to be a crucial factor in their pursuit and efforts of opting for specific subjects that they desire to grow in, at the Middle & High School level.
At the Middle School level (Gr 6-8), students begin to take their exposure and experience to a more directed and focused approach, where they are provided with a program and curriculum that sets them up to make calculated decisions about their High School (Gr 9-12) elective program, where the students have the option to take their expertise in a subject, stream, or field even up to a college-level course (AP).
MUSIC & ART
Music and Art are two separate subjects but are designed upon the National Core Arts Standards. They include four dimensions of learning within the curriculum, Creating, Performing/Presenting/Producing, Responding, and Connecting. Under the four dimensions the program includes:
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Generating and Conceptualizing Artistic Ideas & Work
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Conveying meaning through the presentation of Artistic Work
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Perceive and Analyze Artistic Work
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Synthesize and Relate Knowledge and Experiences to make Art
LANGUAGES (HINDI)
Interactive Hindi learning curriculum developed in partnership with Hindi Gateway which is practical, engaging, hands-on, and progressive.
MORAL EDUCATION
At HIS Moral Ed. is a valued subject that will remain for the entire duration of every student’s journey, until High School. We incorporate stories and teachings of Jesus from the scripture and use it as grounds for equipping our students to grow as good citizens, both in values and character. In a generation and culture where values, morality, and character seem to appear as a fleeting identity, HIS aims to raise students and citizens of this global world as holistic beings that are equipped to enrich the world with more than just knowledge and understanding.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
HIS follows the National Physical Education Standards for P.E. The 5 Anchor Standards are:
Standard 1: The physically literate individual demonstrates competency in a variety of motor skills and movement patterns.
Standard 2: The physically literate individual applies knowledge of concepts, principles, strategies and tactics related to movement and performance.
Standard 3: The physically literate individual demonstrates the knowledge and skills to achieve and maintain a health-enhancing level of physical activity and fitness.
Standard 4: The physically literate individual exhibits responsible personal and social behavior that respects self and others.
Standard 5: The physically literate individual recognizes the value of physical activity for health, enjoyment, challenge, self-expression, and/or social interaction.
What our students say about Specials
Alicia Abraham
Learning Art at HIS has taught me to appreciate the beauty that can be found in simplicity. The topics spark creativity and every assignment, I look forward to. I enjoy learning and creating in Art and I think everyone should too.