Secondary
The fundamental emphasis of the secondary curriculum is on English, mathematics, humanities, social studies and science. Elective courses may include art, choral music, physical education and foreign languages. Detailed information about secondary courses is included in course description booklets available in the guidance office.
Humanities
All students are enrolled in a humanities class every semester. Courses include study in Old and New Testament literature and culture, the history of the Jewish nation and the Christian fellowship and Biblical ethics applied to contemporary issues. All courses are taught on an academic basis and receive academic credit.
English
All students take English courses which include the study of literature, composition and grammar.
English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)
ISW incorporates ESOL learning into a 3-skill comprehensive ELT approach for academic students. The courses use interactive and communicative activities, while still focusing on skill building, to prepare students for academic content. Language proficiencies are articulated from beginning to advanced levels. Students are placed according to language proficiency assessment results.
Fine Art
Middle school students take semester courses in studio art and introduction to art forms. The courses introduce students to a variety of art and art forms. Middle school students are introduced to a type of art or medium each quarter (i.e. drawing, painting, sculpture, installations, etc.) High school students my choose courses in studio art and art history. Art history provides an overview of art history from prehistoric art to contemporary art, including both western and non-western art traditions.
Mandarin Chinese
Students who are proficient in English will study Mandarin Chinese in grades 6-8. Students are assessed and placed into a Chinese class appropriate to their skill level. The classes stress both spoken and written Chinese with particular emphasis on acquiring basic listening and speaking skills in contemporary Mandarin.
The students will study over 250 of the most commonly used Chinese characters and, in order to establish a solid foundation for future learning, particular emphasis will be placed on mastery of the 54 most common radicals. Cultural experiences are also essential for language mastery so the class will take advantage of local cultural assets, including film festivals, museums and celebrations.
Mathematics
In grades 6 and 7, students study the topics of Pre-Algebra and Geometry. Beginning in grade 8, students complete a sequence of mathematics study to prepare them for college and university: Algebra 1, Algebra 2, Geometry/Trigonometry, PreCalculus, and AP Calculus. Student must earn 3 math credits during grades 9 - 12.
Physical Education/Health
All students in grades 6-8 are required to take physical education. Physical education courses focus on the five aspects of health: physical, mental, emotional, social and environmental. High school students are required to take two years of PE/Health.
Science
Middle school students will take a combination of life science, earth science, and physical science. The core curriculum in the high school is comprised of biology, chemistry, and physics.
Social Studies
The middle school social studies curriculum includes the study of world history and geography, as well as a more in-depth look at western and eastern cultures. High school students study world cultures, world history, American history, international politics, and economics.
Yearbook
Each year the yearbook staff produces a record of the activities and events which occurred during the school year.
Choir
Student concerts are open to students who wish to develop their abilities and express their creative gifts in this way.