Middle Years – Grades 6-10
Challenged to think
like a scientist
Rigorous academics, essential connections.
In the IB framework, the Middle Years Program (MYP) is made up of grades 6-10. Students take an active role in developing their own knowledge and understanding of the world. As inquirers, students construct their own meaning, rather than relying on their teachers to do so for them, and are challenged to explore significance and examine their own knowledge deeply and holistically. They learn by applying knowledge and skills in unfamiliar contexts; and become caring members of their community through service.
The MYP builds on the knowledge, skills and attitudes developed by the IB Primary Years Program (PYP), and prepares students for the demanding requirements of the IB Diploma Program (DP).
What are the benefits of the IB diploma program?
Research shows that MYP students:
- Build confidence in managing their own learning
- Learn by doing, connecting the classroom to the larger world
- Outperform non-IB students in critical academic skills
- Consistently have greater success in IB Diploma Programme examinations
- Thrive in positive school cultures where they are engaged and motivated to excel
- Develop an understanding of global challenges and a commitment to act as responsible citizens.
*NEW* Non-spanish speakers & IB Newbies welcome in grade 6
Magellan is now offering a flexible program where no Spanish or IB experience is required. New and current students will have the option of bi-lingual learning (50% of the day in Spanish) or to take all courses in English, in addition to an entry-level language class of their choice.
Quick Facts
Differentiated learning tracks and small class sizes
Liberal arts classes taught in Spanish
Foundational classes taught in English
Opportunity to earn High School credits in Math, Spanish and Mandarin
Physical, Social & Emotional Education program
Teaching staff includes two PhD’s and published authors
Middle School
Program
Highlights
Mandarin Language Acquisition
Language & Literature
In addition to gaining fluency in Spanish and a strong Mandarin foundation, our English Language & Literature program leads students to expand their English language skills by engaging with a variety of genres from different cultures and different times. Students develop metalinguistic awareness, learn to analyze texts and effectively apply various writing and speaking styles.
Science
Students are provided many opportunities each year to carry out independent scientific investigations. This enables them to deeply learn the fundamentals of the scientific method and processes of science such as research, observation, data analysis, dependent and independent variables and more. More than just the memorization of scientific facts, our program values analysis and original deep thinking about complex real-world problems.
Design Thinking
With frequent access to the tools in the i.lab, students can put the design cycle into action across multiple subjects. They learn to use technology effectively as a means to access, process and communicate information, to model and create solutions, and to solve problems. They appreciate the impact of design innovations on life, global society and environments, developing knowledge and skills from different disciplines and applying their influence in their own design thinking.
Mathematics
Students explore mathematics through units of inquiry that help deepen their knowledge and understanding of mathematical concepts and skills. Additionally, they develop the ability to investigate and justify patterns, the verbal and written language for communicating mathematics correctly, and tools for applying mathematics to solve real-world problems. Students have the opportunity to follow foundational grade level mathematics as well as Pre-Algebra and high school level Algebra and Geometry.
The Arts
Students continue their journey through the arts with the study of historical art and musical movements, performing in front of live audiences and refining their opinions and considerations of what defines art in the modern, globally changing world. Students attend Performing Arts and Visual Art classes and take advantage of the tools in the i.lab to create everything from theatrical backdrops to modern art pieces that often line the halls of the school.
Differentiated Learning
Differentiated learning tracks within Math and Mandarin allow for tailored learning based upon students’ individual skill levels. Because class sizes are smaller, students have the flexibility to move within different tracks throughout the year, depending on their progress or need for support.
The Humanities
The study of individuals and societies helps students develop their identity and learn to be responsible members of local and global communities. Concepts across this subject create in students a lifelong fascination with “the human story” as it continues to evolve in an era of rapid change and increasing global interconnectedness. Studies in individuals and societies are essential for developing international-mindedness and empathy, including the idea that “other people, with their differences, can also be right”, part of the IB mission statement.
The Personal Project
In the final year of the programme, each MYP student must develop a personal project independently, which is externally validated by the IB. Producing a truly personal and creative piece of work over an extended period stands as a summative review of their ability to conduct independent work.
Mandarin Language Acquisition
Design Thinking
With frequent access to the tools in the i.lab, students can put the design cycle into action across multiple subjects. They learn to use technology effectively as a means to access, process and communicate information, to model and create solutions, and to solve problems. They appreciate the impact of design innovations on life, global society and environments, developing knowledge and skills from different disciplines and applying their influence in their own design thinking.
Differentiated Learning
Differentiated learning tracks within Math and Mandarin allow for tailored learning based upon students’ individual skill levels. Because class sizes are smaller, students have the flexibility to move within different tracks throughout the year, depending on their progress or need for support.
Language & Literature
In addition to gaining fluency in Spanish and a strong Mandarin foundation, our English Language & Literature program leads students to expand their English language skills by engaging with a variety of genres from different cultures and different times. Students develop metalinguistic awareness, learn to analyze texts and effectively apply various writing and speaking styles.
Mathematics
Students explore mathematics through units of inquiry that help deepen their knowledge and understanding of mathematical concepts and skills. Additionally, they develop the ability to investigate and justify patterns, the verbal and written language for communicating mathematics correctly, and tools for applying mathematics to solve real-world problems. Students have the opportunity to follow foundational grade level mathematics as well as Pre-Algebra and high school level Algebra and Geometry.
The Humanities
The study of individuals and societies helps students develop their identity and learn to be responsible members of local and global communities. Concepts across this subject create in students a lifelong fascination with “the human story” as it continues to evolve in an era of rapid change and increasing global interconnectedness. Studies in individuals and societies are essential for developing international-mindedness and empathy, including the idea that “other people, with their differences, can also be right”, part of the IB mission statement.
Science
Students are provided many opportunities each year to carry out independent scientific investigations. This enables them to deeply learn the fundamentals of the scientific method and processes of science such as research, observation, data analysis, dependent and independent variables and more. More than just the memorization of scientific facts, our program values analysis and original deep thinking about complex real-world problems.
The Arts
Students continue their journey through the arts with the study of historical art and musical movements, performing in front of live audiences and refining their opinions and considerations of what defines art in the modern, globally changing world. Students attend Performing Arts and Visual Art classes and take advantage of the tools in the i.lab to create everything from theatrical backdrops to modern art pieces that often line the halls of the school.