.Academic Programss.Junior High Program

The junior high section of the American International School-Salzburg includes the students in 7th and 8th grades. Generally, these students are between 12 and 14 years of age and can prove at least six years of formal education before acceptance to AIS-Salzburg. The junior-high program includes full-boarders, 5-day boarders and day students and they are fully integrated into our regular school programs. Additional activities and outings are regularly scheduled for junior high students exclusively, and their evening study time is adjusted for the demands of their coursework.

Students in grade 7 and 8 take a full load of classes and are primarily engaged in foundational academic work in all disciplines including English, mathematics, science, social studies and German language. Additionally, all junior high students are required to take courses in sports and physical education (Healthy Lifestyle Requirement), electives such as studio art, drama, etc., and are also assigned a study period during the regular academic day in assistance of their work load.

The junior high program should be seen as foundational work for the challenging high school schedule. Of great importance is the required coursework done in English and in mathematics. Success at this level generally provides a very sound basis for future high-school level courses and the challenges of the Advanced Placement program.

Typical coursework for junior high school students:

7th grade - Non-English Assistance:

English

Junior High English

Mathematics

Pre-Algebra

Science

Junior High Science (2-year course in earth, physical, and life sciences)

Social Studies

World History or World Geography

German

At appropriate level

Electives

Studio art, drama, speech and debate, etc.

HLR

Sports (2x weekly), physical activities and outings

Boarding

A boarding conduct grade for all non-academic hours

8th grade - Non-English Assistance:

English

Junior High English (year 2)

Mathematics

Algebra I

Science

Junior High Science (2-year course in earth, physical, and life sciences)

Social Studies

World History or World Geography

German

At appropriate level

Electives

Studio art, drama, speech and debate, etc.

HLR

Sports (2x weekly), physical activities and outings

Students in the 7th and 8th grades who require English assistance before being able to take advantage of the regular academic program are scheduled into one of four levels of English language coursework following placement testing. Students in English assistance classes will have between two and three hours of English daily within a full load of courses in all subject areas. Generally, the German language requirement will be sacrificed in favor of more comprehensive English language development.

English Assistance Levels

Introductory English A (grammar and composition)

1 hour daily

Introductory English B (reading and vocabulary)

1 hour daily

Introductory English C (speaking and listening skills)

1 hour daily

Intermediate English A (grammar and composition)

1 hour daily

Intermediate English B (reading and vocabulary)

1 hour daily

Intermediate English C (speaking and listening skills)

1 hour daily

Advanced English A (grammar and composition)

1 hour daily

Advanced English B (reading and vocabulary)

1 hour daily

Accelerated English Grammar and Reading

1 hour daily

Accelerated English Composition and Literature

1 hour daily

Admissions requirements for junior high students include a greater flexibility in previous English language ability as the program can compensate for this in plenty of time before enrollment in the high-school grade levels.