Middle School
Welcome to Middle School
OCAC Suzhou Middle School serves students in Grades 6–8. Our curriculum fulfils the requirements of the Chinese National Curriculum and integrates them with the teaching and assessment framework of the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (IB MYP). We emphasise strong subject knowledge and foundational skills. Through conceptual inquiry, real-world contexts and practical tasks, students learn to ask questions, analyse evidence, form judgements and apply their learning in new situations.
Across the eight MYP subject groups, students develop reading, communication, research and collaboration skills. Interdisciplinary learning, the Community Project and Co-Curricular Activities connect classroom learning with everyday life. Within a Chinese and English learning environment, we nurture an understanding of Chinese culture and encourage students to respect different perspectives, approach the wider world with openness, and develop effective study habits and a sense of responsibility.
The middle school years are an important time for students to understand themselves, develop independence and build confidence. Recognising different starting points and learning needs, we provide teacher guidance, targeted learning support and ongoing communication with families. We support academic progress alongside wellbeing and positive peer relationships, helping students plan their learning, face challenges and take responsibility as they prepare for high school and their longer-term development.
Our Curriculum
Our curriculum encompasses the eight MYP subject groups, providing a broad and balanced learning experience:
- Language and Literature
- Language Acquisition
- Mathematics
- Sciences (Biology, Physics and Chemistry)
- Individuals and Societies (History, Geography, Ethics and Law)
- Design (Digital Design and Product Design)
- Arts (Visual Arts and Performing Arts)
- Physical and Health Education
Each subject develops knowledge and skills alongside thinking and application. Through reading, writing, experiments, research, design, creative work and physical activity, students practise asking questions, analysing evidence, expressing ideas and solving problems.
Interdisciplinary learning helps students connect knowledge and methods from two or more subjects to understand a shared question from different perspectives. Teachers collaborate around a common inquiry, designing tasks that encourage students to compare disciplinary perspectives, integrate evidence and develop new understanding.
Through research, discussion and presentations, students explore how their learning applies to real-world contexts. We value accurate use of subject knowledge, clear explanations of connections between subjects, and reflection on how combining different approaches helps students address a problem.
In Grade 8, students undertake the Community Project to connect their learning with authentic community needs. With teacher guidance, they work individually or in groups of up to three. Through investigation, planning, action and reflection, students design and carry out service that responds to an identified need.
The project begins with understanding a specific community and listening to the people involved. Students gather evidence, develop a feasible plan, take individual responsibility and use feedback to evaluate their action. Throughout the process, they practise research, communication, collaboration and self-management, developing an understanding of responsible participation in community life.
Approaches to Learning (ATL) help students learn how to learn. The five skill categories are communication, social, self-management, research and thinking skills. These skills are developed across subjects and applied in interdisciplinary learning, the Community Project and everyday school life.
Through explicit modelling, regular practice and specific feedback, teachers help students plan their work, manage time, evaluate information, collaborate, express ideas and reflect on their learning. Students develop awareness of their strengths and areas for improvement, enabling them to adjust their strategies and become more independent learners.
Co-Curricular Activities (CCA) are an important part of students’ learning and development. The school offers opportunities in academic enrichment, culture, the arts and sport, enabling students to explore interests, discover strengths and try new ways of learning beyond the classroom.
Through practice, collaboration and challenge, students develop creativity, teamwork and perseverance. We encourage active participation and responsibility, helping students build confidence and a fuller understanding of themselves through a range of school experiences.
Our Curriculum
Empowering every student to discover and fulfil their potential.
Be the change you want to see in the world. I hope every student stays curious, thinks independently and has the courage to turn ideas into action, growing in confidence and responsibility while making a positive difference to others and their community.
