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April 29, 2013

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SUIS prepares students for the future

CHINESE parents work hard to provide for their child. And providing a good education is a top priority for many parents.

A father surnamed Liu says he is very concerned about his son's education.

"We have no idea what living situation our son will face when he grows up," Liu says. "Therefore, we want our child to have skills that will help him cope with any changes, no matter what happens in the future."

Liu says this should include problem-solving skills, the ability to communicate at a high level, work with others, gather and analyze information and be able to interpret financial and economic data along with global concepts.

Liu chose a newly introduced educational concept known as the "localization of an international curriculum." He sent his son to study in an international program at a Shanghai school, a choice popular among more parents who hope their children will study abroad in the future.

But Liu wasn't pleased with the program. He said his son made slow progress in English, had only four mathematics lessons each week and was required to write only one essay per month. He then transferred his son to Shanghai United International School's Hongqiao campus. Now his is curious and confident. He can easily write an English essay of 1,000 words or more.

Middle schooling is not the same as primary schooling, which focuses on developing good habits and interests. Children aged 11 to 14 require a great deal of attention.

"We provide a tailor-made curriculum system for each middle school student. The purpose is to promote physical and mental development," says Martin Donnellan, the co-principal of the International Stream in Shanghai United International School's Hongqiao campus.

"In addition to meeting students' academic learning needs, we also educate our students with qualities and features which are recognized globally so they will become 21st century citizens. We provide our students with a unique and comprehensive education, equipping them with various abilities they need for further education and life in the future - calmly and confidently."

Shanghai United International School uses the England National Curriculum - Key Stage 3.

The school's Chinese language learning system is different from other international schools. Students are required to spend significant time learning and practicing Chinese, especially students in the classes of Chinese as a First Language. Their Chinese language ability is equivalent to those students at the same age in the local education system. English has always been the "plus" in international education, and so students in a bilingual teaching and learning environment are able to achieve more success in both languages.

Many local schools practice "PPT pedagogy" in teaching ICT (Information and Communication Technology), which makes it dull for students sitting in the classroom and staring at the projected pictures on the blackboard. The school emphasizes how to use technology in modern society and cultivate innovation.

The Arts and PE curriculum are other highlights. The PE curriculum is designed to help students learn more about healthy lifestyles and educate them in sporting ability and sportsmanship through a competitive PE program. All of this will enable students to immerse themselves into intense work and life with great energy in the future.

The Arts curriculum caters to each student. In the Music curriculum the school offers instrumental learning, composition and participation in theatrical performances. Students can also choose fine arts, drawing, crafts, design and technology.

With class sizes of 16 students or less, teachers can learn more about each student and spend more one-on-one time with them. They are aware of each student's progress, growth and potential ability.


 

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