Middle School

Our Middle and High School English Language Arts, Social Studies, World Languages is designed to provide a dynamic and comprehensive humanities program for all CIA FIRST students. Our curriculum is uniquely designed in-house with a student-centered philosophy that encourages active discussion and debate, enabling students to engage deeply with the big ideas and real-world events shaping our world today.

The Social Studies curriculum follows the American Education Reaches Out (AERO) standards, providing students with a range of pertinent topics to explore. This broad spectrum of subjects offered is carefully chosen to foster a global perspective and a deep understanding of contemporary societal challenges. By examining the complexities of globalization and urban planning challenges in Phnom Penh, students will come to realize that history is an ongoing process that they are a part of.

The English Language Arts curriculum follows the Common Core State Standards (CCSS), and is designed to enhance students' reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills through the lens of modern-day issues. We delve into themes like Mental Health, Justice, Immigration, and media bias, providing diverse avenues for students to add their own voices to these pressing matters while also equipping them with the skills needed to express themselves effectively in different modes of communication.

Our Middle and High School Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) curriculum is designed to provide a comprehensive education based on student-centered, inquiry-based learning. Mathematics, Science, and Computer Science Principles form the core subjects, while Robotics, Visual and Performing Arts and Music are offered as elective subjects, allowing students to explore their interests and develop diverse skills.

The Science curriculum follows the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and incorporates life science, earth and space science, physical science, engineering, technology, and applications of science. Connections are made relevant to students’ lives in Cambodia through localized topics such as the declining bee populations in Siem Reap and various conservation and sustainability projects in Cambodia.

The Mathematics curriculum follows the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) and covers a wide range of topics, including algebra, geometry, statistics, and trigonometry. Students will engage in rigorous and challenging instruction, with a focus on developing problem-solving skills and mathematical reasoning. By exploring building sights and parks around Phnom Penh, students will engage with real-world examples of the linear equations and functions used to design real-world spaces.

The Computer Science Principles curriculum follows the Computer Science Standards (CSS) and the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) standards, providing students with the essential skills needed to thrive in an increasingly digital world. Through hands-on learning, the development of computational thinking, problem-solving, and the use of creativity and collaboration, CIA FIRST aims to inspire students to pursue further studies and careers in this exciting and ever-expanding field.