Introduction

"An investment in knowledge pays the best interest." – Benjamin Franklin

The academic environment at Benjamin Franklin International School is demanding. All courses are taught at a college preparatory level. To remain at an acceptable academic standing, students must receive a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 1.7 for both first and second semesters. The typical high school student spends an average of 2-3 hours per night on homework and course preparation.

English and Language Arts

Our Grade 6-12 English and Language arts program develops proficient language users: readers, writers, speakers and listeners. It also provides a foundation of effective learning tools, including new technology, to allow students to discover, expand, and gain knowledge; and problem solving via individual and cooperative work. The writing ability of middle and high school students has been externally assessed by the International Schools' Assessment.

Mathematics

Students in Grades 6 – 12 are assisted to become successful learners through a range of opportunities that include hands on activities, the use of diverse resources, and problem solving strategies. The Middle and High school math department uses a series of Math books by Mc Dougall – Littell, ensuring a vertically aligned math curriculum. Advanced Math students can move through the 3 year Integrated Math track in 2 years if mastery is proven. Math students are challenged during the International Schools Mathematics Teachers Foundation (ISMTF) competitions that are held every year for different age ranges. Additionally, students are given the opportunity to join and participate in the Math club, to give them extra opportunities to develop their logic reasoning and problem solving strategies.

Science

The science program for Grades 6-12 provides a 'high interest and hands on' learning environment for general science courses that enable students to achieve scientific literacy. Technology is integrated in the classroom via simulated programs and computer based lab interfaces (CBL's). Learning is based on real-life, societal science and technology issues together with areas that respond to students' needs including reproductive biology, nutrition, and drugs. Like other core areas, a double track is offered in science to meet the diverse ability and interests of students.

Social Studies

The social studies program integrates the study of historical, political, economic, cultural and environmental aspects of societies so students can develop into responsible global citizens. Students learn about the past in order to succeed in the present and plan for the future. An integral part of the social studies curriculum is Model United Nations. A local General Assembly has been staged the past 3 years for Middle School. In high school students may continue their involvement in the MUN program by preparing for then attending a regional MUN Assembly. In recent years BFIS has sent teams to Beijing, St. Petersburg, and The Hague.

Spanish

All students in grades 6 through 12 take Spanish language classes five periods per week. All Spanish students (with Spanish citizenship) are required by law to follow the Spanish program of studies as outlined below (which includes Catalan and Spanish Social Studies).

World Languages

In world languages we currently offer Spanish for non-native speakers, Spanish as a Foreign Language (SFL) at three skill levels – beginning, intermediate, and advanced. In addition, these SFL students are enrolled in a Spanish-Catalan Studies course in grade 6 through 10.

As part of the world languages program, French is also an option for any student in grades 7 through 12 who elects this program. The grade 11 French course serves as pre-AP French, and the rigorous AP French course is offered in Grade 12.

Performing and Visual Arts

Students have the option of enrolling in arts electives, classes that supplement the five core areas. These classes include art, music and drama. Art classes are offered for grades 6-10, followed by Pre-AP Art in grade 11, and AP Studio Art in grade 12. The work of secondary art students is frequently displayed around the school campus. Music and drama are fine arts classes that are offered in grades 6 through 10.

Diploma – American, Spanish, and Advanced Placement

American High School Diploma

All students at Benjamin Franklin study for an American High School Diploma. This is a college preparatory course of study that requires students to earn a minimum of twenty-four credits throughout grades 9-12 from the list below. One credit represents a year's work of five class periods per week, or an equivalent.

The requirements for graduation are as follows:

Spanish High School Diploma

Benjamin Franklin offers students the opportunity simultaneously to complete a second High School credential, the Spanish baccalaureate diploma. These students are regarded as “dual program” students. To be eligible, students must take the required Spanish program subjects beginning in Grade 1. By completing this course of study they are prepared to take the Selectividad, the Spanish university entrance exam.

Grades 1-6: Students must have a passing grade in Spanish, Catalan, and Spanish Social Studies.

Grades 7-10: Students must pass all the courses offered in the American curriculum, as well as the required Spanish Department subjects: Spanish Language and Literature, Catalan Language and Literature, and Spanish Social Studies.

At the end of grade 10, the Spanish Technical Director applies for the validation of the "Enseñanza Secundaria Obligatoria" (ESO). Grades 11 and 12: Students again must pass all required American program and Spanish program subjects.

At the end of grades 11 and 12, the Spanish Technical Director applies for the validation of the First and Second Years of the Bachillerato, the Spanish High School Certificate.

At the end of the senior year, students sit for the Selectividad, the entrance examinations for entry to the Spanish University system.

For more detailed information on the Spanish Diploma and BFIS Selectividad Results , click here.

Advanced Placement

Benjamin Franklin International School offers one of the most extensive Advanced Placement (AP) programs in Europe. The following 12 AP courses are offered at BFIS – Spanish Language, Spanish Literature, English Language, English Literature, French Language, Comparative Government, European History, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Calculus, and Studio Art. BFIS is also one of few schools internationally to offer the AP Japanese examination online. Students can earn college credit and/or placement in higher level classes at university if a mark of 3 or higher is earned on the AP examination. Students may be recognized for their scholarship and achievement with the AP International Diploma (APID) . In order to receive the APID, students must enroll in the correct combination of 5 classes and earn a score of 3 or higher on each examination. Students might also be recognized with awards such as AP Scholar and Scholar with Distinction .