QSI International School of Atyrau follows the Mastery Learning model of education. Students learn at a pace which allows them to develop a high level of proficiency (knowledge, skills, and competencies) in the curriculum that they are studying. This approach promotes academic rigor and academic success. Academic programs at QSI International School of Atyrau focus on the development of 21st Century Learning Skills such as critical thinking and problem solving; leadership and collaboration; cultural awareness and digital literacy.
Mastery Learning
The academic program uses a Performance-Based/Mastery Learning approach to education. The model ensures mastery of specific skills and knowledge involving both individual and group instruction. The educational philosophy is founded upon the premises that:
All students can succeed.
Success breeds success.
It is the responsibility of the school to provide the conditions for success.
In this research-validated model each Essential unit is taught with a view to excellence. When students demonstrate mastery of the essential unit, they move on to the next essential unit. If the student does not achieve mastery, the teacher re-teachers, and the student revises as necessary. Additional conferencing and extended practice may be given to the student to demonstrate proficiency at the appropriate level before testing again. When the students demonstrate mastery, they are rewarded with an "A" or "B". Thus, a student never "fails" in the traditional sense. Instead, he/she proceeds logically through the curriculum at a pace determined by his/her mastery of the material.
Curriculum Focus
QSI offers a performance-based curriculum for students, preschool through graduation. The schools meets the needs off all its students through a mastery-based system of instruction. We believe that students can master essential skills and information if given sufficient time and support. A full secondary program is offered to students 14 years and older. Secondary students can receive additional support through an accredited online instructional program and QSI Virtual School (QVS).
The curriculum includes English (reading, grammar, composition, and spelling), mathematics, cultural studies (history and geography), science, art, music and physical education. Intensive English classes are offered to students that need additional help with English. Computer use is integrated across the curriculum. Three native language programs are offered: Kazakh, Russian and Dutch. Russian and Kazakh are offered to non-native speakers. The school seeks to provide students with an appreciation for the rich culture and history of Kazakhstan. Materials and equipment are up to date and of high quality. The faculty members are highly-qualified educators coming mostly from America or Canada.
Success Orientations
"Success for All" is the motto of QSI Schools. Personal habits and the ability to interact successfully with others are deemed as valuable as the knowledge and competencies students learn. Success Orientations are actively encouraged in virtually all areas of the school curriculum with the view of making them a vital part of one's life pattern. Evaluations of the success orientations are limited to situations within the jurisdiction of the school and are made by a consensus of the professional staff members. Thy are grouped under the headings of:
Responsibility
Trustworthiness
Group Interaction
Aesthetic Appreciation
Kindness and Politeness
Independent Endeavor
Concern for other
Success Orientations are part of our Empower Curriculum. Find out more about Empower clicking here.
