Knowledge

In the modern world, there has been a vast explosion of knowledge which continues today! It is impossible to include all knowledge in a school curriculum. Quality Schools International carefully selects knowledge considered essential for a person educated in modern society and concentrates on mastery of these essentials. The theme “less is more” is employed which means that it is better to engage in the study of less information and gain mastery with a view to proficient use as applied to higher learning, than it is to “cover” large amounts of information superficially and without mastery.

In order to develop competencies, one must have a firm foundation of facts and knowledge. Certain facts must be memorized and used as tools in gaining additional knowledge and in developing competencies. Additional knowledge is gained by building upon and combining fundamental facts and bits of knowledge. This happens by hearing, seeing, and experiencing in learning situations, followed by practice and repeated exposure. Some of the ways this happens are through dialogue, questioning, experimentation, risk-taking, and group activities.

In the realm of knowledge, QSI has identified seven areas. Mastery of these Exit Outcomes will lead to a successful school experience in Quality Schools International.

English/Literature

TSW develop a vocabulary in the English language which enables one to pursue higher education.
TSW know the rules of grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure.
TSW know how to spell correctly the vast majority of words used and how to find correct spellings for others.
TSW be familiar with selected literature (English and American) in the English language including fiction, non-fiction, short stories, poetry, and drama.
TSW know how to use the library, internet, and other sources of information in research and report writing.

Mathematics

TSW know number facts (addition and subtraction facts, multiplication tables etc.)
TSW demonstrate an understanding of geometrical concepts by solving problems involving geometrical shapes (two and three dimensions), by solving problems involving measurements, and by correctly identifying, defining, and using geometrical terms.
TSW demonstrate an understanding of algebra by mastery of algebraic concepts and of solving problems, leading to and including solving problems involving quadratic equations.

Cultural Studies

TSW develop a basic knowledge of the political, cultural, economic, and geographic divisions of the world.
TSW be familiar with the development of the great civilizations in history, including Egyptian, Greek, Roman, Arab, and Chinese.
TSW know different forms of government and relate these to countries in the world.
TSW demonstrate an understanding of the economic forces and economic development of the globe and relate them to different areas of the world.
TSW be familiar with the development of the United States of America including the main events of its history.
TSW be familiar with the history and geography of the country of the school’s location and the geographical area surrounding the country.

Science

TSW know the basics of physical science including the concepts of and descriptions of motion, force, energy, and elementary astronomy.
TSW know the basics of earth science including beginning meteorology, geology, oceanography, and the structure of the earth’s surface.
TSW know the basics of biological science including botany, zoology, anatomy, physiology, ecology, and models of origins of living things.
TSW gain a knowledge of experimental hands-on laboratory procedures which clarify and confirm scientific concepts and which give an ability to make independent laboratory tests and experiments.

Languages other than English

TSW develop a vocabulary in at least one language other than English at an appropriate level.
TSW know the rules of grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure of the same language at an appropriate level.
TSW know the script, be able to write, and know how to spell correctly the vast majority of words used in the same language at an appropriate level.
TSW be familiar with the culture (including selected literature) in the same language at an appropriate level.

Creative and Applied Arts

Personal Health and World Environmental Issues

TSW know how to plan a program of exercise and sports activities with a view to lifetime physical fitness.
TSW know what constitutes a nutritional and balanced diet and will recognize the dangers of eating disorders.
TSW know the facts concerning the harmful effects of tobacco, alcohol, and other drugs.
TSW be aware of the effects of overpopulation, pollution, depletion of the world’s resources, and destruction of wildlife and natural areas.
TSW know the habits of good general personal hygiene with a view to the prevention of disease.