Offering competitive leaving certificates upon graduation in G12 or 13, the ISF Secondary School begins its university preparation in Grade 7. Emphasis is placed on English, mathematics and German. A third language, French or Spanish, is also added from Grade 7. Secondary students at ISF, in addition to mastering academic content, develop skills of abstract reasoning and critical analysis, which are vital to the process of lifelong learning.

IGCSE, AS- and A-Level, AP Examinations and the International Baccalaureate Diploma

Secondary school students at ISF are prepared for external exams taken throughout grades 7-13. Sitting the IGCSE, AS-Level and A-Level examinations of the British system of education and the TOEFL, PSAT, SAT I, SAT II, and Advanced Placement (AP) examinations of the American education system, ISF students are prepared to meet the requirements of the most demanding universities in the United States, Canada, Germany, the United Kingdom and mainland Europe, the Middle and Far East and Australia.

ISF students in grades 11 and 12 can also be prepared for the International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB).  The IB Diploma is accepted at universities worldwide.

The Secondary School Curriculum

The Secondary School curriculum at ISF covers a broad range of subjects. Some of the most distinctive features include:

English

In grades 7-9 the English program focuses on establishing skills in reading comprehension, composition, spelling, vocabulary, grammar and oral response. Class readers with a historical content are used to provide a valuable context in which to study and perfect these skills. Literature is introduced gradually to develop critical analysis skills and an appreciation of the world's literary genres. Course work in grades 10-13 focuses on preparation for the IGCSE in First or Second Language English and Literature, as well as AP English and A-Level exams in English Literature.

Mathematics

Math in the Secondary School is taught as an integrated discipline, allowing for fluidity across boundaries between different branches of math.

Starting in Grade 7 students are taught algebra, set theory, and computing; in grades 8 and 9 the study of algebra and computing is continued along with the study of geometry. From grades 10-13 students may continue in one of two tracks—math for Arts and math for Science—both leading to high level qualifications upon completion.

German

ISF requires the study of German either for native speakers or as a second language for all its students in grades 7-13. In a language program designed to mirror that of the state of Hesse, the German educational system, the German program at ISF focuses on writing, reading comprehension, grammar, spelling, and vocabulary at both native and foreign levels. The native-German course integrates the study of classical German literature starting in Grade 7 and continuing through grade 13. ISF students in German Foreign courses sit IGCSE exams as early as the end of Grade 7 with the AS-A-Level and AP exams to follow in later grades when the individual student has reached the appropriate standard.

Science

Science as a survey course is offered at ISF in grades 7-9. Students in these grades focus on the study of life, earth, physical sciences and mathematical methods. In grades 10-13, ISF offers a three-track science curriculum in biology, chemistry, and physics in modern laboratory facilities. Students sit IGCSE, AS/A-Level and AP exams in grades 11, 12, and 13.

Social Sciences

Grades 7-9 at ISF focus on the study of history from ancient civilization to the 20th century. Students gain knowledge and understanding of the times through the texts used. Project work in each term allows the students to further explore areas of special interest. Additionally, local German content in history, politics, and institutions is integrated into German lessons in grades 7–9. Grades 10-13 offer a three-track social science curriculum consisting of history, geography, and economics leading to IGCSE, AS/A-level, and AP exams.

French/Spanish

Beginning in Grade 7, students choose between French or Spanish as their third language. These courses maintain the focus of other language (English/German) classes at ISF. IGCSE exams in these third languages are written after 4 years of study with AS-A-Level and AP exams to follow.

Art, music (vocal and instrumental), computing and physical education round out the academic program in the Secondary School at ISF. These survey courses are required in grades 7-9 and expose the students to the liberal arts, giving them a broad base of subjects to choose from in grades 10-13. IGCSE, AS/A-Level and AP examinations are available in art, computing, and physical education in grades 10-13.

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