Ninth Grade (Troisième)

American Curriculum (20% of school time)

The final year of Middle School is critical, preparing students for the greater challenges of Upper School. 

Literature (four hours per week): Students continue their study of classic and contemporary American texts. During the year, they examine a variety of literary and stylistic elements. The level of analysis receives greater emphasis than in previous years, and the commentary is introduced. Creative writing opportunities are offered all year long. Students will research, compile and present a poetry portfolio as part of their Option International du Brevet. 

History (two hours per week): The focus of the Troisième history program is the twentieth century from a global perspective. In addition, students prepare for the Option International du Brevet, which takes place in May. Students are given ample training in reading and analysis of historical texts, and essay writing.

Library and Digital Literacy: Students in Middle School are encouraged to develop a love of reading through regular library visits, book clubs, and reading projects. The librarians also collaborate with teachers to introduce and sharpen research skills to promote the effective use of books and of the Internet.  In addition to helping students find good books to read, the Section’s librarians stress the proper citation of research sources during the Middle School years to foster a respect for intellectual property and the avoidance of plagiarism.

Standardized Testing: In the spring, Troisième students take the CTP5.

Field Trip: Students visit the celebrated Musée de la Grande Guerre located east of Paris in Meaux as part of the history curriculum and to foster their sense of community.


French Curriculum (80% of school time)

In Troisième, students follow the French national curriculum which means at least four hours per week of both French and math. For more on the content and skills developed in French during the year, please visit the website of the French Ministry of Education.

Passage into Seconde and International Brevet Exams

All American Section students are accepted into tenth grade (Seconde) at the Lycée International de Saint-Germain-en-Laye, if they demonstrate academic and social readiness for our Upper School and the OIB program. Please see our Passage into Seconde FAQ here. 

The International Brevet Exam is the first in a series of national-level exams that are a common feature of French schooling. Taken in June, the exams test the student’s knowledge in French, mathematics, French History-Geography-Civics. Students in the American Section will also take a history oral exam in American English in June.