If you’re exploring international schools in Riyadh and wondering what Grade 9 looks like at an American high school, this guide is for you. At OWIS Riyadh, Grade 9 is an important milestone, it’s the point where students transition into high school life, start exploring new subjects, and set the foundation for their future academic and career paths.
Why Grade 9 matters
Grade 9 is the launchpad into high school, where study habits mature, subject choices begin to influence future opportunities, and assessments take on a more structured role. Parents will notice a shift, students take on more responsibility, schedules become more defined, and there’s a clear balance between academic focus and co‑curricular experiences.
The OWIS Riyadh learning approach for Grade 9
At OWIS Riyadh, the high school program is built on globally benchmarked standards with a clear vision: to combine academic rigor with a personalized, student‑focused approach. Grade 9 students benefit from:
- A strong academic core – grounded in internationally recognized frameworks
- Personalized pathways – lessons shaped by assessment data and individual needs
- Balanced learning – a mix of core classes, electives, and co‑curricular activities
What the Academic Framework covers
- Standards‑aligned teaching: Our high school curriculum follows the California Common Core standards, ensuring consistent and measurable expectations in all key subjects.
- Bilingual national requirements: Students also study Arabic, Islamic Studies, and KSA Social Studies in line with Ministry of Education guidelines, offered in a bilingual format for better understanding.
Assessments you can expect
To ensure progress, OWIS Riyadh uses a combination of internal and external assessments:
- Internal checks: diagnostic tests, ongoing evaluations, midterms, and final exams aligned to Webb’s Depth of Knowledge (DOK) framework for deeper learning.
- External measures: trusted tools like NWEA MAP, CAT4, and the PASS survey give valuable insight, allowing teachers to tailor support where needed.
Grade 9 Subjects & Credit Overview
Students in Grade 9 take a balanced mix of subjects across core academics, languages, and electives.
Core subjects include:
- English 9
- Integrated Mathematics
- Biology
- Geography
- Physical Education/Health
Electives open up exciting choices, such as Speech & Debate, English Literature, French or Chinese (Beginner), Nutrition & Food Science, Genetics, Coding & Robotics, and Computer Science.
On average, students complete around 6.5 credit units in Grade 9.
Graduation requirements
Throughout high school, students work toward a clear graduation pathway. Credits are earned in areas like:
- English
- World Languages (with Arabic options tailored to background)
- Mathematics
- Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Geology)
- Social Science
- Islamic Studies/Independent Research
- PE/Health
- Visual & Performing Arts
- Electives
This structured credit system keeps students on track for future university and career opportunities.
How OWIS Riyadh supports student progress
- Clear standards: Students always know what’s expected at each stage
- Frequent feedback: Regular check‑ins and assessments ensure they stay on track
- Personalized action: Data from MAP, CAT4, and classroom performance drives customized support and stretch opportunities for every learner
Co‑curricular opportunities
At High school at OWIS Riyadh students have access to:
- Sports and arts learning
- Tech‑driven electives like Robotics and Computer Science
- Interest‑led clubs that nurture leadership and confidence
Electives such as Journalism, Environmental Science, or Accounting further broaden horizons, helping students explore possible career paths early.
Choosing the right school for Grade 9
If you’re comparing schools in Riyadh and searching for international schools in Riyadh with an American high school curriculum, OWIS Riyadh offers the right mix: rigorous academics, strong values, and a supportive, global learning community.
Ready to take the next step?
- Book a campus tour to explore Grade 9 learning spaces and meet the team.
- Talk to our Admissions team and get advice on placement, electives, and the high school pathway
