Curriculum

Art & Design

In Junior School Art & Design we aim to develop skills in a wide range of practical disciplines using traditional and digital media and technologies. We foster an awareness of art and design to help all students develop their artistic and creative skills. 

Pupils will also develop literacy skills through the analysis of the work of other practitioners critically, using the visual language of art and design, and to evaluate their own work and progress. 

We recognise the importance of our contribution to raising awareness of the range of career opportunities within the creative and cultural industries in Northern Ireland and beyond, and all classes at Key Stage 3 undertake a unit of work linked to real-world design contexts. Pupils benefit from guest speakers from Higher Education, industry, and past pupils.

Biology

Biology at Methody is very ‘hands-on’, students enjoy practical-based study in our well-resourced laboratories. Our experienced staff aim to develop an enjoyment and interest in Biology and to find out more about how plants and animals work.

Pupils are encouraged to conduct experiments to learn new concepts and ideas by observation. Our approach develops their ability to evaluate and interpret science to provide a foundation for further study through the Middle and Senior School. 

To a biologist the natural world is full of questions just waiting to be answered and here at Methody we hope to provide the foundation to explore these options. 

Chemistry

At Methody we’re passionate about Chemistry. We have a team of ten teachers who foster an enjoyment and interest in learning about Chemistry through 'hands-on' practical lessons.

Chemistry in the classroom has many benefits, from developing problem-solving skills to providing foundational knowledge, Chemistry can help Junior School pupils to think things through logically and systematically.

In Junior School, pupils learn about the science of materials; the differences between them, how they react with one another and how heat or other forms of energy affect them. What is water made of? What happens when hydrogen burns? How are plastics made? All these questions and more will be answered!

Computing & ICT

In Junior School pupils will develop a range of skills that allow them to get a better understanding of different sectors of computing. Pupils are also taught about how they can use computers and online features safely, making them aware of the dangers that can arise from the internet and social media. 

Pupils will gain an understand of how to use spreadsheets and their application across almost any chosen career. They will also delve into computer programming by using Scratch and Python. 

Computing & ICT at Methody is cross curricular and provides vital skills that are applicable across all subject areas.

Drama

Studying drama enables pupils to develop their communication skills, builds their confidence and encourages teamwork.

During their time in class, pupils will build their confidence, expertise and knowledge of theatre practices as they will be guided through an exciting range of topics such as Genres of Performance, Theatre Styles and Practitioners.  

Pupils make use of our recently refurbished fully operational Drama Studio for both rehearsal and public performance.

Junior School pupils also have the chance to take part in the Junior School Show, which is performed each June in The Whitla Hall, and is a highlight of the year for Junior School!

English

English in Methody has a focus on developing the skills needed to communicate with confidence and authority. In all English classes there is strong emphasis on active pupil participation, the practical application of language and the enjoyment of literature in all its types and genres.

The English Department in Methody ensures that all pupils have an enriching and rewarding experience. Our pupils have access to well-equipped specialist rooms; we make use of audio-visual, interactive and computer facilities on a daily basis.

Our Junior School reading syllabus is wide-ranging with lots of variety to interest and challenge our pupils, we encourage close, thoughtful reading. We ensure that literature is not viewed in a vacuum, but as an important part of everyday life.

Food & Nutrition

Food & Nutrition is a highly relevant, vibrant subject undertaken enthusiastically by all pupils in Junior School. Pupils have regular experience of practical activities in which they develop a range of skills, including food preparation skills, organisational skills, problem solving abilities, working as part of a team and time management. 

Independent learning is important; the emphasis is on investigation, acquiring new concepts and community ideas both in written and oral form. By using a variety of teaching and learning strategies pupils engage with key issues in a meaningful way. Food & Nutrition provides pupils with opportunities to explore real issues relevant to real-life contexts. These experiences lead to the development of a wide range of transferable skills.
 

French

The ability to understand and communicate in other languages is a lifelong skill, one which is useful in the workforce but also for travel. 

At Methody, French is taught as a core subject in Junior School. Our aim is to encourage the pupils to communicate with confidence by providing a solid foundation of basic French grammar and vocabulary. Our excellent teaching staff provide an enjoyable experience by providing an imaginative, practical, and creative approach to studying French.

Visits to France provide Junior pupils with the opportunity to use their French in real situations, as well as gaining an insight into the French way of life. We have an extremely successful trip to Paris in Form 3, and an e-twinning programme had been piloted for Junior pupils in some teaching groups.

Geography

Geography at Methody provides pupils with a wide range of skills, experiences and knowledge which reflect the breadth and changing nature of Geography. We mix the best of the traditional approaches and values of the subject with new, challenging geographical ideas and examples which arise from a constantly changing world.

At Methody we believe that fieldwork is an essential and practical method of stimulating a sense of wonder in our environment. The everyday use of ICT in our teaching is strong and vital; helping to provide structure, support and stimulus to learning in the classroom.

Throughout Junior School, pupils will gain many skills in areas such as fieldwork, atlas use, map work, basic Geology, they will also experience using Crime Mapping, Google Earth, and ArcGIS software with virtual fieldwork in the Amazon!

German

Culturally and commercially, German is one of the world's most important languages, it is the mother tongue of more Europeans than any other language, and is the first language of some 90 million people in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Luxembourg and Northern Italy, and is spoken in many other countries of Central and Eastern Europe.

We believe that learning languages should be an essential part of every student’s education because it fosters cross-cultural understanding and helps us to understand our place in the world, whilst proving an insight into our own culture and language. By studying German, pupils will improve their communication skills and their ability to connect with others.

History

History is a core subject for all Junior School pupils providing an excellent insight into recent world history. Pupils will develop their skills as historians such as causation, interpretations, chronology and significance. 

The department comprises of seven highly experienced teachers who possess an infectious enthusiasm for history.

Junior School pupils will also enhance their creativity skills with opportunities for dressing up, role play and creativity as they delve into topics such as Tudors, American history, World War One and Two, and Irish History. 

Latin

Latin is studied by all pupils in Form 1 and many of those in Form 2 and Form 3. Through the study of Latin, pupils are taught language, translation, comprehension and learning skills. In addition, they find out about life in Roman times in places such as Pompeii, Roman Britain and Roman Egypt. 

There are a range of benefits of studying Latin; pupils are able to enhance their English vocabulary, they will deepen their communication skills and enhance critical thinking; therefore, supporting learning across all subject areas.

Learning for Life & Work

Learning for Life and Work is taken by all Junior School pupils. It has four subject strands: Employability, Local and Global Citizenship, Personal Development, and Home Economics.

At Methody we aim to bring closer links between the curriculum and the knowledge, skills and capabilities that are necessary for life and work. Pupils deepen their awareness of the future skills required to contribute to the economy and the environment and are motivated by real world examples and experiences. 

Mathematics

Mathematics is fundamental to life in the sense that its unique language and forms of notation help us to calculate, estimate and problem solve. It also informs many of the choices and decisions we make about real life issues and challenges and the actions we subsequently take.

Through engagement with issues which have current and future relevance to young people, our staff help pupils to see the relevance of mathematics to real life. 

All classes in Junior School follow common resources which allow the development of mathematical understanding and application. Outside of the core curriculum Junior School pupils can also participate in UKMT Junior Maths Challenge and make us of our Junior Maths Drop-In."

Music

Music is a vital part of Methody life, the central philosophy has always been to involve as many individuals as possible, in as many areas as may be provided, to the highest standard attainable. 
 
The musical life of the College may be viewed as two parallel paths - curricular activities and co-curricular pursuits. In Junior School pupils will progress their skills, which include Listening, Composing, Performing and Appraising. 

Pupils can also take part in our vast amount of performing groups including Girls’ Choir, Chapel Choir, The Band, Irish Traditional Group, Senior Orchestra, Jazz Band and Junior Choir.

Physical Education

At Methody we promote the physical, personal and social well-being of all pupils, irrespective of ability, by offering a challenging and enjoyable practical experience through a balanced, progressive and relevant activity-based programme.

Our excellent PE staff provide a fun and enjoyable learning experience so that pupils can develop their skills and understanding to create positive social, moral and sporting attitudes.

In Junior School pupils will take part in a combination of PE and Games lessons provided either onsite in the Sports Hall, Swimming Pool, Gym or at our Pirrie Park playing fields.

Physics

At Methody we aim to stimulate curiosity, interest and enjoyment in Physics. Throughout the Junior School, pupils studying Physics have opportunities to enhance their understanding of the material by completing practical work in class, in groups or individually. This approach maximises student enjoyment of the subject whilst advancing knowledge and practical skills.

Junior School pupils benefit from an exciting curriculum that explores topics such as Earth and Space, Energy, Using Electricity, Light, Forces, Motion, Sound and Heat Transfer.

Religious Education

Religious Education is taught to every pupil in the College through independent research, projects, discussions, developing analytical skills, use of ICT and reflective thought on key issues.

In Religious Education we aim to help pupils:

• Think for themselves, giving reasons and opinions on moral and religious issues;
• Explore matters of religious belief, including areas which people of religion disagree;
• Gain knowledge of the Bible stories. Centring on the life and teachings of Christ;
• Understand the beliefs and practices of religious traditions other than their own in an open-minded and tolerant way.

Russian

The Russian Department is responsible for the teaching of Russian from Form Three upwards. Through the study of Russian, pupils are taught listening, speaking, reading comprehension and writing skills. 

Emphasis is placed on a thorough knowledge of grammar and vocabulary. Source based and analytical essay writing skills are fostered at all levels, providing pupils with a range of vital skills. 

Spanish

Spanish is spoken by at least an estimated 350 million people around the world and is currently the 4th most spoken language worldwide. The sheer number of Spanish speakers and their rate of growth makes learning Spanish a smart choice.  

The Spanish department aims to promote the learning of Spanish throughout the school. In learning Spanish, pupils learn to appreciate the culture and ways of life of Spain and the Spanish-speaking world.  Junior School pupils can study Spanish as an option from Form 2.  

Pupils also benefit on field trips to Spain to enhance their learning. In recent years the Spanish Department has taken trips to Andalucía in southern Spain, with pupils visiting Granada, Malaga and Sevilla, and also several trips to Barcelona.  

Technology & Design

Technology is the study of skills and has grown to include the study of practical materials, skills and knowledge. Technology is more than just a study of theory, it is practical. It is the application of technical and scientific knowledge and skills. Technology students study advances made in science and engineering and then use this knowledge to solve everyday problems.

All Junior School pupils study Technology, this provides them with the opportunity to enhance problem solving problems skills, engineering skills and design skills whilst using their creativity. 

Our Technology & Design staff ensure an enjoyable and interesting learning experience.