2016-17: Dubai's IB Diploma Schools

Universal American School

KHDA Rating: Good

Additional Ratings/Accreditations: CIS

Published Results: Not Available

Programmes: PYP, Diploma

Additional Curriculum: US

26 Diploma Options: biology,  business and management, chemistry, economics, English A language, English A literature, English B, environment and society, geography, history, IT in global society,  maths studies, mathematics, music, physics, theatre, visual arts, Spanish B, Spanish AB, French B, French AB, French A language, Arabic B, Arabic AB, Arabic A language, business management.

Language of Instruction: English/Arabic

Location: Festival City, Dubai

Diploma Fees Per Annum: Dhs 73,030

Contact: here

KHDA Analysis of the DP years: (In this report the KHDA DID NOT differentiate between the attainment of High school students and diploma programme students in their reporting, therefore it should be noted that the attainment mentioned is not specific to the Diploma programme)

English: Good
In English, the majority of students made or exceeded the expected progress and demonstrated knowledge, skills and understanding that were aligned to the curriculum standards. However, in measuring their attainment against the IB expectations, students scored slightly below the international averages. Students connected different areas of their knowledge. They carried out textual analysis in real time and revised their writing to enhance their use of context. The more able students benefited from the increased rigor of higher level courses, where their own opinions were linked to complex interpretations and inference-based challenges.

Mathematics: Good
In maths, a majority of students had secure skills in algebra and functions. The collective performance of standard Level students was above the curriculum expectations, while the performance of higher Level students was in line with expectations. They made very good progress when applying their skills within the curriculum context and when answering examination questions. Their abilities to apply multiple concepts to unknown situations was less secure

Science: Good
In science, test scores showed good attainment and progress. The previous cohort’s IB results indicated that the best progress was in standard Level Biology, but with highly varied scores across the four science options at both the higher and standard Levels. During the lessons observed, while inquiry and critical thinking skills were developing, a deficit remained in terms of the self-direction expected of an IB scientific learner. Grade 11 and 12 students had acquired greater knowledge but had not fully developed the research and critical thinking skills necessary for the rigors of the IB Diploma's higher level scientific challenges. 

Learning Skills at 'High Level': Good

'High' Level Teaching for Effective Learning: Good

'High' Level Curriculum Quality: Good