French instruction covers three major areas:

• Enhancing of oral and written language skills,

• Understanding the origins of vocabulary and grammatical structure, language history, with reference to ancient and modern languages, 

• Building a rich literary and artistic culture through the study of nationally significant works, whether contemporary, classic or foreign, and through other art forms, particularly still and moving images.

Mathematics instruction develops logical thinking, abstraction and spatial perspective using formulas, models, charts and diagrams. Math principles are mastered by solving problems. Concepts are studied, repeated and reinforced each year using a "spiral learning" approach that results in deeper understanding. Students learn the laws of logic as well as:

• Rigor and precision

• To respect rationally-established truths

• The use of logical and deductive reasoning, demonstrated by supportive arguments

• Oral and written communication using the correct mathematical terminology

• How to perform different types of calculation with varied number sets

• The use of simple mathematical instruments: ruler, square, compass, protractor

• To create and use tables, diagrams, charts and how to transfer data from one to another

• Tables, formulae, drawing tools, calculators and software

• To understand when and how real-world problems can be approached mathematically and how to use data, construct hypotheses and develop logic or calculations to solve them

• To position and manoeuvre in two and three dimensions, and

• How to use a spreadsheet and interactive geometry software.

History and Geography, taught from 1st to 12th Grades (elementary to high school), form a single mandatory subject in the French educational system. The discipline is subject to a written exam at the Brevet at the end of 9th grade.

The curriculum adopt a resolutely global approach, from prehistory to contemporary world history, while including chapters focused on the history and geography of France. The History and Geography curricula are designed and implemented as one integrated course to emphasize the complementarity of both disciplines. Based on an introduction to the historian and the geographer’s methods, the teaching of History and Geography seeks to develop students' curiosity and critical thinking - principally through the analysis of primary sources - and to enrich their general knowledge. History and Geography aim to encourage students to inquire, express themselves, and understand human societies and their spaces, in order for them to become enlightened and responsible citizens.

Mandatory in 8th and 9th grade to get the High School Diploma at the end of 11th grade.

This course explores pre-colonial times in America to roughly the present. (Montgomery County requirement)

Students build up their oral and written skills, improving their ability to understand, express themselves, communicate and create. By the end of Middle School, they should reach "Intermediate Level", level B1 in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) in a minimum of three languages. Students who have not consistently studied at Rochambeau are expected to reach "Elementary Level", level A2 in the CEFR, in at least two languages.

Rochambeau pays special attention to the teaching of foreign languages in Middle School.  As well as mandatory English and French, students can choose Spanish, German or Arabic as a second required language.

Language levels are assessed using the European Common Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). For a comparison with the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) equivalents, please click here.

Classes in Science & Technology and Earth & Life Sciences (SVT) begin in 6th grade, and highlight the benefits of removing boundaries between disciplines. Lessons are both theoretical and practical and take place mostly in the laboratory. Students are taught the investigative method, a defining characteristic of scientific practice.

Beginning in 7th grade, the Biology program helps students move beyond an anthropocentric vision towards a more scientific relationship with the living world. Students are encouraged to be curious, to have an open mind, and to question their own ideas and conclusions.  They learn observation, experimentation, measurement, reasoning, modeling, etc. They are taught that the knowledge they acquire and memorize must be constantly deepened, reviewed and questioned, not only in classwork, but throughout their lives.

Physical education and sports are key to the student development, both personally and in the community. It encourages young people to take care of their health and well-being, and shows them the pleasures of practicing different sports.

Art education encourages personal expression and creativity, and develops cultural awareness and sensitivity. The program teaches the creation of forms and objects, intertwining artistic practice and culture.

The music program helps students develop an independent and critical approach to both contemporary and classical music, placing works in their historical and geographical context through cultural landmarks.  Students receive the cultural and technical training that helps develop their listening, expressive and creative abilities.