By Brent Davis, Eddie Vargas, and Ryan Papazian
AURA Academy follows the International Baccalaureate (IB) framework of education. You can learn more about the IB program at ibo.org. The IB framework breaks down education into eight subject groups: language and literature, language acquisition, sciences, mathematics, art, physical and health education, and design. Previously, we examined the mathematics curriculum. Let us look at language and literature now.
The ability of humans to assign symbols to concepts and then to combine these symbols into representations of innovative, complete thoughts is one of the distinguishing characteristics of humans. Through writing we are able to keep a record of the thoughts of our ancestors, creating a body of literature. In the last century, people further developed the ability to record sound and visuals, creating film and recordings of live theatre. In order to prepare our students to create and engage critically with language and literature, the Middle Years Program (MYP) develops the skills of reading, writing, listening, speaking, viewing, and presenting. Along with critical and creative thinking skills, these skills develop strong communicators able to develop, evaluate, and appreciate literature in different genres.
Assignments in the IB framework focus on student inquiries focused on core concepts and a stated context for unit. To complete the assignment successfully, students need to collaborate, develop time management, a work ethic, and attention to detail. These assignments are connected to real world situations and are evaluated according to stated rubrics. Technology and differentiation are used to ensure that each student masters 21st century communication skills and receives a personalized mode of instruction.
Personalized learning is also tied to the IB learner profile which describes the type of graduate AURA is preparing. IB graduates are expected to be inquirers, knowledgeable, thinkers, communicators, principled, open-minded, caring, risk-takers, balanced, and reflective. Each student and teacher reflects on how he or she can improve in these areas and tailors activities to cultivate areas that need improvement. Thus, the teachers lead by example, and model the self-directed learner skills that create an AURA life-long learner. AURA graduates are fully prepared for college and the challenges of life.
On April 1st, a group of our outstanding students had the exciting opportunity to participate in Signal Hill’s Youth in Government Day! Hosted at Signal Hill City Hall, the event brought together students from schools across the city for a full day of civic engagement, collaboration, and fun.
Throughout the day, students took on the roles of city leaders—sharing their development plans, presenting fresh ideas, and channeling their passion for local governance. From proposing creative community projects to engaging in lively discussions about the future of Signal Hill, our students impressed everyone with their enthusiasm, insight, and leadership.
Ms. Hosseini holds a Master’s in Biomedical Engineering from UNSW and has over a decade of experience in education, specializing in IB curriculum development. Since 2013, she has played a key role in implementing IB programs, training leaders, and ensuring high teaching standards.
At AURA, she led the launch of the IB Middle Years Programme in 2023 and secured IB Diploma Programme accreditation in 2024. Her strategic leadership and collaboration with faculty have been widely praised.
AURA focuses on health sciences education through STEAM and language programs, aiming to foster lifelong learning and global citizenship. Ms. Hosseini’s leadership continues to drive this vision forward.
February is Hearts Day! – AURA Students expressed their love for their community through a fund-raising bake sale to raise funds for Habitat for Humanity and help vic ms of recent LA Fire. Students raised a total of $800 from this fundraiser which was given directly to Habitat for Humanity! Our students working together and using their skills to help our community makes our heart happy! We are looking forward to have more events for a cause in the future!
We are thrilled to share that our very own Grade 11 student, Alexander Johnson has had his music piece selected to be played at the IB Global University Admissions Conference 2025, taking place From February 4–6, 2025 across all IB schools worldwide! This is an incredible honor and a proud moment for our school, showcasing the talent and creativity fostered through IB learning. Congratulations, Alexander! Your dedication and passion for music continue to inspire us all.
AURA’s education seeks to develop learners who understand the world, who understand people, and who have a relationship with God. If you want to understand the world, you need to know physics. Consequently, physics is one of the core courses at AURA. Consistent with the IB inquiry-based education model, physics is more learner-driven at AURA.
"What do I believe in? Why do I believe it? Are those reasons valid?" These are some of the central questions explored in the Theory of Knowledge (TOK) course, part of the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum. This course encourages students to critically examine knowledge, question sources, and engage with diverse perspectives.
The music course at AURA provides students with a comprehensive understanding of music as both an art form and a tool for wellness. Students will explore the cultural connections of music, learn foundational guitar techniques, and engage in lectures on music appreciation, history, and theory, including composition.
International Baccalaureate schools like AURA consider languages to be a key component of developing intercultural people: “As a requirement of the DP curriculum, every student learns at least one additional language” (IBO.org). At AURA, we currently offer Arabic with plans to add Spanish this coming year.
American University Research Academy is celebrating a significant milestone as it secures accreditation as an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School. This designation paves the way for the school to offer students the prestigious IB Diploma Programme.
Connect with us
Open Hours
Mon – Fri: 8.00am to 6.00pm
