Secondary & Sr. Secondary Domain

Home • Curricula • Secondary & Sr. Secondary Domain

The pedagogical principles that underpin the Secondary School Curriculum at TOS are designed to create a nurturing and empowering educational environment for students. Here's a detailed explanation of each principle:

Recognizing, Identifying, and Nurturing Unique Abilities

This principle emphasizes the importance of understanding individual students’ strengths and talents. By recognizing the diverse abilities present in a classroom, educators can tailor their approaches to support each student’s growth. This might involve using various platforms such as assessments, projects, and creative assignments to identify what each student excels at and then providing resources and opportunities that allow those skills to flourish.

Empowering Students through Subject Selection Flexibility

Students are given the autonomy to choose subjects that align with their interests and career aspirations. This flexibility encourages ownership of their learning journey, motivating them to engage deeply with the material. Such empowerment fosters a sense of responsibility and helps students develop decision-making skills critical for their future.

Multi-disciplinary and Holistic Education

The curriculum is designed to integrate various academic disciplines along with extracurricular activities. This holistic approach ensures that students receive a well-rounded education, promoting creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration. By engaging in both academic and non-academic subjects, students are better prepared for the complexities of modern life.

Connecting Curriculum with Real-life Applications

Learning is made relevant by linking academic concepts to real-world situations. This principle helps students understand the practical implications of their studies, making education more meaningful. By applying knowledge to real- life contexts, students can see the value of what they are learning and how it can be utilized in their daily lives.

Emphasizing Experiential Learning

This principle focuses on learning through experience, enabling students to acquire skills and knowledge by actively participating in their education rather than passively absorbing information. Experiential learning can include hands-on projects, internships, community service, and field trips, all of which cultivate practical skills and deeper understanding.

Promoting Outstanding Research

Encouraging students to engage in research activities is vital for developing critical thinking and analytical skills. Research fosters a deeper understanding of subjects, allowing students to explore topics in depth, ask questions, and seek solutions. This principle supports the idea that knowledge is not just received but constructed through inquiry and exploration.

Encouraging Freedom with Responsibility

This principle promotes a learning environment where students are trusted to make choices about their education. With autonomy comes the expectation of responsibility, encouraging students to take ownership of their actions and decisions. This balance helps develop maturity and self-discipline, preparing students for future challenges.

Exposure to Skills and Competencies for Future Readiness

In today’s rapidly changing world, it’s essential for students to acquire skills that will prepare them for future careers and global citizenship. The curriculum includes opportunities to learn technical skills, soft skills, and competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, all of which are critical for success in various fields.

Creating Leadership Opportunities

Throughout the academic year, students are provided with chances to develop leadership skills. This may involve participating in student government, leading projects, or engaging in community initiatives. By fostering leadership, the program instills confidence and equips students with the ability to influence and inspire others.

Introducing Various Career Options

To aid students in making informed decisions about their futures, the curriculum incorporates career exploration elements. This could include guest speakers from various professions, career fairs, and guidance counseling. By exposing students to a range of career paths, they can better understand their interests and the educational requirements needed to pursue their chosen fields. Overall, these pedagogical principles reflect a commitment to nurturing well-rounded, capable individuals who are prepared for the complexities of adulthood, equipped with the necessary skills, knowledge, and experiences to thrive in an ever-evolving world.

Unique features of a secondary domain, related to an educational program or initiative

Azaadi

This event focuses on celebrating Independence Day through various forms of language
expression, including poetry and talk shows. It also involves conducting live events on social
media, promoting engagement and participation.

Celebrating Mahatma

This initiative encourages students to explore the relevance of Mahatma
Gandhi’s principles in contemporary society. Students are expected to conduct research and
articulate their own views on his impact.

Founders’ Day Celebration

This event showcases fine arts skills and includes performances by
artists. It aims to expose students to different genres of performing arts, enhancing their
appreciation, and understanding of artistic expression.

Future Readiness Course

This component is designed to develop soft skills in students,
preparing them for future challenges and opportunities.

Student Leadership Program

This initiative emphasizes the development of social and
emotional skills and values through monthly themed activities that instill important life lessons.

Parent Connect

This section includes various programs to foster connections between parents
and the educational community. The “Student Parent Teacher Conference” facilitates
communication among students, parents, and teachers. The “Get to Know Me” initiative aims to
better understand students’ backgrounds and needs.

Class IX & X Curriculum Overview

Scholastic Subjects

Scholastic	Co-Scholastic
English Hindi / Marathi Mathematics Science Social Science Artificial Intelligence	Library Skills Information and Communication Technology Contemporary Dance, Classical Dance Visual Art Percussion - Djembe, Tabla Health & Physical Education Yoga, Basketball/Football/Volleyball/Cricket/Athletics Social Empowerment through Work Education and Action Computer

Special Addition	Technology Based Enrichment
Life Skills Orientation Gender and Sexuality Module	Khan Academy Future readiness courses to learn 21st century skills.

Subject Enrichment Field Visits	Student Led Programs
Class IX - XII Dharavi, Asia’s largest slum: A giant contributor to Mumbai’s socio-economic dynamics Nextgen Leadership Tours to Bangalore, Mumbai, and Delhi	TED ED club, Eco Club, and History Club- Ideated and executed by students for students. Community Project Class IX Visit to Muktangan Deaddiction Centre: To know more about substance use, misuse and abuse. Urban Rural connect-Lila Poonawalla Foundation Class X Pratiti - Mental Health Care Centre

Grade XI and Grade XII

“Science, Commerce, or Humanities?” This question may soon be a thing of the past for teenagers, thanks to NEP 2020. The upcoming generation of school students might finally be relieved from the stressful experience of choosing a stream in Class 11. According to the National Education Policy (NEP 2020), students entering Class 11 can now select one language and any four electives in any combination, as long as they are offered at their school. This change allows students the freedom to choose subjects freely, However, an abundance of choices can sometimes lead to confusion and dilemmas at this critical juncture. It is essential to make informed decisions about various subjects while keeping as many options open as possible. To assist students in making the right selections, The Orchid School has created this brochure, which includes a compilation of syllabi for all subjects offered at the school, along with valuable tips for making sound choices. Here are some straightforward yet important suggestions to consider:

Introspection

Reflect on your academic strengths and weaknesses. Assess your personal abilities and interests. Subjects where you excel, perform well, or have a strong preference are likely to be those you enjoy and could influence your future career path. Be sure to identify them!

Explore

Aim for a diverse range of subjects. At this stage, it’s wise to broaden your horizons instead of narrowing your focus to prevent potential disillusionment later.

Know What’s Compulsory

Be aware that some subjects are mandatory, so familiarize yourself with your options.

Review the Curriculum

Examine both the course content and the skills required. Consult with senior students, review textbooks and past exam papers. Determine if you are genuinely interested in what you will be learning and if you can enhance the skills you will develop.

Do Your Homework

If you have a specific field of study in mind for college, research the entry requirements and benchmarks at several relevant universities.

Communicate

Talk to your parents, teachers, and counselors for guidance throughout the decision-making process and to understand your future prospects.

Check if You are Happy

Ask yourself if you enjoy these subjects. Remember, you’ll be studying them for the next two years.

Think Long Term

Some subjects you choose at the Senior Secondary Level may be essential for your desired undergraduate course in the future. If you foresee a particular career or subject as a possibility, ensure it is factored into your current decisions.

Compulsory and Elective Subjects for Class XI & XII

The Orchid School provides an array of captivating subjects for Grade XI students to select from. In addition to the required English language and several co-scholastic subjects, students can choose academic and skill-based subjects that align with their interests and abilities. The school has designed a diverse assortment of subjects to accommodate students with different passions. The skill subjects offered will enable students to extend their learning beyond core subjects while gaining vocational skills and practical knowledge in specific fields.

Mandatory Subject	Mandatory Co-scholastic Subjects	Course Structure
English Core (301)	General Studies (500) Work Experience (502) Health and Physical Education (503)	Theory Practical / Projects / Viva Voce

Optional Scholastic Subjects

Accountancy (055)
Applied Mathematics (241)
Biology (044)
Business Studies (054)
Chemistry (043)
Economics (030)
Entrepreneurship (066)
History (027)
Informatics Practices (065)
Mathematics (041)
Painting (049)
Physics (042)
Psychology (037)
Sociology(039)
Geography(029)
Political Science(028)
Physical Education(048)

Optional Skill Subjects
Financial Marketing Management (805) Data Science (844)

Optional Co-Scholastic Subjects

Introduction

At The Orchid School, the Secondary and Senior Secondary Domain empowers learners to become confident, future-ready individuals through a balanced blend of academic excellence, skill development, and experiential learning. Aligned with the vision of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the curriculum emphasizes analytical thinking, problem-solving, vocational exposure, entrepreneurship, and real-world application of knowledge.

Through hands-on learning experiences, leadership opportunities, community engagement, and future readiness programs, students are encouraged to explore their potential, think independently, and develop the skills needed to thrive in higher education and an ever-evolving global world.

Subject Enrichment for Various Levels	Wondering how we incorporate a wide range of activities into our curriculum?	The Orchid School is committed to equipping students with essential skills, including
Khushi ka Bazaar - Aimed at fostering empathy and enhancing management skills. Field visits to workplaces - Connecting classroom learning with real-world environments. Visit to R&D center. Hands-on Learning - Engaging in real-life projects to cultivate entrepreneurial skills. Painting - Exploring different art forms, creating portfolios, and visiting art exhibitions and museums. Psychology - Providing opportunities to interact with mental health professionals at Pratiti Mental Health Care Centre. Internship Programs - Gaining practical experience. University Fair - Exploring further educational opportunities. Science Exhibition - Demonstrating the connection between theoretical knowledge and real-life applications. Visit to BSSK/SOFOSH – to know more about sexual health and responsible decision making. RealLives Program Changemakers program, Future Fluencies Program (upskill program)	Expert-led Talks Soft Skills Training by Professionals Modular Courses and Year-round Career Guidance Series Enhanced Digital Content Integrated Projects and Activities Focused on Problem-Solving Skills Relevant Life Skills Orientation Modules Field Trips to Diverse Locations Internship Opportunities Student-led Clubs such as TED Ed Club, eco Club, Podcast, and History Club Representation on the Student Council Chances to Participate in Intra and Inter-school Events. Student-led Discussions and Research Activities in Class Practical Work in Art, Including Visual Art and Djembe Textile Project with a Textile and Handloom Expert	Global citizenship skills Innovation and creativity Problem-solving and analytical thinking Technology skills (such as data science and programming) Interpersonal skills Ethical reasoning Cultural diversity and diverse ways of thinking