The IB PYP recognizes that language—our primary means of thinking and communicating—is fundamental to learning. KIS has a special responsibility to recognize and support students in the learning of the host country language. The acquisition of the host country language enhances intellectual and cognitive development, while enriching our students’ personal experience of living in Kazakhstan, enabling students to communicate and socialize within the local community, as well as providing them with a much deeper awareness of cultural values and traditions that are different from their own.

Learning another language also helps our KIS students become more aware and grow in their understanding of their home language. The primary focus of Russian as the host country language curriculum is to facilitate student understanding and use of spoken Russian. Reading and writing Russian are also taught but the emphasis of our Russian program at KIS is on developing confident, fluent oral language use. Listening, speaking, reading, and writing are taught by integrating these skills in an interactive way with the Units of Inquiry.

Mr. Sergey is originally from Almaty, Kazakhstan and his favorite memory from growing up is the first day of school, September 1st. Mr. Sergey has worked as a teacher at KIS for more than 10 years and received his teaching qualifications from Almaty University of Education. Mr. Sergey first became interested in teaching as a Sunday School teacher—he wanted to help children acquire knowledge. Mr. Sergey was invited to teach at KIS by the first director, who observed his talent in working with children. Mr. Sergey is happy to be such a significant part of KIS for so long.