Mastery-based online middle school for grades 6–8
Khan World School @ ASU Prep offers a mastery-based online middle school program for students in grades 6–8. Instead of advancing through traditional grade levels, students progress by subject within a three-level academic model, advancing as they demonstrate readiness.
How academic progression works
We use three academic levels instead of traditional 6th, 7th and 8th grades.
- Levels 1 and 2 cover middle school coursework.
- Level 3 provides a structured head start into high school coursework.
Students move between levels based on mastery, not seat time. Most KWS students will leave middle school with high school credits, feeling prepared for the next level of schooling.
Humanities ELA + World History
Humanities ELA + U.S. History
English 9 Honors
World History Honors
Coding Level 1
Government/Civics
Integrated Math Level 1 (6th grade/7th grade)
Integrated Math Level 2 (8th grade/pre-algebra)
Algebra 1 Honors (or higher placement)
Coding Level 2
Economics
Integrated Science Year 1–2
Integrated Science Year 2–3
Biology Honors
Art & Music
College & Career Explore
Exploratory
Exploratory
Exploratory
Highly recommended: HS World Language
Physical Education
Study Skills & Digital Citizenship
Exploratory badge system
Exploratory badges expand learning beyond core academic subjects while building practical skills and interests. Students complete three exploratory badges per year to expand learning beyond core academics.
Badge areas may include:
- Civics and Government
- Coding (Levels 1 & 2)
- Economics
- Arts & Music
- College & Career Exploration
- Physical Education
- Study Skills & Digital Citizenship
Students may also begin a high school world language pathway in place of badges.
Academic schedule and learning time
Collaborative learning is one of the unique components of the Khan World School. Daily instruction blends independent study with structured collaboration:
- 1.5–2 hours of live, synchronous seminars and guided instruction
- Guided discussion and small-group support
- Personalized mentoring and academic check-ins
Students typically work with 2–3 instructional House Guides who support both academic progress and social development.
Reading and writing development
Reading and writing are emphasized throughout middle school to help students become well-read, effective communicators. KWS students:
- Read widely with guided choice
- Develop structured writing skills across humanities
- Practice analytical thinking and reflection
- Receive feedback from guides to refine communication skills
The goal is to strengthen writing fluency, quantitative reasoning and independent study habits before high school.
Student support and mentorship
While we love to empower students with agency over their learning, we also realize students in these formative academic years need both academic and emotional support. That’s why we pair each student with a House Guide, who serves as both academic advisor and mentor.
House Guides provide:
- Personalized course planning
- Ongoing progress monitoring
- Academic and social-emotional guidance
- Regular family communication
Your questions, answered
KWS middle school students advance through three levels rather than traditional 6th, 7th and 8th grades. Levels 1 and 2 cover core middle school coursework, while Level 3 provides a structured head start into high school, including opportunities to earn high school credit.
Yes. Students in Level 3 may begin high school coursework in subjects like English, Algebra, Biology or World History, allowing them to earn high school credit before entering grade 9.
Students are assessed based on demonstrated mastery in each subject rather than seat time. The grading scale uses A, B or In-Progress to reflect understanding and progress.
Each student is paired with a House Guide who serves as both academic advisor and mentor. Students also receive small-group guidance, live seminars and feedback on exploratory badges to ensure steady growth and balanced progress.
Students complete three badges per year in areas such as coding, civics, arts or career exploration. These badges supplement core coursework and encourage skill development beyond traditional subjects.
