Middle School Curriculum

Middle school students are nurtured and challenged during early adolescence in a small, cohesive community. They are encouraged to ask questions, seek creative solutions and take risks as a part of learning.

The middle school faculty works together to strengthen study and organizational habits, emphasizing self-directed learning and time management in preparation for the increasing demands of Upper School. The students follow a seven-day, rotating schedule with core courses and their choice of an elective – art, music, band or STEM. After an exploratory world language class, students have the opportunity to focus their studies on a language of their choice – Latin, French or Spanish.

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Sixth Grade

Art

Sixth grade art students are introduced to 20^th century American artists. This course works in conjunction with the United States History course. The artists studied relate to the time period the students are studying in their history class. Students keep sketchbooks in class to promote creativity, practice new techniques, and provide a place for notes on each artist studied.

Band

Band students are exposed to various types of wind band literature with the goal of public performance and adjudication in which all efforts come together in a final product. Throughout rehearsals the students are instructed in proper methods of performance, musicianship and self-discipline. Music theory and music history are incorporated in the classroom instruction. Participation in the spring band trip is required as the yearly adjudication takes place on the trip. These areas combine to form the knowledge needed for continuation in music whether for one’s own pleasure or for advanced study in college. The band program also offers several other performance opportunities. The Jazz Band is open to students by audition who play saxophone, trumpet, trombone, percussion, piano, guitar or bass.

Chorus

Beginning Choral Music is designed as an introduction to vocal production, music fundamentals and music appreciation. Students will experience opportunities to sing for personal enjoyment and to perform a variety of choral literature through which knowledge of form and historical context is acquired. One of the goals of instruction is the development of fundamental vocal technique including proper posture, breathing, diction, a free and clear tone, accurate intonation and singing in unison and harmony. Basic music reading skills are encouraged through theory and sight singing enhancing the student’s ability to understand the mechanics of a music score. Students will also learn to demonstrate the expressive qualities of music, to evaluate music performances and to contribute to the quality of the ensemble.

Earth Science

Sixth grade science students conduct in-depth examinations of topics in Earth science. Students apply their knowledge of scientific methods while studying oceans, watersheds, geology, weather and a bit of chemistry. Throughout the course, students are required to problem solve, apply scientific skills, use design skills and modify designs according to test results. Additionally, students will research and conduct in-class group investigations as well as independent investigations.

English

In sixth grade English, students read and respond to works of literature from numerous genres. They recognize and analyze literary devices in their reading and apply these techniques in their writing utilizing the writing process. In addition to writing several types of essays, including descriptive, persuasive, narrative and expository, they complete two formal research papers. Grammar instruction focuses on the eight parts of speech, understanding sentence structure, mechanics and proper word usage. Writing and reading experiences are tied to the study of vocabulary and grammar concepts. Students explore numerous novels through literature circles and class reading, including War Horse, Woods Runner, Al Capone Does My Shirts, The Wednesday Wars and Lord of the Nutcracker Men.

Math Concepts and Skills

This sixth grade math course reviews addition, subtraction, and multiplication of whole numbers with emphasis being placed on division of whole numbers. Operations using fractions and decimals are introduced. Geometric formulas are introduced and applied to area, perimeter, and circumference. Problem-solving strategies are stressed, and real-life situations are solved using mathematics.

Physical Education

The Middle School Physical Education program includes activities related to team sports, individual sports, agility training, dance, rhythms, and recreational games. The units for sixth, seventh and eighth grades include soccer, flag football, field hockey, basketball, volleyball, lacrosse, softball, kin-ball, floor hockey, team handball, adventure team challenges, speed-strength and agility training, and preparation for our annual turkey trot. The principles of physical fitness are incorporated into each unit and the students complete the Saints Fitness Pre-test and Post-test each year. We allow students to develop physically, socially, and mentally and give them the opportunity to discover how to attain not only skill development but positive relationships as well. Emphasis is placed on developing and leading healthy lives.

Pre-Algebra

The pre-algebra course focuses on the transition from arithmetic to the introduction of algebra and emphasizes critical-thinking skills that enable students to think mathematically. This course focuses on algebraic properties, all operations with rational numbers, proportions, percents, solving multi-step equations and inequalities, graphing linear equations, slopes, intercepts, and algebraic applications to two-dimensional geometry. Students learn problem solving within each unit of study. Many mathematical concepts are reinforced in our “Million Dollar” and “Dream House” projects and in our interdisciplinary cultural fair graphing project.

Reading

In sixth grade reading, students read and respond to works of literature from numerous genres. A variety of short stories, poems, and nonfiction selections are discussed and analyzed. As active readers, students are taught how to annotate text. Students read several novels through literature circles and during independent reading time. They recognize and analyze literary devices in their reading and apply these techniques to their own narrative and memoir writing pieces. Daily spiral reviews will reinforce Reading 6 and English 6 content (i.e. word analysis, etymology and grammar). Instructional methods include whole-class mini lessons, teacher-led small groups and reading conferences.

United States History

In this course, which is the second part of a two-year study of the United States history that begins in the fifth grade, students study the history of the United States from Reconstruction to the post World War II era. Content focuses on the political, economic and social events and issues related to industrialization and urbanization, major wars, domestic and foreign policies and reform movements, including civil rights. Students will appreciate the influences of key people and their contributions to America's growth as a nation. The students will address the rise and growing role of the United States in world affairs during the 19th and 20th centuries. Students will have ample instruction devoted to reviewing and strengthening map skills, analyzing, interpreting and researching information and developing higher-level thinking skills.

Seventh Grade

Algebra I

This course is a study of elementary algebra making frequent use of authentic data in real- life applications. The course includes traditional topics such as linear, exponential, quadratic and rational functions as well as the more contemporary topics of probability and statistics. Rigorous and challenging, it demands daily preparation. The graphing calculator is used regularly in a controlled fashion for efficiency and exploration.

Art

Band

This course allows for Middle School band students to continue their study of band literature with the emphasis on the continual development of skills. Throughout rehearsals the students are instructed in proper methods of performance, musicianship and self-discipline. Music theory and music history are incorporated in the classroom instruction. In addition, eighth grade students may participate in marching band and audition for the Jazz Band.

Chorus

Beginning Choral Music is designed as an introduction to vocal production, music fundamentals and music appreciation. Students will experience opportunities to sing for personal enjoyment and to perform a variety of choral literature through which knowledge of form and historical context is acquired. One of the goals of instruction is the development of fundamental vocal technique including proper posture, breathing, diction, a free and clear tone, accurate intonation, and singing in unison and harmony. Basic music reading skills are encouraged through theory and sight singing enhancing the student’s ability to understand the mechanics of a music score. Students will also learn to demonstrate the expressive qualities of music, to evaluate music performances and to contribute to the quality of the ensemble.

Design Thinking

In STEM 7/8 students will be introduced to various technology-related skills through a series of hands-on activities. Each activity is designed to reinforce STEM related skill(s) and increase the level of confidence in students and encourage them to try new and different approaches to problem solving. There are six themes for the class:

Design
Nautical
Light to Solar
All Things Mechanical
Environment
Coding

Students exercise the following fundamental skills during this course:

21st Century learning skills, such as the four "Cs" (creativity, critical thinking, communication and collaboration
Recognizing and utilizing design methodologies
Documentation of design and idea capturing
Use of 3D and other design software

Students will also explore real-world problems, such as erosion and the balance of forces, both of which will be included in the nautical theme.

English

This course is designed to provide students with the opportunity to improve their written and spoken word. Students explore a variety of literary genres, beginning with the short story, continuing with the novel, and ending the year with poetry. Texts include John Steinbeck’s The Pearl, Jennifer Roy’s Yellow Star, and Lois Lowry’s The Giver. Myriad short stories and poetry selections are also included. Particular emphasis is placed on writing, as students relate the reading selections to their personal lives and the world around them. The grammar curriculum is intensive, and students master the eight parts of speech and many of the roles they play in the written word.

World Language Exploration

In the World Language Exploration course, students rotate through a trimester each of Latin, French and Spanish.

Through interactive study, projects, stories, songs and skits, students become more familiar with French culture, vocabulary and grammar. The primary focus of this class is to introduce developmentally appropriate language learning skills to prepare students for formal language study. While focusing on effort and enjoyment, students are introduced to the pillars of language study: listening, reading, writing and speaking.

All seventh grade students will study Latin for 12 weeks (one trimester) as part of this course. Seventh grade Latin will introduce students to the language and culture of Rome through a variety of hands-on activities and projects. Students will be introduced to language basics, such as greetings and numbers, to provide comparison to modern world languages. Seventh grade students also will be introduced to the Middle School Latin curriculum through readings and activities from the Cambridge Latin Course (Unit I). The acquisition of basic vocabulary and reading fluency will be a goal for the course. The emphasis, however, will be developing an appreciation of the legacy of Rome as it relates to students’ lives and world.

In this course, all students will take one trimester of Spanish. In this trimester survey course, students will be introduced to the Spanish language including different cultures and dialects of 20 Spanish-speaking countries. Students will utilize the following skills while learning Spanish: listening, reading, writing and speaking.

Life Science

Seventh Grade Life Science is an interactive study of living organisms and the building blocks of life. Students investigate cellular biology, genetics, classification, plant and animal anatomy, microscopic organisms, changes in species over time, and human anatomy. Students use a web-based textbook that includes a digital learning pathway. Individual and small group discovery are encouraged through active, hands-on lesson plans designed to retain student interest and spark intellectual curiosity. Students engage in individual labs, projects, and group activities. They will investigate cells while learning to use a microscope, learn dissection techniques, and collect plant specimens.

Physical Education

Pre-Algebra

World Geography

This course allows students to make connections between the physical, biological, and cultural features of their world with a special focus on the regions of Europe, Latin America, and Canada. The overarching theme is that physical geography determines distribution and characteristics of human society. Content revolves around the six essential elements of geography: The world in spatial terms, places and regions, physical systems, human systems, environment and society, and the uses of geography. The curriculum includes an emphasis on research, writing, and study skills as well as strategies involving maps, charts, diagrams, and technology. Students will apply and use geographic facts and concepts throughout the yearlong Cultural Fair, which services as a framework for the seventh grade interdisciplinary studies program.

Eighth Grade

Algebra I

Art

In this course, the eighth grade students are introduced to the principles of design. Famous artists and works of art are studied that demonstrate the seven principles of design. This knowledge is applied to their artwork and projects while promoting personal expression. Students provide artwork and banners for teachers and SCO committees as needed. Students keep sketchbooks to further promote creativity, explore designs, and develop thumbnail sketches.

Band

Chorus

Beginning Choral Music is designed as an introduction to vocal production, music fundamentals and music appreciation. Students will experience opportunities to sing for personal enjoyment and to perform a variety of choral literature through which knowledge of form and historical context is acquired. One of the goals of instruction is the development of fundamental vocal technique including proper posture, breathing, diction, a free and clear tone, accurate intonation, and singing in unison and harmony. Basic music reading skills are encouraged through theory and sight singing enhancing the student’s ability to understand the mechanics of a music score. Students will also learn to demonstrate the expressive qualities of music, to evaluate music performances and to contribute to the quality of the ensemble.

Design Thinking

Design
Nautical
Light to Solar
All Things Mechanical
Environment
Coding

Students exercise the following fundamental skills during this course:

21st Century learning skills, such as the four "Cs" (creativity, critical thinking, communication and collaboration
Recognizing and utilizing design methodologies
Documentation of design and idea capturing
Use of 3D and other design software

Students will also explore real-world problems, such as erosion and the balance of forces, both of which will be included in the nautical theme.

English

Eighth grade English forms a bridge between the English curricula in the Middle School and Upper School programs. The goal is to build a solid foundation for future work in English and world languages through grammar integrated in all writing assignments. Vocabulary development is taught both in context and through regular assignments in a SAT- based vocabulary book. Students analyze literary elements in a collection of short stories and challenging novels. In composition, students write and revise a series of brief narratives, a mini-research paper, several basic literary analyses and descriptive essays, as well as original poems. Emphasis is placed on the development of a five-paragraph essay. In addition, students write a personal essay about a strong belief or value that they hold, which becomes the basis for the eighth grade capstone oral presentation, “This I Believe.” Public speaking skills are also emphasized through a series of individual and group presentations.

French I

French I is an introductory course in which a communicative approach is used to teach students the French language within the context of the francophone world. Students acquire proficiency in the four language skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing while developing cultural sensitivity to the everyday activities of French-speaking people throughout the world. While vocabulary and grammar are an integral part of each unit, proficiency-based activities are provided so that students can use the language in a range of real life contexts, oftentimes in paired or cooperative learning groups.

Honors Geometry

This is an accelerated geometry course that requires motivated work at a fast pace. Course content includes all topics in the Geometry course with the addition of solid geometry, transformations and exploration of nontraditional topics. It also includes an extended study of trigonometry to better prepare students for Honors Algebra II/Trig. Greater attention is given to writing proofs and using algebraic techniques to develop geometric concepts.

Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation based on Algebra I achievement

Latin I

Eighth grade Latin is a continuation of the seventh grade course. The students review and expand their study of Latin syntax and vocabulary. Students become more familiar with the intricacies and complexities of the language. A variety of projects and culture lessons create connections between the ancient language and the modern world. Upon completion of the 8th grade course, students are able to enroll into Latin II in Upper School.

Physical Education

Science

Spanish I

In the eighth grade, students will take part two of level one Spanish. Through listening, speaking, reading, and writing, students will develop a strong foundation in Spanish grammar and vocabulary. While vocabulary and grammar are the main focus of this course, proficiency-based activities are conducted so that students can use the language in real-life situations. After completion of this course and proven proficiency in the language, students will be promoted to level two Spanish in the Upper School.

World Geography

Eighth grade World Geography emphasizes the world regions, providing students with the foundational knowledge to succeed in future history courses while making them more informed members of the world community. The course will focus on the study of the world’s physical and human geography and also provides students with an in depth introduction to the skills for social studies. Specific areas of study will include Eurasia, Southwest Asia, the Middle East, Russia and Africa.

Learning Support

Students who may need specific accommodations are supported by The Sandra F. Birdsong Center for Academic Excellence. The team works with the Middle School teachers and administration to customize learning plans. Students may qualify to enroll in a study skills course, where test-taking strategies, note-taking strategies and organizational skills are reviewed and reinforced to help students develop the skill sets needed to be successful in the Upper School.

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