Middle School

English Language Arts 6

In 6th grade language arts, students learn to analyze works of literature by examining plot development, character development, and figurative language. Students read a wide range of works, including short stories, novels, drama, nonfiction texts, and poetry. While exploring these works, students will develop their vocabulary by studying the contextual and dictionary meanings of words, as well as parts of speech and connections that they can make to each word. In addition, students will strengthen their writing skills in several areas, including compare/contrast, narrative, argumentative, and informative/explanatory. Students will have a multitude of opportunities to develop speaking and listening skills through class and group discussions, interviews with those outside of the class, and presentations made to the class as a whole. Finally, students will strengthen their understanding of English grammar, learning about sentence structure, appropriate punctuation, and other conventions of standard English.

Pre-Algebra

Grade 6 students are offered Pre-Algebra. This course includes a wide range of strategies in problem solving as well as basic and advanced computation procedures. Students will understand operations, computations, data analysis, quantitative probability, measurement, reference frames, geometry, patterns, functions, and basic algebra. Students apply mathematic skills in everyday life situations.

Earth Science

In Earth science, students learn to use the scientific method as they examine various topics. Scientific explorations include topics from plate tectonics, earthquakes, volcanoes, minerals, rocks inside earth, earth’s waters, atmosphere, factors and patterns of weather, and ecosystems.

World History

World history prepares students to become global citizens and contribute to our modern world by analyzing the past and connecting it to our present-day lives. Students discover how cooperation and conflicts throughout history have shaped the world we live in today. Students trace civilization back to the beginning of the human story, and explore early civilizations and ancient cultures that still influence societies of today. Students move from the medieval world all the way through modern Europe, as well as the great civilizations and kingdoms of Asia, Africa, and the Americas.

English Language Arts 7

7th grade English language arts emphasizes and integrates all areas of language arts- reading, writing, and oral communication. These processes are experienced as interrelated and interactive. Equal attention is given to literary and informational texts. A focus on text analysis and critical thinking, including comparing and contrasting texts and mediums, prepares students to be analytical about resources and ideas. This course addresses all of the common core standards for English language arts with integrated instruction in language, speaking and listening. Students develop their ability to use language for communication, for learning and reflection, and for personal and social fulfillment. Students improve their ability to use written and spoken language for a variety of purposes and audiences. Students come to understand the many facets of human experience through literature.

Algebra 1

In Algebra 1, students learn to represent families of functions in various ways: as verbal descriptions, equations, tables, and graphs. They also learn to model real-world situations using functions in order to solve problems which arise from those situations. Particular emphasis is placed on linear and quadratic functions. Lessons on geometry, probability and data analysis are also part of this course, linking the course to other areas of math and helping prepare students for major assessments and standardized tests. Assessments are done in a variety of formats: multiple choice, short response, extended response, and major situation-based applications.

Life Science

In this course, students will explore the structure and function of cells, how cells reproduce and pass on their genetic information, and the principles of heredity. Also in the human biology and health sections, students will get to fully understand the inside of the human body. Life science provides broad knowledge of living animals and emphasizes the importance of environmental aspects such as ecosystems and biomes, living resources, and natural energy resources.

United States History

This course explores the period from 1789 – 1865. This course focuses on the beginning of the new nation and goes through the Civil War. Student study the many events that surround historic landmarks, focusing on themes of economics in the politics of war and how societies change as a result of major conflicts. The history of America is studied in-depth to increase understanding and develop historical thinking skills.

English Language Arts 8

In 8th grade language arts, students learn to analyze works of literature by examining plot development, character development, and figurative language. Students read a wide range of works, including short stories, novels, drama, nonfiction texts, and poetry. While exploring these works, students will develop their vocabulary by studying the contextual and dictionary meanings of words, as well as parts of speech and connections that they can make to each word. In addition, students will strengthen their writing skills in several areas, including compare/contrast, narrative, argumentative, and informative/explanatory. Students will have a multitude of opportunities to develop speaking and listening skills through class and group discussions, interviews with those outside of the class, and presentations made to the class as a whole. Finally, students will strengthen their understanding of English grammar, learning about sentence structure, appropriate punctuation, and other conventions of standard English.

Geometry

In Geometry, students develop reasoning and problem-solving skills through the study of congruence and similarity. They apply properties of lines, triangles, quadrilaterals, and circles. Students also use an applied knowledge of length, perimeter, area, circumference, surface area, and volume to solve real-world problems. Types of assessments may vary but include: multiple choice, short response, extended response and situation-based applications/projects. Graphing calculators are used extensively in this course.

Physical Science

In 8th grade, physical science is an introductory course designed to allow students to explore the basic concepts of physical science. Students will be introduced to the history and nature of science. The course includes an introduction to the fundamental concepts of physics, chemistry, astronomy and earth science. Students will be encouraged to explore the relationship between science and everyday life, explore branches of natural science and other non-living sciences, do hands-on science inquiry, conceptual thinking, problem solving, utilize lab techniques, employ critical and analytical thinking, and self-directed and cooperative learning. This course involves calculations, measurements, lab reports, and projects.

United States History

The course focuses on American history from antebellum America to the 20th century. Topics include post World War II developments in the United States and the world to include the onset of technological advances, the Cold War, the Vietnam Era, and the events before and after the attacks of September 11. The course devotes extensive time to seeing the relationships between science, economics, political and religious diversity, human rights issues, and the emergence and decline of world powers. Special attention is paid to how these relationships affect not only the United States, but the entire world.

Art

• Grade 6 (one semester class), grades 7 and 8 (year-long classes)

Middle school art introduces students the elements of art, the principles of art, art media and techniques, and art history. Students will engage in diverse 2D and 3D projects such as cartooning, drawing, painting, sculpture, and ceramics.

6th Grade Band

• Grade 6 (one-semester class)

The 6th grade band program offers students an opportunity to further refine their instrumental technique while immersing themselves in the fundamentals of ensemble music-making. Through engaging with a diverse range of musical genres, students cultivate a comprehensive understanding of music and develop effective practice routines.

Expanding upon the instruments introduced in 5th grade, the 6th grade band introduces additional options such as Tenor and Baritone Saxophone, Euphonium, Tuba, Horn, and Bass Clarinet. While students are not obligated to switch instruments, some may choose to do so to maintain ensemble balance. New students are encouraged to consult with Mr. Hutchings for guidance and support.

The ensemble participates in both the Spring and Winter Fine Arts Festivals, showcasing their progress. Additionally, outstanding students may have the opportunity to participate in the Honor Band festival, with selections made during the first semester. Instrumentation: Flute, Piccolo, Clarinet, Bass Clarinet, Oboe, Alto Saxophone, Tenor Saxophone, Baritone Saxophone, Horn, Trumpet, Trombone, Euphonium, Tuba, and Percussion.

7/8th Grade Band

• Grades 7 and 8 (year-long classes)

Throughout 7th and 8th grades, members refine their skills, crucial not only for mastering middle school-level music but also for effectively preparing them for the demands of the high school program. Students are guided towards mastering balance and intonation, fostering good practice routines, and a genuine enjoyment of music.

Performing at both the Spring and Winter Fine Arts Festivals, the ensemble showcases their progress and musical achievements, providing students with valuable performance opportunities and experiences.

Technology and Design

• Grade 6-8 (one-semester class)

Students in the MS Technology and Design program work with developing media as we encounter it in the real world: through image and motion. To that end, we explore tools in the Adobe Creative Cloud suite to allow us to create media products: Photoshop for a variety of still images for print and web; Illustrator for vector designs; Premiere Pro for video creation; and After Effects for dazzling wonder. While we work carefully and with patience, we have a lot of fun.

Physical Education and Wellness

This course is a combination of lifetime activities, sports, games, and health topics. Teamwork, fair play, and sportsmanship are emphasized at all times. Students learn skills, rules and the technical aspects of each activity. This course offers a social environment in which everyone is expected to put their best effort into every activity.

Chinese

• Grades 6, 7 and 8 (one-semester classes)

The Chinese program provides students with a comprehensive language learning experience. Through interactive learning activities such as stories-telling,  reading, games, rhymes, songs, role-playing and performance, students explore the system of Chinese characters, develop their understanding in reading and writing, and engage in conversational practice within familiar contexts. Students will also gain insights into the diverse cultures of the Chinese-speaking world. As they progress through the courses, students deepen their understanding of the language's nature, enhance their communication abilities, and continue to expand their knowledge of cultural perspectives, preparing them to participate confidently in multilingual communities both locally and globally.

Spanish

• Grades 6, 7 and 8 (one-semester classes)

This is an exploratory language course presented as a new pedagogical proposal that offers users the opportunity to combine the learning itinerary typical of a face-to-face course with access to digital material that complements and expands the knowledge and skills that are acquired in class. This course integrates the four skills: listening, speaking, reading and writing through interesting activities where students interact with engaging documents, learn new linguistic content and practice different activities of the target language. The Exploratory Spanish course encourages students to use the language from a functional and communicative dimension and at the same time transmit contents of values and intercultural character. Students will be exposed to native speaker’s recordings, real life examples of the language usage and the Hispanic culture.