Curriculum - Independent Middle School in Summerlin

English

Grade 6

In this course, sixth grade students begin to develop the foundational skills needed for analysis, writing, speaking, and critical thinking at the middle school level. Each quarter will center on one anchor text from different genres (traditional prose novel, graphic novel, nonfiction story, and drama) along with supplementary texts to practice the building of background knowledge and synthesis of multiple sources of information. Written compositions will focus on the production of 1-paragraph analytical responses and also some creative writing exercises. Grammar instruction will emphasize the 20 ways of using a comma. Vocabulary development includes a daily emphasis on Latin roots and their meanings.

Topics covered:

Compose an original 1-paragraph response that demonstrates logical organization, integration of evidence,
and thoughtful interpretation of text
Practice annotation and note-taking from a variety of texts
Develop a basic understanding of Latin roots and their meanings
Understand and apply the 20 different ways of using a comma
Respond to texts by considering multiple perspectives of other readers and other characters
Learn the basic skills of academic discussions
Expand ways of thinking about a particular topic by engaging in daily critical thinking exercises

Grade 7

Seventh grade English builds on the grammar and writing foundations established in sixth grade. In addition, students are encouraged to understand the relationship between the spoken and written word via interviews, discussion summaries, and presentations. Literary terms and tools are examined and discussed critically through the use of varied works and genres of literature while original student writing based on creative exercises will teach the value of revision. Informed opinions are encouraged as students learn about the credibility of viable sources.

Topics covered:

Implement advanced grammar concepts
Compose credible sentences and paragraphs
Demonstrate the components of the basic, five-paragraph, thesis-based essay
Form effective introductions and conclusions
Analyze and support a prompt demonstrating proper use of quotations and citations
Practice note-taking skills, especially annotation of novels and short stories
Utilize vocabulary through reading and writing original works

Grade 8

In this course, eighth grade students develop their ability to learn from great thinkers and to articulate their ideas in writing and speech. Each semester includes one book that will challenge the most astute readers and two essays based on the reading. Compositions practice the foundations of powerful communication: organization, detail selection, strong vocabulary, proper grammar, and revision, a staple in every writer’s life.

Topics covered:

Compose original essays that interrogate an aspect of the literature or test an author’s tactic
From a foundation in diagraming, improve sentence fluency
Practice annotation and note-taking from a variety of texts
Use new vocabulary from the readings
Implement the text in response to Socratic inquiry
Practice reasoning in argument-centered discussion and debate

Life Elective

This sixth grade elective is designed to promote the qualities of kindness, manners, respect, and responsibility through fun and meaningful stories and films and by sharing activities with other divisions. Developing a sense of worth and satisfaction through helping others and by being responsible for your actions and the consequences of those actions will be the focus and end result of this class. There will be no homework assigned in this class.

This course is available to 6th grade.

Literary Lab Elective

This one-semester course provides students with a setting that allows for reading and writing in a creative environment. Under the guidance of the middle school English faculty, students will read and analyze both fiction and non-fiction works using them as a springboard for their own writing. The course will focus less on intense workloads and more on in-class participation. Students will learn how to discuss a piece of literature, improving their speaking/listening skills, and will apply the principles they’ve learned to hone their own writing skills. Due to the small
student/teacher ratio, students will participate in both group activities and independent study.

This course is available to 7th & 8th grade.

Debate

The Middle School Speech and Debate class at The Meadows is an elective that coordinates with the Upper School Speech and Debate team. Students will learn critical thinking, speech writing, and advanced research and public speaking skills. A variety of speech and debate activities would be covered, from model Student Congress to Original Oratory and team Debate.

This course is available to 7th & 8th grade.

Yearbook

Telling stories with pictures is an exciting way for Meadows' students to express their creativity and show their Mustang pride as they help to create the Middle School yearbook. This course will teach skills such as picture taking and photo composition, page layout, and design skills, as well as headline and caption-writing. Yearbook students will also learn leadership and time management skills as they assemble this important keepsake of memories.

This course is available to 7th & 8th grade.

Mathematics & Computer Science

Grade 6

Grade 7

Math 7
This course provides a reinforcement of Math 6 topics and an introduction to the foundational skills needed to be successful in Math 8.

Topics covered:

Integers and variable expressions
Factors, fractions, and exponents
Equations and Inequalities
Application of proportion and percents
Analyzing data and probability
Spatial thinking
Problem solving and logical reasoning

Pre-Algebra
This course provides an extension of Math 6 topics and introduces new topics with challenging applications and problem-solving techniques that will prepare students to be successful in Algebra 1. This course may be taken by sixth grade students.

Topics covered:

Integers and variable expressions
Factors, fractions, and exponents
Multi-step equations and inequalities
Application of proportion and percents
Introduction to linear functions and graphing
Analyzing data and probability
Spatial thinking
Problem solving and logical reasoning

Grade 8

Math 8
This course provides a reinforcement of Math 7 topics. Through Algebra, students will be engaged in developing a strong foundational understanding of mathematical relationships and functions. Upon completion of this course, students will be prepared for Algebra 1 in 9th grade.

Topics covered:

Variables, exponents, and expressions
Operations with Real Numbers
Linear Equations and Inequalities
Systems of equations and inequalities
Exponent properties
Problem solving and logical reasoning

Algebra I
This course provides students with a strong foundation in Algebra and is designed for highly qualified, motivated students who are committed to a challenging course of study. Algebraic procedures and continued development of problem-solving skillsform the basis of this course. Upon successful completion of this course students will be prepared for Geometry in 9th grade.

Topics covered:

Variables, exponents, and expressions
Linear equations and inequalities
Systems of equations and inequalities
Operations of Polynomials
Factoring polynomials
Solving quadratic equations
Operations with radical expressions
Solving radical equations
Operations with rational expressions
Solving rational equations
Problem solving and logical reasoning

Geometry
Students study this logical mathematical system through a challenging, deductive development of Euclidean
geometry. Emphasis is placed on an in-depth study of logic, formal proofs, and algebraic applications of geometry.

Topics covered:

Congruence/Similarity
Series of rigid transformations/constructions
Proofs/Logic
Right triangles/Trigonometry
Conic sections
Circles and angles
Three-dimensional measurement
Coordinate geometry in 2 and 3 dimensions

Computer Science

Computer science provides students with an array of experience within the world of computers.

Topics covered:

Basic computer operation
Keyboarding skills
Digital citizenship/Internet safety
Google apps for education suite
Creation of multimedia presentations
Photo/video production
Graphic art/animations
Web page creation
Computer programming/coding/LEGO Robotics

Science

Grade 6

Earth & Space Science

This course provides an exploration and understanding of our planet and the universe in which it resides. Students will be exposed to and develop science skills and practices in addition to learning how to access, understand and apply science content.

Topics covered:

Available natural resources in Earth systems
Human impact on Earth’s natural systems
Patterns in the solar system and universe
Natural cycles including air and water
Climate standards and changes and related weather patterns
Dynamic systems in the Earth and how they change through time
Earth’s natural hazards and how they can be managed

Grade 7

Life Science

This course provides seventh graders with an introduction to biology, encompassing the basics of microbiology, evolution and ecology. This course intertwines life science content with cross-cutting concepts in science as well as science and engineering practices. Students continue developing research skills, collaborating on quarterly projects designed around life science topics.

Topics covered:

Organization of life from cell to biosphere
Reproduction, heredity, and growth of plants and animals
Matter and energy of living systems; photosynthesis and cellular respiration
Matter and energy of ecosystems
Relationships in ecosystems; resources and interactions
Ecosystem dynamics; biodiversity in ecosystems and human influences
Diversity of life, evidence of common ancestry and evolution
Human influence on inheritance; artificial selection and biotechnology

Grade 8

Physical Science

This course provides an introduction to physics and chemistry, continuing to emphasize cross-cutting concepts in science as well as science and engineering practices. The course capstones the middle school science research curriculum, allowing students to collaborate and design student-driven quarter projects.

Topics covered:

Types, transfer, and measurement of energy
Structure, states, and phase changes in matter
Atoms, elements, molecules and extended structures
Chemical equations and reactions
Chemistry of natural and synthetic materials
Forces between matter including motion and fields, Newton’s Laws, and collisions
Magnetic and electric forces, electromagnetism
Behavior of mechanical and light waves
Communication technology

Competitive Science Elective

Competitive Science

This elective provides various opportunities for seventh and eighth graders looking for more experience in science. Regional and national science competitions are used as a basis for giving opportunity to pursue STEM interests. Typical competitions include robotics (FIRST Tech Challenge), Science Olympiad (B division), The Rube Goldberg Machine Competition, Team America Rocketry Competition, Genes in Space, World of 7 Billion Video Challenge, Science Fair, and Future Cities.

Topics covered:

Scientific method
Engineering and design process
Collaboration and teamwork skills
Managerial skills
Laboratory and metal and wood workshop skills
Coding and programming
Computer Aided Design (CAD) and 3D printing

Environmental Science Elective

Environmental Science

This elective is an introductory course for students designed to create an awareness and appreciation for the natural processes that sustain life with a focus on the global impact human activities have on ecological systems. Environmental Science includes many aspects of biology, earth and atmospheric sciences, fundamental principles of chemistry and physics, human population dynamics, and developing solutions for a sustainable future. This course is suited for students with an interest in STEM related academic paths and a precursor to AP Environmental Science.

Topics covered:

Ecosystems and biodiversity
Population Dynamics
Land and water use
Energy resource consumption
Atmospheric pollution
Aquatic & terrestrial pollution
Global Change

This course is available to 7th & 8th grades.

Social Sciences

Grade 6

Ancient World History

This course examines the major intellectual, political, economic, and social movements that have influenced the development of people and their cultures in the ancient and medieval worlds. This course introduces students to the major civilizations and world religions through approximately 1500 C.E. Because the world has always been largely interdependent and interconnected, the program stresses comparisons among various civilizations and events. Additionally, students analyze the connections between geography and historical events as well as the lasting influences of the ancient world on our world today.

Topics covered:

Stone Age and Early Culture
River Valley Civilizations: Mesopotamia, Egypt, Indus River Valley, China
Premodern China: Tang-Ming Dynasties
Ancient Hebrews
Ancient Greece and Rome
Islamic World
Early African Civilizations
Early American Civilizations
Medieval Europe

Grade 7

Modern World History

In this course, students examine some of the significant historical events and trends in World History. This course is designed to help students understand how civilizations, peoples, and societies develop and change over time. Students examine the interrelationships between resources, social structures, and the daily life of specific populations. Students also practice crafting and supporting arguments regarding historical topics.

Topics covered:

European Renaissance and Reformation: Exploration, cultural diffusion, new ideas
The Enlightenment: Challenging Absolutism, Scientific Revolution, Spread of New Ideas
The French Revolution: Causes and impact on Europe and the New World
Nationalism and Revolution: Changes in political thought, development of nation states
Industrial Revolution: Why England first? Consequences of Industrialization
Imperialism: How Nationalism, Industrialism, and Empire are connected
Transformations around the globe: China resists the West, Japan modernizes, global tensions, and WWI
Revolutions and Nationalism: Russian Revolution, totalitarian regimes, nationalism in India and Southwest Asia, WWII
Decolonization: Policies Implemented after WWII around the globe

Grade 8

U.S. History: Multiple Perspectives

This course provides eighth graders with an advanced survey of the history of the United States as a frontier, from exploration to the twenty-first century. Students study political, social, cultural, economic, and environmental aspects of the building of the United States.

Topics covered:

Meeting of cultures: European contact and interaction with Native groups
Empire: Colonization of North America
Creating a republic: Revolution, Articles of Confederation, and the Constitution
Westward expansion: Land use, Indian policy, War with Mexico, and the Civil War
Industrialization: Urban development, railroads, mining, labor, and the birth of the Progressive Movement
Turn of the century: Changes in society, two World Wars, the Great Depression, and the New Deal
Modern America: Social unrest, Civil Rights, Vietnam, and changes to the political landscape

World Languages

Spanish 6

In this sixth grade course students continue to develop proficiency through acquisition driven instruction. This is accomplished through interactions with compelling comprehensible input, including but not limited to storytelling, Total Physical Response and reading of short stories and novels. Students are exposed to film, art, authentic texts and other aspects of Hispanic culture in order to build their cultural competency and learn more about themselves and their communities. Vocabulary and grammar are acquired in context. Sixth graders will work mostly in the present tense with further exposure to the past and near future.

Topics covered:

Expressing opinions
Discussing food across Spanish-speaking countries
Using high frequency vocabulary to describe daily lives
Cultural perspectives and comparisons
Read and explain novels written in Spanish including TPRS

Spanish 7

In this seventh grade course students will further develop their proficiency through acquisition driven instruction. This is accomplished through interactions with compelling comprehensible input, including but not limited to storytelling, Total Physical Response and reading of short stories and novels. Students are exposed to film, art, authentic text and other aspects of Hispanic culture in order to build their cultural competency and learn more about themselves and their communities. Vocabulary and grammar are acquired in context. The present tense will be reinforced in seventh grade, focusing on the past.

Topics covered:

Describing daily routines
Identifying classes and extracurricular activities
Read and explain novels written in Spanish including TPRS
Summarize novels and respond to comprehension questions
Present short stories using the present, past and imperfect tenses

Spanish 8

In this eighth grade course students continue to develop proficiency through acquisition driven instruction. This is accomplished through interactions with compelling comprehensible input, including but not limited to storytelling, Total Physical Response and reading of short stories and novels. Students are exposed to film, art, authentic text and other aspects of Hispanic culture in order to build their cultural competency and learn more about themselves and their communities. Vocabulary and grammar are acquired in context. The present and past tenses will be reviewed in eighth grade while students further explore other tenses and moods.

Topics covered:

Dispelling stereotypes across the Spanish-speaking world
Respecting cultural differences
Realizing how our behavior affects the environment
Understanding how food can define culture
Introduction to the subjunctive mood

Latin I

Latin I provides an introduction to the Latin language but focuses less strictly on language acquisition than on its cultural background in the ancient world and on its lasting legacy in the modern world. Explorations into the art, history, mythology, and culture of ancient Rome through both research and art projects will take center stage. All Latin students automatically become members of the Junior Classical League (JCL) and, as such, will be provided opportunities to attend Latin conventions, take national exams for prizes, and compete in certamen (Classics quiz-bowl) tournaments. The goal of this course is to instill a love for Latin and to acquire proficiency naturally in as stress-free an environment as possible.

Available for 8th graders only.

Beginning Spanish

In this introductory course students begin their journey to proficiency through acquisition driven instruction. This is accomplished through interactions with compelling comprehensible input, including but not limited to storytelling, Total Physical Response and reading of short stories and novels. Students are exposed to film, art, authentic texts and other aspects of Hispanic culture in order to build their cultural competency and learn more about themselves and their communities. Vocabulary and grammar are acquired in context. Students will work mostly in the present tense with a natural introduction to the past and near future.

Performing Arts

Band

Sixth Grade Beginning Band

This one-quarter course is for students just starting to begin their study of instrumental music and standard performance practices on woodwind, brass, and percussion instruments. No musical experience is required to join.

Topics covered:

Rehearsal Behavior
Characteristic Sound on the Horn
Breathing Routine for Focus and Timing
Fundamental Based Exercises
Articulation
Changing Notes

Seventh & Eighth Grade Concert Band

This year-long course is designed for the intermediate band student,the Concert Band performs a Fall/Winter/Spring concert, All-School assemblies, the Renaissance Festival,school sporting events, and at graduation. Various groups are developed from this level of instrumentalists.

Topics covered:

Music Pieces for Upcoming Concerts
Rehearsal Behavior
Characteristic Sound on the Horn
Breathing Routine for Focus and Timing
Fundamental Based Exercises
Articulation

Orchestra

Sixth Grade Orchestra

This one-quarter course is open to all sixth graders. Designed for students who are interested in learning violin, viola, cello, string bass, guitar or piano. No previous music experience is required. The course includes the development of the skills necessary to become a musician and develop a life-long interest in music performance. Students will be introduced to classical music as well as other popular styles with a variety of performing experiences throughout the school year.

Topics covered:

Sight Reading
Performance Skills
Musical Skills Development
Form and Structure in Music Understanding
Composing and Arranging
Music Technology
Stage Presence

Seventh & Eighth Grade Orchestra

This one-year course is open to seventh and eighth graders. Designed for students who have experience playing violin, viola, cello, string bass, guitar or piano. The course includes the development of the skills necessary to become an independent musician and continues to develop a life-long interest in music performance. Students will be introduced to classical music as well as other popular styles with a variety of performing experiences throughout the school year.

Topics covered:

Sight Reading
Performance Skills
Musical Skills Development
Form and Structure in Music Understanding
Composing and Arranging
Music Technology
Stage Presence

Theatre

Sixth Grade Theatre Performance

In this course, students will be introduced to the basics of characterization, sensory awareness, movement, pantomime, vocalization, and theatrical production via games and improvisations and scene work. While valuing the individual, this class will stress the importance of group participation. Students will develop and demonstrate artistic perception and practice while building trust, self-esteem, creativity, communication and social skills.

Topics covered:

Voice & Body Work
Staging
Improvisation
Musical Theatre
Playwriting
Ensemble Building

Seventh & Eighth Grade Theatre Performance
This course is a hands-on theatre experience for young actors. This class is designed to focus on the skill set of each of the students enrolled, enhancing their knowledge and empowering them to grow as young performers. Students will learn characterization, sensory awareness, movement, pantomime, vocalization, and theatrical production via games and improvisations, scene work, monologues, and playwriting. This participation-based class will help students develop artistic perception and practice while building trust, self-esteem, creativity, communication and social skills.

Topics covered:

Improvisation
Ensemble Building
Body Awareness
Stage Business
Monologue & Scene Study
Musical Theatre

Film Appreciation Elective

Film Appreciation
Visual art is an important part of our society. Cinema as a visual art form can be a valuable way of going through time to experience the atmosphere of a period. Comedy in the movies has varied greatly over the last five decades. This class will examine what movies still are funny for today’s audiences and which no longer hit their mark. Do certain movies joke about topics that are no longer comfortable to joke about? The second semester class will focus on films of the 90’sthat evoke either a sad emotion or that are considered the best films of this decade. We will evaluate what makes these films emotional as well as why these were box office hits.

This course is available to 7th & 8th grades.

Visual Arts

Art 6

Sixth grade art is a hands-on, multimedia course that reviews the elements and principles of design as emphasized through the production of art and the study of art history and contemporary art. Students will be introduced to a variety of different media including chalk pastels, oil pastels, graphite, prismacolors, acrylic paints, watercolors, wood, clay, linoleum blocks, canvases, and much more.

Topics covered:

Drawing
Painting
Collage
Mixed Media
Sculpture

Art 7

Seventh grade art focuses on further developing artistic skills, vocabulary, and creativity. Students will expand their understanding of design elements and principles through the production of drawings, paintings, and sculptures. Students will study art history and contemporary art and apply the techniques they learn to their own artwork. Students will be introduced to a variety of different media including chalk pastels, oil pastels, graphite, prismacolors, acrylic paints, watercolors, wood, clay, linoleum blocks, canvases, and much more.

Topics covered:

Drawing
Painting
Collage
Mixed Media
Sculpture

Art 8

Eighth grade art is designed for students to explore and experience creative expression, critical evaluation, and to gain a greater appreciation for the visual arts. Students will advance their drawing, painting, and sculptural skills and understand the evolution of art movements throughout history and how each movement has transitioned to the next. This course is meant to foster a love and appreciation for art, while also nurturing developing skills. Students will be introduced to a variety of different media including chalk pastels, oil pastels, graphite, prismacolors, acrylic paints, watercolors, wood, clay, linoleum blocks, canvases, and much more.

Topics covered:

Drawing
Painting
Collage
Mixed Media
Sculpture

Physical Education & Health

Physical Education

Students take PE classes four days per week on average and must:

1. Participate on one school team or

2. Participate in a sport or activity not offered by the school which is competitive and meets at least three hours per week throughout the school year.

Physical Education class focuses on the sports that are in-season as well as teaching students how to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

All Middle School students need six Physical Education credits earned over three years to satisfy the Middle School PE requirement.

Schedule:

All practices/trainings will start at 2:30 p.m.
Human Performance classes/trainings will occur from 2:30-3:15 p.m. Tuesday-Friday.
Sports teams will practice from 2:30-3:45 p.m. Tuesday-Friday and an occasional Saturday.
Sports teams will have games during the week and on Saturdays.
Sports schedules will be provided prior to the start of each season.

Athletic Teams

Health & Wellness

This health course teaches students fundamental concepts and skills that foster wellness knowledge and healthy behaviors.

Personal assessments & goal setting
Power of trust & relationships, growth V fixed mindset
Kindness, inclusion & friendship
Choices, decision making, peer pressures
Screen time & social media
Nutrition, digestion & gut health
Dietary theories, body image & eating disorders
Fitness, sleep, environmental toxins
Immune system & illness prevention
Safety & emergencies, CPR certification, first aid, choking, foodborne illnesses
Brain parts & functions, brain health, injury & diseases
Stress, anxiety & mental illness
Emotional intelligence & conflict behavior
Substance abuse
Endocrine system glands & personal hygiene
Female & male reproductive organs
Pregnancy, contraceptives, sexually transmitted diseases
Sexual harassment, consent & boundaries, cyber safety

Students will engage in developmentally appropriate lessons, peer-led discussions, role playing scenarios, collaborative partner projects, research projects, interactive games, educational slideshow presentations & videos.

This course is available to 7th & 8th grades.