Curriculum
English
Grade 6
Sixth grade English is designed to reinforce the foundational concepts of grammar and sentence diagramming through a review or teaching of all the parts of speech and primary parts of the sentence. Students are exposed to classical and time-honored literature through the study of short stories, novels, poetry, and non-fiction, and vocabulary enrichment words are taken from the literature, from words introduced to English from other languages, and from literary terms. Writing assignments are varied and numerous and will often relate to one specific skill; quality and content, rather than length, are the focus.
Topics covered:
- Introduce proper sentence diagramming from simple subject and verb sentences through adverb clauses
- Reinforce knowledge of all parts of speech and parts of the sentence
- Focus on ways to improve and strengthen comprehension skills, continue to enrich vocabulary with words from reading, and supplementary sources
- Emphasize basic writing skills, including composing strong topic and concluding sentences, writing quality sentences following specific formulas, composing short in-class assignments, and offering opportunities for creative writing
Grade 7
Seventh grade English builds on the grammar foundation established in sixth grade, introducing more advanced grammar and diagramming skills. Literary terms and tools are examined and discussed critically through the use of varied works and genres of literature. Students will work on components of a basic five-paragraph, thesis-based essay.
Topics covered:
- Introduce advanced grammar concepts and diagramming: participles, gerunds, infinitives, noun clauses, and adjective clauses
- Improve note-taking skills, especially annotating, through the reading of classic novels and short stories
- Continue to enrich vocabulary with words from reading and supplementary sources
- Produce oral presentations related to the literature
- Emphasize paragraph organization, strong introductions and conclusions, proper use of quotations, and original expression
Grade 8
In English 8, 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:
- Improve sentence fluency from a foundation in diagramming
- Practice annotation and note-taking from a variety of texts
- Use new vocabulary from readings
- Practice posing and probing questions in Socratic-styled discussion
- Compose original essays that interrogate an aspect of the literature or test an author’s tactic
Life Elective
Mathematics
Grade 6
Grade 7
Pre-Algebra
Seventh grade math/pre-algebra provides a review of topics covered in sixth grade math and extends those topics to prepare students for success in algebra and geometry.
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
Algebra I
Eighth grade math/algebra 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 skills form the basis of this course.
Topics covered:
- Variables, exponents, and expressions
- Linear equations and inequalities
- Systems of equations and inequalities
- Polynomials and factoring
- Quadratic equations
- Radical expressions and equations
- Rational expressions and equations
- Problem solving and logical reasoning
Computer Science
Grade 6
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
No prerequisites required for this course.
Web Page Creation Elective
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:
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:
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:
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
Social Science
Grade 6
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 world. 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:
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
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
Film Studies Elective
World Languages
Spanish 6
In this sixth grade course, students continue to learn the fundamentals of the Spanish language working primarily in the present with further practice of the past tense structures. Students role-play, survey, interview, debate and present using the vocabulary and grammar structures learned through a blend of comprehensible input and traditional learning methods. Students are exposed to film, art, interviews and other aspects of Hispanic culture in order to build their cultural competency.
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 seventh grade Spanish, students improve proficiency through storytelling and reading. This course reviews present tense, various cultural aspects, covers negative commands, the future tense, sentence and question formation along with short compositions and stories.
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 eighth grade Spanish, students continue to study and learn the language while becoming comfortable communicating at an intermediate level. Through a blend of comprehensible input and more traditional methods, students study a variety of grammar structures for communication in the present, past and future. They role-play, survey, interview, debate and present. Students are exposed to film, short novels, art, interviews and other aspects of Hispanic culture in order to build their cultural competency.
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 8
In eighth grade Latin, students explore the presence of Latin everywhere around them as 21st-century Americans. The biggest component of the course is English (and Spanish) vocabulary acquisition through the study of Latin word roots. Mini-projects investigating Latin’s role in topics ranging from science, law, medicine, government, rhetoric, and argumentation punctuate the year. Sustained and concerted effort is exerted in understanding ancient Roman culture.
Topics covered:
Topics covered:
- Exploration of ancient Roman culture as a means to understand modern US culture
- Active engagement with Latin that has persisted into the 21st-century US in its language and institutions (especially scientific, legal, and medical terminology)
Latin I
In Middle School Latin I, students are introduced to basic grammar and vocabulary, derivatives, Roman history, culture, and mythology. Emphasis is placed on mastery through the recognition and application of patterns (morphology) and grammatical rules (syntax). Successful completion allows for transition directly into Latin II (Honors) in the Upper School. (Latin I is also offered at the Upper School level.)
Performing Arts
Band
Sixth Grade Beginning Band
This course is for students just starting out with a wind, brass or percussion instrument.
Topics covered:
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
Designed for the intermediate band student, the Concert Band performs a Fall/Winter/Spring concert, at school sporting events, and at graduation. Various groups are developed from this level of instrumentalists.
Topics covered:
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
Designed for students who already play or 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:
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
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:
Topics covered:
- Sight Reading
- Performance Skills
- Musical Skills Development
- Form and Structure in Music Understanding
- Composing and Arranging
- Music Technology
- Stage Presence
Drama
Sixth Grade Drama
Students will learn a myriad of skills in this hands-on participation based class that will help them develop trust, self-esteem, creativity, communication and social techniques.
Topics covered:
Topics covered:
- The Actor’s Tools
- Improvisation
- Pantomime
- The 5 W’s
- Sensory & Body Awareness
- Scene Building
Students will learn a myriad of skills in this hands-on participation based class that will help them develop trust, self-esteem, creativity, communication and social techniques.
Topics covered:
- Improvisation
- Character Development
- The Ensemble
- Movement
- Voice and Acting Technique
- Monologue & Scene Study
Theatre
Sixth 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.
Topics covered:
Topics covered:
- Voice & Body Work
- Staging
- Improvisation
- Musical Theatre
- Playwriting
- Ensemble Building
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.
Topics covered:
- Improvisation
- Ensemble Building
- Body Awareness
- Stage Business
- Monologue & Scene Study
- Musical Theatre
Theatre Workshop
This course is a fusion of theatrical and artistic concepts. It is a hands-on course that will introduce students in grades 6-8 to several aspects of theatre that are not covered in Drama or Theatre Performance classes.
Topics covered:
Topics covered:
- Puppet Building & Performance
- Stage Makeup
- Costume Design
- Voiceover
- Prop Building
- Tech Theatre
Broadcast Technology Elective
Broadcast Technology
One-semester course for sixth, seventh, and eighth grade offered in fall and spring. TMS-TV or M-TV is an introduction to the world of broadcast journalism and to electronic news gathering (ENG), also known as "info-tainment." The course provides opportunities for students to develop skills and understanding in the concepts of the history of television, basic video camera operation, post production graphics, audio, and editing.
Visual Arts
Art 6
Sixth grade art is designed for interested and eager artists to explore their creativity. Students will be provided with a basic understanding of the elements and principles of design as emphasized through the production of original 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:
Topics covered:
- Drawing
- Painting
- Collage
- Mixed Media
- Sculpture
Art 7
Seventh grade art is designed for interested and eager artists to further develop their creativity. Students will be provided with a basic understanding of the elements and principles of design as emphasized through the production of original art and the study of art history and contemporary art. 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:
Topics covered:
- Drawing
- Painting
- Collage
- Mixed Media
- Sculpture
Art 8
Eighth grade art is designed for interested and eager artists to further develop their creativity. Students will be provided with a basic understanding of the elements and principles of design as emphasized through the production of original art and the study of art history and contemporary art. 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:
Topics covered:
- Drawing
- Painting
- Collage
- Mixed Media
- Sculpture
Health & Physical Education
Grades 6 & 7
Students take PE Classes twice per week 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.
Grade 8
Students do not have a regularly scheduled PE Class and must participate in the following to meet the Middle School PE requirement:
1. Participate on two School teams.
– 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.
– or –
3. Take the Early Bird Fitness Class.
All Middle School students need six Physical Education credits earned over three years to satisfy the Middle School PE requirement.