Middle School

Academics

Language Arts

The language arts program focuses on writing and text analysis skills. Students develop various writing styles, including narrative, expository and persuasive writing. The program provides ample time for reading and encourages students to use different lenses to think critically about stories and characters while making relevant connections to the real world and their daily lives. Reading and writing skills are practiced through a variety of instructional formats from whole-class instruction to small-group discussion and independent analysis.

Mathematics

In the Middle School mathematics program, students learn math by following a path of connected problems in an inquiry-based classroom, using a standards-based and problem-centered curriculum. The program works to develop deep understanding in four mathematical learning strands: numbers and operations, geometry and measurement, algebra, and probability. Instruction in grades six and seven is differentiated to address varying levels of development, with grade eight offering two options to best meet the needs of the individual learner.

Science

Our science program is coordinated so that students are exposed to units in Earth/space science, life science (biology) and physical science (physics and chemistry) at each grade level. Through individual unit content, the primary focus of learning is to develop scientifically-literate critical thinkers who can competently work through the scientific inquiry process, collect and analyze data, and communicate their results clearly.

Students should be prepared to be active learners, fully engaged in both individual and group work, as well as class discussion, and to think deeply when completing assignments both in and out of class.

Physical and
Health Education

Social Studies

Middle School social studies courses follow the C3 standards curricular framework. Under this framework, learning experiences are designed with a focus on the application of knowledge in civics, economics, geography, and history. Students will develop questions and plan inquiries, apply disciplinary concepts and tools, evaluate and use evidence, and communicate conclusions and take informed action. By focusing on inquiry, we emphasize concepts and practices that support students as they develop the capacity to understand, analyze, explain, and argue about interdisciplinary challenges in our social world.

Art

Middle School visual arts is a half-year program running alongside the music class. Students experiment with two and three-dimensional art forms, and they learn digital techniques to develop the skills essential for the 21st century. Units of study focus on building skills and applying the elements and principles of art and design, as well as reflecting on and critiquing their own work and that of others. Creative problem solving is encouraged and, through this, students develop the self-confidence to express their ideas visually. Art history, contemporary art, and visual culture are woven into each unit so students can understand the relevance of art and design in past and present cultures around the world.

Music

In the music program, students examine various samples of music from diverse cultures and periods of history. They have the opportunity to discover the music and history of other cultures by listening, singing, playing, discussing, and analyzing various genres of music. Students will also be introduced to a band instrument and will learn the fundamentals of playing that instrument while continuing their vocal work.

This program is structured to maximize rehearsal time and gives students the chance to be part of an ensemble. They listen to, collaborate on, perform, and play music with their peers. Each rehearsal follows a consistent procedure to guide students, including by setting up instruments and music stations, having daily rhythmic and tonal practice, and practicing major works of music.

World Languages – French and Spanish

Bonjour! Welcome to Middle School French language classes. Lessons focus on developing strong communication skills, namely, listening, speaking, reading, and writing. In addition to introducing vocabulary concepts and grammatical structures, the coursework will include an introduction to the geographical distribution of French-speaking cultures around the world. On the course, students complete a variety of internet-based language and culture projects that are closely linked to our curriculum and emphasize creativity and a real-world application of French.

¡Hola! The Spanish language program offers introductory courses where students will be immersed in the culture and language of Spanish-speaking people from around the world. Students will learn through communication activities tailored specifically to build students’ speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills. They are also encouraged to sing, dance, act, converse and create, and are given the tools to express themselves, to initiate meaningful interactions with their classmates, and to establish a strong foundation to help them become effective communicators in Spanish.

Both courses focus on the five C’s of Foreign Language Education: students refine their Communication skills; gain different Cultural perspectives; Compare the French language and culture to their own; Connect world language skills to other subject areas; and see the language and cultural influence within their own Community.

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