Please note that school operations may
be temporarily different due to COVID-19
restrictions.
All Middle School students experience six core classes: English,
math, history, science, a world language, and physical education.
In these classes students learn by writing, observation, critical
thinking, discussion, simulation, projects, and
collaboration.
English
The English program focuses on literature, writing, vocabulary
and grammar. Literature primarily involves novels but also
includes poetry, mythology, short stories, and non-fiction texts,
which provide a rich foundation for discussion, critical
thinking, and analysis of literature. Independent reading is also
incorporated to provide a context for a life-long love of
reading. Writing is taught as a process with rough drafts,
revisions, and polished final products. Grammar and vocabulary
are taught directly to some extent but they are primarily taught
contextually in both literature and in the writing process.
Mathematics
Sixth grade math is foundational to the Middle School
program with the goal of preparing students for their transition
to Algebraic mathematics. Seventh grade mathematics splits into
two groups: Pre-Algebra and Algebra. Those students who take
Algebra in seventh proceed to Geometry in eighth grade, while the
remainder are in Algebra. In all grade levels projects complement
the course and synthesize the concepts. These may include logic
problems, coding, and hands-on projects.
Science
Because it is important students experience science
as a process for conducting research – for investigating,
experimenting and gathering new information – Middle School
students study in the context of the scientific method:
hypothesizing, experimenting, and analyzing data. Sixth
grade studies physical science, seventh studies life science, and
eighth studies earth science. Emphasis is placed on kindling a
sense of wonder and curiosity through experiments, discussion,
projects, and writing.
History
The history program immerses students in ancient
history, world cultures and American history. Experiential
learning, including role-playing simulations and projects, exists
alongside expository writing, analytical reading, research,
discussion and critical thinking. Study skills are included in
each grade level. Students are challenged to step into the lives
of the world’s peoples in our mutual past.
World Language
The Middle School language program – Spanish, French,
and Latin – employs a multi-faceted approach to the study of
language. Listening comprehension, conversation, writing,
and grammar are emphasized through textbook and workbook
activities as well as field trips, projects, games, paired
discussions, and activities to engage in listening comprehension
with physical and verbal responses.
The primary objective in Latin is to read Latin, with some
emphasis placed on listening, speaking and writing. All Middle
School language students participate in national language
contests. Cultural aspects of the ancient Roman world and
contemporary French and Spanish speaking countries are also
integral to the program.
Physical Education
Physical Education is an integral part of the Middle
School program. In addition to promoting fitness and health, the
program exposes the students to and builds competence in a wide
variety of different sports: volleyball, soccer, golf, flag
football, badminton, basketball, floor hockey, disc games,
softball, dance and gymnastics. The program emphasizes skill
building, participation, teamwork, and engendering a life-long
commitment to fitness.