Course Catalog - Middle School
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Students are introduced to the structures and images of myth and to the symbolism that recurs in literature and culture through the ages. As a class, students study classic works of young adult literature with themes that are integrated with instruction in Social Studies and the Arts. Themes include the rise of ancient civilizations, the classical world, and the modern global community. The course lays the foundation for critical thought and analysis—reading for implications, tolerance of ambiguity, and open-ended interpretation of theme and symbolic meaning. In the process of writing to understand the themes presented in the course, students also hone language skills and improve grammatical correctness. Students produce expressive and imaginative writing as well as summaries and reports, using a variety of writing strategies such as narration, description, and process analysis.

Language Arts 7

Students explore the literary history of Europe, in conjunction with their social studies classes. This period covered ranges from medieval to contemporary times. Students are encouraged to develop or deepen independent study skills through the completion of self-selected research projects and the reading of self-selected historical novels. Students also improve sentence structure and grammatical correctness, build vocabulary through word families, and learn strategies for improving writing style. Seventh graders, in addition to writing poems and fiction, are introduced to literary analysis, analytical and persuasive essays, and play scripts. They also learn debate and public speaking techniques.

Eighth-grade students study works by American writers that reflect and complement the concepts and themes explored in their Social Studies classes. Students begin to practice advanced critical analysis – reading for implications and interpretation of ambiguity and irony, theme and symbolic meaning. Literary works serve as a springboard for writing analytical essays and creative pieces. Particular attention is given to the literary analysis essay, the comparison/contrast essay, and the personal experience narrative. Students review grammatical correctness, expand their vocabulary, and improve their public speaking skills.

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Math 6

Provides students with an individualized program that allows them to move to higher level of mathematics. This course builds on what the student has previously learned and will focus on solving real-life problems. Students will initiate activities, projects, and investigations that will enable them to become better problem solvers.

Transitional Math implements a shift from manipulative skills to a curriculum that reflects and integrates a broad range of topics in math. These topics include number concepts, number theory, and computation in addition to functions algebra, statistics and data analysis, probability, and geometry. The course connects new concepts to other concepts previously studied, other subject areas, and real-life problem solving situations while incorporating calculators and technology.

Algebra I 1 credit

In this course, students begin by learning the basic rules, methods and concepts of Algebra. They will then explore linear equations, inequalities, polynomials, and quadratic equations. The development of both a symbolic and graphical understanding of the mathematics is emphasized. The integration of statistics and geometry into the course helps students to develop a better understanding of how different concepts relate to one another. Students are also regularly asked to apply their understanding of the mathematics to real-world situations. Working on projects and learning to use technology appropriately are integral parts of the course.

Geometry

In this course students will learn the basic geometric principles and knowledge needed by an educated person in the modern world. Different axiomatic systems will be explored, but there will be an emphasis on Euclidean geometry. Further developing problem-solving skills and reasoning both inductively and deductively will be essential parts of the course for each student. Students will investigate the mathematics by doing geometric constructions, with the classic compass and straightedge as well as The Geometer’s Sketchpad (dynamic graphing software), and then apply logical principles in developing proofs. Real-world applications of mathematics and the making of connections to other areas of mathematics are an integral part of the course.

Science 6

World Cultures (Grade 6)

Students investigate the geography, history, and cultures of the world in both ancient and modern times. Students explore a variety of ancient world civilizations and compare religious, social, economic, and political systems in order to understand the way cultural traditions originate and change through the passage of time. The course begins with an inquiry into the rise of civilizations in Asia, Africa, and South America, and concludes with a focus on many issues that arise from study of the contemporary Middle East, Asia and Africa. Coursework and interactive activities are designed to develop organizational, group-work and analytical skills, as well as study habits, technological proficiency, and good decision-making. Because of the swiftness of change in these world regions, following current events is also an important part of the curriculum.

Building on the foundation of the sixth grade curriculum, students take a deeper look at major themes that arise in world history. Beginning with the year 1000, students compare major world cultures and question whether it is fair to describe the world as being in the middle of a Dark Age. Students then explore an increasingly inter-connected world, beginning with medieval travelers, advancing through the European Age of Discovery, and into the modern industrialized world. The course concludes with an investigation of the world in the 20^th Century, including the impact of global wars and a comparison of the present day world with the world in the year 1000, with which we began.

United States History (Grade 8)

Students explore United States History primarily through a chronological approach, with a nod to the various regions. This course emphasizes the people, events, culture, and geography of the United States from the time of the earliest colonial settlements through the modern day, always seeking to find connections and links between past and present. The course includes looks at the colonial period, the Revolutionary War, the Constitution, the growth of the country in the 1800s, and the Civil War. The course concludes with the themes and events that dominate 20th century American growth, economics, war and peace, ethnic diversity, and the role of America in the world today.

Chinese I: Novice Chinese 1 credit

Emphasis in this course is on the acquisition of the four language skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Students are introduced to the Chinese Pinyin and tonal system, learning to recognize and pronounce 300 Chinese characters, as well as how to use Chinese software to reproduce those characters. Students are also introduced to important aspects of the history and culture of the Chinese-speaking world.

Chinese I-B: Novice-High Chinese (Middle School only) 1 credit

This course is designed specifically to allow middle school students more time to develop essential communication ability in Chinese and to explore the history and culture of the Chinese-speaking world before moving on to the intermediate and advanced levels of language study. Special emphasis is placed on character recognition and perfection of the tonal system.

Prerequisite: Chinese I

Chinese II: Intermediate-Low Chinese 1 credit

In this course students add 200 characters to their vocabulary base while expanding their knowledge of Chinese sentence structure. They also begin reading simple texts on a variety of subjects from the Chinese-speaking world and learn to use computer software to write short sentences in Chinese.

Prerequisite: Chinese I (Upper School) or Chinese I-B (Middle School)

French I: Novice French 1 credit

Emphasis in this course is on the acquisition of the four language skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Students develop a base vocabulary and learn simple grammatical constructions needed for essential communication. They are also introduced to important aspects of the history and culture of the French-speaking countries.

French I-B: Novice-High French (Middle School only) 1 credit

This course is designed specifically to allow middle school students more time to develop essential communication ability in French and to explore the history and culture of French-speaking countries before moving on to the intermediate and advanced levels of language study. Special emphasis is placed on the active production of spoken and written French.

Prerequisite: French I

French II: Intermediate-Low French 1 credit

In this course students continue to develop vocabulary while expanding their knowledge of French sentence structure. They also begin reading simple texts on a variety of subjects from the French-speaking world and establish contact with a native French-speaking cyber pal through the Internet.

Prerequisite: French I (Upper School) or French I-B (Middle School)

French III: Intermediate-Mid French 1 credit

In this course students develop their language skills using a variety of authentic materials from French language texts and multimedia sources. The more complex grammatical structures of the language and idiomatic expressions are studied and utilized in regular composition and conversational activities.

Prerequisite: French II

German I: Novice German 1 credit

Emphasis in this course is on the acquisition of the four language skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Students develop a base vocabulary and learn simple grammatical constructions needed for essential communication. They are also introduced to important aspects of the history and culture of the German-speaking countries.

German I-B: Novice-High German (Middle School only) 1 credit

This course is designed specifically to allow middle school students more time to develop essential communication ability in German and to explore the history and culture of German-speaking countries before moving on to the intermediate and advanced levels of language study. Special emphasis is placed on the active production of spoken and written German.

Prerequisite: Novice German

German II: Intermediate-Low German 1 credit

In this course students continue to develop vocabulary while expanding their knowledge of German sentence structure. They also begin reading simple texts on a variety of subjects from the German-speaking world and establish contact with a native German-speaking cyber pal through the Internet.

Prerequisite: German I (Upper School) or German I-B (Middle School)

German III: Intermediate-Mid German 1 credit

In this course students develop their language skills using a variety of authentic materials from German language texts and multimedia sources. The more complex grammatical structures of the language and idiomatic expressions are studied and utilized in regular composition and conversational activities.

Prerequisite: German II

Spanish I: Novice Spanish 1 credit

Emphasis in this course is on the acquisition of the four language skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Students develop a base vocabulary and learn simple grammatical constructions needed for essential communication. They are also introduced to important aspects of the history and culture of the Spanish-speaking countries.

Spanish I-B: Novice-High Spanish (Middle School only) 1 credit

This course is designed specifically to allow middle school students more time to develop essential communication ability in Spanish and to explore the history and culture of Spanish-speaking countries before moving on to the intermediate and advanced levels of language study. Special emphasis is placed on the active production of spoken and written Spanish.

Prerequisite: Novice Spanish

Spanish II: Intermediate-Low Spanish 1 credit

In this course students continue to develop vocabulary while expanding their knowledge of Spanish sentence structure. They also begin reading simple texts on a variety of subjects from the Spanish-speaking world and establish contact with a native Spanish-speaking cyber pal through the Internet.

Prerequisite: Spanish I (Upper School) or Spanish I-B (Middle School)

Spanish III: Intermediate-Mid Spanish 1 credit

In this course students develop their language skills using a variety of authentic materials from Spanish language texts and multimedia sources. The more complex grammatical structures of the language and idiomatic expressions are studied and utilized in regular composition and conversational activities.

Prerequisite: Spanish II

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Students explore various media and are introduced to basic artistic principles.

Middle School visual arts classes create a time to explore various media and learn more advanced artistic principles. Students have the opportunity to investigate the divergent disciplines of drawing, painting, ceramics, sculpture, and crafts. Through these various disciplines students study the visual elements of line, shape, positive/negative space, color, and craftsmanship. Students also begin to develop their artistic vocabulary and critiquing skills, as well as their artistic style.

Sixth grade chorus students learn to use their voices effectively in singing. They learn and perform a mixed repertoire of classical, contemporary, folk, and Broadway songs scored for unison to three or four part voices. The students develop music reading skills and begin basic music theory concepts. The sixth-grade chorus has several performances throughout the year. Individual students may be allowed opportunities to participate in extra-curricular region and state level music events.

Students survey musical and cultural styles of choral music, develop basic vocal as well as music reading skills, continue work in music theory, and nurture a love for singing. Students are introduced to three and four part music as their voices change and mature. The seventh and eighth grade chorus performs several concerts throughout the school year. Individual students may be allowed opportunities to participate in extra-curricular region and state level music events.

Students are introduced to the singing voice by singing songs and studying the vocal mechanism. Students actively participate in music activities that teach and reinforce basic elements of music reading and written notation. Students sing a mixed repertoire of music that reinforces the music theory concepts being taught in class.

Open to sixth-grade students only. Students learn the fundamentals of music notation and develop basic skills in the individual and ensemble practice and performance of their instrument. Emphasis is placed on developing technical skills on their instrument as well as in listening, valuing, creating and studying the elements of music and musicians from a variety of historical periods and musical genres. String players rehearse separately from woodwind, brass, and percussion players. Performances may include pieces for Full Orchestra as well as for Wind Ensemble and String Orchestra.

Students begin to achieve comprehensive musicianship by further developing skills in the individual and ensemble practice and performance of their instrument. Continued emphasis is placed on developing technical skills on their instruments as well as skills in listening, valuing, creating and studying the elements of music and musicians from a variety of historical periods and musical genres. String players rehearse separately from woodwind, brass, and percussion players. Performances may include pieces for Full Orchestra as well as for Wind Ensemble and String Orchestra.

Prerequisite: At least one year’s experience playing an orchestral instrument and successful audition or director approval

Students are introduced to the basic elements of music through singing and playing simple instruments. They develop skills in reading and writing music notation, meter, rhythm, and tempo. Music choices and instruments will represent a variety of cultures and musical genres as students relate their learning to other academic subjects.

This course seeks to build upon and fortify the tools of communication that each student inherently possesses. Emphasis is placed upon connecting breath to body and voice, relaxation, and ultimately, performance. Units include public speaking, vocal production, and an introduction to acting.

Through this course, students gain insight into the wonderful world of theater. They explore the rituals and myths of several ancient cultures, investigate the art of the playwright, and delve into what it really means to be an actor.

This course investigates the development of character and the numerous tools an actor can use during the creative process. Emphasis is placed on the integration of breath, voice, and body, as well as movement and the physical demands of staging. Students also receive an introduction to the technical aspects of theater and a brief survey of the theater’s history and origins. Scenes from selected plays are used to help further the exploration of character and character relationships.

While this course touches on acting techniques and character development, the primary focus is on the history of theater, performance, and theatrical production. Students also investigate the role of theater in society.

This course meets five days a week and has four objectives: to teach modern dance technique and skills; to allow students the opportunity to explore and discover their personal movement vocabulary through improvisation; to give students the experience of performing their dances for audiences; and, to develop and nurture self confidence and a sense of body awareness. There are two formal dance concerts each year when students perform and various informal performance opportunities.

This class introduces students to technical styles of dance and provides training and practice to improve technical skills. Dancers also study dance composition and create a dance that they perform.

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