Art 6
Students work to understand how the world affects art expression, and art affects the world using the elements of art –line, form, color, value, texture, space, shape, and design principles- balance, movement, pattern, contrast, rhythm, and unity. Students also understand color theory, art history, artists, and cross-curricular applications. Compositions in 2D and creations in 3D artworks encourage students to find expression in various media.
English 6
English 6 provides students with a strong foundation in reading and writing, building off the skills acquired in Lower School. Through novel studies of mentor texts, vocabulary work, and comprehension work, students develop a strong understanding of point of view, author's purpose, theme, and figurative language. This project-based course focuses on students applying their comprehension and writing skills to answer the big questions in the course mentor texts.
History 6
Starting with evidence of early humans and progressing to Enlightenment thinkers and new patterns of emerging economic practices, History 6 will present the evolution and adaptations of humankind that are the foundations of modern civilizations. The course will immerse students in an enriched experience of the ascent of humanity through the stories of human progress and culture combined with intentional project-based learning units and skills development. This project-based course includes creating Greek Murals, a Philosophy Round Table, and projects focused on the Agricultural Revolution, Enlightenment Thinkers, and Explorers. The capstone experience for the Grade 6 class is the immigration simulation that takes place in the spring.
Math 6
Math 6 focuses on four critical areas: ratios, number systems, statistics, and expressions/equations. Students will work to find connections between ratios and rates to whole number multiplication and division. Students will continue to explore their operational understanding of fractions and extend the notion of numbers to the system of rational numbers, including negatives. Students will expand their abilities to write, interpret, and use algebraic expressions and equations while developing an understanding of statistical thinking.
Middle School Band
Middle School Band covers various genres of music, including contemporary and classical repertoire. Students will perform representative pieces of music from these and other genres. Students will work to extend their technical and musical abilities through individual and group instruction. The study of the basic elements of music theory and general musicianship will be the focus of this class through instrumental performance.
Middle School Chorus
Middle School Chorus helps to develop young student voices and knowledge of choral music by teaching the basics of vocal pedagogy: breathing, placement, and diction. Rhythmic and ear training are fundamental. Students also study the basic elements of music theory, including tempo, chord progression, and other musical terms. Students will be exposed to a varied repertoire of choral literature, including multicultural and classical selections. There will be ample opportunity for group performance and individual vocal growth for beginners and singers with previous experience in a choir.
Physical Education 6
The Physical Education program in grades 6-8 provides an environment where children enjoy actively participating with peers without feeling inferior based on their strengths and weaknesses. Personal fitness, teamwork, and cooperation are achieved through progressive challenges, teamwork, games, and team activities where the primary emphasis is active participation, not skill and drill. The course emphasizes the development of basic motor skills that allow participation in a variety of physical activities. Student learning does not stop in the classroom, as physical education has a blended learning component. Through CREEKnet, students enhance their learning and understanding of health-related topics and the benefits of activities we offer during class.
Math 7
Note: Teacher recommendation and math placement test required for entry into this course
This course focuses on introductory Pre-Algebra topics while reviewing operations with real numbers (fractions, decimals, and integers) to ensure students have a solid foundation in the fundamentals as they approach Pre-Algebra and Algebra. Ratios, proportional reasoning, and percent are areas of major emphasis, along with simplifying algebraic expressions and solving equations and inequalities. Geometry concepts, including area, surface area, and volume, are reviewed and further developed.
Pre-Algebra
Note: Teacher recommendation and math placement test required for entry into this course
This class establishes the fundamentals necessary for success in Algebra I and continues the topics covered in Math 7. This course covers powers and roots, using properties to simplify and evaluate expressions, solving equations and inequalities, solving systems of equations, linear functions, geometric transformations, and volume/surface area.
Science 6
Science 6 is a project-based course that focuses on an introduction to coding, robotics, and engineering. Students learn basic coding languages, how to code various robots, and the fundamentals of engineering design. The content of the course is focused on physical and space science concepts. Major projects include coding a playable video game,
Grade 6 Spanish
Grade 6 Spanish is an introduction to the study of the Spanish language and its culture. This course allows students to develop their listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. Weekly work will include numerous interactive activities reinforcing vocabulary and grammar; reading and listening comprehension activities; speaking and writing activities; and cultural presentations covering major Spanish-speaking areas in Europe and the Americas. The course has been carefully aligned with the national standards of ACTFL (the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages). Grade 6 Spanish offers a continuation path for students with some experience with the language; it also offers a starting point for students with little to no experience with Spanish.
Grade 6 Spanish Accelerated
This course allows students to develop their listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. Weekly work will include numerous interactive activities reinforcing vocabulary and grammar; reading and listening comprehension activities; speaking and writing activities; and cultural presentations covering major Spanish-speaking areas in Europe and the Americas. The course has been carefully aligned with the national standards of ACTFL (the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages). 6th Grade Spanish Accelerated is recommended for students who have consistently demonstrated a high level of proficiency and want the opportunity to participate in a fast-paced course. Enrollment in this course is based on teacher recommendation.
String Ensemble
String Ensemble covers various genres of music, including contemporary and classical repertoire. Students perform representative pieces of music from these and other genres. Students extend their technical and musical abilities through group instruction. The study of the basic elements of music theory and general musicianship is the focus of this class through instrumental performance. This ensemble will perform two school concerts throughout the year and other performances at school events. You must come to this ensemble with some experience of your chosen instrument.
Algebra 1 (MS)
Prerequisite: successful completion of Pre-Algebra and teacher recommendation
Algebra 1 covers the basic skills of algebra, including expressions, equations, inequalities, exponents, polynomials, and proportions. The focus is on three function families: linear, exponential, and quadratic. Students learn to graph linear equations, solve systems of linear equations, and use graphs, equations, and inequalities to solve problems. Multiplying and factoring polynomials builds the foundation for solving quadratic equations.
Art 7
Students work to understand how the world affects art expression, and art affects the world using the elements of art –line, form, color, value, texture, space, shape, and design principles- balance, movement, pattern, contrast, rhythm, and unity. Students also understand color theory, art history, artists, and cross-curricular applications. Compositions in 2D and creations in 3D artworks encourage students to find expression in various media.
English 7
English 7 explores the fundamental elements of literature more in-depth while reinforcing writing skills. Through close readings, discussions of novels and short stories, and project-based units, students will work toward thinking more critically about literature and clearly articulating their ideas. Students build increased skill in working through the writing process and reading and writing across genres. Students also explore meter and rhyme scheme by writing multiple forms of metered poetry. In addition to regular writing projects, students use the novel Refugee as a jumping-off point to design and plan an information and fundraising campaign for local asylees.
History 7
This course examines current domestic and international events and asks how and why they occurred. Students learn the major historical events that created the world we live in today and how history continues to shape world relations. Sample projects include creating plans to address and fix broken laws and exploring and trying to understand the refugee experience to aid this underserved population. Students engage with the primary and secondary source material, learn to test claims and make defendable arguments.
Middle School Band
This course, by audition, covers various genres of music, including contemporary and classical repertoire. Students will perform representative pieces of music from these and other genres. Students will work to extend their technical and musical abilities through individual and group instruction. The study of the basic elements of music theory and general musicianship will be the focus of this class through instrumental performance.
Middle School Chorus
This course helps to develop young student voices and knowledge of choral music by teaching the basics of vocal pedagogy: breathing, placement, and diction. Rhythmic and ear training are fundamental. Students also study the basic elements of music theory, including tempo, chord progression, and other musical terms. Students will be exposed to a varied repertoire of choral literature, including multicultural and classical selections. There will be ample opportunity for group performance and individual vocal growth for beginners and singers with previous experience in a choir.
Physical Education 7
The Physical Education program in grades 6-8 provides an environment where children enjoy actively participating with peers without feeling inferior based on their strengths and weaknesses. Personal fitness, teamwork, and cooperation are achieved through progressive challenges, teamwork, games, and team activities where the primary emphasis is active participation, not skill and drill. The course emphasizes the development of basic motor skills that allow participation in a variety of physical activities. Student learning does not stop in the classroom, as physical education has a blended learning component. Through CREEKnet, students enhance their learning and understanding of health-related topics and the benefits of activities we offer during class.
Math 7
This course focuses on introductory Pre-Algebra topics while reviewing operations with real numbers (fractions, decimals, and integers) to ensure students have a solid foundation in the fundamentals as they approach Pre-Algebra and Algebra. Ratios, proportional reasoning, and percent are areas of major emphasis, along with simplifying algebraic expressions and solving equations and inequalities. Geometry concepts, including area, surface area, and volume, are reviewed and further developed.
Pre-Algebra
Note: Teacher recommendation and math placement test required for entry into this course
This class establishes the fundamentals necessary for success in Algebra I and is a continuation of the topics covered in Math 7. This course covers powers and roots, using properties to simplify and evaluate expressions, solving equations and inequalities, solving systems of equations, linear functions, geometric transformations, and volume/surface area.
Science 7
Science 7 focuses on life science concepts through hands-on projects and explorations. The major units are Characteristics of Life and Cell Structures and Functions. Students will engage in four projectbased learning units, including building an interactive model of a cell and designing an escape room. In
addition to the PBL units, students will also engage in a variety of smaller projects, including the "Adapt or Die" project.
Grade 7 Spanish
Students who have enrolled in this course have completed Grade 6 Spanish. This course provides students with opportunities to continue the development of their listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. Weekly work will include numerous interactive activities reinforcing vocabulary and grammar; reading and listening comprehension activities; speaking and writing activities; and cultural presentations covering major Spanish-speaking areas in Europe and the Americas. The course has been carefully aligned with the national standards of ACTFL (the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages).
Grade 7 Spanish Accelerated
This course provides students with opportunities to continue developing their listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. Weekly work will include numerous interactive activities reinforcing vocabulary and grammar; reading and listening comprehension activities; speaking and writing activities; and cultural presentations covering major Spanish-speaking areas in Europe and the Americas. The course has been carefully aligned to national standards as set forth by ACTFL (the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages).
String Ensemble
String Ensemble covers various genres of music, including contemporary and classical repertoire. Students perform representative pieces of music from these and other genres. Students extend their technical and musical abilities through group instruction. The study of the basic elements of music theory and general musicianship is the focus of this class through instrumental performance. This ensemble will perform two school concerts throughout the year and other performances at school events. You must come to this ensemble with some experience of your chosen instrument.
Algebra 1 (MS)
*Prerequisite: successful completion of Pre-Algebra and teacher recommendation
Algebra 1 covers the basic skills of algebra, including expressions, equations, inequalities, exponents, polynomials, and proportions. The focus is on three function families: linear, exponential, and quadratic. Students learn to graph linear equations, solve systems of linear equations, and use graphs, equations, and inequalities to solve problems. Multiplying and factoring polynomials lay the foundation for solving quadratic equations.
Art 8
Students continue to build their observation and drawing skills as they work with the Elements of Design – line, shape, form, value, texture, space, and color. They also work on balance and pattern, two of the Principles of Design. Students work with pencil, charcoal, oil pastel, ink, and watercolor as they express their creativity.
English 8
English 8 reinforces students' reading skills while building on their writing skills. Students experience higher expectations regarding independence, writing length, and sophistication. Students learn more about their language by studying grammar and vocabulary to use it more effectively. Three major projects in English will be the creation of an anti-bullying campaign, a deep analysis of a chosen social justice poem, a MOTH-style story-telling event based on a written personal narrative, and an interdisciplinary project centered on current issues facing our country. Within the structure of these projects, students will read two novels, a graphic novel, and several poems and short stories. Students will learn persuasive writing, narrative writing, and research skills. Grammar, style, and punctuation will be a consistent focus within the writing process.
Geometry (MS)
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra 1 and teacher recommendation
This course uses the context of geometric figures to teach logical reasoning. Similarity, congruence, special line and angle relationships, special segments, trigonometric ratios, coordinate geometry, constructions, plane figures, and 3D figures are analyzed. Five different kinds of proofs are developed throughout the course. Students will use geometry software to explore, design, and prove truths about geometric figures and relationships. Students are also introduced to the basics of data science and statistics.
History 8
This course is a survey class of United States history from colonies and independence to the modern day. The class presents major themes and eras in American history, often through the lens of individual human American Stories. Project-based challenges engage students in the daily lives, issues, concerns, and real-time choices and solutions of real people in there of American history. Themes of human rights, conflict, culture, and technology are explored in each unit.
Latin 1
Students are introduced to the classical world and acquire the fundamentals of Latin grammar and a basic vocabulary. They learn the cases of nouns and the conjugations and tenses of verbs. Reading and translation are emphasized over the spoken language. A study of Roman culture and history is also included. There is also an emphasis on the influence of Latin on the development of the English language, where students acquire a solid foundation in the derivation of English words from Latin roots, prefixes, and suffixes.
Math 8
This class establishes the fundamentals necessary for success in Algebra I by allowing more time for mastery. Topics covered include powers and roots, using properties to simplify and evaluate expressions, solving equations and inequalities, solving systems of equations, linear functions, geometric transformations, introduction to functions, and volume/surface area.
Middle School Band
This course, by audition, covers various genres of music, including contemporary and classical repertoire. Students will perform representative pieces of music from these and other genres. Students will work to extend their technical and musical abilities through individual and group instruction. The study of the basic elements of music theory and general musicianship will be the focus of this class through instrumental performance.
Middle School Chorus
Middle School Chorus helps to develop young student voices and knowledge of choral music by teaching the basics of vocal pedagogy: breathing, placement, and diction. Rhythmic and ear training are fundamental. Students also study the basic elements of music theory, including tempo, chord progression, and other musical terms. Students will be exposed to a varied repertoire of choral literature, including multicultural and classical selections. There will be ample opportunity for group performance and individual vocal growth for beginners and singers with previous experience in a choir.
Physical Education 8
The Physical Education program in grades 6-8 provides an environment where children enjoy actively participating with peers without feeling inferior based on their strengths and weaknesses. Personal fitness, teamwork, and cooperation are achieved through progressive challenges, teamwork, games, and team activities where the primary emphasis is active participation, not skill and drill. The course emphasizes the development of basic motor skills that allow participation in a variety of physical
activities. Student learning does not stop in the classroom, as physical education has a blended learning component. Through CREEKnet, students enhance their learning and understanding of health-related topics and the benefits of activities we offer during class.
Science 8
Science 8 focuses on earth science concepts through hands-on projects and explorations. Major units include Earth's Environmental Systems, Population Ecology, Evolution, Community Ecology, Biomes and Aquatic Ecosystems, Biodiversity and Conservation, Human Populations, Environmental Health, Urbanization, Freshwater Resources, and Global Climate Change. Students will engage in four projectbased units, including creating and publishing a comic book and designing and creating a website to inform about urbanization. In addition to the PBL units, students will also engage in a variety of smaller projects.
Grade 8 Spanish
Students who have enrolled in this course have completed 7th Grade Spanish. This course provides students with opportunities to continue the development of their listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. Weekly work will include numerous interactive activities reinforcing vocabulary and grammar; reading and listening comprehension activities; speaking and writing activities; and cultural presentations covering major Spanish-speaking areas in Europe and the Americas. The course has been carefully aligned to national standards as set forth by ACTFL (the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages).
Grade 8 Spanish Accelerated
This course provides students with opportunities to continue developing their listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. Weekly work will include numerous interactive activities reinforcing vocabulary and grammar; reading and listening comprehension activities; speaking and writing activities; and cultural presentations covering major Spanish-speaking areas in Europe and the Americas. The course has been carefully aligned to national standards as set forth by ACTFL (the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages). This course builds on the elements mastered in 7th Grade Spanish Accelerated to increase students' ability to communicate in oral and written Spanish.
String Ensemble
String Ensemble covers various genres of music, including contemporary and classical repertoire. Students perform representative pieces of music from these and other genres. Students extend their technical and musical abilities through group instruction. The study of the basic elements of music theory and general musicianship is the focus of this class through instrumental performance. This ensemble will perform two school concerts throughout the year and other performances at school events. You must come to this ensemble with some experience of your chosen instrument.
Possible Course Pathways in the Middle School
All students take English, Science, and History with their grade-level peers. Coursework in Math and Spanish is differentiated by course. Students are placed into the appropriate level of Spanish and Math based on their current class, performance and grades in their current class, teacher recommendation, placement testing and benchmark testing.
Math Pathways
The Middle School Mathematics department aims to develop a strong foundation in basic skills and concepts to prepare students for higher-level math. The Middle School Mathematics program focuses on opportunities for conceptual understanding and fluency with skills and procedures so that they enter Upper School ready to take on more advanced coursework. Students will be placed into the appropriate math course through placement testing, benchmark data, teacher recommendation, and performance in their current math course. Students who take Algebra 1 or Geometry in Middle School do not receive high school credit for these courses, but it does allow them to place into Geometry or Algebra 2 upon starting their ninth-grade year.
*This image represents the three main pathways for students, but there are opportunities to accelerate from Math 6 in 6th grade to Pre-Algebra in 7th grade. Course placement is evaluated each year to ensure students are enrolled in the course that best meets their readiness level.
Spanish Pathways
Like mathematics, the Middle School Spanish curriculum focuses on building a strong foundation while building confidence in speaking, listening, and reading in the Spanish language. Students will be placed into Upper School Spanish classes based on their grades, language comprehension, teacher recommendation, and placement tests.
A: Schedule Overview
