Middle School Curriculum Guide 2024-25

Newton Country Day School of the Sacred Heart

Overview of Middle School Curriculum

Newton Country Day School is committed to creating an educational environment where every student is encouraged to achieve academic excellence, develop personal integrity, and grow socially and spiritually within a caring and supportive community. Firmly built upon the five goals of Sacred Heart Education, the Middle School program at Newton Country Day focuses on the whole child with thoughtful consideration given to the developmental milestones that students experience during these formative years

The middle school years are a period of significant growth and change, as well as a time of self-discovery. Our developmentally aligned and focused curriculum integrates social, emotional, and academic learning, all of which are essential for educational success and life preparedness. Our Middle School program is designed around the education and development of the growing adolescent of today

The focus of our Middle School program is interdisciplinary and cross-curricular to enable students to see the relevance of what they are learning and how it connects to the world outside the classroom Through our curriculum, students engage in learning across traditional key subject areas as well as religion, music, dance, visual art, health and wellness, and technology With a strong emphasis on the arts, our Middle School curriculum requires all students to study music (both choral and instrumental), dance, and visual art throughout each year of Middle School. With the exception of Math in Grades 6, 7, and 8, Middle School classes are not leveled, though differentiation within subjects is employed to maximize student learning

Our Middle School curriculum also fully embraces learning that takes place outside the classroom. Students spend 1 to 1 5 hours every day outside of the classroom building life skills This includes, but is not limited to:

● An advisory program focused on social and emotional learning

● One-to-one student teacher time

● Weekly chapel

● Grade level and cross-grade community building activities

● Three seasons of after school sports

● Service learning

● Outdoor recess

● Co-curricular clubs

● Community and belonging initiatives

All students attend overnight camps and academic-based excursions. All students in Grades 7 and 8 participate in the Science and Engineering Fair with the top projects progressing on to the State Fair. All students in Grades 7 and 8 also participate in national-level world language competitions.

Our curriculum includes many opportunities for cross-disciplinary, hands-on project learning in all grades, with a specific emphasis on experiential education in our Voyagers and Explorers program for Grades 5 and 6. In Grade 8, the academic program culminates with students undertaking a Capstone project, in addition to a three-day experiential education trip to Washington, D C

As students progress through the Middle School curriculum at Newton Country Day, they develop agency and self-advocacy skills. They learn to navigate complex ideas and express themselves thoughtfully and confidently, with courage and poise. Centered on experiential, cross-curricular, and interdisciplinary learning, our Middle School curriculum guides our students in discovering their gifts and using their voices Our holistic approach to teaching and learning, anchored in the five goals of Sacred Heart Education, deepens students’ understanding across subjects and also equips them with the skills needed for their future academic endeavors and personal growth.

Middle School Plan of Study

Course and one-hour class periods in a 10 day cycle

Grade 5

English (7)

Grammar and Writing (3)

Grade 6

English (7)

Introduction to World Languages (5)

Math (7)

Science (6)

Math (8)

Science (6)

Religious Studies (4) Religious Studies(4)

History (6)

Dance (3)

Visual Art (3)

History (6)

Dance (3)

Visual Art (3)

Instrumental Music (3) Instrumental Music (3)

Chorus (3)

Technology (2 -1 semester)

Health and Wellness (2-1 semester)

Chorus (3)

Technology (2 -1 semester)

Health and Wellness (2-1 semester)

Voyagers (3) Explorers

Grade 7

English (7)

World Language (6)

● French

● Latin

● Spanish

Math (7)

Science (7)

Religious Studies (4)

History (6)

Dance (3)

Visual Art (3)

Chorus or Instrumental Music (3)

Technology (2 -1 semester)

Health and Wellness (2-1 semester)

History Research Skills (1)

Grade 8

English (7)

World Language (6)

● French

● Latin

●

Math (7)

Spanish

Science (7)

Religious Studies (4)

History (6)

Dance (3)

Visual Art (3)

Chorus or Instrumental Music (3)

Technology (2 -1 semester)

Health and Wellness (1)

Capstone (2- 1 semester)

Goals and Criteria of Sacred Heart Schools

Independent yet united in spirit and purpose, the international community of Schools of the Sacred Heart believes in educating the whole child, and preparing her to live fully and wisely At the core of the Sacred Heart education are the Five Goals, principles that express the intentions and hopes of our 200-year tradition.

Newton Country Day's culture and identity are bound inextricably to the vision set forth in the Goals of Sacred Heart Schools. They awaken and spur our faith, intellect, social action, community building, and personal growth. Whether planning a community service project, tackling an academic challenge, or supporting one another, students and faculty frame their choices and actions in accordance with the Five Goals When faced with challenges, they give us the language and focus to understand and prevail.

During their years at Newton Country Day, students measure their actions in the light of the Five Goals, until doing so becomes a habit of being. By the time our students graduate, these principles have become an internal well of wisdom and strength from which they draw throughout their lives

Goal I: Schools of the Sacred Heart commit themselves to educate to a personal and active faith in God.

1. The school identifies itself to the wider community as a Catholic-independent-Sacred Heart School and embodies the mission of the Society of the Sacred Heart

2. The school forms its student and adult members in attitudes of the heart of Jesus, such as gratitude, generosity, compassion and forgiveness.

3 The school community reflects an ethos of joy, hope and celebration and its programs assert that there is meaning and value in life.

4. The school community welcomes and respects persons of all faiths and educates to an understanding of the religions and spiritual traditions of the world

5. School leadership prioritizes space and time for silence and contemplation for its members to deepen their interior life

6. Members of the school community, open to the transforming power of the Spirit of God, engage in personal and communal prayer, discernment and reflection which inform their actions.

7 The school community, rooted in the love of Jesus Christ, nurtures the spiritual lives of its members through the exploration of one’s relationship to God, to self, to others and to creation.

Goal II: Schools of the Sacred Heart commit

themselves

to

educate

to a deep respect for intellectual values.

1. Sacred Heart educators and students engage in challenging experiences that inspire intellectual curiosity, a global mindset and a life-long love of learning

2. Sacred Heart educators develop and implement a dynamic curriculum, effective instructional methodology, current educational research and ongoing evaluation

3. Sacred Heart educators and students utilize a variety of teaching and learning strategies to support their growth and development.

4 The school curricular and co-curricular programs integrate innovation and collaboration, critical thinking and problem solving, the exploration of emerging technologies and critical evaluation of information.

5 The school utilizes space and the physical environment in alignment with best pedagogical practices

6. The school cultivates aesthetic values and the creative use of the imagination.

7. Sacred Heart educators assume responsibility for their professional growth, supported by resources and a culture that promotes life-long learning

Goal III: Schools of the Sacred Heart commit themselves to educate to a social awareness which impels to action.

1 Sacred Heart educators prepare students to serve the common good in an interdependent world

2. Sacred Heart educators immerse students in diverse global perspectives, developing competencies such as critical consciousness, language facility and cultural literacy

3. The school, drawing from Catholic Social Teaching, educates students to analyze and work to eradicate social structures, practices, systems and values that perpetuate racism and other injustices.

4 All members of the school community accept accountability for the care of God’s creation, practice effective stewardship of the earth’s resources and work to alleviate the climate crisis.

5 School programs promote informed active citizenship and civic responsibility on the local, national and global level.

6. The school community engages in direct service, advocacy, outreach and partnerships to work for justice, peace and the integrity of creation

7. Sacred Heart educators work to develop in the students a life-long commitment to service.

Goal IV: Schools of the Sacred Heart commit themselves to educate to the building of community as a Christian value.

1. The school, affirming that all are created in the image and likeness of God, promotes the inherent dignity of the human person and strives for relationships characterized by inclusion and mutual respect

2. The school implements an ongoing plan for educating all members of the community to the charism, mission and heritage of the Society of the Sacred Heart

3. The school engages with the Network of Sacred Heart Schools in the United States and Canada and Sacred Heart schools around the world.

4 All members of the school community support a clean, healthy and safe environment

5. Members of the school community practice and teach with a spirit of peace and reconciliation the principles of non-violence and conflict management.

6 School leadership demonstrates a conscious effort to recruit students and employ faculty and staff of diverse races, ethnicities and backgrounds.

7 School leadership allocates financial resources to support socioeconomic diversity both in the admissions process and in the daily life of students.

Goal V: Schools of the Sacred Heart commit themselves to educate to personal growth in an atmosphere of wise freedom.

1. Student and adult members of the school community grow in courage and confidence as they discover new abilities, cultivate strengths, learn from mistakes, develop empathy and exercise resilience in meeting challenges.

2. All members of the school community take personal responsibility for health and balance in their lives supported by a school culture that promotes spiritual, intellectual, physical and social-emotional well-being.

3. Members of the school community model and teach respectful dialogue in support of clear, direct, open communication

4. All members of the school community endeavor to practice informed, ethical decision-making and accountability.

5 Student and adult members of the school community model, practice, and teach safe, ethical and responsible use of technology.

6 Sacred Heart educators cultivate in the students life skills, such as initiative, creativity and agility

7. Sacred Heart schools recognize and educate to motivational, inspirational, and transformational leadership.

English

CriticalThinking andExpressive Language

Middle School English emphasizes the power of language to shape understanding, empathy, and connection. Receptive and expressive language skills are developed through close reading, discussion, and both analytical and creative writing projects

Essential Skills

● Genre

● Theme

● Language structure

● Purpose of literature

● Figurative and descriptive language

● Connection to Self and World

● Critical reading and analysis

● Active listening

● Writing process

● Analytical and creative writing

● Vocabulary and grammar in context

● Elements of subtext

● Annotations and inferences

● Collaboration and discussion skills

Grade 5: Grammar and Writing

In this course, students learn about English grammar in order to grow as clear and efficient communicators Over the course of the year, students study the parts of speech in English, learning both how to identify different parts of speech and how to use those parts of speech accurately. The course also includes opportunities for creative writing, through which students can apply the grammatical concepts they have learned. Ultimately, students leave Grammar and Writing with an increased appreciation of the importance of clarity in language.

Overview of Topics

● Identifying common, proper, singular, plural, and possessive nouns

● Understanding personal, possessive, subject, and object pronouns

● Recognizing action verbs, linking verbs, and helping verbs

● Identifying verb tenses (past, present, future) and subject-verb agreement

● Using descriptive, comparative, and superlative adjectives to modify nouns

● Recognizing adverbs and how they modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs

● Identifying prepositional phrases and understanding how they show relationships between nouns/pronouns and other words

● Using coordinating and subordinating conjunctions

● Identifying interjections and their role in expressing emotions

● Using correct punctuation marks (periods, commas, question marks, etc.)

● Applying capitalization rules for proper nouns, sentence beginnings, and titles

● Revising and editing sentences for clarity, grammar, and coherence

● Using varied vocabulary and sentence structures to enhance writing

Signature Activities

● Book binding project - Boston Public Library bookmaking class and history

● Voyagers interdisciplinary excursion to the Harvard Museum of Natural History, in conjunction with Science

● Writing and presenting original short stories

Texts and Other Resource Materials

● Excerpts from Rules ofthe Game 1

● Assorted short stories and articles

Grade 5: Introduction to Genre

This course introduces literary genres and styles of writing. Students begin the year reading The Phantom Tollbooth, a novel that introduces allegory and figurative language. Students practice the steps of the expository writing system by writing paragraphs analyzing a chosen character or motif In the winter, students read and analyze short stories Through annotation and thematically focused small group discussions, students learn to form and express opinions supported by textual examples and quotations In the spring, students study poetry through reading and analyzing a selection of classic and contemporary poems. They learn about metaphors, similes, and other poetic devices. Students leave grade 5 with an appreciation of a range of writing styles. Throughout the year, nightly independent reading reinforces the developing reading and analysis skills of the students and builds good habits and the ability to choose age-appropriate and varied works of literature.

Signature Activities

● Poetry portfolio

● Short story writing project

● Voyagers biweekly interdisciplinary place-based learning

● Middle School Poetry Contest

Texts and Other Resource Materials

● The Phantom Tollbooth

● Assorted short stories

● Great Short Poems

● Wordly Wise Book5

Grade 6: Literature and Civil Engagement

This course introduces public speaking, debate, and the study of Shakespeare Students study great speeches, looking at context, content, rhetoric, figurative and descriptive techniques, and delivery. Through analytical paragraphs students examine a speech in detail and practice the systems of the writing process The speech writing component challenges students to examine their beliefs and knowledge base to create an original speech that uses the rhetorical devices they study. The course concludes with Shakespeare’s play about public speaking: Julius Caesar. Students read and discuss the play, memorize and perform a monologue, debate, and write an expository paragraph explaining their assigned speech Students connect the texts they read to contemporary issues and the concept of civic engagement They leave Grade 6 having learned to present their ideas to the world with poise, clarity, and eloquence.

Signature Activities

Students develop critical reading and thinking skills through focused study, discussion, collaboration, and creative response. Argumentation skills are built through paragraphs, speeches, and debate.

● Speech study group project and presentation

● Collaboration with Science 6: Challenger Disaster and rhetorical response

● Speechwriting unit

● Shakespeare Study: Introduction to Shakespeare: Julius Caesar

● Commonwealth Shakespeare acting workshop

● Middle School Poetry Contest

Texts and Other Resource Materials

● American Heritage BookofGreat American Speeches for Young People

● William Shakespeare: Julius Caesar

● Wordly Wise Book6

Grade 7: Society and the Individual

In this course, students engage in the development of critical literary analysis and interpretation, as applied to a variety of novels, short stories, poems, and plays studied throughout the year. Writing is an important component of this course, and students have the opportunity to express their thoughts and ideas in connection with the literature studied. The class incorporates the study of different grammatical concepts and new vocabulary words into a number of writing assignments throughout the year.

Signature Activities

● Letters about literature

● Poetry portfolio

● Shakespeare study

● Middle School Poetry Contest

Texts and Other Resource Materials

● The Outsiders

● The Giver

● AMidsummer Night’s Dream

● AnimalFarm

● The Crucible

● Wordly Wise Book2

● Assorted Poems

Grade 8: The Literature of Empathy

In this course, students engage in the study of a variety of literary styles that focus on new perspectives. Students work to craft an authentic voice and become more incisive, nuanced, and precise in analysis. The goal is to broaden students’ love of language: its power, complexity, and many rhetorical uses Students begin the year by reflecting on Harper Lee’s words: “You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view... Until you climb inside of his skin and walk around in it.” Texts studied include Romeo andJuliet by William Shakespeare, To Killa Mockingbirdby Harper Lee, and Friedrichby Hans Peter Richter. The class concludes with the Holocaust project and a trip to the Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C.

Signature Activities

● Mystery story

● Capstone narrative

● Personal essay

● Shakespeare study

● Middle School Poetry Contest

Texts and Other Resource Materials

● The Adventures ofSherlockHolmes

● To Killa Mockingbird

● Romeo andJuliet

● Selected short stories and poems

● Voices from the Holocaust

● Wordly Wise Book

Health and Wellness

The Middle School Health and Wellness program equips students with the knowledge and skills they need to make healthy choices as they navigate the critical years of adolescence The program explores physical, emotional, and social well-being in greater depth, introducing new topics relevant to students' growing independence and changing bodies.

Program Focus

● Physical Health: Students will learn about the importance of physical activity, nutrition, personal hygiene, and taking care of their changing bodies during puberty.

● Emotional Health: The program emphasizes emotional well-being, teaching students how to recognize and manage emotions, cope with stress, and build resilience Students will also explore the impact of peer pressure, self-esteem, and strategies for maintaining a positive mindset.

● Social Health: Students will develop social skills such as communication, conflict resolution, and empathy. They will also learn about healthy relationships, including friendships and peer dynamics, and how to make responsible decisions in social situations

Essential Skills

Throughout Middle School, students are encouraged to deepen their understanding of health and well-being by developing essential skills that highlight the importance of wellness in their lives These skills include self-awareness, nutrition, decision-making, communication, healthy relationship-building, emotional regulation, and digital literacy.

Grade 5 Health and Wellness

This course introduces students to the fundamentals of health and wellness Using the Wellness Wheel as a guide, students explore the six key areas of health: physical, intellectual, emotional, environmental, social, and spiritual. The course emphasizes three key areas: physical, emotional, and social health. Students learn the importance of staying active, managing their emotions, and building positive relationships The course aims to help students develop healthy habits, become more self-aware, and improve their interactions with peers, all contributing to their overall well-being

Overview of Topics

● Balanced nutrition and the digestive system

● Yoga practices and benefits

● Understanding puberty

● Emotional regulation and self-care strategies

● Effective communication skills

● Conflict resolution techniques

● Empathy and kindness in relationships

Skills Emphasized

● Understanding health resources

● Nutrition knowledge

● Decision-making skills

● Developing healthy relationships

● Making responsible choices

Grade 6 Health and Wellness

This course builds upon the foundational concepts introduced in Grade 5, continuing to explore health and wellness through the lens of the Wellness Wheel. The course delves deeper into the three key physical, emotional, and social health areas, focusing on understanding how these dimensions interconnect and impact overall well-being Students

engage in more complex discussions, activities, and self-reflection to further develop healthy habits and social skills as they navigate the changes of early adolescence The goal is to equip students with the knowledge and tools they need to make informed choices and build strong, supportive relationships during this critical stage of life.

Overview of Topics Covered

● Nutrition for bone and muscle health

● The connection between movement and brain function

● Puberty and physical changes

● Building resilience in challenging situations

● Understanding the stress response

● Establishing healthy boundaries

● Exploring different communication styles

Skills Emphasized

● Awareness of physical activity

● Advanced nutrition understanding

● Effective communication skills

● Self-insight and perception

● Building healthy peer relationships

● Informed decision making

Grade 7 Health and Wellness

This course builds on the concepts and skills learned in Grades 5 and 6 with a deeper exploration of the Wellness Wheel and its components. As students transition into adolescence, this course focuses on fostering self-awareness, personal responsibility, and a more nuanced understanding of how their choices affect their physical, emotional, and social well-being. Students engage in critical thinking and problem-solving activities that equip them with the skills to navigate the complex changes they encounter during this developmental stage. This course empowers students to make informed decisions and foster a positive approach to their overall health and wellness

Overview of Topics

● Nutritional requirements in adolescence

● The cardiovascular and respiratory systems

● Embracing enjoyable physical activity

● Circadian rhythms in adolescence

● Navigating complex emotions

● Recognizing and responding to peer pressure

● Social media’s influence on relationships

● Practicing digital citizenship

Skills Emphasized

● Self-perception and reflection

● Healthy decision-making

● Nutrition and diet analysis

● Physical fitness and wellness

● Emotional and mental health awareness

● Digital citizenship

Grade 8 Health and Wellness

This course explores the neuroscience of adolescence and changes in the pubescent body and brain. Students will learn about the physical, cognitive, social, and emotional changes during puberty. Key themes addressed are learning to exercise personal responsibility, fostering healthy relationships with self and others, and developing positive

self-esteem and responsible social media use. The course aims to empower students with knowledge and skills to support healthy choices as they navigate adolescence

Overview of Topics

● Exploring the neuroscience of the adolescent brain

● Puberty and physical growth

● Peer and social development

● Cognitive development in adolescence

● Emotional growth during adolescence

● Responsible media consumption and digital citizenship

Skills Emphasized

● Self-insight and introspection

● Mental and emotional health strategies

● Stress management techniques

● Informed decision-making and critical thinking

● Healthy relationships and boundaries

● Practicing digital citizenship

History

The Middle School History curriculum presents a challenging, developmentally appropriate course of study for students in Grades 5 through 8 The program provides a solid foundation in history as well as in other aspects of the humanities and social sciences. Students study geography, investigate the complexity of human society through the analysis of cultures, and come to an understanding of diverse political and economic systems The program develops an appreciation of the interrelatedness of peoples and nations and challenges students to prepare for involvement as active and compassionate members of a democratic society.

Sequential skill building is a prime focus throughout the Middle School years. At each grade level, History and English faculty collaborate to reinforce and coordinate approaches to reading, writing, research, and analysis.

Essential Skills

● Questioning and posing problems

● Supporting claims with evidence

● Applying past knowledge to new situations

● Thinking and communicating with clarity and precision

● Engaging actively and thoughtfully with the course content

● Collaboration

Grade 5: Early America

An exploration of early American history, this course provides the opportunity for students to engage with such themes as geography, religion, political systems, culture, and women’s roles in society throughout the year The course begins with a unit on the indigenous peoples of eastern North America. Building on this foundation, students learn about English colonial settlements and the development of distinct regional variations in the treatment of religion, agriculture, politics, and slavery. Later in the year, students examine the causes of the American Revolution. To facilitate the development of students’ skills, including techniques of critical reading, the process of historical inquiry, and the fundamentals of historical writing, classes are devoted to small group and class discussions, individual and group projects, role-playing activities, analytical paragraphs, and narrative writing. Because of its

significant role in the early history of the United States, as well as our close proximity to its rich collection of historical and cultural resources, the curriculum highlights events, ideas, and people associated with New England Students, therefore, have the opportunity to put their knowledge and skills to work by engaging in hands-on learning experiences on location at sites such as the Jackson Homestead, the Concord Museum, and the Paul Revere House.

Overview of Topics

● The first Americans

● Explorers

● Settlers

● The colonies

● The American Revolution

Signature Activities

Experiential Learning trips to relevant sites such as:

● The Jackson Homestead

● The Concord Museum

● The Paul Revere House

Texts and Other Resource Materials

● myWorldInteractive: Building Our Country

● The Nystrom Atlas ofOur Country’s History

● Kathryn Lasky, Dear America: The Diary ofRemember Patience Whipple

● Relevant Handouts & Supplemental Materials

Grade 6: The Eastern Hemisphere

In this course, students study the history, geography, and culture of various regions in the Eastern Hemisphere, with a particular emphasis on Africa, South Asia, and Central Asia. Students master the geography of each region and become attuned to the impact of geography and resources on culture Class time is devoted to map work and geography skills, discussion, small-group activities, mini-lectures, visual literacy, research, and individual and group projects The course invites students to examine connections between the past and the present, and to discuss global issues and current events at an age-appropriate level.

Overview of Topics

● Using geography to understand the world and its peoples

● Africa

● South Asia

● Central Asia

Signature Activities

● The Africa Research Project and Presentation

● The India Essay using Keeping Corner

Texts and Other Resource Materials

● WorldGeography: My WorldInteractive

● The Nystrom WorldAtlas

● Andrea Davis Pinkney, The RedPencil

● Kashmira Sheth, Keeping Corner

● Relevant Handouts & Supplemental Materials

Grade 7: The Western Hemisphere

This course is an introduction to the geography and history of the Western Hemisphere. Students learn about the natural environments of North America, South America, and the Caribbean islands, as well as about the history of human interactions with these environments As students study the geography of each region of the Western Hemisphere, they look at indigenous peoples before and after European contact. They also examine how the modern Americas emerged from the interactions between people from the Americas, Europe, Africa, and Asia in the centuries following European arrival. Looking towards the future, they also consider how both history and interactions between people and the environment continue to shape the Americas today. Throughout the year, students continue to develop important skills such as analytical writing, note-taking, evaluation of both textual and visual primary sources, geographic fluency, media literacy, and historical research.

Overview of Topics

● Central America and the Maya

● The Caribbean, The Taino, and Columbus

● The Columbian Exchange, The Transatlantic Slave Trade, and Haiti

● Mexico and the Aztecs

● Modern Mexico

● Inca and the Andes

● Brazil and the Amazon

Signature Activity

● Native American Research Project

Texts and Other Resource Materials

● Savvas Learning Company, WorldGeography: MyWorldInteractive

● Chris Eboch, The WellofSacrifice

● Relevant Handouts & Supplemental Materials

Grade 8: The United States

Beginning with the Colonial Era and moving chronologically through Reconstruction, this course highlights major events, individuals, social and political movements, and legislation in the history of the United States. A unit on the writing and ratification of the Constitution provides students with essential knowledge of American civics and, as the course progresses, enables them to analyze the extent to which the United States has lived up to the ideals upon which it was founded. This course provides students with the knowledge and analytical skills necessary to understand and to examine current events within the relevant historical context To this end, the course emphasizes primary document analysis, research strategies, expository writing, geographical knowledge, recognition of cause-effect relationships, and oral presentation skills.

Overview of Topics

● British Colonial America and its diverse peoples

● The American Revolution & the Articles of Confederation

● The United States Constitution

● The Early Republic & westward expansion

● The Abolitionist Movement

● The Civil War and Reconstruction

Signature Activities

● The Historical Atlas Project

● Final Research Paper on the Civil War and Reconstruction

● The Civics Trip to Washington, D.C.

Texts and Other Resource Materials

● McGraw Hill Education, American History: Discovering Our Past

● Laurie Halse Anderson, Chains

● Esther Forbes, Johnny Tremain

● Nathan Hale, Nathan Hale’s Hazardous Tales: One DeadSpy

● Relevant Handouts & Supplemental Materials

Mathematics

The Mathematics program strives to empower students with analytical and problem-solving skills while providing them with a strong foundation for future college Mathematics courses All classes balance practicing fundamental mathematical skills with applying these skills in solving complex problems. As a result, they emerge from the program possessing a broad knowledge of mathematical tools and techniques, as well as a deep understanding of abstract concepts. In the Middle School, students are placed in class groupings based on their exposure to, and their level of mastery of, various math concepts. A test is given to aid in the placement process.

Essential Skills

Throughout their Middle School experience, students are encouraged to build automacy of math skills, to think abstractly about concepts, to solve problems in multiple ways, and to apply their skills to a myriad of unconventional problems They develop essential skills such as time management, organization, logical thinking, and mathematical communication both verbally and on paper. This prepares them to become deeper problem solvers and abstract thinkers - skills that will serve them in pursuing a career in STEM or in any field.

● Critical thinking

● Analyzing data

● Applying skills to real-world problems

● Problem-solving

● Risk-taking

● Resilience

● Collaborative teamwork

Grade 5: Foundations of Mathematics I

This course focuses on solidifying students’ skills learned at the elementary level In teaching new material, emphasis is placed on collaborative learning, skill automacy, and problem solving. Students are encouraged to support their solutions with work and to explain their reasoning and approach to problems. This course aims to develop strong skills that allow students to take risks and feel confident in their mathematical abilities

Overview of Topics

● Operations with whole numbers, fractions, and decimals

● Patterns and algebraic thinking

● Statistics

● Geometry

● Word problems

Signature Activities

● Fenway Park (exposure to statistics through baseball)

● deCordova Sculpture Park (exploring geometric shapes through sculpture)

● Guild Hall (applying logic and math to building robots)

Texts and Other Resource Materials

● Math: Course I, Larson et al , Mc Dougall Littell

● Math Department Practice Problems

● IXL skill workbooks

Grade 6 & 7: Foundations of Mathematics II

In this course, students build a strong foundation in key mathematical skills by practicing addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division with both fractions and decimals. They reinforce their understanding of the order of operations (PEMDAS) and begin exploring pre-algebra concepts, including variables, expressions, and equations Additionally, students work with percentages, estimation, rounding, and problem-solving strategies. They are also introduced to integers, gaining experience with both positive and negative numbers

Overview of Topics

● Operations with whole numbers, fractions, and decimals

● Order of operations

● Algebraic thinking

● Angles and Geometry in two dimensions

● Word problems

Signature Activities

● Boston (exploring Mathematics along the Freedom Trail)

● Interdisciplinary project with the Wellness Department involving cooking and fractions

Texts and Other Resource Materials

● Math: Course II, Larson et. al., Mc Dougall Littell

● Math Department Practice Problems

Grade 6 & 7: Foundations of Pre-Algebra

This course covers a range of essential topics, including operations with integers, fractions, and decimals Students learn the order of operations and explore the properties of rational numbers. They also study exponent rules, such as product and quotient properties, for both positive and negative exponents Emphasis is placed on solving multi-step equations and inequalities involving integers, fractions, and decimals. Students work with conversion factors and scale conversions, applying these concepts to ratios and proportions. Additionally, they study percentages and their practical applications The curriculum focuses on problem-solving, reading comprehension, and mathematical communication. The classroom fosters both independent and collaborative modes of learning.

Overview of Topics

● Operations with whole numbers, fractions, and decimals

● Order of operations

● Algebraic thinking

● Properties of exponents

● Percents

● Word problems

Signature Activities

● Boston (exploring mathematics along the Freedom Trail)

● Interdisciplinary project with the Wellness Department involving cooking and fractions

Texts and Other Resource Materials

● Mathtastic!Volume 1, Steimle and Tavares

● Math Department Practice Problems

Grade 7 & 8: Pre-Algebra

In this course, students build on their foundational math skills while being introduced to key algebraic concepts. Topics covered include integers, absolute value, and the order of operations. Students learn to simplify variable expressions using addition, multiplication, and the distributive properties They also tackle multi-step equations and inequalities involving decimals and fractions. With these skills, students analyze word problems, define variables, set up equations, and solve them The curriculum introduces exponent and polynomial operations, as well as graphing and writing equations for linear functions. Additionally, students work with percentages and inequalities to enhance their problem-solving abilities.

Overview of Topics

● Expressions and equations

● Inequalities

● Properties of exponents

● Percents

● Operations with polynomials

● Word problems

Signature Activities

● Math Trails (Boston): Students stop at a variety of sites to explore Mathematics in Boston

● Scale Drawing Project involving proportions

Texts and Other Resource Materials

● Pre-Algebra, Larson et. al., McDougall Littell

● Math Department Practice Problems

Grade 7: Pre-Algebra and Advanced Topics

This course delves into a broad range of mathematical concepts, including both positive and negative numbers, rational numbers, and various operations involving equations and inequalities. Their studies encompass an exploration of polynomials, fractions, decimals, and percents, along with an introduction to probability The curriculum integrates key elements from algebra, geometry, number theory, and trigonometry, providing a comprehensive foundation in these disciplines. Emphasis is placed on developing deductive reasoning skills, enabling students to approach mathematical problems with logical precision Throughout the course, students engage in independent work as well as collaborative projects in small groups. They receive close guidance and supervision to ensure a thorough understanding of the material and to support their problem-solving processes This approach helps students build confidence and mastery in their mathematical abilities.

Overview of Topics

● Expressions and equations

● Inequalities

● Properties of exponents

● Percents

● Operations with polynomials

● Word problems

● 3D Geometry

● Probability

Signature Activities

● Math Trails (various locations): Students stop at a variety of sites off campus to explore Mathematics

● Scale Drawing Project involving proportions

Texts and Other Resource Materials

● Mathtastic!Volume 2, Steimle and Tavares

● Math Department Practice Problems

Grade 7 & 8: Algebra I and Accelerated Algebra I

The primary goal of this course is to build students' confidence and refine their skills in solving fundamental algebraic problems. The course begins with a review of summer assignments and a diagnostic exam, setting the stage for the first semester focused on linear topics. Students engage in studying expressions, performing operations with negative numbers, distributing, and solving linear and absolute value equations and inequalities They also tackle systems of equations and various word problems. As the course progresses into the second semester, students shift their focus to the properties of exponents and operations with polynomials They learn how to factor and solve quadratic equations and explore operations with radicals and rational algebraic expressions. Additionally, students solve equations involving both rational and radical expressions. Throughout the course, the concept of functions are introduced and integrated into their study of algebraic principles More complex problems are covered in the accelerated course.

Overview of Topics

● Expressions and equations

● Inequalities and absolute value equations/inequalities

● Linear functions

● Systems of equations

● Properties of exponents

● Systems of equations

● Operations with polynomials

● Word problems

● Quadratic functions and equations

● Factoring

● Function notation

Signature Activities

● Jewelry making project, involving systems of equations

● Interdisciplinary project with the Art Department featuring stained glass window design that utilizes linear and quadratic functions

● Linear graphing with Desmos Project

Texts and Other Resource Materials

● Algebra I: Structure andMethod, Brown et. al, Houghton Mifflin

● Math Department Practice Problems

Religious Studies

Forming Lifelong Explorers ofFaith

The Middle School Religious Studies curriculum aims to form students as lifelong explorers of faith. By studying Hebrew and Christian scriptures, Church teachings, and the lives of holy people recognized as exemplars of faith, spirituality and justice, students develop a deep understanding of their own dignity and the ways faith shapes the life of the human community They examine scripture, prayer, art, and history to reflect on theological concepts and wrestle with ethical questions of identity, community, and ultimacy. As a whole, the curriculum inspires students to deepen their relationship with God and serve the world with compassion and justice. Through a variety of activities,

students are encouraged to explore and integrate faith with personal growth, offering students opportunities to apply religious teachings to their own lives while engaging creatively with Catholic and Sacred Heart traditions

Skills Emphasized

● Critical thinking

● Creative expression

● Personal reflection and self-awareness

● Community engagement

● Visual and textual analysis

● Communication

● Research skills

● Writing

● Public speaking

● Cross-curricular integration

● Collaboration and role-playing

Grade 5: Prayer and Tradition

This course invites students to engage deeply with Sacred Heart traditions, rituals, and scripture, encouraging personal reflection and spiritual growth. Through prayer, study of sacraments, and exploration of Catholic saints, students develop an understanding of how faith can be lived in both personal and communal contexts. This course emphasizes connections between biblical teachings and modern life, focusing on care for creation, prayer, and social justice.

Overview of Topics

● Prayer: How does prayerful reflection help us pay attention to what is important in life?

● Catholic Sacraments: What role do sacraments and rituals play in the Catholic faith?

● Traditions: How do the traditions unique to Sacred Heart inspire and guide us today?

● Scripture: What can we learn from biblical stories and their various interpretations?

● Care for Creation: How does faith encourage us to care for the environment?

● Lives of Saints: How do saints' lives teach us about faith and action?

● Liturgical Seasons: How do Lent, Advent, and Easter teach us about spiritual preparation, reflection, as well as both personal and community growth?

Signature Activities

● Voyagers excursions

● Prayer leadership

● Creative art projects

● Comparative scripture study

● Chapel service leadership

● Beatitudes reflection

● Vespers prayer service

Grade 6: Introduction to the Old Testament

This course focuses on the stories, values, and commitments found in the Old Testament, exploring how these ancient texts remain relevant today. Students delve into the major themes of covenant, faith, and mercy, as they examine the relationship between God, people, and creation Through their study of the Bible, students are encouraged to reflect on spiritual, moral, and relational lessons, applying them to their own lives and our modern context.

Overview of Topics

● Origins and Structure: What are the origins and organization of the Old Testament? How do divine inspiration and human creativity intersect in its creation?

● Jewish Holidays: What do holidays such as Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, and Sukkot teach about reflection, repentance, and gratitude in Jewish tradition?

● Babylonian Exile and the Hebrew Bible: How did the Babylonian Exile influence the Jewish community and the formation of the Hebrew Bible?

● Stories of Genesis: What do the stories of Creation, Adam and Eve, Noah’s Ark, and the Abrahamic Covenant reveal about humanity’s relationship with God and creation?

● Covenant and Faith: What does the Old Testament teach us about the special relationship between Yahweh and the people of Israel?

● Passover and Easter: How are the events of Passover and the Exodus connected to the Christian celebration of Easter?

Signature Activities

● Exploring Jewish holidays

● Study of the Genesis stories

● Old Testament research project

● Investigation into the connection between Passover and Easter

● Creative artistic expression of Biblical Themes

Grade 7: Introduction to the New Testament

This course invites students to engage with the life of Jesus, focusing on his humanity and divinity, while exploring the context and relevance of his teachings in today’s world. Through scriptural analysis, artistic expression, and cross-curricular projects, students deepen their understanding of Jesus’ mission, his care for the marginalized, and his invitation to all to live a life of faith. The course follows the liturgical calendar, integrating the study of scripture with personal reflection and participation in religious celebrations

Overview of Topics

● The Humanity and Divinity of Jesus: How do Jesus’ life and teachings reflect both his humanity and divinity? How can we relate to Jesus as fully human and fully divine?

● Jesus’ Concerns: How does Jesus’ ministry emphasize caring for the marginalized, healing the sick, and forgiving others?

● Mary and the Annunciation: What can we learn from Mary’s “Yes” to God? How does Mary’s faith inspire us to respond to our own callings?

● Beatitudes: How do the Beatitudes provide guidance for living a meaningful life?

● Infancy Narratives of Jesus: How do the different accounts of Jesus’ birth in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke reflect both historical and spiritual truths?

● The Passion and Resurrection: What do the Last Supper, Passion, and Resurrection teach us about sacrifice, faith, and hope?

Signature Activities

● Contemporary skit on “The Miraculous Catch”

● Annunciation poetry and art project

● Analysis of the infancy narratives

● Beatitudes art project

● Life of Jesus mixtape project

● Liturgical participation and celebrations

Grade 8: Saints & Social Justice

This course explores Catholic sainthood, social justice, and Catholic Social Teaching. Students examine the lives of saints, significant social justice leaders, and key principles that define a life of faith and service By studying the evolution of sainthood and applying the principles of CST to contemporary issues, students deepen their

understanding of how faith can inspire action. Through discussions, personal reflection, and creative projects students reflect on their own roles as modern disciples and saints in the making

Overview of Topics

● Catholic Sainthood:

○ What makes someone a saint and how has the concept evolved over time?

○ How do saints and saintly figures from various traditions inspire us today?

● Catholic Social Teaching:

○ How do the seven principles of Catholic Social Teaching reflect our values and priorities? What role does faith play in addressing social injustice?

● Nonviolence and Social Justice:

○ How can we live out Dr Martin Luther King Jr ' s philosophy of nonviolence?

○ How do Catholic leaders like Dorothy Day respond to societal needs through faith-based action?

● Discipleship:

○ What does it mean to be a disciple of Jesus, and how can we apply his teachings today by getting involved in service and social justice activities?

Signature Activities

● Saints in the stained glass of our chapel project

● Principles of Catholic Social Teaching project

● Laudato Si’ seminar and climate change debate

● Creative skits on contemporary nonviolence

● Research project on nominating a contemporary saint

Science

Inspiring Curiosity andFostering Exploration

Middle School Science is an exciting journey of inquiry and discovery, built on the idea that every student can become a scientist. Our curriculum fosters curiosity, encourages questioning, promotes critical thinking, and cultivates a deep appreciation for the natural world, while also emphasizing the essential contributions of women in science and engineering.

Skills Emphasized

Throughout the Middle School Science journey, students are encouraged to observe, question, and think critically about the world around them. They develop essential skills such as organization, communication, persistence, analysis, and collaboration, preparing them to become informed global citizens and lifelong learners in the pursuit of scientific understanding

● Questioning and curiosity

● Creativity and innovation

● Effective communication and collaboration

● Public speaking and science writing

● Organization and research skills

● Scientific inquiry and analysis

● Experimentation, data collection and data analysis

● Engineering design and prototyping

● Interpretation of graphical representations of data

● Critical thinking and problem solving

Grade 5: Ecology and the Environment

This course invites students to explore and analyze the natural world and its environmental challenges. Students dive into the dynamic world of environmental science, discovering the intricate relationships within ecosystems and the diverse biomes of our planet Through hands-on activities and collaborative projects, students nurture their curiosity, sharpen their critical thinking skills, and foster a sense of stewardship for the environment. Active learning experiences allow students to hone valuable skills that empower them as lifelong learners and engaged citizens

Overview of Topics

● Biotic and abiotic factors in Earth’s biomes

● Populations, communities, and ecosystems

● Water properties and cycles

● Human impact on the environment

Signature Activities

● Voyagers Excursions: travel to the EcoTarium, Harvard Museum of Natural History, and Crane Estate for real-world observations, data collection, and appreciation of Earth’s beauty

● Living Invention Project: creatively display the components of living things

● Microscope Mania Lab: visualize characteristics of microscopic, unicellular organisms

● Blossoming Beans Lab: analyze plant growth and adaptations in different biomes

● Mini-Science Fair: study experimental design, collect and analyze data, and present results using Daphnia Magna as a model organism

● Caterpillar Chronicles: examine the impact of different food sources on caterpillar growth and development

Texts

and Other Resource Materials

● Pearson Elevate Science Module: Relationships Within Ecosystems

● Materials created by the Middle School Science Department

Grade 6: Astronomy and Geology

This course asks students to reflect on their place on Earth, in the Solar System, and in the Milky Way Galaxy, and to consider the edges of the known Universe. Through lab investigations, field trips, research projects, presentations, and hands-on activities, students explore the vastness of space and the depths and processes of their home planet Students hone their scientific observational skills and utilize tools to investigate the world around them, both on Earth and out into the stars

Overview of Topics

● Distances in space and space travel

● Moon and its phases

● Solar System and the Universe

● Layers of the Earth and Earth processes

● Rocks, minerals, fossils, and geologic time

Signature Activities

● Design a Spacesuit Project: creatively think about modernizing spacesuits to allow for travel to and sustained life on Mars

● Mission to Mars Field Trip: engage in an interactive exploration to Mars and a visit to the Planetarium at the Christa McAuliffe Center

● Planet Poster Project: create a poster about future space travel to a planet

● Space Travel and Moon Landing History: take a historical look into the Moon Landing of 1969, manned and unmanned missions, and life on the International Space Station

● Rock, Mineral, and Fossil Investigation Labs: engage in hands-on lab activities to identify samples

● Geologic Time Project: complete a collaborative project describing life during different time periods

Texts and Other Resource Materials

● Pearson Elevate Science Module: Earth’s Place in the Universe

● Pearson Elevate Science Module: EarthSystems

● Materials created by the Middle School Science Department

Grade 7: Life Science

In this course, students embark on a deep dive into the natural world, in preparation for the study of biology in the Upper School. Engaging in scientific inquiry, collaboration, and discovery, students progressively build their understanding of the natural world, from the theory of evolution to cellular biology Students learn to design and analyze their own experiments, laying the groundwork for future scientific inquiry. Through labs, field trips, research projects, and presentations, students are guided to develop their scientific reasoning and communication skills, while exploring how biological principles relate to real-world environmental and health issues Students gain a comprehensive understanding of life science topics and are prepared to approach new scientific challenges with curiosity, persistence, and confidence.

Overview of Topics

● Evolution and adaptation

● Scientific process and experimentation

● Cellular biology and genetics

● Human health and diseases

Signature Activities

● Design an Organism Project: creatively design organisms with unique adaptations that allow them to thrive in specific ecosystems

● Excursion to the New England Aquarium: observe and analyze the adaptations of aquatic species

● Bee Houses: apply key features of healthy landscapes for sustaining bee populations to design an ideal bee habitat

● Science Fair Project: conduct independent research, present findings, and receive feedback from experts in the field

● Microscopy Lab and Cell Models: examine plant and animal cells under the microscope and construct cell models using clay

● DNA and Genetics Labs: explore the genetic code and its implications for health and disease through hands-on activities; build a “twizzler/marshmallow” model of DNA

● Infectious Disease Project: select an infectious disease, explore its historical impact, symptoms, treatment, and the mode of transmission; this cross curricular project intersects with History 7 and emphasizes skills in analytical writing

Texts and Other Resource Materials

● Pearson Elevate Science Module: Diversity ofLife

● Materials created by the Middle School Science Department

Grade 8: Physical Science

This course integrates an introduction to topics of physics and chemistry to foster a deeper understanding of the natural world. Students apply scientific principles to hands-on investigations of motion, forces, energy, and matter. Positioning themselves as engineers, students tackle real-world problems by applying their knowledge in inquiry-based projects. By honing their skills in critical thinking, problem solving, data analysis, and collaboration, students are well prepared for Upper School science courses

Overview of Topics

● Forces and motion

● Work and energy

● Engineering design process

● Matter and its properties

● Atoms, elements, and the Periodic Table

● Chemical reactions and bonding

Signature Activities

● Engineering Design Projects: design a zipline device and an egg-carrying car

● Engineering Fair Project: engage in a student-directed, collaborative project to design and test a prototype, utilize the iterative engineering design process to modify the prototype, present findings, and receive feedback from experts in the field

● Laboratory Investigations: observe and understand physical and chemical changes and the field of forensics

● Hands-On Experiments: create and interpret motion graphs, forces and force diagrams

Texts and Other Resource Materials

● Pearson Elevate Science Module: PhysicalScience(Middle School)

● PhET Interactive Simulations

● Materials created by the Middle School Science Department

Technology and Computer Science

The goal of the Computer Science program is to empower students to not only be consumers of technology, but to also be creators of technology. We also strive to educate our students to recognize the importance of understanding the ethical and moral implications of creating and using technology Therefore, we offer an array of courses to achieve these goals.

In the Middle School, students are assigned by grade to Technology classes that use class-based and cross-curricular technology projects to hone their skills in Google applications as well as graphic and website design. They are also introduced to computer programming in JavaScript, HTML, CSS, and Python.

Grade 5 Technology

Using Chromebooks, this course introduces students to Google Slides and Google Docs to practice creating professional documents. Students also create interactive artwork and projects by applying computer programming concepts in a block coding environment This exposes the students to the fundamentals of programming logic, syntax and design. Throughout the year, the class discusses topics relating to digital citizenship, including media balance and digital friendships. Students spend time in each class practicing their typing skills using an online typing application.

Grade 6 Technology

This course continues to use Chromebooks to build upon the foundations formed in Grade 5. After reviewing the skills learned in Grade 5, students are provided with a more in depth study of Google Slides. Students gain a deeper understanding of computer programming with an introduction to JavaScript adding to their understanding of the fundamentals of programming logic, syntax, and design. Throughout the year, the class discusses topics relating to digital citizenship, including online safety, cyberbullying, and digital footprints. Students spend time in each class practicing their typing skills using an online typing application.

Grade 7 Technology

This course explores the Google Sheets application. Concepts are practiced by organizing, analyzing, and graphing data within a project These skills are then applied in other courses, such as Grade 7 Science Fair projects In addition, students will learn HTML syntax and CSS styling to create and update a personal webpage. Throughout the year, the

class discusses topics relating to digital citizenship, including privacy security and cyberbullying. Students spend time in each class practicing their typing skills using an online typing application

Grade 8 Technology

This course provides students with an opportunity to further their exploration of Computer Science. To deepen their skills in Google Slides, students complete a “Choose Your Own Adventure” project that challenges them to make more interactive slideshows. This course also prepares students to develop a mastery of the fundamentals of text based computer programming, by studying the Python Turtle Graphics language. Students use a series of tutorials, example programs, quizzes, programming exercises, and challenge problems to get familiar with the syntax of the Python language. This includes variables, loops, and user input. The unit culminates with a Python Turtle Graphics project. The students continue practicing their typing skills using an online typing application, and online safety and digital citizenship topics are discussed throughout the year

Signature Activities

● Choose Your Own Adventure Story: In this project, students collaborate in a document to brainstorm ideas and outline their concepts. They work together to create a slide presentation, digitally sharing it with one another for feedback and contributions. As they build their presentation, they add text, images, and links to create a visually exciting experience. Throughout the process, students practice effective group decision-making to ensure that all voices are heard Ultimately, they weave these elements into an engaging, interactive story that captures their audience's attention.

● Programming with Python Turtle projects: In this project, students use code HS to code their own artistic creation using the Python programming language Students use sequence, selection, and iteration to produce a final project of their own design.

Visual and Performing Arts

The Middle School Arts curriculum at Newton Country Day provides students with a comprehensive and diverse range of creative opportunities in visual arts, dance, and instrumental and choral music. Through guided project-based learning and exploration, students develop their creative imagination, sensory awareness, critical thinking skills, and their own artistic voice. The program fosters personal growth and practice in the discipline and process of creating. We believe in a comprehensive approach that allows every student to study each of these artistic disciplines as part of our academic program, giving our students the skills they will need to succeed and become the future leaders of tomorrow. When each student is encouraged and challenged to develop her creative imagination, and appreciation of her own and others' artistic talents, her personal vision and voice will flourish. The breadth of our arts program affords students a myriad of opportunities to explore and express themselves creatively and develop their executing functioning skills.

Visual Art

Visual Art in the Middle School is an exploratory experience. For some, it may be their first structured studio art class. The goal of these classes is the discovery of the creative energy inherent in each student. Through guided instruction, students will be exposed to the elements and principles of art and design Projects may involve paint, drawing materials, printmaking, and working with traditional and non-traditional materials. Our Visual Art courses introduce students to problem-solving, self-discovery, and understanding the discipline and process of creating Exposure to art history places projects in a historical context and gives students insight into the minds of others before them, as well as building pathways to cross-curricular experiences.

Grade 5 Visual Art

In this course, students engage in a diverse exploration of creative expression through various mediums, techniques, and themes. They learn fundamental concepts such as composition, space, color, design, form, and movement while also delving into the works of famous artists to gain insight into different cultures and experiences The course begins with a study of Frida Kahlo and a collaborative tessellation project, culminating in the creation of painted wings symbolizing freedom and creativity A signature Goal III inspired project will ask students to connect with senior citizens at a local retirement home, creating and presenting portraits as a means of sharing their creativity and appreciation for the elderly.

Overview of Topics

● How can different art mediums and techniques be used to express ideas, feelings, and themes?

● What role does composition, space, color, and design play in creating effective artwork?

● How do the works of famous artists provide insight into diverse cultures and experiences?

● How can art be used as a form of service and connection within the community?

Emphasized Skills

● Creative expression and exploration

● Understanding of composition and design principles

● Analysis and interpretation of artworks

● Collaboration and community engagement

Signature Activities

● Study of Frida Kahlo and creation of a collaborative tessellation project

● Visit to a senior citizen home to create and present portraits to the residents

● Exploration of diverse art mediums and techniques to express ideas and emotions

● Display of original artwork in the annual Celebration of the Arts

Grade 6 Visual Art

In this course, students engage in a dynamic exploration of various artistic techniques and concepts throughout the year. Students are introduced to the intricate world of Celtic interlace design, where they learn the history and techniques of creating continuous, interconnected patterns From there, students transition to creating a charming triptych of birds, incorporating inventive stitching and vibrant colors with students exploring shading techniques, color harmony, and contrast to add depth and dimension to their individual compositions. The course culminates by exploring pencil shading techniques, challenging students to create a wide range of tone and value through meticulous work with shapes in graphite and colored pencil.

Overview of Topics

● How does the history of Celtic interlace design influence modern art and design?

● What role does shading, color harmony, and contrast play in creating depth and dimension in artwork?

● How can different artistic techniques and mediums be combined to create visually compelling compositions?

● What skills and techniques are necessary to create three-dimensional effects in artwork?

● How can art be used as a form of creative expression and storytelling?

Skills Emphasized

● Understanding of historical art styles and techniques

● Mastery of shading techniques to create depth and dimension

● Experimentation with color harmony and contrast to enhance compositions

● Precision and attention to detail in creating intricate patterns and designs

● Collaboration and creativity in creating a cohesive body of work

Signature Activities

● Creating Celtic Interlace Design patterns and applying them to paper

● Exploring typographic designs with shading, color, and texture techniques

● Practicing pencil shading techniques to demonstrate a wide range of tone and value

● Sharing work in the visual art show at the annual Celebration of the Arts

Grade 7 Visual Art

This course is designed after the Teaching for Artistic Behavior model Like working artists, students are tasked with generating their own original ideas, gathering materials and tools, exploring their ideas with false starts, changes in direction, and the freedom to make mistakes. Developing craft and exploring methods and materials that hold personal meaning are essential aspects to this course of study The importance of creating as spiritual practice, and to fully embrace the gift of working with hands, minds and heart, is a main focus for this grade level work. An extensive and multi-layered signature project asks students to create a new symbol by choosing five traditional symbols from the church, and reconfiguring them into a contemporary emblem. This is a long-term project that encourages quiet contemplation as students engage in the symbolic representation of faith. Materials that are explored in this class include pencil, plaster, ink, and acrylic paint Each stage builds visual skills of design by achieving balance,contrast, pattern, emphasis, unity, and variety. In practicing the application of paint, students explore the color properties of hue, tone, and intensity

Overview of Topics

● How can art be used as a form of self-expression?

● How can traditional symbols be reimagined into contemporary art?

● What is the importance of exploring different materials and methods in art-making?

● How can art be a form of spiritual practice?

● How can visual elements like balance, contrast, and emphasis be used to create effective compositions?

Skills Emphasized

● Developing craft and exploring methods and materials

● Creating new symbolic representation of faith

● Working with pencil, plaster, ink, and acrylic paint

● Design principles such as balance, contrast, pattern, emphasis, unity, and variety

Signature Activities

● Long-term project focusing on symbolic representation of faith

● Building visual skills through design principles and color properties

● Displaying original artwork in the annual Celebration of the Arts

Grade 8 Visual Art

This course is designed to deepen students' understanding of the elements of design, emphasizing their application in creating realistic artwork. Through focused instruction, students will learn how to use line, shape, texture, form, space, and balance to compose detailed and lifelike pieces. Projects encourage students to refine their skills in observational drawing, helping them translate what they see into realistic representations. In addition to design elements, the course introduces color theory, with a strong focus on painting techniques Students learn how to mix and apply colors effectively, gaining a deeper understanding of color relationships, harmony, and contrast. This course also incorporates art history, allowing students to study influential artists and movements, enriching their creative practice with a sense of historical context and inspiration This course concludes with the creation of a master copy painting, inspired by the Impressionists and Post-Impressionists. To complete this project students must recall all of the skills that have been developed over the course of the year

Overview of Topics

● How can the elements of design be used to create realistic artwork?

● What role does observational drawing play in translating what we see into realistic representations?

● How does color theory impact painting techniques and the overall composition of artwork?

● Why is studying art history important in enriching our creative practice and providing historical context and inspiration?

Skills Emphasized

● Understanding and applying the elements of design (line, shape, texture, form, space, balance) in artwork

● Refining observational drawing skills to create detailed and lifelike pieces

● Mixing and applying colors effectively in painting

● Developing a deeper understanding of color relationships, harmony, and contrast

● Studying influential artists and movements in art history to enrich creative practice and gain historical context and inspiration.

Signature Activities

● Plein-air drawing/painting

● Still-Life composition (graphite, charcoal, pastels)

● Exploration of Color Theory via the creation of a master copy

● Exhibition at the Celebration of the Arts

Dance

All Middle School students participate in our Dance program. By the end of Grade 8, our dancers will understand the basic fundamentals of ballet and modern dance techniques, gain experience performing dance as an expression of prayer, and be exposed to a wide variety of other dance genres. Each dancer will perform in a variety of time signatures and develop an understanding of the relationship between rhythm and musicality. Middle School Dance classes educate students in basic anatomy and kinesiology principles. Students are encouraged to experiment and engage deeply in the movement invention process. Rooted in the Sacred Heart Goals and Criteria, students come to understand and know that dance is a universal language and integral to cultures all around the world

Grade 5 Dance

This course provides an introduction to folk dance, liturgical dance, concert dance, and creative dance. The year begins by defining dance through a multicultural perspective Folk dances from around the world demonstrate how dance has historically served as a means to celebrate, pray, and build community. A cross-disciplinary unit exploring Native American dance and music as expressions of prayer segues into the study of contemporary liturgical dance. Students present original liturgical choreography at our Advent Vespers Prayer Service in December Throughout the year, the practice of modern dance and classical ballet teach technical exercises that build coordination. A visit to the Boston Museum of Science deepens students' understanding of the functional and expressive capabilities of the human body Students think analytically about how their bodies move as they learn to invent their own movement

Overview of Topics

● Folk dance

● Liturgical dance

● Fundamentals of dance technique (modern, ballet)

● Human anatomy as a source of inspiration for movement invention

● Concert dance performance

Skills Emphasized

● Technical skills: core support, balance, weight-transfer, coordination

● Creative skills: improvisation, movement invention

● Collaboration: working effectively with peers to create and refine dances

● Performance: memorization, spatial awareness, rhythmic interpretation

● Feedback and Revision: critiquing work constructively and making adjustments

Signature Activities

● Italian tarantella folk dance with tambourines

● Native American dance and song as prayer: cross-disciplinary work with history, music, and religion courses

● Hall of Human Life exhibit at the Boston Science Museum: cross-disciplinary work with wellness course

● Advent Vespers prayer service presentation in December

● Celebration of the Arts performance in May

Grade 6 Dance

In this course, students come to understand dance as a language which we use to communicate our thoughts, ideas, and feelings with one another. Grade 6 dancers study dance as a form of story-telling and engage in projects that create connections between their dance curriculum and other academic disciplines. Highlights of this course include learning a Japanese folk dance, studying dance as a form of prayer, building their ballet, modern and jazz dance vocabulary, as well as engaging in exercises exploring improvisation and choreographic composition. The curriculum includes an introduction to Bartenieff based movement principles, with an emphasis on each student developing their kinesthetic sense through active, multi-sensory learning.

Overview of Topics

● How does studying folk dance help us to learn about different cultures and foster both diversity and inclusivity?

● How does practicing liturgical dance enhance the experience of prayer by engaging the body, mind, and spirit in a unified expression of faith and worship?

● What skills/techniques should a dancer study to become a strong dance performer?

● How does studying dance history serve as a foundation for artistic growth and cultural appreciation?

Skills Emphasized

● Developing spatial awareness and coordination

● Building muscle memory and musicality

● Collaboration and teamwork

● Exposure and practice with vocabulary in relation to a variety of dance genres

● Making connections between dance and other disciplines

Signature Activities

● Learning the Tankō Bushi from Japan

● Performing in the Advent Vespers Prayer Service and the Celebration of the Arts

● Exploring Bartenieff based movement exercises

● Cross-curricular exploration of Shakespeare’s works

Grade 7 Dance

This course provides a broad foundation in dance technique, dance composition, and dance history As students learn and practice dance fundamentals from the modern, ballet, and jazz vocabularies, they are introduced to the history and cultural context of these dance disciplines. Choreography assignments challenge the students to think critically and creatively The Five Elements of Dance (body, action, space, time, and energy) are formally introduced in this course and used as a basis for movement invention. A unit in liturgical dance prepares students to perform in the Advent Vespers Prayer Service in December In the spring semester, particular focus is given to the art of storytelling as the students learn original choreography for the Celebration of the Arts performance in May. Past performances include the Aztec myth, “Place of the Prickly Pear Cactus” and Lois Lowry’s young adult novel, The Giver.

Overview of Topics

● Folk dances

● Fundamentals of dance technique

● History and evolution of classical ballet and early modern dance

● The Five Elements of Dance: body, action, space, time, and energy

● Storytelling: Using movement to convey narratives and emotions

Skills Emphasized

● Technical skills: core support, balance, weight-transfer, coordination

● Creative skills: improvisation, movement invention

● Collaboration: working effectively with peers to create and refine dances

● Performance: memorization, spatial awareness, rhythmic interpretation

● Feedback and Revision: critiquing work constructively and making adjustments

Signature Activities

● Folk dances to understand dance as a metaphor for culture

● Perform liturgical dance choreography for the Advent Vespers Prayer Service in December

● Storytelling through dance for the Celebration of the Arts performance in May

● “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” cross-disciplinary project with English 7 course

Grade 8 Dance

In this course, students study the fundamental dance elements and skills of ballet, modern, jazz, and contemporary dance disciplines. They engage in codified dance techniques and vocabulary; progressing from practice and demonstration to performance. Students gain a fuller understanding of and appreciation for the artistic integrity of dance with in-depth study of its history Integral to world-wide cultural heritage and traditions, dance fosters a global community. Students experience a myriad of movement initiatives through improvisational activities and creative projects, including the annual Hope for Humanity choreographic dance installation Students discover the dynamism of dance to inform and effect change in furtherance of a humane world. Students are inspired by Goal III; schools ofthe SacredHeart commit themselves to educate to socialawareness whichimpels action. Interdisciplinary collaborations provide investigative opportunities for new discoveries exemplified in a Dance and Coding unit. Technical and artistic endeavors garner experiential learning. Students participate in liturgical dance in preparation for the annual Advent Vespers Prayer Service and engage in process-oriented repertory for the spring dance concert in the Middle School Celebration of the Arts

Overview of Topics

● Identify/demonstrate movement skills as they pertain to established techniques

● Apply instruction through understanding of fundamental dance concepts

● Comprehend that dance is a means of communication

● Consider dance as integral to world-wide cultures and global community-building

● Implement the connections between dance and health

● Immerse artistic and spiritual dancing into preparation for the annual Advent Vespers Prayer Service and year-end presentation of Celebration of the Arts

Skills Emphasized

● Movement Skills: Understanding of proper alignment, flexibility, strength, coordination, balance, rhythmic acuity, stylistic and dynamic differences

● Technical Skills: Execution of technical fundamentals per dance discipline

● Creative Skills: Ability to distinguish the effects of musical accompaniment on dance in particular, instruments, genres, lyrics, live, and recorded music

● Critical Thinking Skills: Ability to compare and contrast a broad range of dance disciplines, engage in process-oriented repertory, and conduct constructive peer and self-evaluations

Signature Activities

● French ballet vocabulary and modern/contemporary terminology

● Ballet, modern, and contemporary techniques

● Cultural folk dances - creating global community

● Vespers Prayer Service - lessons, practice, presentation

● Hope For Humanity - Choreographic dance installation

● Dance and Coding - Movement and mathematics, sequences, combinations

● Celebration of the Arts - Spring Dance Concert

Music

Students in our music program have the opportunity to study a musical instrument or develop their singing voice. All students in Grades 5 and 6 participate in our instrumental music program, learning the basics of playing a woodwind, brass, or percussion instrument, as well as our vocal music program, where they sing in chorus Students in Grades 7 and 8 may choose to continue playing their instruments as a part of the more advanced 7th and 8th Grade Concert Band, or continue into an advanced course of vocal study in 7th and 8th Grade Chorus. Students who hope to hone their skills further are encouraged to enroll in our private lesson program Although students are welcome to provide their own instruments, Newton Country Day manages the process of instrument rental and purchase for most students

Grade 5 & 6 Instrumental Music

Every student in Grades 5 and 6 studies a woodwind, brass, and percussion instrument as part of the Middle School Music curriculum In this course, students study music by exploring different instrument families and selecting an instrument to study for the year. This course begins to build students' understanding of the Five Core Music Competencies based on the Sacred Heart Goals: Sacred Music, Standard Repertoire Mastery, Music of Social Justice, Community in Music, and Contemporary Music Students will build music literacy and develop foundational musicianship skills, such as reading written music. Through exploration of cultural and historical aspects of music, students enhance their ability to perform and create music, and foster a lifelong passion for artistry. They will analyze their strengths, needs, and identities as musicians, and engage thoughtfully in the artistic process This course is pass/fail, with assessments based on participation, effort, focus, and respect for materials and instructions. Students perform at the Middle School Celebration of the Arts in May

Overview of Topics

● What is sound and how do various instruments produce sounds?

● What is the value of practice in improving our skill development?

● How do we work collaboratively to produce a well-balanced ensemble sound?

● What is the importance of being able to read music?

Skills Emphasized

● Music literacy through solfege, sight-reading, and pattern training

● Proper posture, breathing techniques, and pitch production for performance

● Aural/oral skill development for performance

● Social-emotional learning through thematic music

● Collaboration and teamwork

Signature Activities

Students cultivate an appreciation for music in an interdependent learning environment centered around these activities:

● Combined 5th Grade Voyagers and 6th Grade Explorers field trip to a professional music ensemble performance in the greater Boston Area

● Celebration of the Arts: Centers around social justice, social emotional learning, and interdisciplinary connections; themes have included works by women composers, selections from American musical theater, and spirituals

Grade 7 & 8 Middle School Concert Band

This course is designed for students with prior ensemble instrument experience and focuses on developing individual musicianship, as well as achieving a balanced ensemble sound. This course deepens students’ understanding of music in the Five Core Music Competencies based on the Sacred Heart Goals: Sacred Music, Standard Repertoire Mastery, Music of Social Justice, Community in Music, and Contemporary Music. Through a varied study of instrumental music in a cultural and historical context, students will build performance skills and music literacy This course promotes personal growth through analysis, self-assessment, and active engagement in the artistic process. Essential questions explore the value of practice, the role of community in music, and active listening. Students are evaluated on behavior, musicianship, and active participation Students perform at the Advent Vespers Prayer Service in December and the Middle School Celebration of the Arts in May.

Overview of Topics

● What is the value of practice?

● Why is community important in making music?

● How can I grow as a musician this year?

● What is active listening and how does it help the ensemble?

Skills Emphasized

● Music literacy through solfege, sight-reading, and pattern training

● Proper posture, breathing techniques, and pitch production for performance

● Aural/oral skill development for performance

● Social-emotional learning through thematic music

● Collaboration and teamwork

Signature Activities

● Advent Vespers Prayer Service: Project-based learning collaboration between all performing arts discipline as a summative assessment, including self-reflection

● Celebration of the Arts: Centers around social justice, social emotional learning, and interdisciplinary connections, Themes have included works by women composers, selections from American musical theater, and spirituals

Grade 5 & 6 Chorus

In 5th and 6th Grade Chorus, we explore music through the lens of a singer in an ensemble. In Chorus, we discover the voice through the understanding of breath control, body alignment, and healthy vocal technique This course begins to build students' understanding of the Five Core Music Competencies based on the Sacred Heart Goals: Sacred Music, Standard Repertoire Mastery, Music of Social Justice, Community in Music, and Contemporary Music Students build music literacy by studying techniques developed by Zoltán Kodály, Émile Jacques-Dalcroze, and contemporary pedagogues. By singing folk songs, liturgical music, songs, and varying choral repertoire, students cultivate the tools to be proficient singers, confident musicians, and expressive performers Signature experiences include an excursion to St. Paul’s Choir School and performing in the Advent Vespers Prayer Service, as well as the Celebration of the Arts.

Overview of Topics

● How do vocal, musical, ensemble, and life skills cultivate expressivity in singing?

● How does music, as a universal language, connect us to people in our community and globally?

● How does the study of music and musical pedagogues expand our understanding of ways to learn and grow?

● How does independent learning enhance a choral ensemble, as well as our own skill development?

● How does performing diverse music with varied texts, languages, and cultural backgrounds foster an artistic connection with our audience and broader community?

Skills Emphasized

● Music Literacy - solfege, rhythm activities, music patterns

● Vocal Technique - breath work, body alignment, practicing of good vocal technique

● Choral Repertoire - melody, rhythm, tempo, harmony, text, and community building

● Expression - artistic expression of a piece of music

● Choral ensemble - singing collaboratively

Signature Activities

● Advent Vespers Prayer Service - students participate in a collaborative performing arts prayer service as a summative assessment followed with a reflection

● The Celebration of the Arts - students participate in a collaborative performing arts performance, a cumulative performance of the numerous skills that they have learned throughout the year.

● Cross Curricular Activity - Students visit St Paul’s Choir School for a choral rehearsal and observation of a choral sung mass. Students study the cross of sacred scripture and the history of sacred music for the mass.

Text

● Sing at First Sight, Level1

Grade 7 & 8 Chorus

In this course, students engage deeply with music through performance and aural/oral skills development. This course deepens students' understanding of music in the Five Core Music Competencies based on the Sacred Heart Goals: Sacred Music, Standard Repertoire Mastery, Music of Social Justice, Community in Music, and Contemporary Music. Guided by themes of social justice, social emotional learning, and inclusivity, the course aims to build good choral citizenship and connect music to students' daily lives and other academic disciplines Student learning is centered around choral performance, music literacy, and the exploration of diverse music genres, from sacred music to contemporary works.

Overview of Topics

● What role does music play in social justice and emotional well-being?

● How do women composers and their works contribute to the choral tradition?

● How does choral music connect with and reflect different cultural contexts?

● What skills and techniques are necessary to become a successful choral singer?

● How can music bring communities together?

Skills Emphasized

● Music literacy through solfege, sight-reading, and pattern training

● Aural/oral skill development for performance

● Cultural competency and inclusivity through diverse music genres

● Social-emotional learning through thematic music

● Choral collaboration and teamwork

Signature Activities

● Students cultivate an appreciation for music in an interdependent learning environment centered around these activities:

● Advent Vespers Prayer Service: Project-based learning collaboration between all performing arts discipline as a summative assessment, including self-reflection

● Celebration of the Arts: Centers around social justice, social emotional learning, and interdisciplinary connections, Themes have included works by women composers, selections from American musical theater, and spirituals

● Cross-curricular Collaboration with Latin/World Languages: Singing in a world language is a skill which builds our cultural competency and allows us to explore diverse musical traditions, singing in Latin builds

upon our understanding of Goal 1 and the history of the Mass, past units have included music of Hadyn and Mozart

● Studying Music of Social Justice: Study of spirituals, contemporary, and classical music fosters a responsible engagement with the canon while exploring how music can be a catalyst for social justice which impels to action

Texts and Other Resource Materials

● EssentialElements for Choir, BookOne

World Languages

WorldLanguages: GlobalCitizenship

The Middle School World Languages curriculum introduces students to Latin, French, and Spanish, emphasizing language as a bridge to understanding diverse cultures and histories. Students explore the foundations of each language through vocabulary, grammar, and cultural practices, gaining insight into their global significance In Latin, students uncover the roots of modern languages and explore Roman history, learning how ancient culture still influences us today. They also make connections to English vocabulary, building a foundation for future language studies In French and Spanish, students develop communication skills while discovering the Francophone and Hispanic worlds. By engaging with authentic cultural materials, they deepen their understanding of these languages' heritage and modern-day realities, fostering a well-rounded, global perspective

Essential Skills

Our World Language program emphasizes essential skills such as speaking, listening, reading, and writing in the target language Students develop basic conversational skills to engage in everyday dialogues, which builds their confidence in speaking. Listening comprehension is also a focus, allowing them to understand native speakers and follow simple conversations. Reading and writing activities strengthen vocabulary and grammar, enabling students to express themselves in both oral and written forms Cultural awareness is integrated, helping students appreciate diverse perspectives and fostering a global mindset.

Grade 6 Introduction to World Languages

In this course, students explore Latin, French, and Spanish to see how Romance languages are connected and to help them decide which language they will study in Grades 7 and 8. They study vocabulary, grammar, and culture to deepen their understanding of the contexts in which Latin, French, and Spanish were and are spoken.

Overview of Topics

● Introduction to languages’ families

● Conversational phrases

● Nouns and family vocabulary

● Verb system

● Personal pronouns

● Adjectives

● Numbers

Skills Emphasized

● Vocabulary building

● Mastery of noun functions

● Understanding verb conjugations

● Grasping sentence structure, including subject-verb agreement and word order

● Translating into and from the target language accurately, focusing on nuances of meaning

● Recognizing and translating different sentence types

● Memorization

Signature Activities

● Coin project

● French Baking Class

● French Trivial Pursuit

Texts and Other Resource Materials

● Materials adapted from Aequora

French

Beginner’s French A and B

This course introduces students to the fundamentals of the French language. Speaking, reading, writing and listening comprehension will be practiced via assignments, projects, role-plays, and interactive activities and games Improving conversational skills is emphasized; therefore, all students are encouraged and expected to exercise their oral communication abilities Students will also learn about francophone cultures and French-speaking areas of the world They will thus be exposed to authentic cultural material such as songs and other audio and visual materials.

Overview of Topics

● Vocabulary (samples):

○ Greetings and goodbyes (Grade 7)

○ School-related vocab: classroom objects & subjects (Grade 7)

○ Family (Grade 7)

○ Places in the city (Grade 8)

○ Leisure activities: hobbies & sports (Grade 8)

○ Vacation and weather (Grade 8)

○ Clothing (Grade 8)

● Grammar (samples):

○ Nouns and articles

○ Numbers

○ Telling time

○ Forming questions

○ Adjectives (how to describe)

○ Direct and indirect pronouns

○ Regular and irregular verbs

○ present, past and future tenses

Skills Emphasized

● Listening comprehension

● Reading comprehension

● Speaking and writing skills

● Overall understanding of the Francophone culture

● Metacognition

Signature Activities

● French Cooking Class

● National Exam

● Weather Report

● Family Tree Project

● Film: Le Ballon Rouge

Texts and Other Resource Materials

● D’Accord1A

● D’Accord1B

Latin

Beginner’s Latin A and B

In this course, students will be able to acquire Latin vocabulary and understand grammatical structure Students learn English vocabulary influenced by Latin roots and explore the many ways the Roman Empire continues to shape our modern world. Using Suburanias their text, students also discuss various aspects of the ancient world, looking at Roman history and culture, as well as Latin etymologies Comparisons between our culture and that of the Romans will be made for deep engagement with language and culture. The goal is to give students a solid foundation for further study in Latin.

Overview of Topics

● Noun cases (nominative, genitive, dative, accusative, ablative, vocative)

● 1st, 2nd, 3rd declensions

● Verb tenses (present, imperfect, perfect)

● Irregular verbs (sum, volo, nolo)

● Imperative verbs

● Prepositional phrases

● Noun adjective agreement

Skills Emphasized

● Mastery of Latin grammar rules, including noun declensions, verb conjugations, adjectives, and pronouns

● Vocabulary building

● Recognizing Latin roots in English words

● Memorization of the four conjugations (present, imperfect, future, etc.) and five noun declensions

● Noun case recognition

● Translation skills

● Reading comprehension

● Understanding Roman culture, mythology, and history

Signature Activities

● Epistolary writing project

● Cena invitation

● Mega gladiator

● Advertisement to join the Roman army

● National Exam

● Metacognition

Texts and Other Resource Materials

● Suburani

Spanish

Beginner’s Spanish A and B

This course introduces students to the fundamentals of the Spanish language. Speaking, reading, writing, and listening comprehension will be practiced via assignments, projects, role-plays, interactive activities, games, and much more Improving conversational skills is emphasized; therefore, all students are encouraged and expected to exercise their oral communication abilities. Students will also learn about Hispanic cultures and Spanish-speaking areas of the world They will be exposed to various authentic cultural materials such as songs and audio and visual materials.

Overview of Topics

● Vocabulary (samples):

○ Greetings and goodbyes (Grade 7)

○ School-related vocab: classroom objects & subjects. (Grade 7)

○ Family (Grade 7)

○ Places in the city (Grade 8)

○ Leisure activities: hobbies & sports (Grade 8)

○ Vacation and weather (Grade 8)

○ Clothing (Grade 8)

● Grammar (samples):

○ Nouns and articles

○ Numbers

○ Frequently used Spanish verbs

○ Telling time

○ Asking questions

○ Adjectives

○ Direct and indirect pronouns

Skills Emphasized

● Listening comprehension

● Reading comprehension

● Speaking and writing skills

● Overall understanding of the Hispanic culture

● Metacognition

Signature Activities

● Micalaca (cultural project about the celebration of the Day of the Dead; Grade 7)

● Family Tree Project (Grade 7)

● Weather Forecast Project (Grade 8)

● National Exam (Grade 8)

● Design of an online clothing store (website; Grade 8)

Texts and Other Resource Materials

● Senderos 1A

● Senderos 1B

Academic Support and Enrichment

Newton Country Day is dedicated to providing every student with the tools and resources they need to grow and thrive in the classroom, reaching their fullest potential By offering personalized support and tailored learning strategies, we empower our students to excel academically, helping them understand themselves as learners and take ownership of their learning. We work closely with students who have diagnosed learning differences as well as those who may benefit from academic enrichment With all students, we strive to instill a growth mindset, encouraging them to embrace challenges, learn from setbacks, and celebrate their progress.

Our Academic Support team and our faculty work in partnership with families so that each student receives the encouragement and guidance she needs to thrive not only in the classroom, but also beyond the walls of our school. As our students progress through the Middle School and into the Upper School, our hope is that they will grow in their advocacy skills and assume increased ownership of their academic journey.

Program Highlights

● An individual Success Plan generated for each student (with neuropsychological testing) that highlights the student’s strengths and challenges, as well as the accommodations that teachers will provide to ensure the student’s continued academic growth

● Individualized Academic Support periods with a Learning Specialist for students with diagnosed learning differences

● Dedicated Learning Center staffed by a full-time learning support faculty member

● Executive Skills and Social-Emotional Learning lessons for all students with intentional curriculum disseminated during weekly group advisory meetings

● Classroom-based Wellness programming for all students throughout each year of Middle School

● Dedicated Middle School team of Academic Support and Wellness faculty including a psychologist, learning specialist, nutritionist, and health professionals who work with all students

● Dedicated Student/Teacher periods in which all students can receive individualized help from teachers outside of the classroom but during the academic day

● Advisory Program in which faculty have a touch point with each family approximately every six weeks throughout the school year with a focus on student growth and development

● After-school math tutoring program

● Academic enrichment opportunities, including competitions

● In very rare instances, acceleration beyond the grade level in Math and/or World Languages. Final decision rests with the appropriate department chair.

Signature Programs

Grade 5 Voyagers

Designed to spark curiosity and build lasting connections across disciplines, the Voyagers program empowers students to discover the joy of learning beyond the classroom walls. Every other Wednesday, students in Grade 5 venture into the community for an interdisciplinary, student-centered, and inquiry-focused educational excursion, leaving campus at 10am and returning by 2:30pm. Over the course of the year, students will participate in approximately fifteen academic excursions Plans for Voyagers’ trips are drawn from the curriculum and are designed to complement traditional lessons. Some examples of Voyagers excursions planned for this year include a Visual Art and Grammar excursion exploring book binding at the Boston Public Library, a Math and Technology excursion to

Guild Hall to build robots, and a Dance and Music “in-house” excursion with the Wampanoag Nation Singers and Dancers

Grade 6 Explorers

Building on the Grade 5 Voyagers program, the Grade 6 Explorers program offers monthly inquiry-based, cross-curricular excursions that integrate classroom learning with real-world experiences to bring subjects to life. From engaging in a Mission to Mars at the Christa McAuliffe Space Center to visiting the Leventhal Map and Education Center at the Boston Public Library where students practice using cartographic tools, these immersive adventures foster critical thinking, collaboration, and a deeper understanding of how classroom knowledge applies to the real world.

Grade 6 Public Speaking

In Grade 6 English, students research, write, and present original speeches inspired by Goal III, educating to a social awareness which impels to action. Using their knowledge of rhetoric, oratory, and the power of language, they share their researched topic of interest with the entire Middle School.

Grade 7 & 8 Science and Engineering Fair

All students in grades 7 and 8 present independent research projects at the annual Science and Engineering Fair Judges include Newton Country Day alumnae, faculty, and staff with backgrounds in science, medicine, mathematics, and engineering The top placing teams move on to the Massachusetts State Science and Engineering Fair At the 2024 State Fair, our Grade 7 students earned First Place and our Grade 8 students earned Second Place.

Grade 8 Capstone

The Capstone course, which meets once a week during the first semester, is an independent study project undertaken solely by a student with mentorship from a faculty member During the formal aspect of the course in the first semester, students propose and plan a personal project that displays their personal interest in a topic, a mastery of Middle School curriculum, and an understanding of the Goals of Sacred Heart schools During the second semester, students work independently with a mentor to execute their project. A Capstone Showcase is held in April, where students present their projects to the community with a formal presentation. The capstone project could be a product, a piece of art, a podcast, or a novella The possibilities are endless and should be driven by the student’s personal interests.

A successful Capstone project will:

● Show student’s authentic interest.

● Reflect time and effort invested in a project

● Demonstrate grade-level skills and knowledge.

● Directly integrate two or more academic subjects

● Embody the Sacred Heart Goals, with a direct focus on one goal

● Demonstrate achievement of the student’s learning objective.

● Display an original product created by the student

Middle School Clubs

The following clubs are offered during the one hour a cycle FLEX block for students in Grades 7 and 8. All students in Grades 5 and 6 undertake musical instrument instruction during the FLEX club block

Digital Media Club

This club offers students a dynamic platform to express their creativity and share their voices with the community. Members of the club collaborate to produce a Middle School magazine, working as writers, editors, and designers. They explore a variety of topics, from student life and school events to arts, culture, and current affairs The club provides hands-on experience in journalism, editing, and digital design, while fostering teamwork and honing communication skills

Cantilare

This dynamic singing group for students in Grades 7 and 8 focuses on elite, small group performance and fostering community through music With a strong emphasis on collaboration, members work closely with Liturgical Dance to create powerful, expressive performances. In Cantilare, students enhance their vocal skills while building lasting connections with peers. Students in Cantilare also perform at special events both in and out of school.

Nutrition & Cooking Club

This club offers students the opportunity to explore healthy eating habits, learn basic cooking skills, and understand the importance of balanced nutrition. In this hands-on club, students prepare simple, nutritious meals and snacks, discover new ingredients, and learn different cooking techniques Through fun cooking activities, nutrition challenges, and group discussions, students gain practical knowledge about how food fuels the body, supports well-being, and can be both delicious and nutritious.

Math Club

Newton Country Day’s competitive Math Team, open to students in Grades 7 and 8, explores problems from the American Mathematics Competition (AMC 8) league. In this club, we work to solve problems in all areas of math ranging from probability, data science, proportional reasoning, geometry, spatial visualization, and everyday applications. The AMC exam, a 25 question multiple choice exam, takes place in January.

Liturgical Dance

This ensemble offers students the opportunity to experience dance as an inherent form of spiritual expression Students explore dance through concrete and abstract movement discovery, including classical and contemporary dance techniques. They will investigate symbolic gestures, motifs, and metaphors that convey intention and prayer. Liturgical dancing will journey through poses, pathways, and spatial configurations that trace proportion, balance, and harmony. As a synergetic collective, liturgical dancers will derive joy and peace through their shared experience. The Liturgical Dance Ensemble participates in the Middle School Advent Vespers Prayer Service, spring Celebration of the Arts, school Masses, and Chapel services.

Robotics Club

This club offers students hands-on activities and problem solving skills in the areas of science, computer coding, and engineering Using Sphero robots, students learn the basics of robotics and engage in learning activities that inspire them and help to go beyond the classroom in certain topics. Through participation in the Robotics Club, students benefit through increased self-confidence and enhanced critical thinking, problem solving, and team building skills

Shakespeare Club

Through fun and interactive activities, students in the Shakespeare club dive into famous plays, learn about Elizabethan theater, and bring characters to life through dramatic reading and performance! Whether you ' re a budding actor or just curious about Shakespeare’s timeless works, this club is a great space to develop your creativity and appreciation for classic literature.

Girl Up!

In the Girl Up! club, students learn about girls’ access to education in places outside of the United States. Determined to create a world in which all girls complete secondary school, Girl Up! members organize a fundraising event to support a Sacred Heart school in Uganda

Goal III Book Club

Our Goal III Book Club is a welcoming space for students to engage with books that explore themes of equity, inclusion, and social change. Through reading, read-alouds, and open discussions, students will explore topics such as racial justice, gender equality, environmental stewardship, and more This club aims to foster critical thinking, empathy, and a deeper understanding of the world around us. By sharing diverse stories and perspectives, we encourage students to build a sense of community and develop tools to become thoughtful, compassionate advocates for social justice.

Additional Middle School Programming

TAG Advisory

Each week TAG (Teachers and Girls) meets in small advisory groups (1 teacher: 5 students) to explore intentionally-focused discussion and activities focused on the CASEL framework of social awareness, relationship skills, responsible decision making, self management, and self-awareness. TAG Advisory is also a time for students to share a more personal touch point with a trusted adult in our community The advisor is the main point of contact with parents and caregivers for any concerns regarding their daughter.

Affinity Lunch Group

During these weekly Friday lunch gatherings, members are empowered to explore topics of race, identity, and history. This is accomplished through hosting community meals, involving students in chapel and assemblies, creating art projects, and studying artists with diverse backgrounds.

Big Sister/Little Sister

This program pairs Grade 8 students with younger Middle Schoolers to foster mentorship, friendship, and community. Through this program, students in Grade 8 serve as role models, offering guidance, support, and encouragement to their "little sisters" in Grades 5-7 This program strengthens bonds across grade levels and encourages leadership, empathy, and a sense of belonging within our school community.

Chapel

Each week students gather in chapel for a dedicated student-led service focused on developing a closer connection with Goal 1. Weekly chapel services are a time for promoting personal reflection, building community, and providing a space for students to explore themes of faith, compassion, and social responsibility.

Middle School Musical

Offered as an after-school winter program, with auditions at the end of November and evening performances held in mid-February, the Middle School musical offers students a fun and creative opportunity to explore the world of theater Open to all skill levels, students learn acting, singing, and dancing while also developing teamwork, confidence, and self-expression. As this program runs at the same time as the winter sports program, students must choose between participating in the musical or a winter sport. This year’s production is Beauty andthe Beast.

Sports

Our Middle School after-school Sports program offers three seasons of competitive sports programming Whether they are deepening their abilities in a specific sport, or trying something new, students build confidence, resilience, and camaraderie with their peers in team sports organized by skill level In some sports there are up to three teams based on skill level. This fall season, over 90% of Middle School students are participating in the sports program. Practice sessions are held after school on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays. Game days are typically Wednesdays and Fridays On days in which games are not held, practice is usually held The Middle School Sports program is a

great opportunity for students to stay active, develop skills, make friends in other grades, and learn the value of teamwork both on and off the field

Student Government

With representatives from Grades 5 through 8, this body empowers elected students to take an active role in building a positive and inclusive Middle School community Focused on leadership, collaboration, advocacy, and service, Student Government leaders plan events, organize community service projects, and represent their peers within the school community.

Student/Teacher

These assembly periods occur two to three times a week and offer a dedicated time for students to meet individually with their classroom teachers for personalized support. During Student/Teacher assemblies, students can ask questions, review challenging material, and receive extra help tailored to their specific needs Student/Teacher provides an outside of the classroom time for students to develop a deeper understanding of the subject matter while strengthening the teacher-student relationship. It's a valuable opportunity for students to advocate for their learning needs and take ownership of their learning

We Belong!

Twice a month the Middle School community gathers for We Belong! assemblies to celebrate the diverse nature of our community We highlight the various heritage months to educate our students about our differences and find common ground in our family’s histories. Our mission is to establish solidarity among all of our students.