MIDDLE SCHOOL CURRICULUM OVERVIEW
SOCIAL STUDIES
Villa’s Middle School Social Studies program investigates how cultures and peoples interact with one another and the world around them. In 6th grade, students examine how ancient peoples lived and explore points of similarity and difference between their own lives and those of the ancient cultures. Seventh graders learn how individuals and society interact with the world around them through the study of World Geography in which they investigate a country from each continent and present their findings in a culminating World Fair. In their 8th grade year, students examine how societies balance the needs of the individual with the needs of the many through a study of civics, United States history, and global current events.
ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS (ELA)
Villa’s English Language Arts curriculum cultivates versatile and articulate communicators across the Middle School journey. Our curriculum empowers students to fluently express ideas, critically evaluate texts, and engage with societal issues through literature and writing. Sixth grade focuses on stories from a diverse range of authors, writing skills across genres, and the theme, “Stories Matter.” Seventh grade integrates writing with World Geography, emphasizing effective communication, literary analysis, and novel discussions. Eighth grade enhances critical reading and analytical skills through nonfiction and fiction literature, varied writing formats, and integration with Social Studies. Villa graduates conclude their Middle School experience by engaging in a semester-long research project centered on a social justice issue of their choosing, which they individually present before a panel of adults, their family, and peers.
SCIENCE
Villa’s Middle School Science curriculum provides students with a strong foundation in scientific knowledge and inquiry. Sixth grade focuses on the Life Sciences through exploring cells, genetics, and ecological concepts; the vast majority of spring classes take place outdoors across campus. Seventh grade delves into Earth and Space Sciences, investigating Earth’s history, seismic events, weather, and space phenomena. The year opens with a curriculum-connected class trip to Vantage, Washington. Eighth grade explores Chemistry and Algebra-based Physics, fostering hands-on experimentation and critical thinking through a host of projects and assessments. Our comprehensive and experiential Science journey equips students with fundamental scientific knowledge, analytical skills, and a strong foundation for future scientific exploration in high school and beyond.
MATH
Villa’s Middle School Math program meets students at their level, fostering mastery of grade-level standards while nurturing a love for mathematics. With a focus on building a strong mathematical foundation, our curriculum supports students in growing their math knowledge in preparation for the challenges of high school. In 6th grade, students are placed in either Math 6, which covers 6th-grade Washington state standards, or Math 6/7, encompassing both 6th- and half of 7th-grade standards. In 7th grade, we offer three options: Math 7 (covering 7th-grade standards), Intro to Algebra (focusing on the first half of high school Algebra 1 curriculum), and Algebra 7, which covers the entirety of high school Algebra 1. In 8th grade, the three options are: Math 8, which integrates 8th-grade standards with introductory Algebra concepts, Algebra 8, which builds upon Intro to Algebra, encompassing the remainder of high school Algebra, and Geometry (a comprehensive year of high school geometry). This course allows students to enter high school prepared for Algebra 2. All placement decisions are determined by assessment data, conversations with families and educators, and the needs of individual students.
SPANISH
MIDDLE SCHOOL CURRICULUM OVERVIEW
The Villa Middle School Spanish program provides a dynamic exploration of Spanish language and culture across the three-grade journey. In 6th grade, students learn foundational grammar skills, begin to construct sentences, and explore diverse traditions from Spanish-speaking countries, often through music and art. Building upon this foundation, 7th graders deepen their understanding of grammar and vocabulary, focusing on storytelling to narrate events while delving into the rich history and cultures of Latin America. In 8th grade, students solidify their grammar and vocabulary foundation through building essential speaking, writing, and conversational skills. Villa’s program cultivates linguistic proficiency, cultural awareness, and a passion for Spanish language and heritage.
COMPUTER SCIENCE
Villa’s Middle School Computer Science program empowers students to express creativity through digital media and problem-solving. Beginning with an introductory course in 6th and 7th grades, students learn programming, web design, and physical computing to create websites, games, and computing devices. In 8th grade, students are introduced to modern computing foundations through programming, networking, app design, algorithms, AI, big data, digital privacy, and societal impacts. Across the years, students develop logic, problem-solving skills, and ethical computing practices, contributing to collaborative and ethical computing cultures while comprehensively engaging with the multifaceted realm of Computer Science.
RELIGION
Villa’s Middle School Religion program fosters spiritual understanding, service, and global awareness, preparing students to be compassionate, respectful citizens in our diverse world. In 6th grade, students connect Old Testament stories to contemporary issues, explore Catholic liturgical seasons, and engage in service projects while fostering leadership through mentoring younger students. In 7th grade, students delve into the New Testament, investigating gospel values through Jesus’ teachings and applying them to community service. In 8th grade, students study World Religions, learning about diverse traditions, understanding the differences and similarities between and among religions, and growing in global awareness and citizenship.
ART
In Middle School Art, Villa students learn a host of skills and techniques to express themselves artistically. In 6th grade, students build foundational visual art skills, explore diverse mediums connecting to their academic studies, and practice in sketchbooks. Moving to 7th grade, they deepen skills in ceramics, printmaking, and drawing with themes of environmental justice and reflection, continuing sketchbook practices. By 8th grade, students demonstrate creative problem-solving, emphasizing planning and autonomy in projects that explore social justice themes. Throughout, Middle School sketchbooks serve as visual progress records, fostering artistic growth and expression.
MUSIC
The Middle School Music program fosters lifelong music appreciation by introducing students to the fundamental elements of music theory, aural skills, and diverse cultural musical traditions. By encouraging composition and honing both vocal and instrumental performance, the program nurtures students’ musical identities while exploring the intersections of music with various academic disciplines. Across the curriculum, students investigate music’s historical evolution globally and in the United States, fostering a deep understanding of music’s role in shaping societies and cultures.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Villa Academy’s Physical Education program addresses the developmental levels of the 11-14 year old learner. Based upon the National Standards for Physical Education, our curriculum supports students’ skill development through games, team sports, and fitness activities. The program emphasizes fitness as a necessary element of healthy living through active participation and tons of fun. The Middle School curriculum is designed to meet our young adolescents’ psychomotor, cognitive, and affective learning needs and abilities.
A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A VILLA 6TH GRADER
8:30-9:20.................. Science
9:25 - 10:10............... Spanish
10:15 - 11:00..............Math 6
11:00 - 11:50..............Lunch/Recess
11:50 - 12:35............. Art
12:40 - 1:25............... Computer Science
1:30 - 2:15................. Social Studies
2:20 - 3:05 ............... ELA
MATH PROGRESSION
6th Grade 7th Grade 8th Grade Math 6
Math 6/7 Math 7 Intro to Algebra Algebra 7 Math 8 Algebra 8 Geometry
SIGNATURE TRIPS
6th Grade Fall
7th Grade Fall
8th Grade Fall
8th Grade* Spring
Islandwood Camp, Bainbridge Island
YMCA Bold and Gold, Vantage
Leadership Camp, Warm Beach
Salish Sailing Trip, Salish Sea
Outdoor Life Science education
Outdoor Geology study paired with leadership courses
Leadership workshops and team building
4 days 5 days
4 days *Optional
3 days
2023 8TH GRADE TRIP
SALISH SAILING TRIP, SALISH SEA
2023 6TH GRADE TRIP
ISLANDWOOD CAMP, BAINBRIDGE ISLAND
2022 7TH GRADE TRIP YMCA BOLD AND GOLD, VANTAGE