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Curriculum Guide 2026-2027

Middle School @ The Willows THE WILLOWS MIDDLE SCHOOL students grow through

the years on a single DK-8 campus in a balanced yet academically challenging, creative environment. We believe, and research supports, that both academic achievement and emotional intelligence are essential to a student’s education. So, each year of our integrated program is designed to promote both the academic and social-emotional growth of our students. Our Middle School students are diligent, empathetic, and confident. They become leaders and role models. Our DK-8 setting is a distinct advantage that allows our older students to shine, spread their wings, take risks, and thrive in a safe, nurturing atmosphere.

Philosophy & Goals Middle school is an exciting time, marked by profound cognitive, social-emotional, and physical growth. Adolescents face new challenges and opportunities both academically and socially as they become increasingly independent and able to reflect on their goals and values. Parents, too, face new challenges, finding ways to provide structure and support as a child negotiates for greater privileges. The goals of the Willows’ Middle School program are: • to foster cognition through an academic program that is both intellectually challenging and relevant to adolescents • t o nurture the sense of self and develop personal responsibility, empathy, and respect • t o strengthen organizational skills that will enable students to approach academic tasks with independence and success We strongly believe that communication between parents and faculty helps to foster children’s growth. We keep parents aware of Middle School events through newsletters, evaluations, phone calls, emails, and updates on our website. Our hope is that parents feel well-informed about their child’s school experience and increasingly comfortable in their evolving relationship with their child. We appreciate the support of our parents and look forward to developing strong relationships with them. 4

Course Descriptions MIDDLE SCHOOL CORE

Middle School Core is the integration of Language Arts and Social Studies based on the California State Frameworks for both of these disciplines. Middle School students explore history and study English through an integrated approach. The focus of the Core program is on developing reading, writing, and critical thinking skills. Students read widely and extensively, tackling increasingly sophisticated texts independently and in class discussions. The writing program hones students’ skills through daily instruction and practice. The Core program is designed to prepare students for the rigor of high school English and history classes. This year in 6th, 7th, and 8th grade Core, classes utilize units based on The Reading and Writing Project at Mossflower, originally developed at Teachers College, Columbia University. The goal of these workshops is not simply to create students who read and write, but students who ARE readers and writers. To maximize their potential in these areas, students will critically read texts in a variety of genres and write everything from realistic fiction to research-based essays. They will learn strategies to tackle challenging material and assignments with a growth mindset and recognize that learning may be tough, but it is a rewarding process.

6TH GRADE CORE Liz Ganem, Marissa Weiss

Core is the integration of English and Social Studies. In 6th grade, students focus on the legacies of ancient civilizations and consider the following central questions while exploring their own cultural and personal identities: Who am I? How is our identity formed? How does identity shape our experience? Using lesson plans developed from Stanford History Education Group, Facing History and Ourselves and other resources, we investigate history. We examine concepts such as power, empathy, inclusion/exclusion, the individual vs. society and choices and their consequences. Through this lens, 6th graders study the geography, religions, achievements, politics, economics and social structures of selected ancient cultures and consider how 5

these ancient societies inform the contemporary American experience. In this course, we also utilize the Reading and Writing Workshops developed at Teachers College, Columbia University along with grammar and vocabulary acquisition. We encourage students to critically read texts in a variety of genres and write for a variety of different purposes and audiences, encouraging students to find their voice. The goal of this year is not simply to create students who read and write and do well in school but students who are readers and writers and who question and wonder while reading and writing.

Sept-Oct

READING UNIT

WRITING UNIT

SOCIAL STUDIES UNIT

• The Giver by Lois Lowry

• Literary and historical analysis writings (continued all year)

• Identity and Culture

• Self-selected fiction reading: character, setting, theme

• Interviewing/ oral histories

• What is culture? • How do we study culture/ history? • What is our identity and how are we influenced by our culture? • Examining Geography, Religion, Achievements, Politics, Economics, and Social Structure

Nov-Dec

Jan-Feb

Mar-Apr

May-June

• Selected ancient myths readings Race to the Sun (Rebecca Roanhorse)

• Oral tradition into writing

• Prehistory

•A merican Born Chinese (Gene Leun Yang)

• Memoir: Emphasis on figurative language and symbolism

• Ancient China

• A Midsummer Night’s Dream (William Shakespeare)

• Creative writing inspired by Greek mythology and Shakespeare

• Ancient Greece

• Informational Books: Book clubs

• R esearch-based, thesisdriven writing and speech writing

• Ancient Civilizations

• Geography and map skills • Ancient Egypt

• Chinese mythology

• Greek mythology

• Independent projects • What makes this civilization and its culture unique? What are the GRAPES? What is the role of an individual in this society? 6

7TH GRADE CORE Lil Mingail, Dakota Smith

The overarching goal of 7th grade Core is to make connections between historical events, works of literature and our own experience. The year begins with an examination of the United States, focusing on the structure of our federal government and considering issues of identity, community and belonging. From there, we move outward, investigating different world cultures and events, including the Russian Revolution and the Iranian Revolution. Next, we return to our own country to learn about the Civil Rights Movement, culminating in a trip to Georgia and Alabama, before exploring Apartheid in South Africa. To complement these studies, students critically read texts in a variety of genres and develop their written expression stylistically, analytically and mechanically. Public speaking and presentation skills are also emphasized.

Sept-Oct

READING UNIT

WRITING UNIT

SOCIAL STUDIES UNIT

• The Outsiders (S.E. Hinton)

• Literary analysis: Schaffer paragraph

• Identity, community and belonging • U.S. government: Lessons in Civics

Nov-Dec

• Animal Farm (George Orwell)

• Persuasive essay: Ethos, logos and pathos

• Harrison Bergeron (Kurt Vonnegut)

• Animal Farm companion book project

• The Russian Revolution: Impact of the government on the individual

• The Lottery (Shirley Jackson) Jan-Feb

• Persepolis (Marjane Satrapi) • Independent reading: We Are Displaced (Malala Yousafzai)

• Personal narrative: Defining moments project • Poetic devices, sensory details, dialogue, writer’s voice, relationship between text and image

• Iran: Growing up in turmoil

Mar-Apr

READING UNIT

WRITING UNIT

SOCIAL STUDIES UNIT

•M arch: Book One (John Lewis)

• Literary analysis: The five-paragraph essay

• The Civil Rights Movement

• In-class essay exams: Literature and History

• South Africa: Colonialism, Apartheid

• Independent reading: The Lions of Little Rock (Kristin Levine)

• Field trip to the South: Georgia and Alabama

• Film study: Selma (dir. Ava DuVernay)

May-June

•B orn a Crime (Trevor Noah)

8TH GRADE CORE Lil Mingail, Brian Tousey

Core is the integration of English and history. In the 8th grade, students study American history from 1860 to the present, with an emphasis on examining how the past relates to current events in terms of identity, race relations and tolerance. While practicing effective strategies for reading non-fiction and refining their note taking and writing skills, students build a strong foundation for the history and language arts courses that they will encounter in high school. In addition, students develop research skills through several assignments, including an independent research project in which students explore an American history topic of personal interest and create an in-depth lesson plan and presentation that incorporates a study of a related film. In each unit of study, students read related literature in a variety of different genres. They explore issues of plot, theme, character development and author’s craft, while refining their writing skills with an emphasis on voice and style and with a focus on the thesis-driven essay. The 8th grade continues to approach the material by applying the core concepts of media literacy, honing students’ ability to access, analyze, evaluate, create and participate with all forms of communication, from print to digital media.

SepOct

READING UNIT

WRITING UNIT

SOCIAL STUDIES UNIT

•T he Hate You Give (Angie Thomas)

• Literary analysis: Character, conflict, theme, motif, symbols

• The Civil Rights Movement

•T he Drummer Boy of Shiloh (Ray Bradbury)

• Persuasive writing: Proposing new monuments/memorials

• New monument/memorial design

•A n Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge (Ambrose Bierce)

• Creative writing: Short story

• Field trip to Washington, D.C.

•F ilm study: 4 Little Girls (dir. Spike Lee) • Independent reading: March Book Two and March Book Three (John Lewis)

NovDec

•T he Scholarship Jacket (Marta Salinas) •T hank You, Ma’am (Langston Hughes) •E leven (Sandra Cisneros)

• The Civil War • Reconstruction

JanFeb

READING UNIT

WRITING UNIT

SOCIAL STUDIES UNIT

•O f Mice and Men (John Steinbeck)

• Immigrant essay

• Immigration • The Roaring 20s and women’s suffrage

•B ernice Bobs Her Hair (F. Scott Fitzgerald)

• The Great Depression

• Independent reading choices: Witness (Karen Hesse) • Film study: The Godfather Part II (dir. Francis Ford Coppola)

MarApr

• Night (Elie Wiesel)

• Analytical essay: The author’s craft

• World War II

•A Raisin in the Sun (Lorraine Hansberry)

• Examining character through sensory figure portraits

• The1950s

• Film study: 13th (Ava Duvernay)

• In-class literary essay: Character

• Independent readhing choices: Mother Night (Kurt Vonnegut), The Book Thief (Markus Zusak) • Film study: Saving Private Ryan (dir. Steven Spielberg)

MayJun

• The American Dream • Redlining

• Research-based writing: The decades (1960’s-2000s)

MIDDLE SCHOOL MATHEMATICS Erin Carter, Paul Casillas, Maggie Hoyt, J.R. Lebert, John Lee, Will Stern, Liz Stocksdale, Marissa Weiss

The goals of the Middle School math program are to engage students in the study of mathematics, to help them develop a deep understanding of concepts and skills, and to foster the use of mathematical reasoning and critical thinking to approach complex problems. Math classes are separated by gender and occur opposite P.E./Life Skills. Research and our own experience have shown that adolescents, in a general sense, can benefit socially and academically from this learning environment. We emphasize a balanced approach that includes hands-on activities, collaborative learning, and real-world applications to make mathematics both accessible and relevant. Students use a variety of materials and methods to develop skill fluency, conceptual understanding, and efficient solution strategies, and they engage in activities that incorporate physical and virtual models to represent mathematical ideas. Through interactive lessons, technology integration, and individualized support, the program encourages students to build confidence, persistence, and a growth mindset. Homework allows students to strengthen skills and reinforce new concepts. Assessments, both formative and summative, are used to track progress and provide targeted feedback, ensuring that each student can achieve their full potential in mathematics. Middle School math classes are: 6th Grade Math, Pre-Algebra, Algebra, and Geometry. All middle school students will have completed at least the Algebra course by the end of their eighth grade year. Students are assigned to classes based on their mathematical understanding and readiness for a particular course as determined by teacher recommendations, previous class performance, and test scores.

6TH GRADE MATH

Textbook: Big Ideas Math Grade 6: Modeling Real Life CC 2022

OVERVIEW

UNITS COVERED

Sixth grade math focuses on strengthening and enhancing foundational mathematical skills and deepening number sense. Emphasis is on topics such as order of operations; calculating with fractions, decimals, and integers; understanding proportional relationships; introduction to algebraic expressions, equations, and inequalities; essential geometry concepts; and vocabulary and applications of data and statistics.

• Numerical Expressions & Factors • Fractions and Decimals • Ratios & Rates • Algebraic Expressions & Properties • Equations • Area, Surface Area, & Volume • Integers, Number Lines, & The Coordinate Plane • Statistical Measures • Data Displays

PRE-ALGEBRA

Textbook: Big Ideas Math Grade 7 Accelerated: Modeling Real Life CC 2022 OVERVIEW

UNITS COVERED

Pre-Algebra combines 7th-grade and 8th-grade math concepts, providing a challenging curriculum to prepare students for Algebra I the following year. It covers a wide range of topics, including operations with rational numbers, simplifying and solving simple expressions, equations, and inequalities. Students are introduced to the concepts of linear equations and systems of equations. They create visual representations by hand and with use of digital tools, then work to identify and find solutions. The course also dives into geometry, exploring concepts like congruence, similarity, and the Pythagorean Theorem, along with surface area and volume of three-dimensional figures.

• Operations with Rational Numbers • Numerical and Variable Expressions • Equations & Inequalities • Ratios & Proportions • Percents, Probability, & Statistics • Geometric Shapes & Angles • Surface Area & Volume • Angles & Triangles • Graphing & Writing Linear Equations • Exponents & Scientific Notation • Real Numbers & The Pythagorean Theorem

ALGEBRA I

Textbook: Big Ideas Math Algebra I: AGA CC 2022 OVERVIEW

UNITS COVERED

Algebra I provides a comprehensive introduction to high school algebra, aligned with Common Core standards. It covers key algebraic concepts, including solving linear equations, inequalities, and systems of equations; identifying characteristics of various functions (linear, quadratic, and exponential); operations with polynomials; factoring quadratic equations; and simplifying rational and radical expressions. The textbook emphasizes graphing techniques, problem-solving, and modeling real-world situations using algebraic methods. Students learn to analyze and interpret data, solve equations, and explore the connections between algebraic and graphical representations.

• Solving Linear Equations • Solving Linear Inequalities • Graphing Linear Functions • Writing Linear Functions • Solving Systems of Linear Equations • Exponential Functions & Sequences • Graphing Quadratic Formulas • Solving Quadratic Equations • Radical Functions & Equations • Data Analysis & Displays

GEOMETRY

Textbook: Big Ideas Math Geometry: AGA CC 2022 OVERVIEW

UNITS COVERED

Geometry focuses on foundational and advanced geometry concepts, aligned with Common Core standards. It covers topics such as reasoning and proof, properties of parallel and perpendicular lines, transformations, congruence, similarity, and trigonometry. The textbook also explores the relationships within triangles, quadrilaterals, and circles, as well as the concepts of area, surface area, and volume of various geometric shapes. Emphasis is placed on logical reasoning, problem-solving, and real-world applications, helping students develop a deeper understanding of geometric principles. Through engaging activities, visual models, and interactive lessons, students learn to connect algebraic skills with geometric concepts, preparing them for higher-level math courses.

• Basics of Geometry • Reasoning & Proofs • Parallel & Perpendicular Lines • Transformations • Congruent Triangles • Relationships Within Triangles • Quadrilaterals & Other Polygons • Similarity • Right Triangles & Trigonometry • Circles • Circumference & Area • Surface Area & Volume • Probability 12

MIDDLE SCHOOL SCIENCE Erin Carter, Paul Casillas, Ann Istrin, Liz Stocksdale

We believe that science is an essential tool for students to understand the world around them. Good scientists have active imaginations, ask meaningful questions, make careful observations, and design and conduct methodical investigations. They draw reasonable conclusions and make connections between science concepts and everyday phenomena. Science at The Willows is a hands-on, lab-based experience designed to make concepts accessible, relevant, and engaging. The Middle School science curriculum is based on the concepts and skills suggested by state and national standards. We want middle school students to enjoy science and find it meaningful; to that end, students spend about half of their class time conducting laboratory experiments. Class time is also spent interpreting data, drawing conclusions, discussing findings, and reading nonfiction science texts. We present science concepts in a manner designed to appeal to the varied interests and learning styles of the students. Students often create illustrations and build scientific models in order to solidify their understanding of concepts. Additionally, students have occasional opportunities to choose the manner in which they present their scientific reports. They are encouraged to demonstrate their understanding of science concepts through creative methods that highlight their particular strengths and interests.

FIRST TRIMESTER

SECOND TRIMESTER

THIRD TRIMESTER

RESOURCES

Grade 6 General Science

Forensic Science, The Scientific Process

Chemistry, Earth Science

Neuroscience

GEMS (Great Explorations in Math and Science) units, AIMS (Association for the Integration of Math and Science) units

Grade 7 Life Science

Scientific Inquiry

Cell Biology

Genetics, Human Body Systems

Prentice Hall Science Explorer: The Nature of Science and Technology, Cells and Heredity, Human Biology and Health, FOSS (Full Option Science System) units

Grade 8 Physical Science

Laboratory Tools and Techniques, Force and Motion

Atomic Structure and Periodic Table

Chemical Reactions

Prentice Hall Science Explorer: Motion, Forces, and Energy, Chemical Building Blocks, and Chemical Interactions

MIDDLE SCHOOL LATIN Maggie Hoyt, J.R. Lebert

The Middle School Latin program is a three-year course of study that provides students with a standard high school Latin I curriculum, as well as a focus on ancient Roman history and culture. In the language component of the course, students study Latin grammar and vocabulary, which provides students with a better understanding of the English language and of the origin of many English words. As they read and translate stories, they develop valuable problem-solving skills, while also broadening their understanding of the structure and flow of both Latin and English. All students use the The Cambridge Latin Course, Unit I and Unit II, 6th Edition. Students have ample opportunities to put themselves in the sandals of an ancient Roman through dramatic interpretation, artistic endeavors, writing, or projects involving the use of technology. As students develop an understanding of the past, they are better able to understand and interpret current events.

6th GRADE

7th GRADE

8th GRADE

• Grammar, vocabulary, and syntax from Stages 1-6 of the Unit 1 CLC eBook, including nominative singular and plural, accusative singular, and present, perfect, and imperfect tenses

• Review and reinforcement of

• Continued review and

• Roman culture from the city of Pompeii, including typical houses, daily life, business and the forum, the theater, and slavery • English derivatives from Latin and Greek roots • Translation, reading comprehension, and problem solving skills

material from 6th grade • Grammar: verb tenses,

reinforcement of material from 6th and 7th grades

subject-verb agreement, new

• Grammar: infinitives, relative

case endings, superlatives,

clauses, pluperfect tense,

indirect objects, pronouns

ablative case, noun-adjective

• Stages 7-12 of Unit I CLC eBook • Gladiators, baths, education, elections, Vesuvius, and Ancient Britain

agreement • Further study of ancient Roman and Greek culture • Reading, translation, and reading comprehension

• Reading, translation, and

• Yearlong study of etymology:

reading comprehension

prefixes, suffixes, & roots

• Yearlong study of etymology: prefixes, suffixes, & roots

TECHNOLOGY Wendy Amster, Middle School Faculty

At The Willows, we have long embraced technology as a tool for learning and active creation, guiding students to move beyond passive consumption. Our interdisciplinary, and often project-based approach values integrating technology into all disciplines and classrooms. Furthermore, we strive to provide students with choices as they become more fluent with the equipment and applications. Through the school’s 1:1 laptop program, students use technology as an integral resource to enhance curricula. Through the lens of media literacy, we guide students to ask critical questions about the information they receive, teaching them to be skeptical without becoming cynical. Across the curriculum, students explore ways to create relevant, interactive, ethical, and visually stimulating projects and presentations. Willows Middle School students learn and have the opportunity to use Technology as they participate in: • Digital citizenship dialogues • Communication and analysis with spreadsheets, databases, and discussion threads • Group and individual projects, such as project based learning, and Maker classes • Computer programming through block based coding, text based coding, and robotics. • Multimedia projects and presentations including: Animation, photography, songwriting, and movie making • Design thinking • Digital design and fabrication - 2D designing for cutting machines and laser cutters and 3D modeling and printing • Research – finding, evaluating, analyzing, processing, and using information responsibly • Artificial intelligence - what it is, how it works, privacy, ethics, and bias • Language and grammar skills • Mathematics extensions, enrichment, and practice • Hands-on, digital science data collection through probe-ware and investigations Computers and peripheral equipment along with appropriate software support the subject areas of the Middle School. In addition, classrooms are equipped with interactive projectors, which allow students to share their tech-based creations. Applications used by Middle School students include: • Adobe Creative Cloud Apps • Apple Productivity Apps (Pages, Keynote, & Numbers) • CODAP Data Analysis Platform • Desmos Math Tools • Google Workspace for Education • iMovie /Photos /iTunes / GarageBand

• iStop Motion • Logic Pro • Microsoft Office 365 • Tinkercad • Web, Cloud, and iPad based apps

Some of the goals of the technology program are achieved through the participation in the Middle School Maker courses. The designLab is our dedicated space for students to create sophisticated projects with many resources and tools beyond the computer. As part of the curriculum, 6th and 7th grades will focus on Lego Spike Prime robotics building and programming, woodworking, and micro:bit with Hummingbird robotics kit. 8th graders are encouraged to use the tools they’ve acquired for various integrated class projects and assignments. Students also 15

have the opportunity to use the tools and space with teacher support outside classroom time to pursue long-term projects and personal passion projects, including during electives, lunch, recess, and after school. MIDDLE SCHOOL MUSIC PROGRAM Greg Blum, Rina Schloss, Mike Stocksdale

The Middle School music program helps students explore a range of musical paths while building their overall understanding of music. Whether a student is interested in music production, fretted instruments, voice, songwriting, or rock band, our department provides expert instruction, quality equipment, and a supportive community to help make music an enjoyable, lasting part of their lives. Advanced Electronic Music

This is a song composition course where students create songs using the computer. Curriculum includes lyrical analysis and writing, musical genre exploration, basic keyboarding skills, and advanced recording techniques. Using the software Logic Pro, students work separately or collaboratively to write and record a collection of songs culminating in a polished “radio-ready” album. Guitar

This course helps students build fundamental skills as musicians, guitarists, and ukulele players. As they learn to play increasingly challenging songs, building strumming technique and memorizing chords, instrumentalists are fine-tuning listening skills, practicing improvisation, and expanding their knowledge of music theory. Students are also given opportunities to study independently, where they use online resources to guide them in learning to play their favorite songs. Choir

Our choral program is designed to deepen students’ sense of musicianship as they build singing technique, music-reading skills, and the ability to sing as part of a group. Repertoire is chosen as a tool for growth and often reflects the school’s yearly theme — helping each student improve individually while strengthening the choir’s ability to work together as a whole, including singing in two-part, and sometimes three-part, harmony. Choirs perform in two concerts each year, in December and May, with occasional additional opportunities to perform at assemblies and other events throughout the school year. Rock Band

This elective is open to singers and instrumentalists looking to gain experience performing with other musicians in a live setting. Various combinations of students come together weekly to rehearse assigned songs, and teachers offer insights on how to improve. These trimester-long classes often culminate in live concerts for The Willows Community.

VISUAL ART Jean Magers

Our visual art classes aim to develop understanding and enjoyment of art, and to encourage students to observe, record, and wonder about the world around them. Art is a way to process thinking about our world and students discover techniques and skills to express themselves visually. Projects often connect with other areas of the curriculum, the school-wide theme, our social-emotional program, world events, and cultural celebrations. We will begin this year exploring the school-wide theme of “Innovate,” examining the significance of various artistic innovations from the kiln to the typewriter. We aim to develop students’ visual literacy through on-going discussion about their own work and that of others from different time periods and cultures. A wide range of media is explored including painting, drawing, textiles, digital media, ceramics, sculpture, printmaking, and photography. We place as much emphasis on the creative process as the final product. Whether working collaboratively or individually, our goal is to empower students to see, to feel, and to create. For two trimesters, students will have an hour and 45 minute art class each week. They also have the opportunity for additional art electives each week.

DANCE Marissa Weiss

Dance is a key component of the Middle School Performing Arts Program offering an opportunity for students to express themselves creatively through movement while boosting confidence. Dance performances are integrated into school life. Dancers often collaborate with music students who sing or play instruments and with arts students who create costumes. Willows dancers perform throughout the year at special school functions and community events such as Poetry Night, Family Arts Night, and Grandparents’ Day. The annual Celebration of Dance is a culmination of the year in dance. Students of all skill levels participate in dance through weekly P.E. classes, Middle School electives, and Honors Dance. Students audition during the 7th grade year to participate in our Honors Dance Program, which is open to all interested 8th grade dancers. DRAMA Liza Monjauze, Rina Schloss

Through drama, students develop awareness and empathy, sharpen their perception and cognition, learn to shape language and movement, and grow more comfortable performing in front of others. The Middle School drama program is both process- and performance-oriented, giving students the opportunity to take part in all aspects of theatrical production. All Middle School students can also take part in musical theater productions through electives, and each spring, 8th graders take part in a beloved Willows tradition: a full theatrical production as either cast or crew, marking a memorable send-off from their years at The Willows.

POETRY Deb Studebaker, Willows Faculty

For three weeks in the fall, the Middle School Art Studio becomes an Art/Poetry Studio. Art and poetry fit together organically. Both disciplines invite students to notice and interpret the details of their world using common elements of image, line, rhythm, texture, and space. In this creative laboratory, middle school students warm up with movement activities to inspire the flow of ideas. They brainstorm during free-writing/sketchbook time, tackle prompted writing challenges, and listen, read, and respond to the work of influential poets and artists. Discussions are typically thoughtful and lively! After capturing their original ideas on paper or laptop, students have an opportunity to share their words with others in the classroom. Students will also have dedicated revision time, and individual attention during the editing process. While the work of all students is reflected in the school poetry anthology, some students may also choose to participate during Poetry Week or Arts Night. Students who gravitate toward writing, collaboration, and performance can join the MS Poetry Ensemble. This group of dedicated poets meets weekly to create new work as they also write and rehearse a group piece to be showcased during Poetry Week or Arts Night. All 6th, 7th and 8th grade poets are welcome to perform their own solo poems at the annual Open Mic.

FRIDAY ELECTIVES Willows Faculty

Electives provide Middle School students with an opportunity to choose classes that coincide with personal interests. Whether a student enjoys drama, science, writing, reading, foreign languages, computers, or art, there are related elective courses. A major goal of the Middle School is to prepare students for upcoming challenges both socially and academically. Allowing students to determine, in part, their own course of study provides them with increased feelings of independence and accountability. The Willows understands the myriad interests of our student body. Our goal is to create a place for individuals to explore what excites them most. Recent course offerings include: Robotics

Maker

Debate Team

Junior Classical League

Drama

Art Portfolio

Dance

Photography

Rock Band

SCHOOL-WIDE THEME

Each school year since 2000-2001, our faculty and students come together across grade levels to explore a school-wide theme. Launched each fall, the annual theme is incorporated into curriculum through classroom projects, the arts, and athletics. Innovate is the 2026-2027 school-wide theme. MIDDLE SCHOOL INTERSESSION

Cross-curricular connections and flexibility are key components of a Willows education. Intersession is an inter-disciplinary, multi-age exploration of a single topic that takes place the week prior to Spring Break in March. Intersession provides an opportunity to explore a new thematic idea throughout the Middle School. For one week, the middle school students choose one project-based class that incorporates the school wide theme. The theme is applied to the central academic subjects of Core, Math, Latin, and Science; in addition, the school-wide theme is explored during Intersession.

THE LIFE SKILLS PROGRAM Wendy Amster, Lily Davis, Steve Futterman, Liz Ganem, Doug Klier, Lil Mingail, Ben Salk, Dakota Smith, Mike Stocksdale Objective

The Willows Life Skills program helps students develop skills in communication, problem solving, and decision-making. Students meet regularly to explore the issues of making thoughtful behavioral choices in school, off campus, and online. We address issues of peer relationships, drug and alcohol use, stress vs. pressure, and human development. Many of our activities focus on developing students’ communication skills. We believe that children should learn to be their own advocates in their relationships with peers, parents, and teachers. Doug Klier, Middle School Director, oversees and co-teaches our middle school Life Skills program alongside faculty members. We also bring in outside experts to enhance our program. Additionally, students have guest speakers as well as special assemblies and workshops throughout the year, such as Miles To Go, specialists in drug education. Curriculum

Some of our Life Skills curriculum springs from the day-to-day needs of the student body. More often, however, we follow a curriculum that we have designed to be age-appropriate for each grade level. We use The Social Institute’s #WinAtSocial curriculum, which focuses on equipping students to make positive and healthy choices as they navigate the complex intersection of well-being, social media, and technology. Using the RULER curriculum, students will gain an understanding of basic psychology and sociology skills to navigate middle school as a life stage. In addition to covering current events, some of the major topics addressed in each grade are listed below. 6th grade:

independence, digital citizenship, media literacy, online safety, peer relations, personal goals and self-esteem, nutrition and body image, managing stress, and puberty education

7th grade: organization and study skills, digital thinking and citizenship, media literacy, online ethics and social media, social groups and cliques, drug and alcohol education, identity, human development and reproduction 8th grade:

leadership, high school admission application support and interview skills, drug and alcohol education, artificial intelligence, decision-making and the media, identity, relationships and sex education, making good choices after leaving The Willows

MEDIA LITERACY

The goal of our Media Literacy program is to guide our students and others to better understand bias and develop the ability to determine credibility, so they are active participants and not passive consumers. We want our students to become thoughtful questioners–to be curious about the world around them and to let their questions guide their learning. We ensure that our students develop a foundation for critical thinking, understanding, and discourse, as well as responsible engagement with the media. We help them recognize false information and fake photos, distinguish fact form fiction, and become aware of false influences and propaganda. We encourage students to ask what information is being presented, how it is delivered, and whether it can be trusted. In Middle School, students continue to develop these skills, with an increasing focus on navigating information online. They learn to investigate the credibility, intent, and potential bias of authors and websites and to consider the reliability of the information they encounter. DEVELOPING EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE AT THE WILLOWS The Yale Center of Emotional Intelligence RULER Approach

We are excited to continue our implementation of the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence’s RULER program, an evidence-based approach to social and emotional learning that helps school communities integrate the teaching of emotional intelligence into daily life. RULER teaches five key emotional intelligence skills:

Recognizing emotions in oneself and others. Understanding the causes and consequences of emotions. Labeling emotions with a nuanced vocabulary. Expressing emotions in accordance with cultural norms and social context. Regulating emotions with helpful strategies. RULER integrates these skills into the academic curriculum and provides opportunities for students and all

the key adults involved in their education—teachers, administrators, and family members—to learn and apply these skills. Decades of research shows that emotional intelligence is essential to effective teaching and learning, sound decision making, physical and mental health, and success in school and beyond. Research also shows that when schools and homes partner to support children’s emotional development, children not only feel better, but they do better. We partner with our parents to continually share more about the RULER approach and RULER resources. We also offer RULER workshops to help parents practice the skills of emotional intelligence at home and learn about how it’s being implemented in the classrooms. 21

During the Middle School Retreat in September, students will create a Middle School Charter. The charter is a mission statement for learning that students pledge to maintain. It focuses on how students want to feel, what needs to happen for those feelings to be consistently present, guidelines for handling uncomfortable feelings and conflict, and methods for creating and sustaining a positive learning environment. We’re proud to be a school community who understands that “emotions matter” and that how children feel has profound implications for learning, success, and wellbeing. Our goal is to equip The Willows’ children for success today, and for life. Student Groups There are different groups to support students in the Middle School. Student groups strengthen the entire community by increasing the opportunities for students to find support, connection, and a voice at The Willows. PHYSICAL EDUCATION Marc Weiss, Braulio Archer, Brevin Archer, Jordan Weiss

The Physical Education program at The Willows is designed to develop and strengthen students’ athletic skills while promoting self-confidence and sportsmanship. Four times a week, students participate in P.E. class, receiving a combination of whole group, small group, and individual instruction so as to best meet each individual’s needs. The Middle School’s physical education classes are separated by gender. This allows both boys and girls the space and freedom to take risks in class, to build confidence, and to participate in new activities in a supportive environment that is tailored to their specific developmental needs. Female students also have the option to take dance once a week, and male students have the option to participate in boys’ choir. Throughout the year, students participate in activities that strengthen motor skills and foster team spirit. We emphasize the importance of personal health and encourage students to focus on lifetime activity skills. Our goal is for students to develop both skill and confidence – important tools that students need to remain physically active and healthy throughout their lives. Students also participate in martial arts once a week for two trimesters and yoga once a week for the remaining trimester. The Middle School Physical Education program reinforces skills learned in prior grades and incorporates refined development of specialized skills and sport instruction. Students practice correct techniques and learn the fundamental strategies of offense and defense. They participate in activities designed to improve hand-eye and foot-eye coordination. They also apply problem solving skills within a team environment, exploring conflict resolution techniques and cooperative activities. Twice yearly, students participate in personal fitness assessments and compare their scores to health related standards. They test areas of muscular strength, muscular endurance, cardiovascular endurance, flexibility, speed, and agility. Students evaluate their skills, monitor their progress, and set goals for future improvement.

Middle school students also: • Examine those activities that strengthen the heart muscle • Perform activities which help them to understand how different muscles are required to perform a wide range of physical activities• Use different conditioning exercises to improve the amount of force a muscle can exert • Understand the function of the major muscles of the body through a stretching and conditioning program • Have fun and develop fundamental skills in a variety of team and individual sports COMMUNICATION AND GRADING IN THE MIDDLE SCHOOL

The faculty strives to foster a sense of responsibility in middle school students. We encourage students to seek help as often as necessary and to communicate their successes as well as their frustrations. It is also important that parents feel able to communicate with teachers. Parents may call or send an email to any of their child’s teachers, indicating any questions or concerns for the teacher. Parents may also call the school and leave a message. Teachers will call or email a response at their earliest convenience within a 24-hour period, except in the case of an emergency. We hold parent-teacher conferences in November, March, and June, and send home information about conference schedules one month before their date. If we feel that a conference is necessary prior to November, we will contact you. We also make an effort to call when we can share good news about a child’s successes. The academic year is divided into two semesters. Parents receive written evaluations from teachers at the close of each semester, in December and in June. Each evaluation is comprised of a short descriptive narrative as well as a percentage grade.

MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENT LIFE

A variety of programs enrich a students’ Middle School experience at The Willows. Overnight Trips 6th grade Outdoor Education Students stay in cabins and enjoy group activities that build teamwork and cover topics such as outdoor science, character education, primitive living skills, and ropes courses. 7th grade Trip to Georgia and Alabama As a complement to their study of the Civil Rights Movement and the history, the politics, and pop culture of that time, students see history come to life as they visit the 16th Street Baptist Church, Legacy Museum, and The National Memorial for Peace and Justice. 8th grade Trip to Washington D.C. The 8th grade students spend a week each fall exploring monuments, museums, and institutions to enhance their study of American history from 1860 to the present. LEADERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

Student Ambassadors – Our 7th and 8th grade students lead and engage with younger students and our extended community by providing tours to prospective families. They also share their experiences by speaking at Open Houses and various school events. To be a volunteer, students complete a questionnaire and meet with a teacher for volunteer training. Community Service Projects – In the past, Middle School students have participated in projects to serve our local and global community either by grade or through elective courses. They collected items to benefit Good Shepherd Shelter, read to preschool students at Westside Children’s Center and hosted a collaborative literacy project with them, bagged lunches weekly to feed the homeless through the OPCC program, an organization that helps people struggling to make ends meet, providing shelter, food and job counseling. In addition, over an eight-week elective course, students participated in the “Memory Project” drawing detailed portraits of children in Armenia from photographs of children in residential care. We hope to be able to offer these types of experiences in the near future. The Willows Service Learning Trip is a voluntary program offered to Middle School students during the first week of Spring Break, with Willows faculty serving as chaperones. Past trips have included travel to Peru, where students assisted the Sacred Valley Project’s efforts to enrich the lives of Indigenous girls; Costa Rica, where they learned from biologists and conservationists working to preserve the country’s rich biodiversity; and Belize, where students provided local schools with supplies and sports equipment and engaged in a cultural exchange with Belizean children.

Student Schedules Throughout the day in The Willows Middle School, our students express a zest for learning. They are engaged in experiential learning, deep critical and creative inquiry, real-world problem solving, and innovative, out-of-the-box thinking. Learning comes to life each day at The Willows. As students grow with us in Middle School, they develop a strong sense of connection–to each other, to the school, and to the greater community. This connection enables our students to transition successfully to high school and the world beyond.

6TH GRADE SAMPLE STUDENT SCHEDULE

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

8:00-8:15 Homeroom

Homeroom

8:00-08:15

8:00-8:15

Middle School Meeting

Homeroom

8:00-8:15

8:15-9:05

Boys’ Math/ Girls’ PE or Dance

Girls’ Math/ Boys’ Yoga/Martial Arts

Girls’ Math/ Boys’ PE

Boys’ Math/ Girls’ PE

9:10-10:00

Girls’ Math/ Boys’ PE or Choir

Boys’ Math/ Girls’ Yoga/Martial Arts

Boys’ Math/ Girls’ PE

Girls’ Math/ Boys’ PE

10:00-10:20

Recess

10:25-11:15

Core

Latin

Core

Music

11:20-12:10

Core

Music

12:15-12:45

Lunch

12:50-1:40

12:50-:40

12:5-1:40

Latin

Science

Art & Maker Rotation

Science

Electives

1:45-2:35

Latin

Science

Art & Maker Rotation

Science

Electives

2:35-2:45

Homeroom

7TH GRADE SAMPLE STUDENT SCHEDULE

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

8:00-8:15 Homeroom

Homeroom

8:00-08:15

8:00-8:15

Middle School Meeting

Homeroom

8:00-8:15

8:15-9:05

Boys’ Math/ Girls’ PE or Dance

Girls’ Math/ Boys’ PE

Boys’ Math/ Girls’ Yoga/ Martial Arts

Boys’ Math/ Girls’ PE

9:10-10:00

Girls’ Math/ Boys’ PE or Choir

Boys’ Math/ Girls’ PE

Girls’ Math/ Boys’ Yoga/ Martial Arts

Girls’ Math/ Boys’ PE

10:00-10:20

Recess

10:25-11:15

Core

Science

Latin

Core

11:20-12:10

Core

Science

Latin

Core

12:15-12:45

Lunch

12:50-1:40

12:50-:40

12:5-1:40

Science

Art & Maker Rotation

Core

Music

Electives

1:45-2:35

1:45-2:35 Art & Maker Rotation

1:45-2:35

Core

Music

Electives

Science

2:35-2:45

Homeroom

8TH GRADE SAMPLE STUDENT SCHEDULE

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

8:00-8:15 Homeroom

Homeroom

8:00-08:15

8:00-8:15

Middle School Meeting

Homeroom

8:00-8:15

8:15-9:05

Boys’ Math/ Girls’ PE or Dance

Girls’ Math/ Boys’ PE

Girls’ Math/ Boys’ Yoga/ Martial Arts

Boys’ Math/ Girls’ PE

9:10-10:00

Girls’ Math/ Boys’ PE or Choir

Boys’ Math/ Girls’ PE

Boys’ Math/ Girls’ Yoga/ Martial Arts

Girls’ Math/ Boys’ PE

10:00-10:20

Recess

10:25-11:15

Science

Cor

Core

Latin

Science

11:20-12:10

Scienc

Core

Science

12:15-12:45

Lunch

12:50-1:40

12:50-:40

12:5-1:40

Core

Latin

Music

Art

Electives

1:45-2:35

Core

Latin

Music

Art

Electives

2:35-2:45

Homeroom

Mission Statement At The Willows, we believe each child brings our community an extraordinary gift: a curious mind, ready to explore and eager to learn. Our mission is to grow that gift by challenging our students to uncover meaning and significance in the world around them and to become capable, confident individuals who demonstrate character, engagement, and a joyful passion for creative inquiry across a lifetime.

“ We connect with our students and stay connected when they leave The Willows. We want our students to be curious people. We want them to be responsible people, and we want them to have a sense of purpose.” –Lisa Rosenstein, Head of School