Middle School
Grades 6th - 8th
Students will learn in a rich and varied program to foster critical thinking, creativity, and communication skills.
History
History will be taught to all grade levels chronologically in four volumes (years): Ancient Times, Middle Ages, Early Modern Times, and The Modern Age. During class time, students will learn about a significant event, place, or important person from the focus time period for the school year. We will advance through the timeline at a much slower pace than the younger cohort to allow for deeper study and greater context. We will use The Mystery of History as the guiding text for this block.
Science
Students will alternate a science lesson and a science lab each week giving students time to dive deep into experiments and discovery and exercise the learning that took place during the previous week’s science lesson. Though we will use the same sequence as the lower grades, we will go deeper in our learning and discussion.
Art Appreciation
This block will bring to life the art of the time period. In alternating weeks, students will learn about important art, artists, and techniques during their lessons, and then they will create their own masterpieces during their art studio time. The sequence will be the same as the elementary school, but the students will be challenged to deepen their learning and engagement.
Presentations & Literature Lounge
We will alternate presentations and a book chat time called Literature Lounge. During Lit Lounge, students will share a book that they have enjoyed with the class giving details about the books and hopefully persuading the class to try new and different books. On the alternate weeks, students will share informative, persuasive, or instructive presentations.
Logic
This class introduces students to logical fallacies and the fundamentals of sound reasoning. Through interactive discussions, real-life examples, and group activities, students will learn to identify flawed arguments and construct their own well-reasoned conclusions. The class fosters an engaging environment where students can practice their analytical skills, question assumptions, and grow in their ability to discern truth and make persuasive arguments in a respectful and thoughtful manner. The Fallacy Detective and The Thinking Toolbox are the texts for this class.
Creative Writing
Students will develop their storytelling skills in a supportive and imaginative environment. Using The Creative Writer Level 1 and The Creative Writer Level 2, we will explore the essential elements of fiction and nonfiction writing, including character development, plot structure, descriptive language, and persuasive techniques. Each week, students will engage in focused activities and writing prompts during class to spark their creativity and hone their craft. Peer discussions and feedback will foster a collaborative learning atmosphere, helping students build confidence in sharing their work. Optional at-home exercises will allow students to practice their skills.
Scholar Showcase
The end-of-year showcase project will guide students through the process of researching a topic of personal interest, developing critical thinking and communication skills, and expressing their findings through writing and presentation. This project gives students the opportunity to practice new or refined skills and to share what they have learned. The Scholar Showcase is not a separate class; rather, it is the culminating project of the year that integrates the different subject blocks.
Language Roots
Students will explore Greek and Latin language roots through interactive and engaging activities. Each week, we will introduce new roots and their meanings, discuss their connections to modern English words, and practice using them in context. Students will participate in fun games, such as root word matching or word-building challenges, to reinforce their understanding and retention. These hands-on activities will not only enhance their vocabulary but also deepen their appreciation for the linguistic foundations of the English language.