Middle School Curriculum

Pinecrest Middle School's core program addresses the academic, social and physical growth and self-discovery of our students. Within this core we will provide for each student's excellence with our dynamic and varied curriculum. Our rotating electives give each student an opportunity to sample a variety of interests.

To assist the Middle School student in achieving success we have developed a program entitled "On Track." Combining organizational and personal management skills, the "On Track" notebook guides your student in the development of active self-assessment, time management, and responsibility. This program is based upon the student's own participation, monitored by teachers and parents.

English - Using a variety of classic and modern literature, middle school students study literature response and analysis, reading comprehension, vocabulary development and word analysis, speaking applications, spelling, grammar and mechanics, and writing, including descriptive, narrative, informative and expository.

Mathematics - Basic operations, geometric figures and formulas, problem solving, critical thinking and decision making, decimals, fractions, graphs and statistics, number theories and patterns, probability and predictions, use of protractor, compass and calculator, integers and algebraic equations.

Science - Physical and Life Science concepts are explored, and frequent "labs" are presented utilizing discovery teaching as well as traditional methods. Topics include systems of living organisms, classification, earth science, matter, forces, energy and motion, atomic structure and the Periodic Table, waves, light and sound, oceanography, ecology, animal studies, the human body, heredity, and measurement.

Social Studies - Covering geography, map skills, and the development of civilization students develop critical thinking and analytic skills as they discover the causes and effects of the complexities of human behavior through the centuries. Sixth grade focuses on ancient civilizations, seventh grade covers the age of exploration through the "modern" world, and eighth grade presents an in-depth look at recent U. S. history.

Health - Sixth and Seventh graders study all aspects of health, physical, mental and emotional. To better help the young person through this often difficult stage of life, the dynamics of feelings, friendship,, stress awareness and reduction, peer pressure, community responsibilities, and social ethics are discussed. The physical needs of the human are explored as well, including exercise, nutrition, dangers of substance abuse, and the human reproductive system and its development. Parents will be notified prior to presentation of any sensitive material.

Journalism - Through the production and publication of the student newspaper, "The Bulldogs Growl," students build confidence and are encouraged to write honestly, expressing their personal opinions and interest. This is achieved through guided study of professional news publications, Internet research, and exposure to and practice of a variety of writing styles. Journalism skills transfer to increased achievement in other content areas such as English and Social Studies.

Spanish - Beginning and intermediate Spanish courses will develop basic listening, speaking, reading and writing skills in Spanish (spoken by more than 20 million people in the U. S. and the official language of 19 countries). In addition to the textbooks and workbooks used, students will read from a teen interest magazine in Spanish with features and read aloud plays to build skills in pronunciation, grammar and vocabulary. Students will also be introduced to the cultures of the Spanish-speaking world through music, art, cooking and field trips.

Keyboarding/Computers — The objective of the computer lab is to prepare students for the ever-increasing technology in our world and to complement classroom learning. Students begin with keyboarding, stressing touch-typing and accuracy. These skills are then given practical application. Students will be exposed to computer terms and an understanding of the functions and operations of the computer.

Art - The student's creativity is stimulated by introducing the elements, design, periods and styles of art, as well as key artists. Students will experience the basics of drawing and painting. Mediums used will include charcoal, pastels and watercolors.

Music - Students will listen to, analyze and describe a variety of musical pieces from different musical genres. There will be a focus on understanding music in relation to history and culture. Students will be given instruction in singing (and singing for fun!) as well as build a basic foundation in reading music. For those with a genuine interest, there will be an optional performance based choral group, which will include instruction in movement.

Physical Education - Students are introduced to the different skills needed for the major sports such as soccer, basketball, football, volleyball and baseball/softball. Activities to develop strength, flexibility and stamina and games to reinforce basic locomotor skills are enjoyed by the students. All students participate in the President's Physical Fitness testing program. Students learn the benefit of sports and exercise for a lifetime of physical and mental health,

Sports - After school Sports (optional) consist of football, basketball, soccer, volleyball and softball. Students will learn the basic rules and skills to compete in the San Fernando Private School League. Students will demonstrate teamwork, social skills, sportsmanship and friendship while showing school spirit. Students must maintain good citizenship and academic standing to participate.

Student Council - Pinecrest Student Council is a group of students who meet regularly to promote leadership, positive human relations, and school spirit and pride. Activities include fundraising, charitable activities, sponsoring and assisting at school activities, managing the student store, and representing the student body at school and community events. Student council members may be our future leaders in the community, business and government!

Electives - Our rotating electives give the student an introduction to a variety of interests. Subjects covered will include creative writing, art appreciation, cinema review, drama, and more.

Study Hall - Study Hall is available at the end of every school day for students to begin their homework with professional assistance.

Late Care Activities - A variety of optional late care activities will be presented. Examples are our chess club and Tae Kwon Do.