6th Grade Curriculum

Mathematics:

Basic four math operations of adding, subtracting, multiplying and dividing as applied to whole numbers, mixed numbers, decimals, and fractions. Geometric figures, definitions, formulas, and the use of a protractor and compass are included. Involves the use of calculators, problem solving, critical thinking, and decision making.

Science:

A basic understanding in both life and physical science discussing and discovering the mysteries of living things. The studies focus on the interdependence of living things, bacteria and viruses, and genes and heredity. Electricity and light energy are explored, particularly energy from the stars. A presentation of a creative invention project is required in the spring

Literature:

An exploration of the various forms of literature: short story, poetry, drama, and the novel. Focuses on critical reading skills and vocabulary building. Includes an introduction to Shakespeare and a study of oral tradition, folklore and mythology.

Language:

Focuses on spelling, parts of speech, and sentence structure. Includes narrative, descriptive, persuasive, and journal writing. Emphasizes good paragraph construction, with topic sentence and supporting details. Covers study skills, such as note taking, time management, test preparation, etc. Includes a four week speech program which gives the students the opportunity to write and deliver their own speeches. At this time pointers on public speaking will be given, and students will participate in a Speech Meet at the culmination of the course.

History:

Students learn about the cultural contributions of different groups of people in world history. Basic background information is presented to understand map and globe skills, how history is presented, and the use of other social sciences that help historical understanding. Later the development of pre-historic man and the start of civilizations in Egypt, China and India are examined. Finally, the advanced civilizations of Greece and Rome are used as a major topic to focus on for understanding modern society.

7th Grade Curriculum

Mathematics:

Basic Math: Reviews and expands upon the skills covered in sixth grade. Greater depth is given to decimals, fractions, graphs, and statistics. Students will explore number theories and patterns, geometric sequences, geometry, probability and predictions. An introduction to algebra is also presented to enable students to make the transition to higher math.

Life Science (Biology):

A study of the origin, characteristics and structure of living things from simple organisms to the human body. Topics covering nutrition, reproduction, diseases, biomes, biosphere and ecology are discussed. The effects of drugs, alcohol, and tobacco on the human body and our society are included. Science Fair in the spring requires a project, adhering to a scientific method procedure, focused on a life science experiment.

Literature:

Focuses on analysis of all types of literature, including short stories, poetry, and plays. Emphasis on author's style and literary techniques. Includes planning and producing dramatization, and a study of myths and legends. Students will read several novels in addition to the textbook selections.

Language:

Emphasizes more advanced grammar skills including clauses and phrases, compound and complex sentences, and person, number and gender of nouns and pronouns. Continued practice with writing skills, but with a focus on the essay. Explores various forms of writing, from personal and expressive, to informative and persuasive. Covers more advanced research skills.

History:

Focus is on world history, beginning at the end of the Roman Empire. New societies of a more non-European influence are examined. The Muslim Empire, African Society, India, China, and Japan are covered. A study of Europe during the Middle Ages is emphasized. Examination of this period tries to show the connection to modern history. Major changes in society, religion, inventions and lifestyles are the main focus of the study. Advanced map and globe skills are also practiced.

8th Grade Curriculum

Mathematics:

Basic Math: Offered to those students who need extra reinforcement in the basic concepts.Serves as a good foundation for Pre-Algebra.

Pre-Algebra: An introduction to the basic algebraic concepts such as equations, inequalities, integers, and geometric properties. Provides a solid foundation for later algebraic studies.

Algebra 1: Offers challenging problems on equations, inequalities, polynomials, factoring, statistics and probability. Basic trigonometry and geometry is incorporated for later success.

Physical Science:

Incorporates experiments, formulas and science projects. Resources include computer software and overhead projector material, which allow for clarity and concepts. Focuses on constructing graphs and tables, testing a hypothesis, classifying composition and chemical reaction, interpreting data and diagrams, controlling variables, and chemical equations. Spring Science Fair based on a Physics or chemical related project.

Literature:

A study of all types of literature including poetry, non-fiction and drama. Focuses on understanding of plot, setting, characterization and theme. Students will judge objectively, and analyze critically what is read. Includes an in-depth study of longer works of literature such as To Kill A Mockingbird and Shakespeare's Hamlet.

Language:

Expository and creative writing will be included with an emphasis on the usage and mechanics of grammar. Students will be writing their own novels during this class. Also includes a study of poetry and the production of their own collection of poetry.

History:

Basic study of American history which covers the period from Pre-Revolutionary America through World War II. Major emphasis is placed on the concept of cause and effect in history, comprehension of ideas, vocabulary and geography. Special sections focus on the Declaration of Independence and The Constitution. Discussion of modern America is detailed in special seminars.