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MIDDLE SCHOOL CURRICULUM
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. Honors classes will also progress into
a more in-depth look at integers, algebraic equations,
decimals, fractions, and patterns of numbers, providing
a solid foundation for Pre-Algebra. |
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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. |
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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. |
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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. |
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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 prehistoric 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. |
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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.
Pre-Algebra: Honors students will take
an introduction to the basic algebraic concepts
such as equations, inequalities, integers, and
geometric properties. Course provides a solid
foundation for later algebraic studies.
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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. |
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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. |
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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. |
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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. |
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8th Grade Curriculum
Mathematics:
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.
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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. |
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Literature:
| A study of all types of
literature including poetry, nonfiction 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, Of Mice and Men,
and Shakespeare's Hamlet. |
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Language:
| Expository and creative
wring 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. |
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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. |
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