Course Descriptions
Spelling 6
Spelling is one aspect of the McDougal Littell curriculum. Spelling is addressed as a rule oriented process. Students will be introduced to a new spelling rule and their job is to study and know the rule so that they can apply it even to words not on the spelling list. Practice of the rule is provided through the use of the Vocabulary and Spelling workbook in many different formats to accommodate different learners.
Reading 6
Montverde Academy uses the McDougal Littell curriculum to give instruction in reading. This structured program teaches children valuable comprehension skills through a systematic and explicit plan. By taking into account the individual needs of students and providing them with practice and engaging reading materials, the students become confident and successful readers. Students work on their own or collaboratively to practice and review material taught in the lessons or to complete projects. Individualized reading is also an important part of the reading curriculum and students will be required to read using various passages within the curriculum as well as a novel and complete book projects.
Writing 6
Montverde Academy's writing curriculum is also part McDougal Littell curriculum. Reading and writing are interwoven processes and each helps build and strengthen the other. Throughout the year students will do a tremendous amount of writing both collaboratively and independently. Students will write pieces that are connected to the reading selection using the writing process together with their peers. Students will also be given whole group, direct instruction on writing as well. In this way, students will learn how to write an essay where three points are developed into five paragraphs. Students will focus on Expository and persuasive essay writing and will write independently.
Math 6
Students in Math 6 will enjoy using the Saxon Math program. The unique structure of Saxon's mathematics instruction promotes student success through the sound educational practices of incremental development and continual review. With incremental development, topics are developed in small steps spread over time. One facet of a concept is taught and practiced before the next facet is introduced. Through continual review, previously presented concepts are practiced frequently and extensively over the year. This improves long-term retention of concepts which is a hallmark of true learning. Math 6 focuses on the operations of addition, subtraction, multiplication, division as well as the concepts of powers and roots. Math 6 also explores fraction concepts, decimals, percents, estimation, number theory as well as number sets and number systems. All of these concepts lead into Math 7 or Pre-Algebra.
Advanced Math 6
This Math course is designed for students who placed at a Pre-Algebra level in Math. Students in this course will benefit from the use of the Saxon Math textbook and program. The unique structure of Saxon's mathematics instruction promotes student success through the sound educational practices of incremental development and continual review. With incremental development, topics are developed in small steps spread over time. One facet of a concept is taught and practiced before the next facet is introduced. Through continual review, previously presented concepts are practiced frequently and extensively over the year. This improves long-term retention of concepts which is a hallmark of true learning. The concepts covered are word problems, scientific notation, statistics and probability, ratios and proportions, simplifying and balancing equations, factoring algebraic expressions, slope-intercept form, graphing linear inequalities, arcs and sectors, and the Pythagorean Theorem.
Science 6
The Science curriculum at Montverde Academy is comprised of units that are designed to provide all students with stimulating experiences in the life, earth, and physical sciences and technology while simultaneously developing their critical-thinking and problem solving skills. The units provide students with the opportunity to learn age-appropriate concepts and skills to acquire scientific attitudes and habits of mind. Sixth graders focus on measuring time, the technology of paper, plants and magnets and motors.
Social Studies 6
Sixth grade students use the Macmillian/McGraw-Hill textbook entitled Our World to explore Ancient Civilizations with an emphasis on Geography. Their partnership with National Geographic ensures unparalleled geography content. Students begin the year studying geographic terms and the Themes of Geography. Then they begin to look at specific regions of the world more closely. Students study Oceania (Australia/New Zealand region), Ancient Mesopotamia, Ancient Egypt, Ancient India, Ancient China, Ancient Greece and Ancient Rome. Throughout the year, reading skills and strategies are integrated with Social Studies to support understanding and increase success.
English 7
This is a seventh grade course, where students will learn the correct mechanics and fundamentals of writing complete sentences and well-developed paragraphs using the rules of correct grammar. As students learn these skills, they will study the works of many authors including, Lewis, Stevenson, Twain, Longfellow, Kipling, Frost, Dickens, Shakespeare, Sandburg, Cummings, Poe, Lindsay, Carroll and many more. Students will also learn the characteristics of works in the following genres: short stories, poems, drama, novels, and non-fiction. Vocabulary skills will also be emphasized.
Math 7
The textbook being used for Math 7 is Saxon Math Course 2 with pre-algebra. It is a continuation of the curriculum found in the lower school and 6th grade. Saxon Math has designed it's curriculum into individual lessons for each day. Students will progress through 120 lessons throughout the year. These lessons begin with a lengthy review of basic math and material covered in previous years. Students will be introduced to multiple step problems and pre-algebra. By the end of the year it is expected that students will be ready for the transition to Algebra. Saxon Math has designed tests to coincide with the lessons being taught. Tests are given after every fifth lesson and are comprehensive. Grading for math 7 is based on four areas and weighted accordingly
Algebra I
The purpose of this course is to provide a solid foundation in Algebra for those students in a college preparatory curriculum. The course emphasizes analytical skills and problem solving techniques. Throughout the course, previously developed methods are extended and enlarged to cope with more abstract situations so the student can follow a logical solution path based on well-known steps. A teacher recommendation is a prerequisite. The course uses the text, Algebra I: Glencoe, McGraw- Hill. McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc. 2008.
Algebra I (Honors)
The purpose of this course is to provide a solid foundation in Algebra for those students in a college preparatory curriculum. The course emphasizes analytical skills and problem solving techniques. Throughout the course, previously developed methods are extended and enlarged to cope with more abstract situations so the student can follow a logical solution path based on well-known steps. This course presents an in-depth study of these topics with more emphasis on theory, proof, and formulas, as well as their application. A recommendation is a prerequisite. The course uses the text, Algebra I: Glencoe-Hill Companies, Inc. 2008.
Geography 7
This is a 7th grade course in which students will gain a familiarity with the Earth's physical, cultural, historical, and political geography. Through lecture, discussion, written assignments, current events study, and hands-on projects, students will acquire map skills, examine the geological sciences and the five themes of geography, and broaden their understanding of global issues that include ecological, demographic, and economic study.
Life Science
Life Science is a 7th grade level course designed to prepare the student for high school biological sciences. Course topics include general scientific methods, virology, cell biology, heredity and evolution, diversity of life, taxonomy, microbiology, botany, zoology, ecology, and human anatomy. Supporting course work includes laboratory exercises with biological samples and instrumentation, research, projects/reports, and analysis of current events in the field of science.
English 8
This is a sixth grade course, where students will learn the correct mechanics and fundamentals of writing the four different types of paragraphs and a five- part essay by using the rules of correct grammar. As students learn these skills they will study the works of many authors including, Homer, Lewis, Stoker, Stevenson, Twain, Longfellow, Kipling, Frost, Dickens, Shakespeare, Sandburg, Cummings, Poe, Lindsay, Carroll and many more. Students will also learn the characteristics of works in the following genres: short stories, poems, drama, novels, and non-fiction. Vocabulary skills will also be emphasized.
Geometry
This upper school course is developed as a postulational system of reasoning. Students practice the use of postulates, axioms, definitions, and theorems in deductive formal and informal proofs involving arithmetic, algebraic, and geometric settings.
Geometry (Honors)
This upper school course is designed to develop the geometric relationship and deductive strategies that can be used to solve a variety of real world mathematical problems with more emphasis on proofs.
Physical Science
This is an 8th grade course that provides the student with a fundamental understanding of scientific principles related to our planet Earth and its place in space. Earth Science is a blend of many different sciences, including geology, meteorology, oceanography and astronomy. Topics studied in this course include the transfer of energy in Earth's atmosphere; the evolution of land forms; patterns of change that affect weather; the scale and structure of planets and stars; and the interactions that occur among the water, atmosphere, and land. Supporting course work includes laboratory exercises, projects/reports, and analysis of current events in the field of science.
Twentieth Century U.S. History
This course for 8th grade introduces students to historical events in Twentieth Century America. Using lecture, group discussion, projects, multi-media components and field trips, students will examine the importance of America's recent past in relation to its future, making history relevant to today.
Enrichments:
Computer Skills
Middle School Computers is a general survey class that covers a number of computer topics to prepare students for high school computer courses. Students are not required to purchase a textbook or own a personal computer. The students will be provided with both computers and the necessary software at the school's computer lab. The course varies with difficulty and depth depending on the grade level but generally all three grades (6th - 8th) cover the same topics. The topics covered include generic hardware features of computers, general software notes, a brief history of the development of the computer and the internet, internet search strings and basics, basic Microsoft Word, basic Microsoft Excel, basic Microsoft Office, and basic keyboarding. Students are given quizzes, tests, and internet activities based on these topics as well as reading assignments in the field of computer science. Students are also required to create and present a presentation using Microsoft PowerPoint on a reasonable topic of their choice.
Spanish
The purpose of this course is to provide the students an introduction to the basic Spanish language and its culture. Acquisition of the new vocabulary, grammar structure, lessons and communicative exercises are connected and placed on the development of the four language skills of: listening, speaking, reading, and writing, conducted in the language learning. Courses at the 6th, 7th, and 8th grade level cover materials in the following eight areas: grammar, mechanics, listening, speaking, reading, writing, vocabulary, and cultural awareness.
Study Skills
The objective of the study skills course is to introduce students to basic study skills strategies. The following skills will be covered: time management, test preparation, taking notes, goal setting, and listening skills.
The students are expected to outline their academic goals for each grading period. The goal is to help students develop effective study habits that can be utilized at school and at home. The class focuses on students learning how to prioritize daily tasks and completing assignments and projects on time. This course will help students prepare for tests and exams. The study skills class is designed to give the students study strategies to make them successful at their present grade level and at the next educational level.
Physical Education
In this course the middle school PE curriculum offers sport activities that are included in the Academy’s after-school interscholastic sports of: volleyball, football, soccer, basketball, track and field, and baseball/softball. By offering these activities, the students might be motivated to participate in these sports in the future in one or several of our male and female sports programs. Our goal in the physical education program is to teach the students the basic skills of these sports. Appropriate warm-ups, stretching, and agility drills will be incorporated into each class. In each unit the instructor will conduct a theoretic review about what was taught and why it was taught in each particular sport. The physical education class has a very important impact in the development of the student in teaching them an appropriate lifestyle for their future well being. Also, through sports we can help grow confidence in the areas of: social leaders, physical attitude, motor skills development, discipline, and team work.
Electives:
Art
Formal art instruction is given to each student in all grades. The art curriculum is designed to encourage artistic expression by familiarizing students with basic art techniques, style and periods. Students create with clay, chalk, paints, pastels and pencils. Sixth through eighth grade students concentrate on age-appropriate crafts; while learning to manipulate materials and to work with simple forms. Students may participate in various art contests.
Band
In this ensemble, students will learn how to play an instrument, read music, and learn new musical related vocabulary sometimes in many different languages. This occurs simultaneously with reinforcing team work, responsibility, and critical thinking skills which enhances learning in other areas of their academic day. Within the band enrichment program there will be performances where the students are able to showcase their talents to demonstrate what they have learned.
Chess
The chess enrichment accommodates players of various skill levels – from beginner to experienced players. The beginner is paired with a more experienced player until he/she has learned enough chess to be able orchestrate a match smoothly. Players then choose their opponents such that their chess abilities are challenged. Players will learn various openings, defensive strategies, and end of game techniques. They will also learn chess idiosyncrasies such as how to castle and how to recognize and deal with an en passant. To get an E in the enrichment class, the player must either defeat the instructor or win a chess enrichment tournament.
Choir
Music is a comprehensive program involving all students in grades 6 through 8. Students who participate in the choir elective learn musicianship skills through ensemble singing. The class focuses on learning to sing as a group, as well as developing beginning harmony. Students learn and practice proper vocal technique and basic music reading skills. Students also participate in choral singing; learn and practice vocal techniques; study musical notation, harmony, terminology and history. At various times throughout the year all the students come together to sing at Academy events, including Montverde Day in the Fall and a Fine Arts fair in the Spring.
Dance
The dance enrichment is designed to have the students learn various dance steps. The students are introduced to individual dance steps and group dance moves. The elective is used a teaching environment, a cardio vascular workout for the students, and a time to enjoy fellowship while engaged in a learning atmosphere.
Drama
The curriculum would include drama games, monologues, and short skits. Purpose of the course would be to strengthen creative skills and give students the opportunity to decide if they want to be part of the spring production. Students would be told in advance that this is a voluntary course and the instructor has the authority to remove them from the course if they are wasting either their time or causing other students to have their time wasted. Second semester course would be a more complicated course culminating in a show. Students would have to audition to participate and the criteria would be based on student responsibility and dedication with a recommendation from their homeroom teacher.
Journalism
The journalism elective introduces students to the elements of a newspaper. Students create a newspaper one or two times per term to report events occurring both inside and outside the school that they believe are important. The elective strengthens their writing skills, but also necessitates that they work collaboratively to choose their writing assignments, edit their work, and produce a finished product. Students learn how to interview people and conduct research, and then incorporate that information into a clear and concise story. The enrichment class helps them learn the importance of remaining focused, organized, and responsible in order to complete writing assignments within the prescribed deadline. Because students type their own stories, the elective reinforces computer skills and also exposes them to Microsoft Publisher as they work together to design the newspaper layout. It instills confidence, teamwork, and pride within the students, especially when they view their published work and see their names on the byline of the articles.
Orchestra
In this ensemble, students will learn how to play an instrument, read music, and learn new musical related vocabulary sometimes in many different languages. This occurs simultaneously with reinforcing team work, responsibility, and critical thinking skills which enhances learning in other areas of their academic day. Within the band enrichment program there will be performances where the students are able to showcase their talents to demonstrate what they have learned.
Sudoku
The Sudoku enrichment class works on solving Sudoku puzzles that are appropriate for the skill level of the students enrolled in the class. The puzzles range from easy, to medium difficulty, to difficult, and finally challenging. The Sudoku puzzles that we work on during the enrichment time are a 9 X 9 grid. The numbers 1 through 9 are used in each column, each row, and each 3 x 3 square only one time. The Sudoku class is designed to increase a student’s logical thought process while having fun. Although the symbols 1 through 9 are used in most puzzles, mathematical operations are not the focus of the enrichment. There are numerous strategies that are explained to the students so that they can become more proficient in solving these puzzles.
Yearbook
The yearbook enrichment works to document middle school student life throughout the school year. The students and sponsor work closely with the upper school yearbook club to ensure a creative, yet informative, keepsake for the entire student body. The sponsor’s job, as the middle school yearbook advisor, is to ensure equal middle school representation in the finished product.
Student Government
Middle School Student Government Association (SGA) is made up of elected student leaders from grades 6, 7, and 8. “The objective of this organization shall be to conduct such business as arises in connection with student affairs, to promote high standards in all student activities, to foster communications between faculty and students, and give students experience in a democratic government.” The SGA is proud to conduct service projects that benefit our community, coordinate activities to serve our students, and act in such a way as to exemplify and promote good character.