Curriculum
Language Arts
The Middle School’s Language Arts curriculum aims to build the reading and writing skills needed for Upper School success. It helps students become curious readers and adaptable writers across various forms.
Using the CommonLit 360 curriculum, students enhance their reading, writing, grammar, and vocabulary skills through engaging content on different subjects. They explore essential questions, gather evidence, analyze complex texts, and develop critical thinking and language skills. Vocabulary is integrated into reading throughout the year, and grammar studies focus on sentence mechanics and syntax. Classroom routines prioritize student voice, discussion, collaboration, and problem-solving.
Mathematics
In our Middle School math courses, students enhance their problem-solving skills and learn to apply mathematical thinking to real-world challenges.
We use Math in Focus courses 1, 2, and 3, based on the highly ranked Singapore math curriculum. This method follows a concrete-pictorial-abstract progression, starting with hands-on experiences and moving to abstract thinking. Using manipulatives and model drawings, students connect visual representations to practical problems, gaining a deeper understanding of concepts needed for Algebra and Geometry.
Advanced students can take Algebra I Honors and Geometry Honors, earning credits toward Upper School graduation.
SCIENCE
Science Laboratory-based inquiry is central to our hands-on Middle School science program, where students develop scientific skills through practical applications.
Middle School students engage in various scientific activities. They work with NASA scientists through the GLOBE program, validating satellite data and learning about Earth’s systems. They explore life on Earth, our planet’s place in the universe, matter's properties, and the periodic table. Lab experiments enhance their understanding of forces, energy, cellular structures, chemical reactions, electricity, magnetism, and waves. Throughout Middle School, students gain hands-on skills that promote critical thinking and responsible community membership.
Social Studies
Our Social Studies program offers in-depth study and analysis of historical events, civilizations, and societies. Students learn to understand events, past and present, within their contexts and from multiple perspectives.
In sixth grade, students study ancient civilizations, focusing on the geographical, social, economic, and political structures of non-Western societies. In seventh and eighth grades, they examine U.S. history from the European explorations in the fifteenth century to the present day. Using primary and secondary sources, students develop research skills and critical thinking about historical challenges and responses. In eighth grade, they also learn about financial systems and their impacts on communities and individuals, gaining insight into the role of economic forces in social, political, and personal contexts. Throughout Middle School, students learn about the past to better understand themselves, the world, and the importance of responsible citizenship.
World languages
Learning another language is a great way for students to understand the world better and grow as global citizens. It also boosts memory, verbal skills, and reading abilities.
At our Middle School, sixth and seventh graders dive into Spanish. They learn the basics of the language and explore the history and cultures of Spanish-speaking countries. By eighth grade, they can continue with Spanish I or start French I. Advanced students can even take specialized courses in Upper School designed for native Spanish speakers.
Completing Spanish I or French I in Middle School also earns students credits toward graduation in Upper School.
Fine & Performing Arts
Our Middle School arts programs offer students opportunities for creative exploration and personal growth as they develop their unique voices through various artistic avenues.
In sixth grade, students are introduced to a wide range of arts disciplines through a rotating fine arts course. As they progress to seventh and eighth grades, students can choose from courses like Piano, Strings, Drama, and Choir, as well as visual arts classes. Seventh graders with a strong musical interest can audition for a more concentrated focus in our Music Conservatory program.
Beyond classes, many Middle School students participate in extracurricular arts activities, such as performing in Choir, taking part in Drama productions at the W. Daniel Mills Stage in Lindor Hall, joining Thespian festivals through the Junior International Thespian Society, and pursuing private instrumental lessons at the Community Music School at Montverde.