The Middle School program has been developed to address the unique differences in intellectual ability, social maturity, and physical skills of students ages 12 to 14. It is characterized by flexible approaches to education that are developmentally appropriate for the middle school years. A key component of the educational program is the learning structure for students. Teams consisting of four teachers, averaging 110 students per team, help to personalize the learning environment that contributes to the success of our students.
Student Achievement, Report Cards and Conferences
At the beginning of each year, teachers clearly communicate via course sylbbi to students and parents their expectations for all courses. The same expectations are communicated to parents during the Fall Open House, at parent conferences, as well as other opportunities throughout the year. These conferences are scheduled two times per year at the middle school and focus on each student's academic experiences. Parents and/or teachers may schedule additional conferences at any other time if the need arises.
Report cards are distributed four times a year. Students earn letter grades, and a grade of D- or better is considered passing. Interim reports are also used to communicate concerns of the teacher about a student's progress.
Language Arts
Seventh and eighth grade students engage in a language arts program that is aligned with the Pennsylvania Academic Standards for reading, writing, speaking, and listening. The curriculum includes exploring literature, writing theme papers, preparing oral presentations, and learning the parts of speech. A structured vocabulary program serves as a basis for increasing reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills.
Social Studies
Seventh grade students study European history, from the Middle Ages period to 1900. Eighth grade students examine the early years of our country and the design and function of government.
Mathematics
The middle school mathematics curriculum includes multiple levels. Most seventh grade students study number theory; computations involving whole numbers, decimals, and fractions; equations; ratios; percents; integers; and problem solving. Some seventh grade students take a pre-algebra course to prepare for eighth grade algebra. Eighth grade students continue with fundamental mathematics, pre-algebra,algebra and honors algebra courses.
Science
The middle school science curriculum is based on a hands-on laboratory approach, which brings science to life for the students. Seventh grade students explore the theme, understanding of life. Eighth grade students study earth science.
Life Studies and Physical Education are taught in both middle school grades. Life Studies units meet the following state standards: Concepts of Health, Healthful Living, and Safety and Injury Prevention. Physical Education units will be meeting the following state standards: Physical Activity, and Concepts, Principles and Strategies of Movement.
Art Cycle
Students in grade seven will rotate to each of the following seven art cycle classes. These classes are designed for students to explore the arts and be exposed to new experiences.
In eighth grade, students will choose between studying a full year of a world language or further enrichment opportunities as they rotate among the various art cycle classes.
Students identified as needing specific reading instruction as measured by the Reading PSSA will be placed into Strategic Reading and/or Literacy Enrichment. The Strategic Reading course will replace three Art Cycle courses (Exploratory Spanish, Exploratory French, and Music) in 7th grade and two Art Cycles courses (student choice to the extent possible) in 8th grade. The Literacy Enrichment course will replace on marking period of Life Studies.
Foreign Language
Students in seventh grade explore two world languages. During their study, students are exposed to French and Spanish, learning basic vocabulary and speech patterns, as well as the culture and civilization of the country. Selected eighth grade students are then given the opportunity to take a Level I Spanish or French course as an elective for the entire year. These courses emphasize beginning oral communication, listening, reading, and writing skills. Students gain knowledge and understanding of other cultures as well as develop insight into their own language and culture. Upon successful completion of French I or Spanish I, they may enroll in Level II their freshman year of high school.
Computer Education
The computer curriculum is designed to teach students how to use the computer as their "pen and paper." Each grade level utilizes application software and up-to-date technology in cross-curricular projects. Each grade level builds upon a continuous hierarchy.
Seventh grade students explore the internet. Students learn to use the Would Wide Web and e-mail, as well as how to search for information and to apply this knowledge in other subject areas.
Eighth grade students learn techniques for critically examining www site content and code. They will draw upon this analysis to create web sites of their own. Through the creation of this site, they will produce multimedia presentations incorporating subject matter from their academic courses of study.
Industrial Technology Education
Through the use of guided projects, students experience a variety of different concepts and skills involved in making products. Design, project planning, measurement, shop safety, name and uses of common hand tools, safe use of machines, and finishing are included in the curriculum. Both grade levels have specific goals and expected accomplishments for every student.
Music
Music in the Art Cycle uses a hands-on approach. The basic topics of music: rhythm, melody, harmony, form, and tone color are explored as students perform on classroom instruments. Music history is also studied in the beginning with the medieval period through and including modern music.
Family and Consumer Sciences
It is our objective to teach students useful life skills to improve home and family life in students' immediate circumstances. Basic kitchen skills, clothing repair, baby-sitting, consumerism, and relationships with family and friends are all included topics for discussion. This curriculum emphasizes time management, cooperation, the ability to follow written directions, and organization of work to meet personal standards.
Art
The art curriculum consists of two and three dimensional work, art appreciation, and art analysis. Enhancing creative problem solving skills, working cooperatively, and describing and analyzing art work of various artists and cultures are all goals of the visual arts program.
Strategic Reading
Strategic Reading is intended to guide the learning process toward individual student achievement of established Reading eligible content and curriculum goals. The course emphasizes the development and application of comprehension strategies across the core content areas. Students are engaged in high-interest text while participating in interactive whole-group instruction, cooperative learning activities, and independent learning.
Literacy Enrichment
Literacy Enrichment is a comprehensive reading comprehension program based on all the strategies that good readers use. The goal of this course is to improve students’ reading comprehension using the strategies of predicting, questioning, clarifying and summarizing. Students will be guided to become metacognitive and reflective in their strategy use.
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