Language Arts
8 periods per week (Gr. 5)/7 periods per week (Gr. 6,7)/6 periods per week (Gr.8)

In this program, students develop essential comprehension and communication skills through oral and written activities. They develop an appreciation of a variety of literary styles through discussions and reading. Students use critical and analytical skills to compare stories, themes and concepts while enhancing their ability to express themselves through their writing. The 5th grade curriculum can be divided into four main categories emphasizing reading comprehension, writing (grammar, syntax and style), vocabulary and spelling. A diverse library of materials is used to teach these concepts. Note-taking is introduced as students study various types of literature and story components. In 6th grade, the five paragraph essay is introduced as well as a reading anthology to expand students' exposure to new and diverse authors. The 6th grade students complete a research report based on art history. 7th grade students expand on the previous anthology to explore new genres and significant emphasis is placed on vocabulary development. During this year, students develop their skill at writing five paragraph essays across curriculums. Emphasis is placed on integrated curriculum and 7th grade students write a research paper that is developed and graded by a grammar instructor and one other core curriculum teacher. In preparation for secondary school, 8th grade students analyze several novels in conjunction with anthology studies. They master the writing of an essay, significantly expand their vocabulary and write a major research paper for U.S. History which is also analyzed by their grammar teacher. Additionally, students are introduced to key development skills such as interviewing and timed essays. Strands: Reading, Written Language, Oral Communication, Vocabulary and Spelling.

Mathematics
5 periods per week (Gr. 5-8)

In the math program, students are grouped by ability level, not grade level. Students master manipulations of whole numbers, fractions, decimals, and integers. They develop understanding of the properties of mathematics and the order of operations before moving to the Pre-Algebra and Algebra strands. Expressions, rational numbers, linear inequalities, geometry, and polynomials are components of the advanced math sections. Students use paper and pencil, computers, manipulatives, games, calculators and cooperative group work to gain an understanding of the computational and problem solving concepts: Math 5, (Course 1, Course 2), Pre-Algebra, Algebra IA, Algebra IB and Geometry.

Science
4 periods per week (Gr. 5)/5 periods per week (Gr. 6-8)

The aim of the science program is to give students an in-depth understanding of earth science and life science as well as exposing them to major themes in physical science. Working in a lab setting, cooperative groups engage in experiments and discussions. Students learn to maintain accurate records, design and conduct their own experiments and present their findings. In the 5th grade program, all three areas of science (earth, life and physical) are studied. In 6th grade, earth science is emphasized and in May of each year these students spend a week at the Yosemite Institute to apply and expand their studies. 7th graders focus on life science. They enhance their studies with a week of exploratory and applied science at the Catalina Environmental Leadership Program. 8th graders complete their study of life science, before beginning an extensive course in physical science: Integrated Science (5th), Earth (6th), Life (7th) and Life/Physical (8th)

Social Studies/History
5 periods per week (Gr. 5-8)

The Social Studies/History program has three points of emphasis: (1) exploring the past while making connections to the present through current events (Time For Kids) and geography (2) developing citizenship and character by examining history and civics; and (3) practicing study, written and analytical skills as they apply to society and history. The 5th grade social studies curriculum provides students with comprehensive knowledge, civic values and academic skills. The strand of knowledge and understanding focuses on history, geography, economics, culture, ethics and the social and political systems of the U.S. sixth grade students begin the year with a mini course in archaeology culminating with an archaeological dig. They then explore the development and evolution of the first societies and empires. Seventh grade students make an international study of the Middle Ages and create an International Festival to be shared with the entire school. Eighth grade students analyze U.S. History, linking its development through a chain of "cause and effect" events tied to civil rights. They write a major research paper which focuses on the skill of comparing and contrasting. Their course studies culminate with a week-long trip to Washington, D.C. 8th grade students also explore civic values through national identity, constitutional heritage and citizenship. The academic skills incorporated throughout the program include study skills, note-taking skills, visual learning, map and globe skills, critical thinking and social participation: Early America (5th), Ancient Civilizations (6th), World Cultures and Civics (7th), and U.S. History (8th).

Spanish
2 periods per week (Gr. 5)/3 periods per week (Gr. 6,7)/4 periods per week (Gr.8)

The Spanish program exposes the students not only to the language, but also to the cultures of Spanish speaking countries. Students are encouraged to advance their skills by communicating orally in class and listening to comprehension tapes. They develop their grammatical and conversational skills through group and individual practice. Discussions about the cultures help the students appreciate various regions of the world. Upon graduation, many students are qualified for Spanish II in secondary school.

Music
1 period per week (Gr. 5)/1 period per week for 1 semester (Gr. 6-8)

Students meet weekly for the study and exploration of music. Theory, rhythm, performance and appreciation of music are highlighted in the program. As part of a research and creative project, students report on musicians past and present and the artists' musical styles. They then compare and contrast various musical genres. Additionally, music is integrated into several of the Middle School electives.

Physical Education
4 periods per week

Physical education teaches students how to be fit and healthy while advancing their skills through a variety of activities. Teamwork, cooperation, and participation are emphasized daily and students are challenged within their own potential. Students also participate in league competition if they desire. Interscholastic Sports: Flag Football, Basketball, Soccer, and Volleyball.

Art

1 period per week (Gr. 5)/Electives (Gr. 6-8) As a continuation from the lower school, 5th grade students meet once a week. They study various genres and styles through masters' work. Art is integrated with other curriculums to complement and supplement studies. Students in 6th through 8th grades have the opportunity to select art courses from a variety of specialized elective offerings.

Electives are designed to supplement and complement the core curriculum classes. Students may take electives in the following disciplines: Art, Performing Arts, Technology and Science, Journalism, Health and Fitness, and Service Learning. Through electives, students are expected to meet graduation requirements in Computers and in Health and Fitness. Students select up to eight different electives per year. Current elective opportunities include: acrylic painting, baseball, bridge building, dance, computer technology (robotics, stop motion animation, Word, Excel, PowerPoint), crime scene investigation, drama workshop, fitness for life, guitar, health, mask making, newspaper, paper-mache, pastels, piano, play production, printmaking, school service, set design, sword play and yearbook.

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