Middle School

What we do:

Language Arts seeks to meet the individualized academic needs of all students through a focus on reading, decoding and comprehension skills, as well as understanding grammar and enhancing individual and group communications. Understanding and utilizing the English language properly is fundamental to any student’s success both in education and career by helping them to master reading, communicating, and analytical skills.  Integrating vocabulary, spelling, and context analysis, mastering decoding and fluency contributes to the development of better comprehension skills.  Grammar instruction focuses on strengthening written and oral communication by teaching the mechanics of the written and spoken language.  By promoting self-expression and critical thinking skills Language Arts endeavors not only to increase students’ capacity for understanding the English language but also builds confidence and self-esteem.

How we do it:

Instructional Strategies

The following instructional strategies are utilized in this course:

• Oral and written exercises
• Orton approach to the study of phonics and total language
• Modeling
• Guided and independent practice
• Open discussions and brainstorming
• Graphic organizers
• Pre-teach vocabulary
• Visual and oral representations for comprehension
• Visualization activities
• Written comprehension prompts and exercises
• Cooperative learning
• Peer editing
• Free-writing
• Paragraph frames
• Lecture
• Drill & practice
• Essays
• Research projects
• Brain storming & focused imaging
• Field trips
• Games
• Didactic, Socratic and open-ended questioning strategies
• Jigsaw, Think, Pair, Share and other peer learning strategies
• Wait time

What we do:

Language Arts seeks to meet the individualized academic needs of all students through a focus on reading, decoding and comprehension skills, as well as understanding grammar and enhancing individual and group communications. Understanding and utilizing the English language properly is fundamental to any student’s success both in education and career by helping them to master reading, communicating, and analytical skills.  Integrating vocabulary, spelling, and context analysis, mastering decoding and fluency contributes to the development of better comprehension skills.  Grammar instruction focuses on strengthening written and oral communication by teaching the mechanics of the written and spoken language.  By promoting self-expression and critical thinking skills Language Arts endeavors not only to increase students’ capacity for understanding the English language but also builds confidence and self-esteem.

How we do it:

Instructional Strategies

The following instructional strategies are utilized in this course:

• Oral and written exercises
• Orton approach to the study of phonics and total language
• Modeling
• Guided and independent practice
• Open discussions and brainstorming
• Graphic organizers
• Pre-teach vocabulary
• Visual and oral representations for comprehension
• Visualization activities
• Written comprehension prompts and exercises
• Cooperative learning
• Peer editing
• Free-writing
• Paragraph frames
• Lecture
• Drill & practice
• Essays
• Research projects
• Brain storming & focused imaging
• Field trips
• Games
• Didactic, Socratic and open-ended questioning strategies
• Jigsaw, Think, Pair, Share and other peer learning strategies
• Wait time

What We Do

• Whole number operations, basic arithmetic operations, estimation, complex problem-solving using whole numbers and complex problem-solving using decimals
• Comparing and ordering fractions and finding fraction/decimal equivalents
• Evaluation of simple numerical phrases with one or two algebraic variables
• Squares of whole numbers, Pythagorean Theorem
• Linear measurement

How we do it

• Logic and applied story problems
• Use of manipulatives (i.e. counters, number line, base 10 blocks, fraction tiles, geoboards)
• Lessons and activities from Math Connects
• Games and practice in both independent and small group settings
• Group and independent activities utilizing technology (i.e. IPads, Smartboard)
• Investigations, pre- and post-assessments
• Homework assessments

Accommodations

• Use of number lines
• Shortened lessons
• Set wait time to complete tasks
• Redirection
• Use of calculators
• Repetition
• Guided practice
• Allow individual pace
• Multiplication and division charts
• Use of graph paper for organization of work

What we do:

Math in grades 7 and 8 seeks to meet the individualized academic needs of all students by focusing on computation and problem solving that relates to real-life situations.  The Math sequence will provide students with the fundamental skills they will need to be successful in future math courses. Emphasis is placed on problem solving involving consumer applications and proportional reasoning.  Students will further develop an understanding of the properties of real numbers and data analysis techniques, which are necessary for success in higher-level math courses.  Students will apply mathematical concepts and skills and the relationship among them to solve problem situations of varying complexities.  Through constant exercises, students will develop a repertoire of skills and strategies for solving a variety of problems.

How we do it:     

• Real life applications
• Physical models
• Games
• Mental math
• Modeling and providing examples
• Direct instruction
• Didactic questions
• Guided practice
• Independent practice
• Experiments and trials
• Problem solving
• Hands-on activities
• Daily warm-ups
• Pre-tests

What we do:

Math in grades 7 and 8 seeks to meet the individualized academic needs of all students by focusing on computation and problem solving that relates to real-life situations.  The Math sequence will provide students with the fundamental skills they will need to be successful in future math courses. Emphasis is placed on problem solving involving consumer applications and proportional reasoning.  Students will further develop an understanding of the properties of real numbers and data analysis techniques, which are necessary for success in higher-level math courses.  Students will apply mathematical concepts and skills and the relationship among them to solve problem situations of varying complexities.  Through constant exercises, students will develop a repertoire of skills and strategies for solving a variety of problems.

How we do it:  

• Real life applications
• Physical models
• Games
• Mental math
• Modeling and providing examples
• Direct instruction
• Didactic questions
• Guided practice
• Independent practice
• Experiments and trials
• Problem solving
• Hands-on activities
• Daily warm-ups
• Pre-tests

What we do:

Comprehension focuses on the remediation of comprehension skills.  Students focus on a fundamental level of mastery for each of the specific skill objectives for this course, in an effort to supplement the appropriate language arts course for each individual student demonstrating a need for specific guided instruction in these areas.

How we do it:

The following instructional strategies are utilized in this course:

• Orton approach to the study of phonics and total language
• Written and oral drills
• Written and visual repetition of words
• Visual and oral representation of ideas for comprehension
• Guided and independent practice
• Modeling of interactive reading
• Rubrics

What we do:

Comprehension focuses on the remediation of comprehension skills.  Students focus on a fundamental level of mastery for each of the specific skill objectives for this course, in an effort to supplement the appropriate language arts course for each individual student demonstrating a need for specific guided instruction in these areas.

How we do it:

The following instructional strategies are utilized in this course:

• Orton approach to the study of phonics and total language
• Written and oral drills
• Written and visual repetition of words
• Visual and oral representation of ideas for comprehension
• Guided and independent practice
• Modeling of interactive reading
• Rubrics

What we do:

Comprehension focuses on the remediation of comprehension skills.  Students focus on a fundamental level of mastery for each of the specific skill objectives for this course, in an effort to supplement the appropriate language arts course for each individual student demonstrating a need for specific guided instruction in these areas.

How we do it:

The following instructional strategies are utilized in this course:

• Orton approach to the study of phonics and total language
• Written and oral drills
• Written and visual repetition of words
• Visual and oral representation of ideas for comprehension
• Guided and independent practice
• Modeling of interactive reading
• Rubrics

What we do:

Reading decoding specifically addresses student difficulties in the area of decoding and spelling.  This course will provide reading instruction using the PhonicsBoost reading program that incorporates various reading aspects in each lesson.  All lessons focus on reading accurately and include opportunities for students to practice reading aloud.  With explicit instruction and practice, students will become more accurate, efficient, and confident in their reading abilities.

How we do it: 

• Orton approach to the study of phonics and total language
• Written and oral drills
• Written and visual repetition of words
• Fluency lists
• Visual and oral representation of ideas for comprehension
• Guided and independent practice
• Modeling
• Spelling rules
• Rubrics
• Wait time
• Syllable type recognition

What we do:

Reading decoding specifically addresses student difficulties in the area of decoding and spelling.  This course will provide reading instruction using the PhonicsBoost reading program that incorporates various reading aspects in each lesson.  All lessons focus on reading accurately and include opportunities for students to practice reading aloud.  With explicit instruction and practice, students will become more accurate, efficient, and confident in their reading abilities.

How we do it: 

• Orton approach to the study of phonics and total language
• Written and oral drills
• Written and visual repetition of words
• Fluency lists
• Visual and oral representation of ideas for comprehension
• Guided and independent practice
• Modeling
• Spelling rules
• Rubrics
• Wait time
• Syllable type recognition

What we do:

Reading decoding specifically addresses student difficulties in the area of decoding and spelling.  This course will provide reading instruction using the PhonicsBoost reading program that incorporates various reading aspects in each lesson.  All lessons focus on reading accurately and include opportunities for students to practice reading aloud.  With explicit instruction and practice, students will become more accurate, efficient, and confident in their reading abilities.

How we do it: 

• Orton approach to the study of phonics and total language
• Written and oral drills
• Written and visual repetition of words
• Fluency lists
• Visual and oral representation of ideas for comprehension
• Guided and independent practice
• Modeling
• Spelling rules
• Rubrics
• Wait time
• Syllable type recognition

What We Do

• What is energy?
• Solar energy
• Matter is composed of atoms
• Characteristics of water
• Air and the Earth’s atmosphere
• The Solar System
• The Scientific Method

How we do it

• Plan and conduct simple investigations
• Gather and display data
• Projects, writing activities and discussions
• Collaborative projects and activities
• Group and independent activities utilizing technology (i.e. IPads, Smartboard)
• Quizzes and tests

Accommodations

• Verbal prompting
• Vary time allotted for tasks
• Vary number of tasks
• Visual maps/charts
• Redirection

Life Science

What we do:

This course will create an understanding of organization in living things, including systems of classification, cycles and patterns. Students will explore the concepts of cellular organization, relationships among organisms in an ecosystem, and patterns in genetics.  Students will conduct investigations and analyze data to increase understanding of the experimental nature of science.  They will understand humans’ impact on the environment and how sustainability through natural cooperation is a natural part of nature.

How we do it: 

• Cooperative learning/peer partner learning
• Hand-on and virtual labs
• Modeling
• Hands-on activities and labs
• Multisensory presentations
• Introduce relevant vocabulary prior to beginning a new topic of study
• Pre-teaching lesson by having lesson overview on board
• Field trips, outdoor classrooms
• Open-ended questions and discussion
• Alternative assessments

Physical Science

What we do:

Physical Science builds on skills of investigation, variables and trials.  Gathering data skills are more in-depth at a higher level of analysis. Students plan and conduct research through hands-on labs and literature review Physical Science stresses the understanding of the structure of matter, the characteristics of energy and how they are recognized in nature.  Major areas covered include the organization and use of the periodic table; physical and chemical changes; nuclear reactions; temperature and heat; sound; light; electricity and magnetism.  This is seen all within the context of work, force, and motion.

How we do it:

• Hand-on and virtual labs
• Modeling
• Hands-on activities and labs
• Multi-sensory presentations
• Introduce relevant vocabulary prior to beginning a new topic of study
• Pre-teaching lesson by having lesson overview on board
• Field Trips, Outdoor Classroom
• Open-ended questions and discussion
• Alternative Assessments

What We Do

• The effects of the Reconstruction on American life
• Life after the Civil War
• The changing role of the United States of America through World War I
• Social, technological and economic changes of the early 20^th century

How we do it

• Projects, multi-paragraph writing and discussions
• Multimedia projects and presentations
• Reading from various primary and secondary sources
• Individual reflection, research and writing
• Collaborative projects and activities
• Group and independent activities utilizing technology (i.e. IPads, Smartboard)
• Quizzes and tests

Accommodations

• Verbal prompting
• Vary time allotted for tasks
• Vary number of tasks
• Visual maps/charts
• Redirection

Civics

What we do:

Students taking Civics will develop a sense of patriotism and duty in addition to an informed interest in American politics.  The students will gain knowledge of the structures, principles, and functions of government on local, state and national levels.  In addition to the meaningful content, students will further develop skills such as analysis and interpretation of text, and organization of data and ideas.  Ultimately, students will understand the duties, privileges, and meaning of American citizenship, enabling them to cultivate their own emerging role within citizenry.

How we do it: 

• Reflective discussion
• Lecture
• Drill & practice
• Compare & contrast
• Maps, charts, and timelines
• Structured study guides
• Modeling
• Concept mapping
• Games
• Computer assisted instruction
• Assigned questions
• Research projects
• Debates
• Peer partner learning
• Brainstorming
• Introduce relevant vocabulary prior to beginning a new topic of study
• Simulations
• PowerPoint presentations

Ancient History

What we do:

Ancient History enables student to explore the historical development of people, places, and patterns of life from ancient times until 1500 A.D.  Students engage in historical thinking through exercising historical comprehension skills, chronological thinking, historical analysis and interpretation, historical research, and decision making.

How we do it:

• Reflective Discussion
• Lecture
• Drill & Practice
• Compare & Contrast
• Maps, charts, and timelines
• Structured study guides
• Modeling
• Concept Mapping
• Games
• Computer Assisted Instruction
• Assigned Questions
• Research Projects
• Debates

What we do:

Writing is broken into an in-depth study and/or review of English grammar and a comprehensive practice of writing paragraphs and essays, such as narration, exposition, persuasion, argumentation, and style analysis. Teachers assess each student’s individual progress and decide what each student needs to move their writing forward.  Writing is implemented daily, so students continue the process of developing the craft of writing.  It relies on kinesthetic learning at the keyboard to increase compositional fluency.

How we do it:

Direct Instruction

• Lecture
• Explicit teaching
• Drill and practice

Indirect Instruction

• Problem solving
• Case studies
• Reading for meaning
• Reflective discussion
• Writing to inform
• Concept mapping

Experimental Learning

• Narratives
• Storytelling

Independent Study

• Essays
• Computer assisted instruction
• Research projects

Interactive Instruction

• Brainstorming
• Peer partner learning
• Discussion
• Cooperative learning

Instructional Skills

• Explaining
• Demonstrating
• Questioning
• Questioning techniques
• Wait time
• Graphic organizers
• Self-monitoring strategies

What we do:

Writing is broken into an in-depth study and/or review of English grammar and a comprehensive practice of writing paragraphs and essays, such as narration, exposition, persuasion, argumentation, and style analysis. Teachers assess each student’s individual progress and decide what each student needs to move their writing forward.  Writing is implemented daily, so students continue the process of developing the craft of writing.  It relies on kinesthetic learning at the keyboard to increase compositional fluency.

How we do it:

Direct Instruction

• Lecture
• Explicit teaching
• Drill and practice

Indirect Instruction

• Problem solving
• Case studies
• Reading for meaning
• Reflective discussion
• Writing to inform
• Concept mapping

Experimental Learning

• Narratives
• Storytelling

Independent Study

• Essays
• Computer assisted instruction
• Research projects

Interactive Instruction

• Brainstorming
• Peer partner learning
• Discussion
• Cooperative learning

Instructional Skills

• Explaining
• Demonstrating
• Questioning
• Questioning techniques
• Wait time
• Graphic organizers
• Self-monitoring strategies

What we do:

Writing is broken into an in-depth study and/or review of English grammar and a comprehensive practice of writing paragraphs and essays, such as narration, exposition, persuasion, argumentation, and style analysis. Teachers assess each student’s individual progress and decide what each student needs to move their writing forward.  Writing is implemented daily, so students continue the process of developing the craft of writing.  It relies on kinesthetic learning at the keyboard to increase compositional fluency.

How we do it:

Direct Instruction

• Lecture
• Explicit teaching
• Drill and practice

Indirect Instruction

• Problem solving
• Case studies
• Reading for meaning
• Reflective discussion
• Writing to inform
• Concept mapping

Experimental Learning

• Narratives
• Storytelling

Independent Study

• Essays
• Computer assisted instruction
• Research projects

Interactive Instruction

• Brainstorming
• Peer partner learning
• Discussion
• Cooperative learning

Instructional Skills

• Explaining
• Demonstrating
• Questioning
• Questioning techniques
• Wait time
• Graphic organizers
• Self-monitoring strategies