Middle School English students learn to be strong communicators and analytical thinkers, with a particular focus on the development of reading and writing skills. Through the study of different works of literature, students develop their analysis skills and learn to communicate their thoughts effectively. Students learn about the many steps of the writing process and focus on creating and argument based on textual evidence. Learning activities focus on research, technology skills, effective communication and presentation strategies, and digital citizenship.

Our small classes and emphasis on seminar style discussion allow students and teachers to build strong relationships and help every student make their voice heard.

English 6

• Instructor: Dante Milligan
• Grade Level: 6
• Duration: Full-Year/2 periods per day

I n 6th grade English, students will work to become a community of empathetic readers, writers, thinkers, and leaders. The course, which will also align with Doane’s mission to develop strong, ethical leaders, will explore themes in literature such as resilience, courage in the face of fear, integrity, citizenship, communication, and social justice. Students will read a variety of texts and genres, such as graphic novels, mythology, science fiction/fantasy, drama, poetry, and historical fiction. 

With regard to writing, students will explore their individual creative voices and also develop skills necessary to become critical, analytical writers. Students will examine their personal writing preferences, styles, and topics of choice during extended Writing Workshop periods. Writing Workshop teaches the writing process, from inspiration through to publication, while integrating three kinds of feedback: self-driven, peer-driven, and teacher-driven. Analytical writing is centered around our major texts and begins with a focus on choosing a claim and identifying appropriate evidence to support it. Other writing highlights include: personal narrative, poetry composition, a character study, and daily grammar instruction.

Texts may include Zeus: King of the Gods by George O’Connor, selected poetry, Gibson’s The Miracle Worker, Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson, and The Watsons Go to Birmingham by Christopher Paul Curtis.

In order to fulfill all of the course’s instructional objectives, English 6 will meet for a total of 8 periods per week.

English 7

• Instructor: Dante Milligan
• Grade Level: 7
• Requirement Information:
• Duration: Full-Year

The English 7 curriculum centers upon an empowering reading list, which may include The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster, Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry by Mildred D. Taylor, Refugee by Alan Gratz, The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind: Young Readers Edition, and selected world mythology. These texts take students on a journey around the world, which is supported by historical and cultural investigations of each continent in Cultural Geography. Themes of focus include: family duty, human rights, social justice, responsibility, and innovation in the face of adversity. 

Each trimester boasts one creative writing assignment, several Character & Leadership journals to support Doane’s mission, and various analytical writing assignments. Analytical writing in 7th grade focuses on integration of quotations and hearty evaluation of said quotations in the service of supporting a claim. Grammar instruction is tailored to each class, and to each student, based on the writing assignments and shared needs. 

As this course is in constant conversation with Cultural Geography, we work to build critical thinking skills through drawing connections and integrating knowledge across disciplines.

English 8

• Instructor: Kath Brandwood
• Grade Level: 8
• Duration: Full-Year

In close conversation with a range of texts, both fiction and nonfiction, students in English 8 will explore the theme of neighborhood: What makes a good neighbor? A bad neighbor? How do we define the boundaries of our neighborhoods? Whom do we allow in? Whom do we attempt to keep out, and why? How can we use empathy to challenge those boundaries and make our communities more inclusive? To anchor discussions of these thematic questions, students will practice close reading of specific textual details to develop and support ideas in seminar-style discussions and in written work. In addition to crafting persuasive arguments, students will practice public speaking skills, write creatively in poetry and prose, continue to build a rich vocabulary, and practice concepts in grammar and usage. Literary texts may include Maus, The Hate U Give, Romeo and Juliet, A Raisin in the Sun, and selected poetry and short stories.

Health I

• Instructor: Enid Flagg
• Grade Level: 6
• Duration: One Trimester

6th grade Health will provide a trimester-long overview of a variety of issues pertaining to emotional wellness. To support students' transition into middle school, special emphasis will be placed on social and emotional wellness. During the first trimester, students will focus on activities that promote the development of a positive self-concept (i.e., interests, strengths, values, important memories, and supports). At the end of the trimester students creatively share their personal story with their families and peers. During the second trimester, students will focus on activities that promote the development of healthy coping skills. Before learning about healthy coping skills students will develop an understanding of the connection between their thoughts, emotions, and physiological response in response to a situation. Students will learn a variety of healthy coping skills, which they use to create an individualized healthy coping skills plan as part of their end of trimester project. During the third trimester, students will focus on interpersonal skills (e.g., communication skills, social problem solving, assertiveness skills, healthy boundaries, digital citizenships, etc.). To foster emotional wellbeing class will include a mindfulness exercise, identification and expression of emotions through journaling and group discussion, short relaxation exercises, small group work, and projects that allow students to explore their own special interests within a given topic.

Health II

• Instructor: Roxane Blow
• Grade Level: 7
• Duration: One Trimester

In 7th grade health, students will build on the knowledge and skills introduced in 6th grade with a continued emphasis on physical, social and mental/emotional health. Students will learn more about how to develop and maintain personal wellness, which requires an ongoing effort to modify lifestyle behaviors and make positive decisions about one’s health and safety. Students will analyze their eating and fitness behaviors and how they impact personal wellness. They will also further analyze how mental illness affects physical and social well-being, and what factors support social and emotional health. Students will understand that effective interpersonal communication includes respect and empathy for individuals regardless of gender, sexual orientation, disability, ethnicity, socioeconomic background, religion, and/or culture. Students will learn about the importance of early detection and treatment of common illnesses. Seventh graders will learn about the physical, social, and emotional changes that occur during puberty and how responsible actions regarding sexual behavior impact the health of one’s self and others. Substance abuse will be discussed, including different types of drugs and their effects and effective intervention strategies and treatment options. Students will also learn about basic first aid procedures and how to maximize their safety at home and at school.

Health III

• Instructor: Kirk Lombardi
• Grade Level: 8
• Duration: One Trimester

As a culminating experience to the Middle School Health program, 8th grade Health students will learn how to become knowledgeable self-advocates for their personal health and wellness. Students will learn about nutrition, exercise fitness, anatomy, disease, and sex education and behavior. Students will understand the difference between sports performance and fitness and how they are related to leading a healthy life. Discussing the specific muscles for each individual activity will give the students a better understanding on how their body works when practicing a specific sport or activity. Through group projects, readings, class discussions, and presentations, students will have a variety of opportunities to learn and share information. Students will research risk factors associated with being sexually active, such as STIs and pregnancy. They will also defend a position on a health or social issue to activate community awareness and responsiveness. Students will evaluate their personal stress levels and explore a variety of management techniques to alleviate their stress. They will explore the qualities of healthy relationships and carefully evaluate the interpersonal connections in their own lives.

The history department seeks to empower students with the knowledge that individuals can affect, alter, and shape the world around them if they understand what the past can teach us about the nature of change. The curriculum helps students acquire information about the major figures, movements, ideas, events, cultural patterns, and beliefs that have defined the human narrative and then challenges them to make connections between these pieces of raw data with the goal of discovering critical historical lessons and enduring sociological insights. Faculty guide students through the development of strong note-taking skills and help students learn to train their memories to retain essential details. This culminates with written assignments that require thorough analysis and independent thinking. Students’ studies begin in 6th grade with a study of government and economics. In 7th grade, students learn and gain an appreciation of various cultures throughout the world. In 8th grade, students’ studies begin with the dawn of recorded history and continue up to the beginning of modern times. As an Episcopal school, Doane Academy encourages students to view religious faith as both a personal journey and a driving force of historical events. Consequently, 8th grade students learn about the development of the major world religions throughout history.

Civics 6

• Instructor: Dante Milligan
• Grade Level: 6
• Duration: Full-Year

This course is designed to give sixth grade students an overview of the United States government and economy. Through use of the textbook, internet resources, and class discussion, students will gain a greater understanding of the US government and economy. Many hands-on simulations will be a part of this course. Topics covered will include: citizenship, the roots of American democracy, American values, voting and elections, the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, the three branches of government, and the US economy. 

In this course, students begin to build a foundation in research and technology usage that will support the rest of their academic journey. We will practice keeping track of resources, creating a list of viable search terms, and using databases.

Cultural Geography 7

• Instructor: Dante Milligan
• Grade Level: 7
• Requirement Information: Required for all seventh graders
• Duration: Full-Year

This project-based, exploratory course exposes students to the wide variety of physical, historical, and cultural diversity that exists in our world. After an overview about Geography as a field of study, map skills, and geographic features, which is supported by Integrated Science, students dive into regional studies of world culture and history. Each continent is explored briefly before students take a deep dive into a country of interest through research-based projects meant to develop research, writing, and public speaking skills. 

Resources include, but are not limited to: our textbook, National Geographic, various databases, and the internet at large. A few project highlights include: a research paper about a Mexican state, a 12-minute presentation about a South American country, and writing a research proposal for our Africa unit, complete with annotated bibliography. 

This course prepares students to succeed in Ancient World History and beyond by providing a strong research-based, interest-driven foundation in global cultures. Cultural exploration will further be supported by texts read in English 7. As this course is in constant conversation with English 7, we work also to build critical thinking skills through drawing connections and integrating knowledge across disciplines.

Ancient World History

• Instructor: Colleen McCormick
• Grade Level: 8
• Requirement Information: Required for all eighth graders
• Duration: Full-Year

This course will focus on major events and concepts in world history beginning with the first civilizations and continuing into the Italian Renaissance. This course provides the foundations for Modern World History, which Doane Academy students take in ninth grade. During this course, students will learn how to write a historical research paper.

Through its Lead Onward program, Doane Academy signals clearly that it views the development of character and leadership qualities in our students as a priority equal in importance to academic achievement.Comprised of a series of required grade-level courses in both Middle and Upper School, this program serves as a core pillar of Doane’s culture and curriculum. Through it, we ensure that our students graduate knowing themselves, knowing the world, and ready to change both.

As part of this program, 6th grade students take three connected courses  (Lead Onward I, Health, MSPR)  that develop foundational leadership skills through their combined focus on communications techniques, health and wellness, innovation, and digital citizenship. 

In grades 7 and 8, students further refine their ability to express themselves in their trimester-long courses. They build the organization, inquiry, and design skills needed to become reliable, trustworthy, and productive individuals. In addition, they develop an understanding of what it means to live a healthy lifestyle and begin to explore the complexity of trying to live ethically as digital citizens in an ever-changing world. Eighth graders cap their Lead Onward experience with their “Here I Stand” presentations, through which they communicate to their peers their defining personal values.

Lead Onward 06

• Instructor: Allison Baratta
• Grade Level: 6
• Duration: Trimester

In this course, 6th graders will learn specific communication, self-management and self-advocacy skills to help them transition to the increased expectations of middle school.  Students will reflect on how they use their time, how to plan and prioritize work, and how to achieve a healthy work/life balance.  As students shift to a one-to-one technology model, they will explore the various topics associated with digital citizenship and online safety.  Students will learn about the difference between short-term and long-term goals and will engage in the process of writing their own mission statement.  In this course, students will receive ongoing support with executive functioning skills and effective study habits.  Students will engage in several collaborative projects, activities, and presentations.

Lead Onward 07

• Instructor: Allison Baratta
• Grade Level: 7
• Duration: Trimester

In this course, students will work to refine the core work habits necessary to lead themselves in school and beyond. They will focus on honing their abilities with personal organization, interpersonal communication skills, understanding their profiles as learners, and self-advocacy.  Students will discuss the differences between proactive and reactive behaviors and how to communicate assertively.  They also will gain an understanding of intrinsic vs. extrinsic motivation. Class discussions and activities will foster self-awareness, self-reflection, and goal-setting, as well as engage students as they become more autonomous in their efforts to balance their workload and the demands of life as a teenager and an Middle School student at Doane.

Lead Onward 08

• Instructor: Allison Baratta
• Grade Level: 8
• Duration: Trimester

This course helps students better understand the relationship between leadership and the communication of one’s values and character. Students will develop a stronger sense of their identity and reflect on how they present themselves in personal interactions and public spaces. After units on the connection between one’s online footprint and one’s authentic self, active listening, and basic presentation skills, students will identify a person whom they admire for their values and accomplishments and give a “This is Heroism” presentation to their classmates. In exploring how this person changed the world around them for the better, they will begin the lifelong process of determining how they can make a similar impact.  Students end the course with a speech reflecting on their middle school experience entitled “Here I Stand.”

The Mathematics department at Doane Academy is dedicated to the advancement of the mathematical reasoning skills critical for fostering quantitative and deductive thinking abilities in our students. We strive not just for competency with concepts necessary for effective citizenship, but also for recognition that mathematics is a vibrant field of study that can serve as a powerful and exciting tool in this ever-evolving world. We seek to develop students who are courageous in mathematics, unafraid to work collaboratively and take intelligent risks while developing their problem solving skills.

Our focus on problem-based learning and our small class sizes afford our students with a tremendous opportunity to tackle challenging, multidimensional problems with the help of their peers and their instructor. Those students looking for even greater challenges may participate in S.T.E.A.M. classes and competitions and Math Club

Transitional Mathematics

• Instructor(s): Mr. Oliver Tingling
• Grade Level: 6 - 7
• Requirement Information: N/A
• Duration: Year-Round
• Pre-Requisites: N/A

Alternate Course(s):Pre-Algebra* (Placement based on Instructor’s recommendation)

Transitional Mathematics introduces topics that lay the groundwork for future algebraic studies as well as revisiting topics seen in previous years of mathematics classes with more depth and sophistication. The course prepares students to start their formal study of Algebra beginning with the Pre-Algebra course by challenging them to apply the concepts and math facts mastered in previous courses to advanced problem solving efforts. Topics explored include Basic Number Theory, Statistics, Geometric Constructions, Coordinate Geometry, Linear Functions, and Linear Inequalities.

Pre-Algebra

• Instructor(s): Mrs. Jill Gorman
• Grade Level: 6 - 8
• Requirement Information: N/A
• Duration: Year-Round
• Pre-Requisites: Transitional Math

Alternate Course(s):Transitional Math*, Algebra I* (Placement based on Instructor’s recommendation)

Pre-Algebra bridges the gap between mathematics learned during the elementary school years and high school math courses. This course is designed to provide students with fundamental skills that will be needed throughout the rest of their mathematical career. First, after a quick review of basic number theory and arithmetic operations, students will tackle developing a deeper understanding of functions and inequalities - how to define them, evaluate them, and interpret their graphs - in preparation for a thorough exploration of polynomials. Then, they’ll begin exploring linear functions and their graphs, graphical analysis of statistical data, and parallel and perpendicular lines on the coordinate plane. Lastly, the class will explore some of the core concepts of sequences, series, and probability.

Algebra I

• Instructor(s): Mr. Oliver Tingling
• Grade Level:7 - 9
• Requirement Information: Fills 1 of 3 required Upper School Mathematics courses
• Duration: Year-Round
• Pre-Requisites: Pre-Algebra
• Alternate Course(s):N/A

Algebra I is where students begin to build the conceptual knowledge base necessary for conquering complex problems using mathematical reasoning. Through collaborative work groups and heavy emphasis on the “how” and “why” of concepts, students will build a foundation of mathematical knowledge and problem solving techniques that will help them in future math classes and beyond. Concepts covered will include solving complex equations and inequalities, linear functions, and systems of equations.

Honors Requirements: Honors students are expected to delve deeper into the concepts mastered during class by completing weekly Honors-level homework assignments and tackling more difficult problems on graded assessments. In addition to this, Honors students will complete one project per trimester related to a topic covered during that trimester.

Geometry

• Instructor(s): Mrs. Jill Gorman
• Grade Level: 8 - 10
• Requirement Information: Fills 1 of 3 required Upper School Mathematics courses
• Duration: Year-Round
• Pre-Requisites: Algebra I
• Alternate Course(s):N/A

Geometry students are challenged to examine the world around them and deconstruct it into the geometric structures that form the building blocks of their daily experience of “space.” Students will learn to apply mathematical logic when doing so, assembling logical progressions of facts that prove the fundamental theorems they will utilize throughout their explorations of triangles, polygons, congruence, similarity, trigonometry, circles, and polyhedra. Students will also build on the skills gained in Algebra I by analyzing geometric problem sets with algebraic concepts. As a heavily visual course emphasizing the development of spatial reasoning skills, students can expect to be frequently challenged to apply their conceptual understanding of course material to a variety of topics including art, science, architecture, and more.

Honors Requirements: Honors students are expected to delve deeper into the concepts mastered during class by completing weekly Honors-level homework assignments and tackling more difficult problems on graded assessments. In addition to this, Honors students will complete one project per trimester related to a topic covered during that trimester.

Physical Education

• Instructor: Kirk Lombardi
• Grade Level: 6-8
• Duration: Full-Year

Physical Education is required in 6th, 7th, and 8th grades. The focus of this physical education program is to provide an opportunity for students to participate in a wide variety of physical activities and experiences that promote the mastery of the core skills introduced at the elementary school level. Middle School physical education will build a framework for lifetime activities and healthy living. Middle School is a time of transition, which may bring about an upheaval in physical, emotional, social, and intellectual worlds. To successfully bridge this transition, students will explore and apply information, as well as participate in activities that empower them to assume responsibility for their own lifetime health, wellness, and fitness.

Doane Academy’s Science department seeks to engage students in the practice of doing science as a means of engaging scientific theory. Our inquiry-based approach to curriculum design challenges students to explore concepts through experimental design, projects, tinkering, data modelling, and more. We firmly believe that students learn best by “doing.” As such, we emphasize hands-on, real-world experiences which encourage our students to understand the nature of scientific inquiry and how it applies to their daily lives.

The department seeks to provide opportunities for students to participate in interdisciplinary lessons that encourage them to blend content from various subject areas in pursuit of their personal interests. Thus, students are taught through their lab experiences to include what they’ve learned in their other classes as a part of the scientific process. They will explore how scientific breakthroughs have changed the course of history, use concepts learned to inspire artistic representations, apply statistical methods to manipulate data, and take advantage of available technology to enhance their laboratory experience.

Integrated Science I

• Instructor(s): Yasha Simms
• Grade Level: 6
• Requirement Information: N/A
• Duration: Year-Round
• Pre-Requisites: N/A
• Alternate Course(s):N/A

The Integrated Science curriculum at Doane is dedicated to preparing our middle school students for conducting scientific investigations and analyzing scientific phenomena through cross-curricular explorations of key topics in the Earth, Life, and Physical science fields. In this class, 6th grade students will explore living organisms and how they interact with the world around them in a hands-on manner through labs, projects, and modelling simulations. Students will learn to classify plant and animal organisms, study human biology, analyze the interdependence of life within ecosystems, develop an understanding of the impact Earth’s climate has on the environment, and learn how humans have used their understanding of forces to create their own ecosystems.

Integrated Science II

• Instructor(s): Yasha Simms
• Grade Level :7
• Requirement Information: N/A
• Duration: Year-Round
• Pre-Requisites: N/A
• Alternate Course(s): N/A

In their second year of Integrated Science, students will explore how the systems they studied in 6th grade can change. Through a series of projects, labs, and collaborative problem-solving challenges, students will explore how the evolutionary theory, migration, thermodynamics, chemical reactions, climate change, linear motion, and energy transfer have transformed the world at both the micro- and macro- level. From roller coasters to the Arctic, from tectonic plates to glacial activity, and from the advent of human life on Earth to humanity’s impact today, students will apply what they’ve learned to understand how the Earth - and life on it - has changed throughout history.

Integrated Science III

• Instructor(s): Yasha Simms
• Grade Level: 8
• Requirement Information: N/A
• Duration: Year-Round
• Pre-Requisites: N/A
• Alternate Course(s): N/A

In their final year of the Integrated Science program, our students will step beyond the bounds of Earth and use the solar system, galaxy, and beyond to explore force systems, energy transfer, and collisions. They will also expose themselves to the biochemical building blocks of life. In the second half of the year, they will use this newfound knowledge to return to Earth and try to see how 21st century science and engineering concepts can be used to maintain balanced biospheres and sustain life on this planet. Students will complete numerous projects throughout the year, and they’ll have ample agency over the structure of their projects as they design problem solutions, conduct experience, and create models to explain scientific phenomena.

Doane Academy’s S.T.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) program is dedicated to developing a community of young tinkerers ready to tackle the 21st century with their creativity, individuality, and unique passions. Our S.T.E.A.M. courses seek to accomplish this by providing students with open-ended, collaborative class structures which encourage them to pull content knowledge from a wide variety of other subjects in pursuit of problem solutions which they can truly call their own.

For many schools, “S.T.E.M.” education is the push for more math, science, and engineering majors going into college. At Doane, we include the liberal arts. We insist on including the liberal arts - History, Band, Theater, Poetry, and so on - because they drive the creative and entrepreneurial spirit that can lead our Middle School student to new discoveries. As such, our S.T.E.A.M. curriculum is as much about learning the engineering design process as it is about providing our students with the opportunity to test their own ideas in an environment that allows them to develop a growth mindset, make mistakes, refine designs, and eventually create a product which addresses the complexity of any problem.

Middle School Programming and Robotics

• Instructor: Ms. Yasha Simms
• Grade Level: 6 (Level I), 7 (Level II), and 8 (Level III)
• Requirement Information: N/A
• Duration: Trimester
• Pre-Requisites: N/A
• Alternate Course(s): N/A

Middle School students will learn the basics of guided-user-interface (GUI) programming and engineering design through the use of Minecraft, Code.org, and the EV3 LEGO robotics kits in this sequence of trimester-long courses for each grade level. Students will learn how to use loops, conditionals, and digital artifacts to design and program their own unique solutions to  accomplish a variety of tasks. Students will then apply the concepts they’ve learned to physical computing via the LEGO Robots by using inputs such as distance, color, and touch to affect the decision-making process of a program or robot. By the end of their 8th grade year, students will have mastered the basic coding principles necessary for tackling the use of written coding languages such as Java or Python.

Middle School Innovative Design

• Instructor(s): Mr. Michael Russell
• Grade Level: 7-8
• Requirement Information: N/A
• Duration: Year-Round
• Pre-Requisites: N/A
• Alternate Course(s): Arts Minor Courses

 In this course students are challenged to develop products for open-ended, real-world problems making ample use of their own creativity and interests. The course emphasizes using critical inquiry skills and available resources to develop meaningful solutions for complex issues through national competitions such as Future City in the Winter and Sea Perch in the Spring (visit futurecity.org and seaperch.org for more information). Students will have considerable control over how they choose to pursue a solution to the year’s design challenges, making use of available tools and materials in our makerspace classroom including textiles, woodworking, electrical circuits, and 3D CAD modelling and printing. Problem statements will challenge students to pull content knowledge from other courses and to consider how their solutions might make a positive impact on a community. Due to the changing nature of each year’s problems, students may take the course twice during their middle school career at Doane.

6th grade Language Cycle

• Instructor: Anna Hall/ Raquel Bejar
• Grade Level: 6
• Duration: Full-Year

All 6th graders participate in a Language Cycle during which they will explore both Latin and Spanish at the introductory level. By taking both Latin and Spanish during the Language Cycle, students will be able to make an informed decision when they choose their language course of study. This decision will be made at the end of the second trimester after students have completed trimester-long courses in Latin and Spanish. Students will have the opportunity to learn about Roman history and culture and the diverse cultures of Spanish-speaking countries. In both courses, students will examine various aspects of language structure, grammar, and vocabulary in Spanish and Latin which will enhance and reinforce their understanding of English.

1st Trimester: Introduction to Latin, Part I:

During the first trimester, all 6th graders will take Introduction to Latin 1, Part 1, in which they will be introduced to the Latin language and Roman culture. A focus on grammar will provide students with insight into the structure of an inflected language that will contribute to their understanding of English as well as any further study in Latin or the Romance languages. Students will study the roots of many English words which are derived from Latin and improve their command of their own language by adding to their vocabulary. This course will provide students with a basis for further study of the Latin language by introducing them to concepts such as case, declension, and conjugation. In addition, students will learn about the Latin language through the historical lenses of life in the Roman Empire, a time period with vast influences on modern concepts of philosophy, art, architecture, law, and political science.

2nd Trimester: Introduction to Spanish, Part I

In this course, students will be introduced to Spanish language and culture. They will learn the phrases necessary to maintain communication in the target language during class, including greetings and goodbyes, pleasantries, telling time, giving the date, and talking about the weather. Students will learn to identify and describe the people and places at Doane Academy, tell where people are from, identify class subjects, and express opinions about their classes and extracurricular activities. Students will identify and describe the countries where Spanish is spoken. They will also compare schools and student life in the United States with those in Spanish-speaking countries. Students will build oral proficiency through interpersonal and presentational communication.

Learning activities will also include interactive writing assignments, as well as reading and listening comprehension tasks.

3rd Trimester: Introduction to Latin, Part II, OR Introduction to Spanish, Part II

Upon thoughtful reflection and after two trimesters of language courses, students will choose their 3rd-trimester class. In 8th grade, students will continue to study the language they select at this time.

Introduction to Latin, Part II:

In this course, students will continue to build upon the foundation laid in the first trimester. They will further their study of grammar to include tenses of verbs, more complicated sentence structures, interrogatives, and comparative adjectives. Cultural topics studied will include various forms of Roman entertainment, including theater, gladiatorial shows, public games, and baths. Students will also continue to read about life in the town of Pompeii prior to the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius.

Introduction to Spanish, Part II:

In this course, students will continue to build on the skills and knowledge introduced during the 2nd trimester. Through cross-cultural comparison, students will understand the cultures of Spanish speaking countries in relation to their own. Topics of study will include: Talking about family members and pets, describing a house and apartment, describing rooms and furnishings, identifying and expressing opinions about school and extra-curricular activities, describing a school uniform, shopping for clothing and school supplies, and talking about daily routines.

Students will also learn about the difference between food and meal-taking customs in the United States and Spanish-speaking countries.

Students will participate in a variety of oral presentations to improve their oral fluency and pronunciation. Learning activities will also include interactive writing assignments, as well as reading and listening comprehension tasks.

Spanish 7

• Instructor: Raquel Bejar-Massey
• Grade Level: 7th and 8th grade
• Duration: 1 Year
• Pre-Requisites: Successful completion of Intro to Spanish, Parts I and II
• Alternate course: Spanish I

This course is a continuation of the 6th Grade Language Cycle. Students will read, write, and speak in Spanish and develop listening comprehension skills in the target language. Students will review the phrases necessary to communicate in day-to-day situations in Spanish. Through the study of vocabulary, grammar, and cross-cultural comparison, students will explore the following topics: talking about meals and snacks, identifying food and drinks, ordering food and beverages in a restaurant, talking about soccer, basketball, baseball, and tennis, describing a sports uniform, identifying colors, describing personalities, health, and emotions, communicating with a doctor, talking about summer and winter weather and activities, discussing leisure activities, and shopping for food and clothing. Students will narrate events in the present tense and express likes, dislikes, and preferences. They will also talk about past events with the preterite tense. Students will be expected to participate during class in the target language, and students’ oral proficiency will be frequently evaluated via formal and informal presentations. The textbook ¡Qué chévere!, Level 1 will be used in 7th Grade Spanish. This course will prepare students to take 8th Grade Spanish in the following year.

Spanish 8

• Instructor: Raquel Bejar-Massey
• Grade Level: 8th grade
• Duration: 1 Year
• Pre-Requisites: Spanish 7
• Alternate course: Spanish I

This course is a continuation of the 7th Grade Language Cycle. Students will read, write, and speak in Spanish and develop listening comprehension skills in the target language. Students will review the phrases necessary to communicate in day-to-day situations in Spanish. Through the study of vocabulary, grammar, and cross-cultural comparison, students will explore the following topics: talking about meals and snacks, identifying food and drinks, ordering food and beverages in a restaurant, talking about soccer, basketball, baseball, and tennis, describing a sports uniform, identifying colors, describing personalities, health, and emotions, communicating with a doctor, talking about summer and winter weather and activities, discussing leisure activities, and shopping for food and clothing. Students will narrate events in the present tense and express likes, dislikes, and preferences. They will also talk about past events with the preterite tense. Students will be expected to participate during class in the target language, and students’ oral proficiency will be frequently evaluated via formal and informal presentations. The textbook ¡Qué Chévere!, Level 1 will be used in 8th Grade Spanish. This course will prepare students to take Spanish III in 9th grade.

Latin 7

• Instructor: Anna Hall
• Grade Level: 7
• Duration: Full-Year
• Prerequisites: Latin 1
• Alternate Course: 8th-Grade Spanish

This course builds upon the foundations introduced in the language cycle and covers the initial principles of Latin grammar and sentence construction. Adhering to the Standards for Classical Language Learning, students are introduced to the basic forms and syntax of this highly inflected language, including six cases for the first three declensions of nouns, all four conjugations of verbs in the present and imperfect tenses, adjectives of three declensions, and the passive voice. Students develop techniques for memorizing vocabulary and word forms in order to acquire effective translation skills and enhance their command of their own language through increasing their knowledge of derivatives. Students will gain exposure to some of the greatest authors of Latin literature through reading adapted texts from authors ranging from the Early Republic to the Late Empire. In addition, students will study the mythological stories and the cultural lives of the nation that shaped Western Civilization. The textbook used for 8th-Grade Latin is Latin for the New Millennium, Part I.

Latin 8

• Instructor: Kate Cottrell
• Grade Level: 8
• Duration: Full-Year
• Prerequisites: Latin 7
• Alternate Course: 8th-Grade Spanish

This course builds upon the foundations introduced in the language cycle and covers the initial principles of Latin grammar and sentence construction. Adhering to the Standards for Classical Language Learning, students are introduced to the basic forms and syntax of this highly inflected language, including six cases for the first three declensions of nouns, all four conjugations of verbs in the present and imperfect tenses, adjectives of three declensions, and the passive voice. Students develop techniques for memorizing vocabulary and word forms in order to acquire effective translation skills and enhance their command of their own language through increasing their knowledge of derivatives. Students will gain exposure to some of the greatest authors of Latin literature through reading adapted texts from authors ranging from the Early Republic to the Late Empire. In addition, students will study the mythological stories and the cultural lives of the nation that shaped Western Civilization. The textbook used for 8th-Grade Latin is Latin for the New Millennium, Part I.

Latin I

• Instructor: Kate Cottrell
• Grade Level: 8-12
• Duration: Full-Year
• Alternate Course: Spanish I

Latin I is a full-year introductory course that covers the initial principles of grammar and sentence construction. Adhering to the Standards for Classical Language Learning, students are introduced to the basic forms and syntax of this highly inflected language, including six cases for the first three declensions of nouns, all four conjugations of verbs in the present and imperfect tenses, adjectives of three declensions, and the passive voice. Students develop techniques for memorizing vocabulary and word forms in order to acquire effective translation skills and enhance their command of their own language through increasing their knowledge of derivatives. Students will gain exposure to some of the greatest authors of Latin literature through reading adapted texts from authors ranging from the Early Republic to the Early Empire. In addition, students will study the mythological stories and the cultural lives of the nation that shaped Western Civilization. The textbook used for Latin I is Latin for the New Millennium, Part I.

Latin II

• Instructor: Kate Cottrell
• Grade Level: 8-12
• Requirement Information: Fulfills 1 of 3 Language credits when taken in high school.
• Duration: Full-Year
• Prerequisites: Latin I
• Honors Option: No

Latin II builds upon the foundation started in Latin I and includes the major portion of grammar and morphology required to read authentic Latin literature. Students will add to their knowledge of the Latin language through learning all case uses and declensions for nouns and adjectives, all uses of pronouns, the six tenses of verbs in active and passive voice, and the three forms of the participle. Using Latin for the New Millennium, students will increase their translation skills through reading more complicated and challenging material based on adapted works from authors of the Early through Late Empire. The class resumes the study of Roman history and culture of the first century to include Roman law, provincial life, Roman recreation, and popular philosophies. Mythological studies will include the stories of famous Greek and Roman heroes such as Jason, Theseus, Hercules, Aeneas, Perseus, and the figures of the Trojan War.

Spanish I

• Instructor: Julian Cook
• Grade Level: 8-12
• Duration: Full-Year
• Alternate Course: Latin I

This course provides an introduction to the study of Spanish and is designed for students new to the language. Students will read, write, and speak in Spanish and develop listening comprehension skills in the target language. Students will learn the phrases necessary to communicate in day-to-day situations in Spanish. Through the study of vocabulary, grammar, and cross-cultural comparison, students will explore the following topics: greetings and goodbyes, pleasantries, telling time, days of the week, months, seasons, weather, giving the date, identifying and describing people and things, telling where someone is from, expressing opinions about classes, talking about family members and pets, describing a house and apartment, describing rooms and furnishings, school activities, school supplies, extra-curricular activities, describing a school uniform, phrases that indicate location, talking about meals and snacks, identifying food and drinks, talking about soccer, basketball, baseball, and tennis, describing a sports uniform, and identifying colors. Students will narrate events in the present tense and express likes, dislikes, and preferences. Students will also be introduced to a variety of study skills to help them learn a new language. Students will be expected to participate during class in the target language, and students’ oral proficiency will be frequently evaluated via formal and informal presentations. The textbook ¡Qué Chévere!, Level 1 will be used in Spanish I.

Spanish II

• Instructor: Raquel Bejar-Massey
• Grade Level: 9-12
• Requirement Information: Fulfills 1 of 3 required Upper School Language credits when taken through grades 9-12
• Duration: Full-Year
• Pre-Requisites: Spanish I
• Honors Option: No

Building on the foundation of grammar and vocabulary from Spanish I, students will continue to refine their communication skills in the target language and further understand Spanish-speaking cultures in relation to their own. Spanish II students will be expected to solely communicate in the target language during class with increased attention to oral fluency and accurate pronunciation. Students will learn grammatical structures such as reflexive verbs, the present perfect, the preterite (regular & irregular) and the imperfect tense. By learning these structures students will be able to describe their morning and afternoon daily routine, discuss what their life will be like in fifteen years, express their bucket  list, and describe various aspects of their childhood. Lastly, thanks to their exposure to authentic Spanish video, podcasts, newspaper articles, and film both in and out of the classroom student will have many opportunities to  narrate  in the past whether it be about a summer vacation or simply retelling the events of a short story they have read or a film they have seen. Students will build oral and written proficiency by performing interpretive, interpersonal, and presentational tasks facilitated by technological applications such as Lingt, EdPuzzle, FlipGrid, YouTube, Adobe Spark, Book Creator, and Google Hangout.