A Pre-Kindergarten - Grade 12 co-educational independent day school in Westchester County, New York

Middle School Curriculum Guide

Program of Study

GRADE FIVE

The fifth-grade curriculum is designed to help students make a smooth transition into the Middle School. Homeroom teachers act as advisors to provide the guidance and security that young adolescents need as they are challenged and encouraged to become more independent in the preparation and completion of their assignments. Academic work at this grade level becomes more challenging and comprehensive. Instruction includes teachers' assistance in developing study habits that allow students to become more efficient and successful in their academic work. Great attention is paid to the process of becoming effective learners. The organization and maintenance of school supplies and books, adherence to deadlines, and exposure to a greater number of teachers are important parts of this transitional year.

GRADE SIX

The sixth-grade curriculum is designed to reinforce students' ability to work independently and to become more self-motivated. The advisor provides guidance and support, but the student is expected to attempt new challenges. Within the curriculum, an emphasis on the development of organizational skills, time management, and approaches to the study of various academic disciplines continues to prepare students to become effective learners. Teachers hold students accountable for completing assignments and meeting deadlines. The curriculum requires more abstract thinking and logical reasoning, which leads to stimulating and active class discussions.

GRADE SEVEN

The seventh-grade curriculum is designed to inspire students to be more independent in accepting responsibility for their own personal success. The advisor continues to provide guidance and support while the curriculum challenges independent thinking and strengthens academic skills. With the faculty's assistance, seventh graders learn how to become more organized and how to study with greater efficiency and effectiveness, including for cumulative exams. The use of laptops and the choice of different electives complete the program of study.

GRADE EIGHT

The eighth-grade curriculum is designed to build upon the academic skills and intellectual curiosity of the middle school student in preparation for entrance to the Upper School. In this last year of Middle School, teachers continue to help students acquire the skills, knowledge, and motivation to succeed in those subjects in which they are most interested and to tackle the challenge of the subjects that may be more difficult.

FOREIGN LANGUAGE

Students in Grade 5 continue the language studied in Lower School. In Grade 6, students must choose either French, Latin, Mandarin Chinese, or Spanish and must continue the study of their language of choice through the completion of Grade 8. Successful completion of the Foreign Language studied in Grades 6, 7, and 8 will satisfy, in most cases, the first level Foreign Language requirement in the Upper School.

ELECTIVES

In Grades 5 and 6, students take a variety of non-academic courses, including chorus, band, shop, art, library, drama, and computer science. In Grades 7 and 8, students choose from various elective offerings, such as chorus, band, ceramics, art, digital photography, shop, computer science, and theater workshop.