Middle School | 6–8 Curriculum

The Language Arts Curriculum is literature based, with emphasis on vocabulary development and application. Each grade level reads challenging novels and learns to analyze and interpret quality literature. Writing and poetry, narrative and research papers are developed, presented and published. Current topics in Science, Social Studies, and Religion are incorporated into the writing curriculum. Technology and media skills are important tools in the writing process.

The Math Curriculum includes the investigation of mathematical connections. Math is seen as an integrated whole. Students explore problems and describe results using graphical, numerical, physical and algebraic representations. Grade six introduces decimals, percentages, ratios, and formalize geometry. Problem-solving strategies now include graphing, scale drawings and logical tables.

In seventh grade, students add the use of formulas, expressions and equations to previously learned skills. Students entering grade 7 may qualify for placement in one of three Math courses: 7th Grade Math, Pre-Algebra, or Algebra.

Similarly, the eighth-grade students are placed in one of three course options, Pre-Algebra, high school Algebra I or Geometry. These placements are rigorous and based on student achievement-based criteria.

The Social Studies Curriculum is specific by grade level. Sixth-grade students move from American history to world cultures, geography and religions. The seventh-grade curriculum explores U.S. History 1300-1865, and in eighth grade, the focus is on U.S. History 1805-1970.

Middle School Religion introduces the students to Bible study, moral formation, and community service. There is an increased awareness of the flow of liturgical seasons and their connection to Scripture.

Middle school students are given the unique opportunity to experience Spanish through a native Spanish speaker. St. Mary's students in grades 6-8 learn content that includes, gender of nouns, definite and indefinite articles, present, past, future tenses and advanced vocabulary. There is an increased emphasis on dialogue, as well as tactile and visual approaches through this program.

Technology in middle school is used as an invaluable tool for enhanced learning. Students use individual iPads and classrooms are equipped with SMARTboards to enhance daily lessons.

The Art Curriculum provides an understanding of visual arts in relation to history, culture and the Catholic faith. Students understand and apply media, technology, techniques and processes, and use knowledge of elements of art and principles of design.

Physical Education classes incorporate a variety of team and individual opportunities that increase the student's physical health while promoting sportsmanship and teamwork.

Our STEM classes highlight the use of integrated technologies, recycled materials and challenging objectives in the dedicated STEM lab. Students participate in weekly STEM classes to enhance critical thinking skills, problem-solving and diverse learning objectives.

A report card is a trimester report from the child's teacher that indicates the child's progress. Conferences may be scheduled by teacher or parent at any time.

These reports will be mailed at the midpoint of each marking period to all students with a C+ or below, or to inform parents of a significant drop.

Midterm and final exams are given in Social Studies, Science, Math and Language Arts to Grades 7 and 8.

Students in grades 6-8 who demonstrate high academic achievement and who positively impact the learning environment through engagement in the core subjects and special area classes as well as appropriate conduct and effort are recognized as honor students.

Students are placed on the Honor Roll based on the following criteria:

• Grade A or B in all core subjects
• Satisfactory and above in all special area classes
• Satisfactory and above in both conduct and effort in all classes as well as during any unstructured time