Core Academic Subjects
Language Arts
Our language arts curriculum is literature-based with a focus on developing reading fluency, reading comprehension and higher order cognition through exposure to a variety of genres. Each grade level coheres to a specific theme: Getting to Know You: New Beginnings (fourth grade), Self Determination (fifth grade), and Tolerance and Acceptance: The Nature of a Just Society (sixth grade). Writing remains at the core of the program and students learn to write for a variety of audiences and purposes through utilizing different modes. Specific attention is given to teaching writing as a process and to reinforcing writing conventions. Emphasis is also placed on vocabulary extension, spelling, grammar and oral expression. Gifted sixth grade public speakers participate in the Middle School Public Debate Program while talented writers submit their writing to and participate in the publication of Paw Prints, the school's online newspaper.
Math
The math curriculum focuses on the teaching of concepts, skills, computation and problem solving strategies through authentic contexts in the following areas: number & numeration, whole number operations, fractions, decimals, measurement, time & money, geometry and spatial sense, patterns and relationships, and statistics & probability. Students utilize manipulatives to solidify conceptual understanding but are also required to master traditional computational skills as well as develop higher order quantitative reasoning abilities. Flexible grouping is employed to differentiate instruction in math and extension materials and the opportunity to participate in the Mathematics League are provided for students who need the extra challenge. The school also helps to facilitate the participation of talented young mathematicians in the Johns Hopkins Program. One of the mathematical highlights of the year is "Math Day" when middle school students teach math to students in the lower school.
Social Studies
Our social studies curriculum is standards based and traces all aspects of the subject including history, anthropology, geography, government, economics, current affairs and research. Fourth graders study California while fifth graders focus on the early history of the United States from the Age of Exploration to the Industrial Revolution. Sixth graders expand their understanding of history by studying the people and events that ushered in the dawn of the major Western and non-Western ancient civilizations. The social studies curricula are integrated with other subjects where possible and enhanced by fieldtrips directly related to areas of study. Library and technology teachers work together with classroom teachers and students to improve and develop research skills.
