Middle School Scheduling & Curriculum Guide : simplebooklet.com

Welcome!We are so excited you are here! There are many exciting opportunities that await you in MiddleSchool. You will meet new people and discover personal interests. Middle School can be fun andamazing, but it also can carry its share of challenges. Remember that life’s greatest obstaclesbring the most growth, and you have a team of people here to help you achieve success.However, you must do your part. Every single one of you can achieve success; in fact, you have aresponsibility to yourself to do so! Set your goals high, work hard to achieve them, get involved,and have fun along the way. Remember that education provides opportunities. The knowledge,skills, and creativity you gain now will help determine your future.This handbook contains rules, guidelines, and procedures to help you be successful in MiddleSchool. Read it carefully and share it with your parents. Allow the mission, vision, and motto toguide your actions.We can’t wait to see what you achieve!Mission StatementWoodward Academy is Atlanta at its very best. Weintentionally bring together students from diversebackgrounds, perspectives, and experiences, creating aricher learning community and exceptional academicopportunities. Our students and graduates are caring andcompassionate global citizens who are a microcosm of whatthe world should be.Vision StatementWoodward Academy will be the national model incollege-preparatory education.MottoExcellence. Character. Opportunity.The Woodward WayRespecting ourselves, each other, our school, and our world is the Woodward Way.1

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Academics 3Daily Bell Schedule 3Class Levels 4Student's Individual Schedule 57th Grade Course Offerings 68th Grade Course Offerings 7Schedules 8Drop/Add 8Tutorial 8Tutoring 8Conferences 8Exams 9Grading Scale 9Academic Honors and Grade Point Average (GPA) 9Academic Probation 10Academic Requirements for Cocurricular Eligibility 10Required Summer Tutoring 10Academic Accommodations for Students with Diagnosed Learning Disabilities 10School Records 10Homework Policy 11Classroom Portal and Parent Portal- Veracross 11Community Time 121-to-1 iPad Program 12School Counseling  13Middle School Curriculum 14English 14Science 14Math 15Social Studies 16Literature 17World Languages 18Exploratory Electives 19Performing Arts 20Visual Arts 23Physical Education 242

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AcademicsClass LevelsCollege Prep (CP)College Prep courses are the standard college preparatory work offered to Woodward Academystudents. Teachers provide structure and guidance in a small setting, emphasize mastery of skills, anddifferentiate instruction to meet the needs of a variety of learners. This is the placement for studentswho may be new to Woodward Academy and/or who need mastery of skills built in a particularcontent.Enriched College Prep (EP)The Enriched Preparatory courses encompass all of the elements of the CP course, adding conceptsand materials above the mastery level and moving towards more independent and critical thinking.The curriculum and instruction is designed to meet the needs of the majority of the Middle Schoolstudents. This is a challenging, college preparatory program in all content areas.Honors College Prep (HP)Honors courses differ primarily in emphasis and depth and are intended for advanced, ambitiousstudents who are willing and able to do more assignments independently, in greater depth, and withmore analysis and critical thinking. Honors students read efficiently, write fluently, and can absorbnew information at a fast pace. Motivation, organization, independence as well as grades andstandardized test scores are considered for placement. Few students take all honors classes. Studentsmay enter Honors level classes in Upper School as well as Middle School.Transition College Prep (TP)This is a special program for students with diagnosed learning disabilities. Beginning in the 7thgrade,students may be mainstreamed in some courses and have special instruction in others. The goal ofthe program is to learn the same demanding college-preparatory curriculum as their Woodward peersin the mainstream track, but do so while cultivating the tools and strategies needed to convertdifferent learning styles into confidence, social and emotional stability, and tremendous academicsuccess.**Teachers may recommend moving students out of any level of a class at any time.4

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Student’s Individual ScheduleEach day students move through a schedule of seven classes.1. English2. Math3. Science4. Social Studies5. Literature or World Language (Spanish or French)6. Performing Arts (Band, Chorus, Orchestra or Theatre), Visual Arts, Robotics, or Semestercourses7. General Fitness (7), Personal Fitness (8) or DanceSample 7thGrade ScheduleSUBJECTLEVELSEMTIMEROOMTEACHERAdvanced OrchestraEPS1AR162G. CallawaySocial Studies 7HPS1BM223C. EdwardsScience 7EPS1CM204N. Moody7 Boys General FitnessS1DGYMR. DavisLiterature 7EPS1EM108R. FurloughEnglish 7HPS1FM123W. WilliamsPre-Algebra 7EPS1GM309D. SmithSample 8thGrade ScheduleSUBJECTLEVELSEMTIMEROOMTEACHERPhysical Science 8EPS1AR316K. HealanUS History 8CPS1BM220M. Trotter8 Physical Cond. for LifeEPS1CGYME. McWhorterAdvanced Art 8EPS1DArtR. HemingAlgebra 1CPS1EM321E. LawrenceEnglish 8CPS1FM117J. LeeSpanish I 8EPS1GM203A. White5

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8th Grade Course OfferingsFive Core CoursesCourseLevelsEnglishCPEPHPTPPre-AlgebraAlgebra 1GeometryCPCPEPEPHPHPTPPhysical ScienceCPEPHPTPAmerican HistoryCivics & EconomicsCPEPHPTPSpanish, French, orLiteratureCPEPEPHPHPTPCP = College Prep HP = Honors College PrepEP= Enriched College Prep TP = Transition College PrepOne Year Long Elective OR Two Semester Long ElectivesAdvanced ArtDrawing & PaintingBandFilm & Video ProductionChoirSculpture & 3D DesignOrchestraSTEAMPerformance Ensemble 8Theatre 8Robotics & EngineeringStudy Strategies (TP students)Technical Theatre 8One PE CourseGirl’s Physical Conditioning for SportsGirl’s Physical Conditioning for Life8 Dance8 Advanced DanceBoy’s Physical Conditioning for SportsBoy’s Physical Conditioning for Life7

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SchedulesA great deal of care is taken by the Middle School Administration to ensure that students areadequately advised by their counselors and classroom teachers regarding course selections for eachschool year. An academic status change (Honors College Prep, Enriched College Prep, and CollegePrep) may be initiated either by the faculty member or the students and parents. Please be aware thatdropped courses will impact the placement for a student the following school year.Drop/AddIf a faculty member chooses to initiate an academic status change, he/she will do so bycommunicating with the student and parents before the end of the fourth week of the first andsecond semester. If a change is determined to be necessary, the academic status change must occurno later than the end of the fifth week of the first academic term. The Administrative lead (principal,assistant principal, or Counselor) will consult with the Department Chair to determine if the request isappropriate. Academic status changes are possible due to extraordinary circumstances at any point inthe semester. After the fifth week of the term, students will complete the term in the current courseand will receive the grade earned in that course during the term.TutorialA tutorial period is available to all students each school day. A teacher may require a student toattend tutorial or a student may come voluntarily to seek teacher assistance. Students that arerequired to attend tutorial are expected to be on time and to have materials for class. Students canmake the best use of tutorial opportunities if they come prepared to ask specific questions aboutmaterial that is unclear to them. However, tutorials should not be viewed as a time for instructors tocompletely re-teach the daily lesson. If a student is experiencing difficulty in a subject, parents andteachers expect that student to attend tutorial on a regular basis throughout the semester.TutoringIf there is a need for additional academic assistance, parents may make arrangements for privatetutoring. A list of private tutors can be found on the Middle School web page under Information andDownloads. Students will be allowed to miss only one period per week of PE to work with a privatetutor. Honors students should not seek tutoring. If an Honors student is struggling, the student shouldmove down a level. It is the school policy that no teacher will offer private instruction to his ownstudents except gratuitously.ConferencesIf a student is having difficulty in a class, parents can communicate with teachers by phone or email.Parents can also arrange a conference with that specific teacher through the Middle Schoolcounseling office or the teacher. Conferences may be scheduled before school or afterschool.Teachers will be able to return emails and phone calls during their planning periods or afterschool. If a student is struggling in many classes, parents should contact the assistant principal or oneof the counselors. A group conference can then be scheduled before school via Google Meet for allteachers and parents, along with an administrator or counselor. Students may be present ifappropriate. Parents should not drop by teachers' classrooms before or after school unannounced.These times are reserved for teachers to work with students or prepare lessons.8

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ExamsThe Middle School has exams in academic classes at the end of each semester in December. For thesecond semester In Social Studies and English, projects take place of exams. The exams and projectscount 20% of the final semester grade. There are two semesters in each school year. Exams may notbe exempt in the Middle School.Fall Semester Spring SemesterFirst Semester = 80% Second Semester = 80%Exam/Project = 20% Exam/Project = 20%Grading ScaleThe mid-semester grades, exams, and progress reports will show (+) and (-). The two final semestergrades which are used to calculate Eagle roll will not include (+) and (-). It is Woodward Academypolicy that averages are shown as letter grades, not numerical grades.A+ 98% - 100%A 93% - 97%A- 90% - 92%B+ 88% - 89%B 83% - 87%B- 80% - 82C+ 78% - 79%C 73% - 77%C- 70% - 72%D+ 68% - 69%D 63% - 67%D- 60% - 62%F 59% & belowAcademic Honors and Grade Point Average (GPA)Woodward Academy places students in one of four levels of College Preparatory classes. The CollegePrep (CP) level is the foundation level of our College Preparatory curriculum from which the otherlevels build in depth and analysis. The method of approach and/or teaching strategies distinguishesone level from the other. The determination of the level is based on previous school work,standardized test scores, teacher and departmental recommendations, and student motivation. Allclass work is designed to prepare the student for college; therefore, each level offered at WoodwardAcademy is considered College Preparatory work. Each academic level in the curriculum offers similargoals and objectives. Teachers utilize different teaching techniques and styles to meet student needs,to promote independence in learning, and to develop critical thinking skills. The terms used todesignate the academic level are the following: College Prep (CP) Enriched College Prep (EP) HonorsCollege Prep (HP), and Transition Prep (TP). Students achieving the designated grade point averagewith no grade less than a D are placed on the Eagle Roll at the end of each of the two grading periods.For a student to receive the yearly Eagle Award certificate, he must have the necessary cumulativegrade point average at the end of the second semester. No student who has been disciplined duringthe school year for a major offense, such as cheating, will be allowed to attend the Honors Banqueteven if he has attained the necessary grade point average. Eagle Awards are presented to studentswho earn a cumulative grade point average of 4.0 for Gold or 3.5 for Silver on a 4.0 scale with nogrades less than a D.GPA is an average of the values extended to the hundredths place in the tablebelow. There is not Honors credit for Fine Arts classes. GPA calculations are not rounded.Course types and point values are as follows:SemesterGradeHonors College Prep(HP)Enriched College Prep(EP)Transition Program(TP)College Prep(CP)A4.84.44.34.3B3.83.43.33.3C2.82.42.32.3D1111F00009

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Academic ProbationSince the grade of C is the minimum college recommendation grade, students earning grades of lessthan 2.3 in the five core academic classes at any grading period may be placed on academicprobation. Students on academic probation may be required to receive private tutoring, repeat thegrade level, or be denied re-enrollment. Severe academic or conduct grades could result in thestudent's mandatory withdrawal during the school year.Academic Requirements for Cocurricular EligibilityStudents must pass four (4) subjects each grading period/semester. Any student with below averagegrades in two or more core courses may be suspended from participation in cocurricular activities atthe discretion of the administration. A student who is academically ineligible to participate incocurricular activities is prohibited from participating in practices, games, or performances until thetime he/she is academically eligible to participate.Required Summer TutoringStudents with a D for both semester grades or an F for one semester grade in Math, English, orLiterature will be required to have tutoring during the summer. The number of hours is to bedetermined by the MS Administration. In June, the school will send a letter and a form for the tutor tocomplete and return to the school before the student begins the next school year.Academic Accommodations for Students with Diagnosed Learning DisabilitiesStudents enrolled in the Transition Program automatically receive accommodations*.Students whohave diagnosed learning differences but are not enrolled in any Transition classes are also eligible foraccommodations*.Parents should contact the grade level counselor in the middle school or thedirector of the Transition Program to begin the process to apply for accommodations.Thepsychological report will be sent to the Transition office.The report will be reviewed and a Request forAccommodations will be written. The student will be given copies of the report to handout to his/herteachers. The report will also include the nature and manifestation of the disability, areas of strength,and suggested teaching strategies from the psychologist's recommendations. *Typicalaccommodations include extended time (additional 1/2 time allowed for students withaccommodations), preferential seating, and assistance in note-taking.School RecordsPursuant to the Family Educational and Privacy Act (20 U.S.C- 1232g), student records are confidentialand, with certain exceptions, may not be disclosed without parental consent.Parents have the right toinspect and review their own student's records and to challenge the record's contents.Studentrecords may also be reviewed by school officials and will be forwarded to other educationalinstitutions in which the student seeks to enroll.10

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Homework PolicyHomework is any activity or assignment directed by the teacher to be performed outside theclassroom that may include practicing skills learned in class, reading, studying, projects, or completionof assignments. The purpose of homework is to reinforce and extend learning beyond the classroomthrough pre-learning, practice, checking for understanding, and enrichment. It is the intention of theWoodward Academy Middle School faculty to assign relevant, challenging and meaningful homeworkassignments that reinforce classroom learning objects. Time: Actual time required to completeassignments will vary with each student’s study habits, academic skills, and selected course load.Ifyour child is spending an inordinate amount of time on homework, you should contact your child’scounselor.The main purposes generally associated with homework are as follows:● To give students a chance to review and practice what they have learned● To prepare students for the next day’s lesson● To provide opportunities to identify and learn to use resources such as the library, theInternet, reference books, and other community resources● To allow for a more in-depth exploration of topics than is possible during class time● To help students develop time management, study, and organizational skills● To provide parents with insights into what is being taught in the classroom and theprogress of this childrenClassroom Portal and Parent Portal VeracrossWoodward Academy uses Veracross, an online Student Information System for teachers, students,and parents.Students can access the Veracross Student Portal by signing in with their student email address ontheir school-issued iPads. Parents can access the Veracross Parent Portal by clicking on “Parent Portal”from the Woodward website. The Parent Portal will give parents access to important information suchas assignments, important dates, and supplemental classroom materials.Before each cycle, teachers will post lesson plans including homework on Veracross. Students willalways be aware of assignments and tests by viewing their Student Portal. Students will also be ableto check missed classwork and homework assignments when absent from school. Teachers alsosupply additional classroom materials, such as videos, presentations, and other engaging onlinecontent on Veracross for your child to access. Your child should check the calendar and teacher pagesdaily. Veracross’s resources should help strengthen your child’s independence as a learner.Middle School families have access to live student progress through woodward.edu’s Parent Portal.Students (and their parents) will have instant access to recent grades posted by their teachers. Ourgoal is to provide our students and parents with the ability to monitor progress closely and use thisinformation to help students be accountable, develop executive functioning skills, and ultimatelyreach their fullest potential throughout the course of the year. Please note that each school distributesits grades according to a slightly different process to best meet the age-appropriate needs of itsstudents. Children in more than one school will receive separate communication regarding thatschool’s process.11

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Community TimeAt the middle school, we feel that it is important for students and faculty members to feel connectedand develop a collaborative and supportive relationship. Our daily Community Time programmingprovides an opportunity for us to meet students’ needs, both academically and beyond. We find thisto be an essential part of a student's education as it not only provides academic growth but also helpsdevelop social and emotional learning skills. Our programming includes a weekly school-widemeeting, both virtual and in-person, and can include speakers and student performances. Anotherimportant component is advisory, where students meet regularly with a teacher to discuss personaland academic goals, as well as receive guidance and support. House meetings with friendlycompetitions can also foster a sense of community and teamwork among students. Peer tutoring isanother crucial element that provides academic support and helps students develop leadership andcommunication skills. Club time allows students to explore their interests and develop new skills,promoting well-roundedness and a sense of belonging. Feature Film Fridays allows us to showrelevant and timely films, while also providing an opportunity for our affinity and alliance groups tomeet. Overall, these various aspects of middle school programming provide students withopportunities to learn and grow in multiple ways, preparing them for success in the upper school andbeyond.1-to-1 iPad ProgramWoodward Academy will issue new 9.7” iPads, Logitech Rugged keyboard cases and Logitech Crayonstyluses to all seventh grade students at no charge. Students will use the iPads to support 21st centurylearning through enhanced productivity and collaboration, develop executive functioning andself-management skills, access their school Google accounts, and access to the wide assortment ofdigital learning resources that have been developed to support education.The students will use these iPads through eighth grade and then will be given the option to purchasetheir iPads at the end of their eighth grade year or return them to the school. These iPads, which arecompletely controlled and managed by Woodward, will be configured with specialized apps andprofiles. Consequently, the use of personal iPads as a substitute will not be allowed.More informationregarding iPads will be sent home during the summer. You and your child will be asked to reviewthese materials before the school year begins. The iPads will be distributed as part of our OrientationDay on Wednesday, August 14, 2024 which is the first day of school for our 7thgrade students andNEW to WA 8th graders..We are pleased that your student will be joining this exciting 21st century community of learning inour middle school. You can find more information about the program on our website. If you havequestions, please e-mail robert.petitto@woodward.edu.12

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School Counseling School counselors help students focus on academic, emotional, and social development so theyachieve success in school and are prepared to lead fulfilling lives as responsible members ofsociety.Middle school counselors are mental health professionals who understand and respond to themany challenges that students face. The counselors are integral to the total educational program byproviding support services through many avenues, including individual counseling, classroomguidance, small group counseling, interventions, and referrals. Also, we provide consultation andcoordination with students, parents, faculty and outside professionals. The Middle School Counselingprogram is designed to further the social, emotional, and intellectual development of our students byproviding:● Academic Skills Support● Organizational, Study and Test-taking Skills● Coping Strategies● Self-Awareness● Empathetic Understanding of Others● Peer Relationships● Effective Social Skills● Problem-Solving, Decision-Making and Conflict ResolutionsSchool counselors are here for you! Middle school students face unique and varied challenges, bothpersonally and developmentally, that have an impact on academic achievement. Middle school canbe an exciting, yet challenging time for students and parents. Please feel free to reach out to us; weare here to help.7thGrade Counselor: Dr. Naima Williams 8th Grade Counselor: Mrs. Merdith Drapernaima.williams@woodward.edu meredith.draper@woodward.edu13

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Middle School CurriculumEnglishEnglish (7thgrade) (CP, EP, HP, TP)Students refine verbal skills through the integrated study of vocabulary, grammar, composition,and literature. Vocabulary instruction focuses on vocabulary in context with some study of theGreek and Latin roots of the English language, preparing students to discern the meaning ofunfamiliar words. Grammar lessons emphasize a knowledge of grammatical structures as ameans of improving writing proficiency. The composition component of the curriculum guidesstudents through the construction of well-developed, unified, coherent paragraphs of varioustypes. Students write compositions based upon experience and literary examples honed from astudy of different literature genres. This writing begins with the students' experience withrequired summer reading books. The study of literature continues during the year and includessuch genres as realistic fiction, historical fiction, biography, and fantasy. These genres arestudied in the form of short stories, poetry, fables, novels, and drama.English (8thgrade) (CP, EP, HP, TP)English in grade eight is a correlated study of language, literature, vocabulary, and composition.Students increase their vocabulary through reading and the study of literature. The coursestresses the continued study of grammar as a tool for effective speaking and writing. Building onthe seventh grade foundation, students should be able to write well-developed, unified, coherentparagraphs and recognize and use basic types of figurative language. Eighth grade studentsapply their knowledge of the paragraph by moving to the multi-paragraph essay as they writeabout the literature studied and life experiences. The course emphasizes the importance ofselecting different sentence types and patterns in the effective development of a clear, varied,and creative expression of ideas through a process of editing and revising. Emphasis inliterature focuses on various genres, which include realistic fiction, mystery, fantasy, comedy,and tragedy. Summer reading selections are also integrated into the curriculum through writinginstruction.ScienceLife Science (7th grade) (CP, EP, HP, TP)In seventh grade science, students will develop a broad understanding of living organisms. Thecourse begins with a Scientific Processes unit to develop fundamental inquiry-based skills,including hypothesizing, making qualitative and quantitative observations, inferences, dataanalysis, and creating conclusions. STEAM will be integrated through problem solving andcritical thinking skills used to solve real world problems. Students will manipulate bothcompound light microscopes and stereoscopes during their in-depth studies of different types ofcells, organelles, tissues and organs. The life science progression begins with microbiology andclassification of species and will extend through comparative anatomy of species in the majorphyla of the Animal Kingdom. The main focus of the second semester is a deep dive intohuman anatomy and physiology, investigating all 11 body organ systems. With each bodysystem, aspects of healthy habits will be addressed. The course will conclude with the14

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reproductive system and sexuality as an age-appropriate curriculum collaboratively andintentionally designed with the counseling department.The SEE (Social, Emotional, Ethical) Learning program is designed to offer students a space toexplore decision-making, ethics, emotions, relationships and systems. This course will beintegrated into the 7th grade science lessons to deepen students' understanding of the brainand nervous system and to help guide them in composing informed, compassionate responsesto life’s obstacles. SEE Learning lessons build a foundation for the upper school elective, EthicalDilemmas and Decision Making and prepares them for the Compassionate CapstoneGraduation Project each student will be required to complete at the upper school.Physical Science (8th grade) (CP, EP, HP, TP)The eighth grade physical science curriculum is a combination of introductory chemistry andphysics. Through daily involvement in laboratory activities and additional student-driveninquiry-based investigations, the 8th grade student will continue in the development of basicprocess skills introduced in the 7th grade. During the first semester, students will study thebasics of chemistry. This includes properties of matter, states of matter, atoms and bonding,chemical reactions, acid-base chemistry, and carbon chemistry. In addition, the course utilizes acomprehensive approach in learning the unique features of the Periodic Table of Elements.During the second semester, students will explore introductory physics. The concept of motion,which includes acceleration, Newton’s Laws of Motion, and momentum, will provide thefoundation for a more in depth study in physics in the Upper School. Through studying energy,which includes work, power, simple machines, thermal energy, electrical energy, magnetism,light, sound and electricity, students will come away with the basic knowledge of how scienceimpacts the environment and will have a better understanding of our past, present, and future ofthe world. In developing efficient problem solving skills using grit and determination, studentswill become better scientists and lifelong learners. Students will receive Upper School sciencecredit at all levels of this course with successful completion of both semesters.MathPre-Algebra (7thgrade) (CP, EP, HP, TP)This course integrates applied arithmetic, pre-algebra, and pre-geometry by building upon theessential skills of arithmetic to develop and apply algebraic and problem solving strategies toreal world situations. Algebra is introduced by examining real numbers, factoring, proportionalrelationships, linear equations and inequalities, unit conversions, graphing on the number lineand coordinate plane as well as geometric relationships and measurement. Students are mostly7thgraders, with the exception of new 8thgraders who have not completed a full year ofpre-algebra.15

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Algebra (8thgrade) (CP, EP, HP, TP)The scope of this course allows students to extend their pre-algebra skills to develop fluency inwriting, solving and graphing linear equations and inequalities, systems of linear equations andinequalities, exponential functions, polynomials and factoring, quadratic equations, radicalexpressions and equations, proportional reasoning, and probability. Students are mostly 8thgraders. A few 7thgraders individually selected by 6thgrade WA math teachers and newstudents who have successfully completed a year of pre-algebra are included.Geometry (8thgrade) (HP)The content of this course includes the study of postulates and theorems related to points, lines,planes, angles, circles, polygons, and triangles, logic, transformations, perimeter/area/volume,coordinate geometry, and elementary trigonometry. A significant emphasis is placed ongeometric constructions and proofs. Students are those who have successfully completed a fullyear of algebra.Social StudiesMedieval History (7thgrade) (CP, EP, HP, TP)This course covers the time period known as the Middle Ages between the fall of the WesternRoman Empire in the 5th Century and the beginning of the Renaissance in approximately the15th Century. This class will broadly explore events and developments over centuries ofpolitical, social, and economic history. This class will take a world view, and examine whatoccurred in different regions during this time period including the rise of specific empires, thegrowth of economies, lives of individuals, and other factors throughout the Middle Ages. Thisclass will also examine the impact these cultures had on one another, and the impact they havehad on modern life. The content is presented within the framework of reinforcing basiccommunication skills in reading, writing, speaking, and acquiring information. The honors levelcourse includes the objective to develop the ability to express in both oral and written fashionmore detailed knowledge of issues and events and the significant relationships between them.American History (8thgrade) (CP, EP, TP)This course covers events that range from the arrival of Native Americans in prehistoric times tothe Reconstruction period following the Civil War. This course is designed around thematicunits intended to introduce students to the early development of the United States, as well astrends in political, social, and economic growth. The course is set up within a framework of skilldevelopment including values, attitudes and ethics. It provides reinforcement and extension ofthe general communication skills at the core of the seventh grade program.Government and Economics (8thgrade) (HP)The goal of the American Government and Economics program is to help each student becomean independent thinker and responsible citizen. The first half of the course examines theAmerican political system in such areas as the philosophy of government, the decision-makingprocess, and the role of the individual citizen in the political process. The second half of thecourse focuses on developing a basic understanding of the forces at work in the economicmarketplace. Issues such as supply and demand, the flow of money, and governmentinvolvement are studied. With a basic understanding of economic issues and the Americanpolitical environment, students will be able to become effective decision-makers within ademocratic society.16

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LiteratureLiterature (7thgrade) (EP, TP)Seventh grade literature is a year-long reading workshop course designed to increase thestudent’s capabilities to translate, integrate, analyze, synthesize, extrapolate, apply, andevaluate encoded information. The reading workshop approach stresses a variety of literacyskills and concepts, such as the development of vocabulary decoding skills, literary analysis,comprehension, and reading fluency. Through teacher-led mini-lessons, students learn specificstrategies to improve their understanding of literary terminology and then they practice thesestrategies in book clubs to increase their overall comprehension. This course enables studentsto read and self-select books from a diverse collection of literature from various genres,recognize the fundamental elements of a story, study character and theme development,identify author’s style, and connect literature to their own lives. The literature course also allowsstudents to expand their ability to read expository selections that focus on the following:identifying main ideas and supporting details, recognizing authors’ purposes, forming educatedinferences, summarizing and paraphrasing select passages, and varying reading speed.Literature (8thgrade) (CP, EP, TP)The eighth grade literature class is a year-long program designed to further develop thestudents’ literacy skills. The program will continue to develop students’ working vocabularyknowledge through context and a multi-modal program. During the course of the year, studentswill benefit from whole class lessons over selected novels, short stories, and skill books that areused to review and strengthen reading skills acquired in the seventh grade. Students will alsohave the opportunity to select novels of their choice in the independent reading course duringthe second semester. This independent reading course challenges students to read a variety ofgenres, creates the opportunity for student-led assessments, and encourages an enjoyment ofleisure reading beyond the academic requirements of the classroom.Literature (8thgrade) (HP)Eighth grade honors literature is an elective, year-long course for selected students anddesigned to develop their maximum reading potential. Teacher recommendation, superiorgrades, standardized test scores, and the ability to complete assignments with minimumsupervision, indicate students with the necessary background of academic skills for theaccelerated pace of the curriculum. The objectives of the course are the same as the eighthgrade reading class; however, the skill level of the student permits a greater variety of materialsas well as a much faster pace for instruction. An essential component of the program is anemphasis on the development of the students’ written responses as they analyze various literaryselections.17

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World LanguagesSpanish or French (7thgrade) (EP)The two-year sequence in either French or Spanish is designed for Middle School students whobegin their study of language in the seventh grade. While using the same approach andmaterials as the first-year course in the Upper School, the course moves at a slower pace,spreading the coverage of material over a two-year period for a greater comprehension level.The course introduces the students to French or Spanish languages with emphasis on fourbasic skills: speaking, reading, listening, and writing. These skills are developed through thestudy of pronunciation, basic vocabulary, and grammatical structures. Elementary readingselections are also used to promote self-expression and written practice of translation fromEnglish into the content language. Students are also expected to write basic essays in thecontent language about culture and other topics. Speaking skills are developed throughstructured conversation and oral communication exams.Spanish or French (8thgrade) (EP)Students in the eighth grade classes are taking the second half of high school level one.Completion of the first half of a French or Spanish level one class is mandatory to enter theeighth grade program. Upon completing this class, students will enter the Upper School at leveltwo. The Upper School at Woodward Academy requires two years of the same language, sostudents who begin world language instruction in the Middle School will have a minimum ofthree years of a language.Spanish or French (7th& 8thgrade) (HP)Honors level French 1 or Spanish 1 begins in the seventh grade. Honors level French orSpanish is an advanced and more in depth approach to learning the language. An honorsstudent can synthesize concepts. The honors student has taken his or her knowledge of aforeign language to another level. Honors level classes deliver information at a faster pace andrequire the student to be proficient in reading, writing, and speaking skills. In addition to therequirements of the college-preparatory level, honors level French or Spanish requires thestudent to learn additional concepts and incorporate them into written and oral assignments.Honors level students may have extra reading and project assignments to practice their skills.Honors level students are required to participate in the national exam in their world language.Some Honors level students may choose to participate in the Delf or Dele diploma certificationprocess in eighth grade.18

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Exploratory ElectivesIntro to Film and Video (7th grade/ semester course)This semester-long intro course is designed to give students interested in film and/or video anoverview of both programs. Students will make short films and create content for the middleschool morning show. Elementary concepts of shots and angles will be introduced. Basic editingin iMovie will also be taught. Both iPads and cameras will be used.Film and Video Production (8thgrade/ semester course)In this year-long eighth grade course, students will develop a bi-weekly, LIVE broadcast, as wellas produce short film segments. Students will learn how to write, shoot, and edit videos. Classmembers will also learn how to edit their films on iMovie and begin to use Final Cut Pro. Thiscourse serves as an intro to Film and Video Production courses in the Upper School.Robotics 7 (7thgrade/ year-long course)In Robotics and Engineering, students will learn and implement the engineering design cycle tobuild and optimize mechanical solutions to complex problems. They will refine, iterate and testtheir solutions for effectiveness. A Robotics and Engineering students enjoys designing,constructing and refining and figuring out things on their own. In 7th students learnapproachable CAD software and construct and code with VexIQ materials.Robotics & Engineering (8thgrade/ year-long course)Robotics and Engineering is a course STEAM curriculum path. This course focuses onprinciples of mechanical engineering and applies those principles to solving problems usingmechanical constructs and robots. In 8th grade, students use professional CAD software andbuild within the framework of the FIRST Tech Challenge. This course is a natural follow-up tothe 7th grade course, but it is not a prerequisite.STEAM: (7th and 8th grade/ semester course)STEAM [Strategies That Engage All Minds] is a project-based, problem solving course in whichstudents get in-depth experience in fields such as 3D design and printing, coding, graphicdesign and robotics. A STEAM student likes to tinker and learn by doing and making. They arecurious risk-takers. This course will provide an intentional foundation for careers that revolvearound creating and designing.Tools (7th & 8th grade quarter or semester course)“Tools” is designed for students who are having significant challenges meeting academicexpectations. In partnership with the parents, the administration team and/or counselors referstudents to this course. The aim is to help students improve their learning effectiveness,attitudes, and motivation. The primary goal of the Tools class is for students to gain confidencein their skills, feel empowered to self-advocate, and learn to better manage independent andinterdependent studies. The class will provide instruction in the following: academic goal setting,prioritization, organization, time management, note taking, and study habits. Students may beassigned mandatory tutorial attendance.19

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Performing ArtsHonor Band (7thand 8thgrade/ year-long course) - Prerequisite: Audition/DirectorRecommendationThis ensemble is a year-long class offered to 7thand 8thGrade students who have demonstrateda high level of musical competency on their instrument. To maintain membership in the band,students are required to play their instrument within the performance expectations set for theclass and attend all performances and rehearsals.Cadet Band (7thand 8thgrade/ year-long course) - Prerequisite: Audition/DirectorRecommendationThis ensemble is a year-long class offered to 7thand 8thgrade students who have demonstratedan intermediate level of musical competency on their instrument. To maintain membership inthis band, students are required to play their instrument within the performance expectations setfor the class and attend all performances and rehearsals.Eagle Band (7th and 8th grade/year-long course) - Prerequisite: Audition/DirectorRecommendationThis ensemble is a year-long class offered to 7thand 8thgrade students who have demonstrateda fundamental level of musical competency on their instrument. To maintain membership in thisband, students are required to play their instrument within the performance expectations set forthe class and attend all performances and rehearsals.Concert Orchestra (7thand 8thgrade/ year-long course)--Prerequisite: DirectorRecommendationThis ensemble is a year-long class for 7thand 8thgrade students who have had experienceplaying a stringed instrument (violin, viola, cello or string bass). At least one year of playingexperience is required. These students are developing basic individual and orchestra skills.Advanced Orchestra (7thand 8thgrade/ year-long course)--Prerequisite: Audition/DirectorRecommendationThis ensemble is a year-long class for those 7thand 8thgrade string students who play at a veryadvanced level (violin, viola, cello or string bass). Audition is required. Students will learnadvanced bowings, positions and advanced literature.Treble Choir (7thand 8thgrade/ year-long course)--Prerequisite: Audition/DirectorRecommendationThis choir is a year-long class. Sight-reading and musicianship training are important elementsof daily rehearsals. The choir performs a winter and spring concert. In addition, the Choir willbe adjudicated at GMEA district Large Group Performance Evaluation. Alternating years, thechoir travels to participate in a national music festival. Students are expected to attend allrehearsals and performances.20

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Men’s Choir (7thand 8thgrade/ year-long course)--Prerequisite: Audition/DirectorRecommendationThis choir is a year-long course. Sight-reading and musicianship training are importantelements of daily rehearsals. The choir performs a Winter and Spring Concert. In addition, theChoir will be adjudicated at GMEA district Large Group Performance Evaluation. Alternatingyears, the choir travels to participate in a national music festival. Students are expected toattend all rehearsals and performances.Vocal Ensemble--Prerequisite: Audition/Director RecommendationGroup meets 2 days a week during Middle School afternoon study hall. Members must beenrolled in the Middle School Treble or Men’s Choir to be eligible. The Middle School Ensemblelearns a variety of four part choral music. This group performs a winter and spring concert andalternating years participates in a national music festival.7 Dance (7thgrade/ year-long course)This dance class is designed to train students in the beginner levels of Modern, Ballet, Jazz,Improv and Choreography techniques. Throughout these genres, students will explore danceelements, history and culture, choreography, performance, and learn how to expressthemselves through dance. This class will help students enhance their critical thinking skills andconfidence, develop discipline and coordination, improve strength and flexibility, as well aspromote a healthy lifestyle while having fun in the process. This class performs in the annualSpring Dance Concert.8 Dance (8thgrade/year-long course)This dance class is designed to train students in the beginner/intermediate levels of Modern,Ballet, Jazz, Improv, Dance Film and Choreography techniques. Throughout these genresstudents will explore dance elements, history and culture, choreography, performance, and learnhow to express themselves through dance. This class will help students enhance their criticalthinking skills and confidence, develop discipline and coordination, improve strength andflexibility, as well as incorporate technology such as video application into the classroom tocreate a dance films. This class performs in annual Spring Dance Concert.8 Advanced Dance - (8thgrade/year-long course) (Prerequisite: Director Recommendation)This dance class is designed to train students in the intermediate/advanced levels of Modern,Ballet, Jazz, Improv, Dance Film and Choreography techniques. Throughout these genresstudents will explore dance elements, history and culture, choreography, performance, and learnhow to express themselves through dance. This class will help students enhance their criticalthinking skills and confidence, develop discipline and coordination, improve strength andflexibility, as well as incorporate technology such as video application into the classroom tocreate a dance films. This class performs in annual Spring Dance Concert.Middle School Dance Ensemble Jr.- (Prerequisite: Director Recommendation)The Dance Ensemble offers male and female students the opportunity to enhance their danceskills and take their passion for dance a step further and thoroughly explore their love,excitement, and creativity of dance. This ensemble will have extra performance opportunitiesoutside of school throughout the year, make a difference in the community, and work withrenowned choreographers. This group meets once a week on Thursday afternoons for twohours and participates in the annual Spring Concert. Members must be enrolled into one of thethree dance classes to be eligible for the Ensemble and must be recommended by the director.21

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Technical Theatre (7th grade and 8th grade/ year-long course)This is an introductory, semester-long course examining the principles and practices commonlyused in theatrical stagecraft and production. Included are the equipment, basic use, and bestpractices of lighting, sound, painting, costuming, prop making, stage management, and setconstruction. Upon completion of this course, students will have knowledge of a variety oftechnical theatre components. This is an excellent first step into the world of theatre productionand the backstage as it combines active learning and a hands-on style classroom experience.Theatre 7 (7thgrade/ semester-long course)This is a semester-long course focused on the student actor. This course will offer the studentthe opportunity to develop basic and fundamental acting skills, training and experiencenecessary for live theatrical performance with an emphasis on acting. Exercises and games;monologue and scene work; character choices and development will be explored.Theatre 8: (8thgrade/semester-long course)This is a semester-long course focused on the student actor in both musicals and non-musicalsand is a continuation of Theatre 7. This course will offer the student the opportunity to continuedeveloping skills, training and experience necessary for live theatrical performance with anemphasis on acting. Challenging exercises and games; devised monologue and scene work;character choices and development will continue to be explored.Performance Ensemble (8th grade/year-long course)This course is an advanced level course for students who are interested in advancing theirunderstanding of theatre. Performance Ensemble students will take on the role of a director tolearn basic tools for movement, composition, blocking, and staging. Students will also tacklemore advanced acting methods and techniques using their base knowledge from Theatre 7.Under the guidance of the theatre teacher, students' final each semester will consist of anafter-school showcase for their own class play and/or their directed scenes. Students will berequired to have a recommendation from the teacher after Theatre 7 in order to be acceptedinto the class.22

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Visual ArtsFoundations Art (7th grade / year-long course)Foundations Art is a year-long course designed for serious art students who know they want totake art all year long. Students will experiment with a variety of 2D & 3D visual media to betterunderstand their properties and develop skills with the intent to express individual ideas,thoughts, and feelings. These include drawing, printmaking, digital photography andmanipulation, graphic design, ceramics, sculpture, and 3D design. Students progressively learnto identify and apply the “elements and principles of design” through their work and studying theworks of others. Likewise, students will begin to build a digital portfolio of their work throughaesthetic valuing, contrasting, comparing, and positive thoughtful evaluations. Entry into theFoundations Art course is limited to students who commit to a full-year course and may berecommended by their former visual art instructors.2D Design (7th grade/semester course)2D Design is a semester-long course where students will focus on developing their fundamentalunderstanding of two-dimensional art and design. Students will explore media and techniquessurrounding drawing, painting, printmaking, as well as digital design.3D Design (7th grade/semester course)3D Design is a semester course designed to further develop students’ skills inthree-dimensional art and design. Students will envision, plan, and execute sculptures using avariety of materials and techniques. Media may include clay, soapstone, cardboard, foundobjects, fabric, and soft sculpture Students will explore concepts in space, scale, function, andabstract ideas.Advanced Art (8th grade/ year-long course)Advanced Art is a year-long course designed as a continuation of the Foundations Art coursefrom 7th grade for our strong-minded growing visual artists. This course encompasses anin-depth experience in a vast array of the visual arts. Among these are drawing, painting,photography, ceramics, 3D printing, digital media, and sculpture. Students will push their ideasand explorations further as developing artists and individuals. As students build a body of workand explore different media they will do a deeper dive into their work and engage in aestheticsthrough class critiques, group discussions, and reflections. Entry into the Advanced Art courseis limited to serious art students who commit to a full-year course and may be recommended bythe Visual Arts Department or former art instructors.Drawing/Painting (8th grade/semester course)Drawing and Painting is a semester course designed to further develop students’ skills intwo-dimensional expression and the fundamentals of creating art through observation andexperimentation. Media will include graphite, charcoal, pastels, watercolor, and acrylic painting.Creating the illusion of depth with techniques in perspective, vanishing points, contour lines, andvalue will be key focal points. We will also explore color theory, abstraction, gesture drawing,and figurative work.23

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Sculpture and 3D Design (8th grade/semester course)Sculpture and 3D Design is a semester course and introduction to three-dimensional form andspace, in relation to artistic expression and design. Students will be challenged to use a varietyof materials following safety protocols to design both functional and non-functional works of art.Media may include ceramic clay, paper, wire, cardboard, found objects, plaster, soapstone,glass, and paint. Emphasis will placed on ceramics and working with clay through hand-buildingtechniques, glazing, and various firing techniques. Using design thinking principles along withartistic expression students will explore concepts in space, scale, function, and abstract ideas.Getting messy while taking care of our space each day is required.Physical EducationGeneral Fitness (7th grade, Boys and Girls)This course will provide students with the fundamental skills and knowledge to maintain anactive and healthy lifestyle. Students will participate in a balanced curriculum of individual andteam sports and fitness development. This course will incorporate basic cardiovascular training,strength training, fitness testing, and agility activities. Students will also participate in fieldsports, net/target sports, invasion sports, aquatics, and gymnastics/tumbling (girls only).Performance levels and work ethic in this course will determine teacher recommendation fortaking Physical Conditioning for Sports in the 8th grade.Physical Conditioning for Sports (8thgrade, Boys and Girls) (Prerequisite: TeacherRecommendation)This course is designed to help student athletes develop strength, power, and speed for teamand individual sports while focusing on preventing injuries and building stamina. Students willparticipate in weight-training and running to develop athleticism. This course gives MiddleSchool students an alternative to the traditional team sports P.E. class. Teacherrecommendation is a requirement for taking this course.Physical Conditioning for Life (8thgrade, Boys and Girls)This course is designed to develop the skills necessary for a healthy, active lifestyle and a basicknowledge of rules for many individual and team sports. Students will participate in aerobic andanaerobic fitness activities, including field sports, net/target sports, invasion sports, fitnesstesting and development, aquatics, CPR training and gymnastics/tumbling (girls only).24

Middle School Scheduling & Curriculum Guide

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