Middle School Program, 6th - 8th

   Overview 

The Laureate middle school program is distinctive for innovative curriculum that advances key competencies for 21^st century learning. Adopted learning methodologies engage and motivate students for high academic achievement beyond learning outcomes expected from traditional practices focused on rigor and rote. A balanced approach fosters appreciation of the arts, sports and healthy living, strong character, respect for other cultures, along with a critical understanding of the world today that will prepare students to find solutions for a sustainable world tomorrow.  

Integrated, project-based learning promotes critical thinking and understanding of real-life applications, and builds the key 21^st century competencies of: collaboration, methodology, and knowledge. Differentiation, the instructional foundation of The Laureate program, continues throughout middle school to ensure that students’ unique learning needs are met.  Additionally, flexible placement provides access to certain courses based on mastery level rather than grade level. A continued focus on character development goes beyond traditional academia to ensure that students are equipped with important personal and social skills that will serve them well throughout life.  

Laureate middle school graduates are inspired, self-confident learners prepared for success in private or public high school within academic paths that allow advanced placement in mathematics, foreign language, and English (see individual curriculum areas for Advanced Placement Paths).

                                “preparing students for success in a global 21^st century”                                         

                                                                         -The Laureate School motto      

English 

Writing and Language Arts

Writing instruction focuses on both creative and expository forms with applications across content areas. Original writing forms include poetry and creative stories. Students write essays in response to literature, history, and current events. Research papers and reports are organized using formal and informal outline formats, with emphasis on the draft to final form writing process.

Vocabulary, spelling, grammar and usage study includes an emphasis on application within the writing process, including both creative and expository writings.

Writing instruction is differentiated across grades 6-8 and follows the Write Source continuum through an advanced 10^th grade level.  

Reading

Reading is formally integrated within the History curriculum and includes historical fiction, original writings, modern fiction, and classics (see History). Independent Reading continues throughout middle school. Teachers utilize student Reading Logs to guide students to books of increasingly higher-level comprehension and enjoyment. An important goal of the program is to promote the reading habit for an informed and rewarding life.

Oral Presentation

The school-wide emphasis on oral presentation skills continues throughout middle school. Regular participation in literature group discussion, oral presentation of project-based learning outcomes, and public speaking responsibilities through Leadership, such as conducting monthly Character Assemblies, develop poise and hone oral presentation skills.  

Literature 

Literature study in each grade includes classic and modern literature. Specific works are chosen as the focus of formal study and analysis of literary constructions and conventions. Meaningful works are integrated within the History curriculum and is another major program component (see History courses for examples), and within thematic studies, such as Black History Month, Chinese New Year, and Holocaust Remembrance Day. Examples of literature selections studied within thematic units include: The Watsons Go to Birmingham, Curtis, Uncle Tom’s Cabin, Stowe, Dragon Wings, Yep, and Romeo and Juliet, Shakespeare, and A Child’s Christmas in Wales, Thomas.

Students analyze content and structure within the format of literacy discussion groups that promote in-depth understanding and appreciation, which is consistent with Advanced Placement high school standards.

History 

Within a three-year rotation, students study the developing story of humankind within a broadly scoped global curriculum that fosters strong critical thinking and analysis skills that allow students to apply principles and concepts learned from the past across timelines and to situations in the present. Texts structure course content that is enriched through corresponding literature (see Literature above), original writings and documents, drama, music, and other materials. History “comes alive” within applied-learning projects that expand grade-level curriculum through engaging applications within each class.

All aspects of social, political, ethical, economic, legal, and ethical conventions as well as scientific advances and the regional geography are included for an integrated approach that further deepens an understanding and appreciation of history and enables students to relate historical principles to our own time.

Providing historical perspective is vital to understanding and applying the wisdom learned from the past to current events and modern challenges; therefore, Current Events is not treated as an isolated, separate subject; rather as the application of history.

            -         George Santayana, The Life of Reason, Vol.1

Ancient World History

Ancient History begins with the development of human civilization. The course focuses on the ancient civilizations of the Middle East, Egypt, India, and the Mediterranean. Students develop an understanding and appreciation of the roots of modern civilization and how they are reflected in our own life and time.  

Examples of integrated literature include: The Odyssey, Homer, Mythology, Hamilton, Beowulf (an introduction), Anonymous, Siddhartha, Hesse.

United States History – 1800’s to Modern Times

Beginning where Colonial American History ends, the focus of this course is the geographic, political, and social development of the United States and its people, and its relationships and impact on other nations and peoples around the world. The course concludes with the transition into the 21^st century and an exploration of the challenges and opportunities presented in our own time and in the future.

Examples of integrated literature include: The Red Pony and Grapes of Wrath, Steinbeck, My Antonia, Cather, To Kill a Mockingbird, Lee, Iron Thunder, Avi, Elephant Run, Smith, Diary of a Young Girl, Anne Frank.

World History: Renaissance to Modern Times

World History begins with the Renaissance and European Reformation, and an inquiry of the major forces of politics and religion; the scientific revolution, and the accompanying Age of Exploration and the effects of the developing New World on civilization. European, Asian, and African history through the 20^th century is explored, concluding with a focus on defining events of our own time and place for perspective on our own participation in the continuing saga of mankind.   Examples of integrated literature include: The Canterbury Tales (an introduction), Chaucer, Adam of the Road, Gray, Catherine, Called Birdy, Cushman, Macbeth, Shakespeare.   

Current Events

Students in grades 6-8 explore current events within historical context as part of each History course, relating events of the past to those of our own time (see History above).

Mathematics 

Mathematics placement is based on students’ level of mastery rather than grade level. The Mathematics Diagnostic Testing Project (MDTP) assessment is administered to aid in determining appropriate placement, as well as to identify strengths and weaknesses for more effective instruction and learning.   

Continuing Laureate students, or transfer students who enter the middle school program with a firm conceptual understanding of mathematics, follow the Advanced Placement Path for Mathematics, which allows qualified graduates to enter high school at an advanced math level (see the Advanced Placement Path for Mathematics below.)

Pre-Algebra

Pre-Algebra is designed to provide students with the fundamental skills needed for success in Algebra I by providing depth to the understanding of essential mathematics principles and combining concepts to promote problem solving for real life application.

Differentiation within the class allows students the time to master essential mathematics and to move ahead to beginning algebraic fundamentals when ready over the school year. Students needing a full year of the essential mathematics component do so and complete Pre-Algebra the following year as Pre-Algebra 2, which begins with algebraic fundamentals.   

Algebra I is focused on the evaluation of mathematical operations and their representations. More abstract in theory, Algebra I requires students to apply and justify properties and concepts in terms of variables and with the parameters of the rules of mathematics. Emphasis is placed on equations, polynomial, and graph evaluations and relationships.

Geometry

Geometry is the study of basic constructions and proofs about the relationships among lines, angles, triangles, polygons, circles, and such properties as area, volume, similarity, and congruency. Topics include basic trigonometry and coordinate geometry.

Algebra II

Algebra II builds on the fundamental algebraic concepts of Algebra I and includes powers, roots, and complex numbers, circles, constructions and loci, polygons, exponential and logarithmic functions, matrices and determinant, sequences, series, and mathematical induction.

Science

Based on state and national standards, students hypothesize, test, and formulate scientific theory within hands-on, inquiry-based lessons and projects. Students participate in The Laureate’s school-wide Science Fair with an integrated project that applies scientific learning along with reading, writing, mathematics, and other subjects for applied, project-based learning. 

Science Lab is incorporated regularly within each class for experimentation and simulation that reinforces the understanding of scientific principles and processes.

Field Study is an important component of each class and includes many local trips, workshops, and overnight science camp programs. 

Earth Science –Sixth Grade

Within an Earth Science focus the following topics are explored: Plate Tectonics and Earth’s Structure, Processes Shaping the Earth’s Surface, Thermal Energy, Solar and Earth’s Energy, Ecology, and Resources.

Within a focus on Life Science, the following topics are explored: Cell Biology, Genetics, Evolution, Earth and Life History, Structure and Function in Living Systems, and Physical Principles in Living Systems.  

Physical Science – Eighth Grade

Within a focus on Physical Science, the following topics are explored: Motion, Forces, Structure of Matter, Earth in the Solar System, Reactions, Chemistry of Living Systems, Periodic Table, and Density and Buoyancy.

Life Lab

Life Lab is a living science laboratory program that uses the school’s gardens for class-curriculum linked learning that gives relevance to science through real-life applications. Consistent with the established non-profit Life Lab program that has been implemented since 1979 in schools nationwide, the Laureate curriculum emphasizes the integration of educational content and links science to all areas of learning, including mathematics, language, nutrition, and stewardship (© Life Lab Science Program).  

The Laureate has a unique digital literacy based Technology curriculum that incorporates the National Educational Technology Standards (NETS·T) and state standards for literacy at each grade level. Middle school students apply grade-level learning in the following areas: Creativity and Innovation, Communication and Collaboration, Research and Information Fluency, Critical Thinking, Problem Solving, and Decision Making, Digital Citizenship, and Technology Operations and Concepts.

 Methodological skill is a key competency for 21^st century learning, and Laureate students have long been advanced in Technology applications upon entering high school. The school is equipped with a state of a state-of-the-art Mac Technology Lab within its Media Center, and in-class computers. The school subscribes to the Education Technology Center’s (ETC) portal that streams current information and resources to students and teachers. The Laureate School is a leader in Technology education.

The foreign language program at The Laureate is integral in “preparing students for success in a global 21^st century.” Students are offered Spanish and Mandarin and encouraged to take both. Emphasis is placed on speaking fluency as well as writing and grammar. Native speakers teach each language so that students learn correct pronunciation and develop authentic usage. A focus on culture also provides students with a “world view” that is essential in our time.

While continuing Laureate students speak with native intonation and develop strong auditory comprehension, students who begin the program by middle school can also follow the Advanced Placement Path for Foreign Languages that allows qualified graduates to enter high school at advanced foreign language levels academically (see the Advanced Placement Path for Foreign Language below).

                 "America's continued role as a global leader will depend on our students' abilities to interact

                   with the world community both inside and outside our borders."

                                                              - Committee for Economic Development, 2006

Spanish 

Spanish is the most widely used language in the Americas after English. The opportunity to use the Spanish language affords itself at the local level, within California, and increasingly, across the United States, as well as within the borders of such easily accessed countries as Mexico and Costa Rica.

Each course follows the content outline of the text series Buen viaje! and is enriched through activities and interactive learning that allows students to gain the deeper understanding and skill needed for advanced achievement. Students are introduced to books and stories written in Spanish, and at advanced levels, students explore Spanish novels.  

Students cover the content of the first half of Spanish I over a full year with ample time for expanded learning experiences that ensure high-level learning and acquisition of cultural knowledge. 

Students cover the content of the second half of Spanish I over a full year. Learning continues to be reinforced with expanded learning experiences that provide in-depth language acquisition needed for success in Spanish I, which follows high school pacing.

Spanish I covers the content of Spanish IA and IB over one year. The course uses high school pacing and is the equivalent of 9^th grade Spanish I. Students who are successful in Spanish I are prepared to test out of Spanish I upon entry to 9^th grade for advanced placement in Spanish II.

Spanish II uses high school pacing and is the equivalent to 10^th grade Spanish. Students who have been successful in Spanish II are prepared to test out of Spanish II upon entry to 9^th grade and, if successful, enroll in Spanish III

As an important international language, Mandarin prepares students for full participation in a global economy. According to the World Factbook (CIA, 2008), China is currently the most frequently spoken language in the world. As China continues its growth as a major economic force in today’s world, opportunities for those who speak Chinese are steadily increasing.

Mandarin follows the content outline of the text series Gen wo xue han yu, called in English, Learn Mandarin with Me. Students learn to speak, read, and write Mandarin in Pinyin with progressive fluency and skill. Students are also introduced to simplified Chinese characters in preparation for advanced coursework.

An Advanced Placement Path in Mandarin has been established in anticipation of the implementation of Mandarin at the local high school level (see below).

A full art and music program ensures a balanced curriculum that promotes the creative process and an appreciation of the arts. Art and music courses are taught by specialists and include course-specific content and process as well as elements that are integrated with curricula in History or other subjects.   

Visual Arts

Trimester long courses provide students with an in-depth exploration of foundational art principles while applying unique creative insight. Two-dimensional and three-dimensional art forms are included.

Art History

Art History corresponds to History content taught within the three-year rotation (see History). Art appreciation as well as corresponding hands-on art applications make this class vibrant and enriching beyond the traditionally presented art history course.

History of music and composers from Baroque to the Modern period is explored. Music appreciation is developed as students listen to compositions of specific composers. The period and musical style corresponds to the particular time of study in History.

Students learn to play classical guitar while learning basic music theory, note reading, and tab notation.

The school-wide Etudes program fosters an appreciation of music. Additionally, trimester courses focus on a range of music, including jazz and other genres. 

A thematic choral unit is incorporated for all middle school grades toward the close of the first trimester, and for grades 6 and 7 toward the close of the last trimester. Two school-wide choral productions, one for the winter holidays and one at the end-of-the-year, are presented each year as the culmination of each unit. (Additionally, Drama Production is offered within the afterschool Laureate Enrichment Academy.) 

Team sports and individual sports are the focus of middle school PE. The goal of the middle school sports program is to introduce students to sports for life-long enjoyment and health, and to equip students with the confidence and skills to participate in group or individual team sports in high school, should they choose. Individual sports are community-linked to encourage students to continue participation beyond school. Sports etiquette is included within each sport; and fitness, health, and nutrition units are included each trimester.

Character Education Program 

The Laureate’s Character Education Program is based on the three pillars of Stewardship, Citizenship, and Leadership. Traits from each pillar are the focused upon in turn each month throughout the entire school community.

Leadership

Within weekly Leadership Class all Laureate middle school students develop leadership skills that prepare them for personal success in high school and beyond. Students collaborate, plan, and lead the K-8 monthly Character Assemblies, introducing the new character trait for the month through skits, poems, literature, or activities; and presenting teachers’ Character Awards to those students chosen from each class for special recognition. The year-long Leadership Cass also provides students with the confidence to participate in high school governance, should they choose.

Stewardship

Stewardship responsibilities extend from self to our global environment. Students take responsibility for their personal, social, and academic lives; and promote sustainability within the school community, the larger community, globally. Middle School Life Lab curriculum provides an important focus on principles and applications for students (see Life Lab under Sciences). 

Citizenship

A school culture of respect, caring, and cooperation is nurtured through a collaborative focus on successful and rewarding interpersonal relationships. Cross-grade projects with elementary students give middle school students the opportunity to help those younger than themselves, developing sensitivity and serving as role models. Middle school students lead school-wide community service projects such as developing wells in Africa and holiday giving at home.