Middle School Course Catalog

Students will learn the skills needed to read and respond critically to a variety of literary genres. While reading independently and in community, students will focus on the following comprehension strategies: questioning, predicting, evaluating, visualizing, discovering the main idea, synthesizing, making connections, vocabulary skills, and retelling and summarizing the text. The MYP Learner Profile and Approaches to Learning (ATL) Skills are introduced and demonstrated through a variety of fiction, non-fiction and class discussions.

Students will begin to show an understanding of grammar, mechanics, vocabulary, and spelling through their writing. They will improve their oral communication skills in group discussions and speeches. The students’ knowledge of grammar and communication is reinforced through tasks related to various reading and media outlets. MLA format and work cited is introduced over the course of the year. The students demonstrate their abilities through projects connected to written and oral communication. Additionally, students will learn keyboarding, Google Docs, how to share docs, Microsoft apps, and various presentation tools

Strategies for Success is a semester-long course in which 6th-grade students learn how to be successful Middle School students. This class uses the Approaches to Learning Skills of the MYP Programme to guide learning.

The skills are clustered into the following groups: 

1. Communication (language & interaction)
2. Social (collaboration)
3. Self-Management (organization, affective, reflection)
4. Research (information & media literacy)
5. Thinking (critical-thinking, creative-thinking, transfer)

Students will gain a deeper understanding of the world around them. Students will gain understanding through investigating the following:

• What does it mean to be a global citizen?
• How can maps provide us with a sense of time, place and space?
• What can we can learn from different civilizations?
• Where do we live?
• What do people believe in?
• What factors contribute to the fairness and development of societies?

This course will develop students’ abilities to use maps, globes, and other geographical tools. Students will learn the Five Themes of Geography and be able to identify and explain how these themes relate to their investigations of the concepts listed above.

Students will cover the scientific method, plate tectonics, ecosystems, the atmosphere, and weather. Through a variety of modalities including laboratory experimentation, discussion, flipped classroom, and research, students develop scientific knowledge of these topics. Through an inquiry-based approach, students learn to evaluate and question what they learn. Each unit focuses on specific MYP Approaches to Learning skills including: collaboration and communication while working in teams, critical and creative thinking while researching, and using self-management strategies to organize themselves and their belongings.

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Pre-Algebra
Students will be a transition from arithmetic into exploring the basic concepts of algebra. The focus of the class will be helping students become comfortable with using and further developing their arithmetic skills to solve equations. Students will be introduced to linear functions in both standard form and through graphing.

Honors Algebra
Students will start with reviewing concepts such as integer rules, adding, subtracting, multiplying and dividing positive and negative numbers. Students will then work with properties of real numbers where they solve problems in real-world situations. Next, students learn about solving and writing linear equations. Once students understand linear equations, they then graph linear equations. Near the end of the year students learn about functions, exponent rules and quadratic equations.
*placement in Honors Algebra through a placement test.

Following Christ is devoted to the Ten Commandments and the Mass. The students will learn that God established divine and natural laws to govern his creation and that following these laws will make us truly happy. We will look at each commandment in depth to gain a better understanding of each, in order to develop the formation of conscience.

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Students will take one semester of each language. At course selection time, students will choose what language to continue in their middle school years.

Spanish
Students are immersed in the culture and language of the Spanish-speaking world. Through reading Santillana texts, using varied media sources, and learning vocabulary and grammatical constructions, students practice listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Students inquire into both the cultural and dialect differences within the Spanish speaking world. They gain the skills and knowledge needed to become more open-minded, reflective communicators. Students in Living Spanish expand their Spanish vocabulary and increase their understanding and usage of Spanish verbs, pronouns, possessive adjectives, definite and indefinite articles, place adverbs, regular and irregular verbs, and direct and indirect object pronouns. With increased vocabulary and grammatical understanding they are able to construct basic sentences and engage in basic conversation.
*placement in Advanced Spanish through a placement test.

Mandarin Chinese
Students will learn Chinese culture and history while establishing a fundamental comprehension of the structure of Mandarin Chinese. An overview of basic radicals, strokes and character writing skills will be introduced to novice learners through reviewing traditional pictographic characters. Basic communication skills including fundamental pronunciation symbols, intonation, basic greeting expressions and basic language patterns will be emphasized. This course enables language beginners to obtain language insight and have a general understanding about Chinese culture through activities such as reciting children’s rhymes and songs, celebrating traditional festivals, doing hands-on projects and watching videos. The topics will include greetings, numbers, colors, classroom expressions, date and time, family members and animals.

One semester of either band or choir is required.

Band
Beginning band is a transitional program aligning with the MYP years 1-3 Arts Curriculum. The basic fundamentals of beginning band will focus on learning how to play a wind or percussion instrument. The choices are: flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, baritone, tuba or percussion. Students will learn how to read notes and rhythms with emphasis on dynamics, articulations and an understanding of basic music theory. Band will also teach students good practice habits, discipline, teamwork, building confidence and a great way to express their emotions.

Chorus
Chorus is a transitional program aligning with the MYP years 1-3 Arts Curriculum. The basic fundamentals of choral singing will be introduced including basic performance etiquette, vocal technique, reading music, sight-reading, key signature identification, notating music, composition, use of movable ‘do’ solfege, music description, and performance of varied repertoire.

Beginning Band (Fall and Winter semester course)
Beginning band is a transitional program aligning with the MYP years 1-3 Arts Curriculum. Beginning Band will focus on learning how to play a woodwind, brass, or percussion instrument. Instrument selections include: flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, baritone, tuba or percussion (drum & mallet). Basic fundamentals will be taught including: notation literacy, aural perception, rhythmic understanding, expression. Band will also teach students successful practice habits, personal discipline, teamwork, building confidence, and how to express emotion through music.

One semester is required.

The goal of the class is to introduce a variety of fitness and sports activities in a manner that engages all students. Students appreciate and understand the value of physical education and its relationship to a healthy, active lifestyle. A combination of skills, drills, learning activities and games will provide the students the opportunity to experience enjoyment and satisfaction in physical education. Students will develop the motor skills necessary to participate successfully in a variety of physical activities. The fundamental concepts of the MYP include holistic learning, intercultural awareness and communication and reveal important facets of the study of physical education.

Students will read and respond to a variety of literary genres including: drama, legend, mystery, myth, poetry, autobiography, biography, personal correspondence, and non-fiction. While reading independently and in community, students will enhance their learned comprehension strategies. The MYP Learner Profile and Approaches to Learning (ATL) Skills continue to be a focus through a variety of fiction, non-fiction and class discussions.

Students will show an understanding of grammar, mechanics, vocabulary, and spelling through their writing. Writing process.. The students’ knowledge of grammar and communication is reinforced through tasks related to various reading and media outlets. Students will actively use their learned knowledge of literary devices across their writing. Over the course of the year, students will practice utilizing MLA format in their writing including parenthetical citations and a Works Cited page. The students demonstrate their abilities through projects connected to written and oral communication.

Students will gain a deeper understanding of the world around them. This course focuses on the geography, history, culture, and current issues of our everchanging world.

Student will continue to practice the scientific method with a focus on animal and plant cells, genetics and heredity, biological evolution, the solar system, and waves. Through a variety of modalities including laboratory experimentation, discussion, flipped classroom, and research, students develop scientific knowledge of these topics. Through an inquiry-based approach, students learn to evaluate and question what they learn. Each unit focuses on specific MYP Approaches to Learning skills including collaboration and communication while working in teams, critical and creative thinking while researching, and using self-management strategies to organize themselves and their belongings.

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Algebra
Students will continue from the sixth grade curriculum and review basic skills such as ratios and percentages. Students will refresh their study of integers and their skills using the fundamental laws and concepts of mathematics. Students will then progress in their understanding by developing their ability to use the equation of the line in all of the proper forms. Students will learn the basics of absolute value (including variable calculation). The next step is to take the skills into the real world. Using the equation of the line students will make predictions and understand how mathematics is used to present and model actual situations. Finally we will learn how to find the intersection of two lines and the exponential skills necessary to continue in their eighth grade studies.

Honors Algebra
Students will learn the equation of the line in all three forms, as well as absolute value and systems of equations. Students continue on with the laws of exponents learning how to add, subtract, multiply and divide polynomials. Next students learn about quadratic equations, how to factor and how the quadratic relates to a parabolic curve. Students will complete projects relating parabolic curves to parabolic motion in space. Finally, students will explore rational functions and solving for x by factoring and simplifying rational expressions.

Life of Grace builds on doctrine already taught in 6th grade with an emphasis on revelation, grace, and the moral life. The seventh graders will delve into the importance of reason in their lives as Catholics. They will learn how God has revealed himself to us, through creation, the prophets and through his son, Jesus. To help them live the moral life to which Christ calls them, the students will study the virtues and the sacraments intently.

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Spanish and Advanced Spanish
Students are immersed in the culture and language of the Spanish-speaking world. Through reading authentic texts, using varied media sources, and learning vocabulary and grammatical constructions, students practice listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Students inquire into both the cultural and dialect differences within the Spanish speaking world. They gain the skills and knowledge needed to become more open-minded, reflective communicators.

Mandarin Chinese
This course is designed to review and build upon previously learned concepts in grammar, vocabulary, and communicative phrases, with an emphasis on practicing a broad range of written and verbal skills. Reading, writing, speaking, and listening will continue to play a major role in each assignment and will be assessed regularly through their ability to give oral presentations, role play, and create their own sentences and dialogue. Students will increase their knowledge and appreciation of Chinese culture, history, and civilization while learning about topics including: learning to tell the time and dates; invite someone to dinner for celebrate the birthday, arrange a dinner date, design a birthday invitation card, ask someone’s hobbies, set up plans for the weekend.

Students will select one for a semester course.

Band
Band is a transitional program aligning with the MYP years 1-3 Arts Curriculum. The basic fundamentals of intermediate band will focus on developing their musical skills. Students will develop their music reading skills with emphasis on dynamics, articulations, phrasing and an understanding of intermediate music theory. Band will also teach students good practice habits, discipline, teamwork, building confidence and a great way to express their emotions.

Chorus
Chorus is a continuation of the previous year building on concepts at a more challenging level. Concepts include music notation, key signature identification, sightreading, and use of movable ‘do’ solfege. New concepts that will be integrated to the course will include music analysis, emotional context, implementation of listening journals, and music history.

Visual Art
Visual Art focuses on the basic elements and principles of design including balance and composition. Creative exploration of media may include: drawing, painting, sculpture, self-portrait and enameling. A variety of media will be used to focus on the important elements and techniques of creative expression. Global and cultural influences will be considered to enhance awareness of art as having an important historical impact on society. Opportunities to work collectively with other disciplines will be provided so that students will develop an understanding of knowledge as an integrated whole. Dynamic lessons will be used to allow students to assess the creative process of each medium. Sketchbooks will be used for recording ideas, practicing drawing skills and reflecting on their work. Constructive criticism and self-reflection will be used to assess student progress and ability.

Intermediate Band (Fall and Winter semester course)
Band is a transitional program aligning with the MYP years 1-3 Arts Curriculum. The fundamentals of Intermediate Band will focus on repertoire analysis, ensemble balance, expression, rhythmic literacy, music theory, music history, and chamber music practice and performance. Band will also teach students successful practice habits, personal discipline, teamwork, building confidence, and how to express emotion through music.

One semester is required.

The goal of physical education is to build upon and enhance fitness and sports activities in a manner that engages all students. Students learn to appreciate and understand the value of physical education and its relationship to a healthy, active lifestyle. A combination of skills, drills, learning activities, and games will provide the students the opportunity to experience enjoyment and satisfaction in Physical Education. Students will continue to develop the motor skills necessary to participate successfully in a variety of physical activities. The fundamental concepts of the MYP include holistic learning, intercultural awareness and communication and are important facets of the study of physical education.

Students continue to read and analyze a variety of literature to seek information, ideas, and enjoyment. Students will explore reading and writing in the following genres: historical, realistic and science fiction, and nonfiction texts including arguments, journal, and research. Over the course of the year, students will master MLA format in their writing including parenthetical citations and a complete Works Cited page. Students will actively learn and utilize a variety of literary devices across genres. Students will continue to enhance their study skills, learn to organize their space and time, and improve on active reading and listening skills. Learning strategies are taught that can be applied to gaining knowledge in all subject areas.

The U.S. History course presents a chronological account of the American experience from early colonial times through the Civil War and Reconstruction. Students discover the foundation upon which the United States was built by studying early exploration, the establishment of the thirteen colonies, causes of the American Revolution, and important documents in American history including the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights. Students explore the growth and development of the new nation and its government, build their knowledge of the Jefferson and Jackson eras, and learn how the North and South started moving in different directions. The final unit examines the causes and effects of the Civil War. Course pairs with Notre Dame Preparatory 10th grade U.S. History, which advances the understanding from 1877 to the present.

Students continue to practice the scientific method with a focus on matter and its interactions, kinetic and potential energy, and electric and magnetic energy. Through a variety of modalities including laboratory experimentation, discussion, flipped classroom, and research, students develop scientific knowledge of these topics. Through an inquiry-based approach, students learn to evaluate and question what they learn. Each unit focuses on specific MYP Approaches to Learning skills including collaboration and communication while working in teams, critical and creative thinking while researching, and using self-management strategies to organize themselves and their belongings. Most assignments will be completed in class. Students should spend 10 -15 minutes each day reviewing class notes.

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Algebra
The goal of this class is to reinforce the most important ideas and procedures to solving problems using Algebra. This Algebra course includes evaluating, solving and graphing linear functions, solving systems of equations and inequalities, working with exponent rules, factoring polynomials, solving quadratic equations, and working with exponential, radical and rational functions.

Honors Geometry
This class is the equivalent to high school honors geometry. Honors Geometry prepares students for more complicated operations and applications in higher level mathematics courses such as Honors Algebra 3 & 4 and Trigonometry. Mastery of geometric principles and operations is stressed as well as problem solving procedures, logic, reasoning, and proofs.  Algebraic principles and practices are utilized, reinforced and expanded on through real-life problem solving.

Students will gain a deeper understanding of what it means to be Catholic and begin to understand how and why the church evolved through human interaction. They will be able to study the Church and understand the impact of people, history, traditions and rituals. Finally, students will examine the events that influenced the traditions and rituals of the Catholic Church such as the Mass and the Sacraments.

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Spanish and Advanced Spanish
Students are immersed in the culture and language of the Spanish-speaking world. Through reading authentic texts, using varied media sources, and learning vocabulary and grammatical constructions, students practice listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Students inquire into both the cultural and dialect differences within the Spanish speaking world. They gain the skills and knowledge needed to become more open-minded, reflective communicators.
NOTE: The regular 8th grade Spanish and Chinese courses are considered the equivalent of a first year language course in our upper division and therefore, students will be placed in the Notre Dame Preparatory 3/4 Spanish course if they have earned a "C" or better.

Mandarin Chinese
This course is designed to review and build upon previously learned concepts in grammar, vocabulary, and communicative phrases, with an emphasis on practicing a broad range of written and verbal skills. Reading, writing, speaking, and listening will continue to play a major role in each assignment and will be assessed regularly through their ability to give oral presentations, role play, and create their own sentences and dialogue. Students will increase their knowledge and appreciation of Chinese culture, history, and civilization while learning about topics including: learning to make appointments, the different school subjects, customs when visiting the homes of others and graduation traditions in Chinese culture.
NOTE: The Advanced 8th grade Spanish Course is considered the equivalent of a second year language course in our upper division and therefore, students will be placed in the Notre Dame Preparatory 5/6 Spanish course if they have earned a "C" or better.

Students will select one year of Band, Chorus, or Visual Art

Band
Band is a transitional program aligning with the MYP years 1-3 Arts Curriculum. The basic fundamentals of intermediate band will focus on developing their musical skills. Students will develop their music reading skills with emphasis on dynamics, articulations, phrasing and an understanding of intermediate music theory. Band will also teach students good practice habits, discipline, teamwork, building confidence and a great way to express their emotions.

Chorus
Chorus is a continuation of the previous year. All concepts will be continued at a more challenging level such as music notation, key signature identification, sightreading, and use of movable ‘do’ solfege. New concepts that will be integrated to the course will include music analysis, emotional context, implementation of listening journals, and music history.

Visual Art
Students focus on the basic elements and principles of design including balance and composition. Creative exploration of media may include: drawing, painting, sculpture, self-portrait and enameling. A variety of media will be used to focus on the important elements and techniques of creative expression. Global and cultural influences will be considered to enhance awareness of art as having an important historical impact on society. Opportunities to work collectively with other disciplines will be provided so that students will develop an understanding of knowledge as an integrated whole. Dynamic lessons will be used to allow students to assess the creative process of each medium. Sketchbooks will be used for recording ideas, practicing drawing skills and reflecting on their work. Constructive criticism and self-reflection will be used to assess student progress and ability.

Students will select one semester of Project Invent, Makerspace or Theatre Appreciation.

Project Invent
Engineering for Social Good: A project-base course which involves creating an invention and a business plan for today’s modern world. The Project Invent Curriculum guides students through the process of research, modeling and prototyping, project planning, collaboration, creating a business plan, entrepreneurship, and presenting a product. . Using research skills,  programming, microcontrollers, gears/motors, and sensors, students gain experiences in engineering and technology which allows them to invent a product.

Makerspace
Students will work on projects while sharing ideas, equipment, and knowledge. They are guided through the Middle Years Programme (MYP) Design Process which allows them to be innovative while following a logical progression. Within a unit, students become driven by self-motivation and passion in order to complete a project independently or in a small group. In a Makerspace classroom, students become problem solvers, risk-takers, and investigators. Each unit concludes with a project presentation that is visual and connects the research, the process, and the final product.

Theatre Appreciation
Students focus on building reflective, inquiry, and social skills to develop knowledge and understanding of theatre. Students will learn, practice, create, and perform various theatrical performances. The class culminates in devising a theatrical piece using all of the skills attained during the semester. This will be performed during their final exam. Additionally, participation in the Middle School musical is a mandatory component of the class.

Students will select one semester of physical and health education  or yoga.

Physical and Health Education
Students will build on fitness and sports activities in a manner that engages all students. Students should appreciate and understand the value of physical education and relationship to a healthy, active lifestyle. A combination of skills, drills, learning activities and games being reinforced will provide students the opportunity to experience enjoyment and satisfaction in physical education. Students will continue to develop the motor skills necessary to participate successfully in a variety of physical activities. The fundamental concepts of the MYP include holistic learning, intercultural awareness and communication and reveal important facets of the study of physical education.

Yoga
Students will improve their physical, mental, and spiritual health. They will learn the basics of breathing for the purpose of centering the mind and energy flow within the body, to combine their breath with movement, learn to breathe through difficult situations, and learn to quiet their mind and body through simple meditation.  Yoga also develops inner awareness and it focuses your attention on your body's abilities at the present moment. Props will be utilized to facilitate learning and to adjust poses, allowing for the student’s fullest expression of the pose and gaining the most benefit.

Advanced Band (Fall and Winter semester course)
Band is a transitional program aligning with the MYP years 1-3 Arts Curriculum. The fundamentals of Advanced Band will focus on key signature analysis, form, ensemble balance, expression, rhythmic literacy, music theory, music history, and chamber music practice and performance. Advanced Band will also prepare students to take the next step to join Marching/Symphonic Band at the High School level. Participation in Advanced Band both semesters is a requirement for this course.