Middle School Curriculum

Student’s Perspective

by Jillian Olsen

Life at Windrush is an interesting essay topic for someone who has been here as long as I have. I came to Windrush just three years after I could walk and talk, and now, heading into high school, I’m still attending the same school. I have stayed at Windrush for the sole reason that I love it.

So now, why is it that I love Windrush so much? It’s the atmosphere. As defined by Webster’s Dictionary, atmosphere is “a surrounding influence or environment.” At Windrush this includes the beautiful campus (with a gorgeous grass playing field), the challenging and exciting academics, the wide range of electives, the sports programs, the special events like buddy day and community service, and most of all, the people. From day one at Windrush there have been outstanding people helping me through my education. The community of Windrush is defined by the people involved in it, whether it be the teachers, students, parents, or the custodians.

I will, however, attempt to describe the academic program here. "Interesting" is the first word that comes to mind when I picture my math, science, English, social studies, and Spanish classes. I mean interesting in the sense that I constantly find myself fully engaged, whether it be in a heated discussion about the aspects of friendship in Of Mice and Men, or asking a question about the use of hemoglobin in the human circulatory system.

I rarely have to sit through lectures in any subject, and when I do, the topic is always fascinating, or it’s said entirely in Spanish. At Windrush you are never bored. There is always a challenge presented in class, and even when you think you’re hot stuff and can handle anything, there’s more. An entire table in the math classroom is devoted to extra puzzles and problems for anyone to take a shot at. In the English room I often overhear my teacher recommending this or that book to a student because she says, “I think you’re ready for something a little harder.”

It’s this kind of encouragement and inviting attitude that keeps me excited about learning. We read countless books in English, both of our choice and the teacher’s; we watch captivating videos on anything you can imagine to be science related; we produce unique social studies projects like puppet shows or board games based on historical events; we solve impossible problems in math (at least they seemed impossible before we solved them); we act out soap operas written by ourselves in Spanish; we sculpt, draw, and paint in art class; we transform ourselves into actors in drama; we run, jump, hurdle, hoola-hoop, dribble, shoot, and even play croquet in PE, and we participate in original electives of our choice every trimester. These are just the basics of an outstanding education program full of new challenges, excitement, and fun. I prefer to think of Windrush not as just a school, but as one huge family that grows, learns, and loves every single day. Words on paper cannot adequately convey the mood at Windrush. It’s best when experienced first-hand.

Middle School Curriculum Summary

Sample Student Schedule

Sample Schedule M, W, F
8:00—Arrive at school, meet friends, prepare for class
8:10-8:55—Mathematics
9:00-9:45—Science
9:45-10:00—Break
10:05-10:50—Social Studies
10:55-11:40—Spanish
11:45-12:30—Elective
12:30-1:10—Lunch
1:15-2:00—English
2:05-2:55—PE

Sample Schedule T, Th
8:00—Arrive at school, meet friends, prepare for class
8:10-8:50—PE
8:55-9:35—Spanish
9:40-10:05—Advisory
10:05-10:20—Break
10:25-11:05—Social Studies*
11:10-11:50—Social Studies* cont.
11:55-12:35—Elective
12:35-1:15—Lunch
1:20-2:00—English*
2:05-2:55—English* cont.

• Advisory is built into the schedule two days each week.
• Double academic periods are scheduled on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
• All students take art and drama at least once a week.
• Service Learning is built in to the schedule once a month.
• Middle School assemblies occur on Fridays.
• Middle Schoolers buddy with Elementary students once a month.
• Many students participate in the Afterschool Sports League program competing against other schools.
• Student Council and Spirit Committee groups meet once a week.
• Science and math are blocked on different days.

* Double periods

 

Mathematics

The Windrush mathematics curriculum is guided by the California Mathematics Framework and the National Standards for Mathematics. Our students become capable problem-solvers who are able to communicate their mathematical thinking and recognize mathematics as valuable, relevant, and interesting. Windrush teachers develop the math curriculum and present it to students using a variety of resources including, but not limited to, the chosen text. Number, measurement, problem solving, geometry, patterns and functions, statistics and probability, logic, and algebra are emphasized topics. Through thematic units, activities and investigations, lecture and discussion, students learn mathematical concepts from the basics of mathematical computation to algebra. Guided discovery, cooperative problem-solving, group work and independent problem-solving reinforce learning. Understanding is reinforced through the use of hands-on experiences, manipulatives, writing, daily homework, classroom exercises, note taking, and review. Students have access to calculators and computers and the use of technology is incorporated throughout the year.

MATH 6
This course is designed to strengthen and review number sense and operations with decimals, fractions, and percents. Problem-solving is emphasized throughout the year and many other topics are included such as number theory, logic, geometry, and graphing. The students work with integers, variables, and formulas as an introduction to Algebra. Sixth grade math prepares students to move toward more complex and abstract problem-solving.

MATH 7
The standard Pre-Algebra course includes topics such as algebra, measurement, geometry, formulas, percentages, integers, and number theory. Review of basic operations with decimals and fractions is incorporated throughout the year and problem-solving is emphasized. This course prepares the student for the 8th grade Algebra 1.

In the Advanced Pre-Algebra course, students cover more difficult algebra concepts along with a more complex study of topics such as probability, geometry, and problem-solving. Basic operations are reviewed briefly and practiced throughout the year. This course is designed for students who demonstrate a strong mastery of basic number, percentage, geometry, and problem-solving skills and who are ready for an accelerated pace. Students will be prepared to go on to Algebra 1 or Algebra 1 Advanced at the completion of this course.

MATH 8
The Algebra I course covers all topics included in a standard Algebra I course including: solving linear equations and inequalities, solving systems of equations, solving rational equations, creating algebraic solutions to problems, graphing, solving quadratic equations, and factoring polynomials. This course also emphasizes problem-solving and continued practice of basic skills as they apply to the algebraic topics covered. This course prepares the student for high school Algebra I or Geometry in 9th grade, determined by performance in this course and the outcome of high school math placement tests. The Algebra I Advanced course includes all the Algebra I topics listed above in addition to some trigonometry. This course is routine for eighth grade math students who learn new mathematical concepts quickly and are prepared for an accelerated curriculum. To enroll in Advanced Algebra at Windrush, students must demonstrate strong mastery of basic algebra concepts and other basic skills and be prepared for an accelerated curriculum. A successful year in this course prepares the student for geometry, or honors geometry in the 9th grade.

Science

The Windrush science curriculum is aligned with the most recent national science standards and offers an integrated approach to science education, uniting the study of life, earth, and physical sciences. Windrush students see science as inquiry; they experience science in a form that engages them in active construction of ideas. They see the connection between science and technology, science and history, science and society, and are actively involved in asking questions, collecting and interpreting data, and making and testing hypotheses.

SCIENCE 6
The sixth grade science curriculum focuses on the processes of science, especially observing, classifying, measuring, predicting, inferring, formulating hypotheses, experimenting, and communicating results. Creative thinking and a positive attitude toward science are promoted through hands-on experiences and discussions. Many concepts involving states of matter, physical and chemical changes, atomic structure, laws of motion and energy, microorganisms, technology, and patterns of living things are introduced during the year. The textbook Science Plus accompanies and supports the experiential learning in class. In addition, Interact Simulations and GEMS guides are incorporated into class activities. The sixth graders also participate in the Windrush Science Fair each spring, developing projects they derive from scientific problems they generate.

SCIENCE 7
Seventh grade students continue practicing the scientific skills they learned during the sixth grade, which focused on the work of the scientist. Students move back and forth among group projects, hands-on activities, and minds-on class discussions. In the seventh grade curriculum, students begin to design and conduct their own experiments to answer original scientific questions. Also, they are asked to draw upon their own experiences and knowledge to offer explanations for the results of their investigations. Seventh grade students study the following units: using the scientific method, chemistry, earthquakes and volcanoes, and flight. Seventh graders also study nutrition, body image, and substance abuse prevention.

SCIENCE 8
Like its predecessors, eighth grade science is exciting and challenging for students, incorporating group work, self-directed projects, and class discussion. By the start of the eighth grade, the students have a strong foundation in how to conduct scientific investigations and explain the world around them. In the eighth grade they begin to approach more complex and abstract phenomena. The units covered in the eighth grade are: astronomy, sound, light, genetics, cell structure, thermodynamics, and global warming. Eighth graders also study human sexuality and reproduction.

 

English

The English program is designed to foster a love of reading, writing, and language. All courses are literature-based and often integrated with the Social Studies curriculum. Students are required to read not only the core books discussed in class but also their own outside reading books. Writing is taught as a process. Students learn pre-writing strategies, produce rough drafts and then select certain pieces to carry through to the final draft stage. Each final piece goes through these steps: brainstorming, discussing, mapping, drafting, revising, editing, and publishing. Students are trained to give feedback in peer-response groups. This training teaches them to edit their own work and the work of others, which in turn helps them to become better writers.

Instruction includes practice in autobiographical, descriptive, analytical, persuasive, comparison/contrast, journal, and creative writing. Grammar is taught both through the context of writing and through weekly exercises. The emphasis of the spelling program is practical: each student, depending upon his or her grade level, is expected to master a subset of the most commonly written words in the English language. This is often achieved through a systematic study of Latin and Greek roots. Vocabulary is taught in conjunction with the literature.

ENGLISH 6
The emphasis in sixth grade English is on reading and analyzing a variety of literary forms and on developing effective writing skills. The universal themes of coming of age, man’s relationship to nature, and community inform our choice in novels. We compare the genres of realistic fiction to science fiction, establishing the importance of setting and conflict. For example, our reading of Roll of Thunder Hear My Cry is accompanied by a unit study on heroes of the Civil Rights movement. Included in the English program is work in the areas of reading comprehension, critical thinking, oral presentations, mapping strategies, grammar, spelling, and vocabulary. Writing assignments are frequent and varied. Students learn the full process of producing an effective five-paragraph essay: developing a strong thesis statement, creating clear supportive evidence, and finishing with a cohesive conclusion.

Readings: The Giver, Roll of Thunder Hear My Cry, A Day No Pigs Would Die, and short story and poetry units.

ENGLISH 7 & 8
The seventh and eighth grade English courses emphasize reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Through a variety of activities, students will work alone, in pairs, in small groups, or as a whole class to develop their skills in the following areas:

Reading: Reading is taught as a process. Students learn to use these reading strategies—question, connect, clarify, summarize, predict, and evaluate—in order to handle texts of all genres and to improve their reading comprehension. Students will think critically and analyze text daily in class discussions.

Writing: Writing is also taught as a process. Students use these writing strategies to communicate clearly: prewriting, drafting, responding, revising, editing, and publishing. In addition to learning to write for a variety of audiences and purposes, students learn mapping strategies, spelling strategies, Greek and Latin roots, and fundamentals of grammar, mechanics, and usage.

ENGLISH 7
Seventh grade English begins with a detailed study of the reading process, as well as an introduction to various literary genres: realistic fiction, historical fiction, fantasy, poetry, biography, science fiction, mystery/thriller, and informational texts. Students learn to select books to read and to improve their own reading process.

Students also work on all aspects of the writing process: prewriting, drafting, feedback, revision, editing, and publication. Gradually, students move from writing narrative prose to expository prose, and they analyze literary themes with increasing complexity throughout the year.

Seventh grade literature themes are choice-making, perspective, and the influences of culture and conflict. Thoughtful and informed written and oral responses to the literature will be required daily. Throughout the year we will return to these central questions: How do the choices we make help to shape our lives and the world around us? How do our experiences mold us into the people we will become? How can different perspectives influence the way in which people view certain situations? How do conflict and culture shape who we become? The year culminates with an intensive study of Shakespeare and his use of literary devices.

Readings are selected from the following: Gathering Blue, House on Mango Street, The Story of My Life, and Romeo and Juliet.

ENGLISH 8
Eighth grade English focuses on advanced use of the skills acquired in seventh grade. Students read increasingly complex literature, and they annotate and analyze text thoroughly. Students perfect the art of writing five-paragraph analytical essays, as well as persuasive writing, thematic study essays, and compare-and-contrast essays that explore intertextual relationships. Students refine their use of reading strategies to adapt to challenges within a given text and to make reasonable inferences about subtext. Students also work to build vocabulary and to master the finer points of grammar and mechanics. A wide variety of poems, essays, short stories, and films are utilized, as well as the following core texts: The Chosen, My Antonia, To Kill a Mockingbird, Huckleberry Finn, and Night.

 

Social Studies

Units of study for the middle school social studies curriculum follow a general progression set forth by the California State framework and are adapted to meet Windrush’s teaching philosophy and standards. Four to six topics are selected each year for in-depth study so that learning becomes meaningful and retention and understanding, long-term. Rather than relying on textbooks, teachers use many different and engaging resources to present various points of view and to challenge students to reflect more deeply on multiple perspectives. Current events are integrated into the curriculum so that students comprehend the connections between past and present. Current events that directly impact students’ lives are examined as well. Role-plays, simulations, discussions, debates, speeches, and guest speakers engage Middle School students. Important skills such as critical thinking, reading comprehension, research, outlining, and writing are stressed as part of the integration of the social studies and English curricula.

SOCIAL STUDIES 6: ANCIENT CIVILIZATIONS/WORLD GEOGRAPHY
The focus in the beginning of the year is the examination of various current traditional world cultures using strategies intended not only to encourage thorough study, but also to reveal common threads among cultures.

In the fall, the students also refine their geography skills by using maps, atlases, and demographic data.
The students next study archaeology before examining the ancient civilizations of Mesopotamia, Egypt, Mesoamerica, Greece, and Rome. Extensive instruction in research writing helps to develop students’ abilities to manage the timing and organization of major projects. In addition to gaining historical knowledge and geography skills, students learn to express themselves artistically and creatively through a variety of independent and group projects. Other themes, such as the development of writing and building or agricultural technologies, are also examined closely. Current events are presented and discussed each week.
Units of study: Traditional World Cultures, World Geography, Mayan Civilization, Mesopotamia, Egypt, Greece and Rome.

SOCIAL STUDIES 7: WORLD HISTORY
In seventh grade students examine the common cultural threads that wove together the cultures of the middle ages between ancient civilizations and the modern world. Topics in medieval and early modern world history between 500 AD and the 1800s include the following: World Religions, Geography and Trade, Imperial China, Rise of Islam, Africa, Medieval Europe, and the Renaissance in Europe. World geography is integrated throughout these studies. The role of religion as a major force in history is revealed in the study of Islam, Buddhism, Judaism, Hinduism, and Christianity. The roots of the modern world are discovered in the diversity of ideas and ways of life across time and place. Students examine the accomplishments and the problems of people in these varied places and time periods, and gain an appreciation for the contributions of different cultures.

As students examine the culture and politics of dynastic China and then North Africa, they draw conclusions about the values and ideals relative to the time period. Through contrast and comparison, the students learn about how different societies function and develop, which facilitates an appreciation for the diverse cultures of yesterday and today. A study of the rise of Islam, trade routes, the medieval times, and the Renaissance allows the students to understand how the stability and wealth of a society influence the development of education, religion, and politics. Students follow the transition from one period to another, building an appreciation for how cultures evolve.

SOCIAL STUDIES 8: U.S. HISTORY (CONSTITUTION TO EARLY 1900s)
Through this course students learn about the U.S. government and the power the citizens can have to shape the government. The main topics studied are: U.S. Constitution and the structure of government, manifest destiny, U.S. geography, our multicultural heritage, abolitionist movement, and the women’s rights movement of the 1800s.
These topics are covered through thematic units:
Politics and Law
Territorial Expansion and War
Economic Development
Immigration
Social Transformation
Important dates, names, places, and U.S. geography are integrated throughout the year.

From writing letters to the editor and researching their family histories, to becoming involved in current activist movements, students gain an awareness of their role in society and their potential for contribution. Current events, constitutional amendments, and governmental branches are topics for ongoing study. Where pertinent, people and events that link the main topics, such as the Civil War, are studied throughout the year.

Spanish

Spanish is part of the core curriculum at Windrush School. The curriculum for sixth through eighth grade is cumulative. At each level there is always review of previously introduced vocabulary and concepts, while advanced usage is also introduced. Windrush accommodates new students; often, a mixture of levels within classes occurs. The goals of the program are to develop effective communication in Spanish through appropriate listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Students benefit from each other’s different skill levels by learning from one another and by having the opportunity to teach one another. Most students continue taking the language at a range of levels from 1st to 3rd year high school Spanish.

SPANISH 6
Sixth grade Spanish is an introductory language class. Basic grammar, (verb conjugation, personal pronouns, adjectives), letter sounds, and stress/accent rules are taught. Through the use of creative activities and student-created dialogues, students learn about Mayan, Aztec, and Incan cultures as they become comfortable and confident in their acquisition of a second language.

SPANISH 7
This course continues to introduce verb conjugation and adds more difficult concepts, such as direct and indirect object pronouns. In seventh grade, students speak often in Spanish and are required to do more reading and writing in the language. Because of the varying backgrounds, some students learn some verbs in the preterite tense, while others concentrate on the present and present progressive tenses. Students write and perform dialogues and plays, and research and write reports on Spanish-speaking countries and holidays.

SPANISH 8
This course begins with a review of basic grammar and vocabulary. Students are exposed to the present and preterite tenses, stem-changing verbs, reflexive verbs, present perfect, direct/ indirect object pronouns, and commands. Emphasis is placed on oral activities, supported by advanced readings and exercises. Students write and perform dialogues and plays. Students report on current events in the Spanish-speaking world.

ADVANCED SPANISH 8
For students who have mastered basic grammar and vocabulary, this course tackles the irregular verbs in the present, preterite, imperfect, command tenses, reflexive verbs, present perfect, and direct/indirect object pronouns. Students are involved in advanced reading, writing and conversational activities. Students write and perform dialogues and plays. They research various Latin American personalities and report on current events in the Spanish-speaking world.

 

Physical Education

The Windrush physical education program inspires young people to be physically active and healthy individuals. The curriculum focuses on three areas of development. The first area includes specific physical skills and the understanding of these skills. The second area is self-image and personal development, which is imperative for healthy self-esteem. The last area is social development, which encourages students to learn how to work in groups. Activities include:

 

INTERSCHOLASTIC SPORTS LEAGUE
Windrush participates in four after school sports throughout the year. Practice and games occur two days per week and vary depending on each sport. The following sports are offered:

Fall—Coed Flag Football and Soccer
Winter—Boys' and Girls' Basketball
Spring —Coed Volleyball

The philosophy of our program is to increase athletic skill, develop sportsmanship and provide a positive athletic experience for students. We encourage students to perform their best without concerning themselves solely with winning or losing.

 

Theatre Arts

This course serves as a general introduction to the world of theatre and drama. Students begin the year participating in a variety of theatre games and exercises designed to stimulate the imaginative use of their bodies and voices. As their confidence grows, students explore improvisation, scene work, storytelling and public speaking. Attending plays and reviewing movies helps to develop students’ critical-thinking skills. Emphasis is often placed on integrating subjects encountered in the students’ lives and other class work into the drama program. The 6th graders attend theatre class once a week; the 7th and 8th graders, twice a week on a rotating basis with their visual arts classes. Performance assignments seek to engage the students with both new and familiar material. Examples include the creation of puppet shows, performance of original and adapted short plays, and digital video production.

 

Visual Arts

Middle School art is an exploratory course in the visual arts with a breadth of exposure to various media and artistic skills including drawing, painting, printmaking, design, sculpture, and mixed media. Class projects include exposure to visual arts from a variety of historical and cultural contexts, and are often infused with the themes and subjects of the core curriculum classes. The emphasis at each grade level is to further develop the students’ level of artistic perception, design, focus, and self-confidence. Students are evaluated on their willingness to challenge themselves, maintain a focus on projects, practice the skills or techniques emphasized in lessons, and help preserve the art room as an artistic sanctuary for all students. Over the school year, students put together a portfolio of their work and participate in class critiques. These critiques focus on the positive elements of the students’ work and foster an appreciation of the student artist. The goal of the art program is to allow students to explore the visual arts while developing a positive relationship with their own skills and artistic strengths.

 

Electives

Each term, students choose an elective class that mets four times a week. These are sample descriptions of the electives for one trimester. The selections change each trimester depending on student and faculty interests.

DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY: Students taking this elective explore the basics of digital photography. The course begins with an introduction to the evolution of camera technology, continues with an examination of the elements of effective photographs, and concludes with an exploration of digital software (e.g., Photoshop and Quark Express). Students completing this elective produce a portfolio of work that demonstrates their ability to take and process digital photographs.

HISTORY OF DANCE: Students journey through the world of dance, exploring how different dances evolved over time. In this historical study of dance, students discover how The Charleston influenced Hip-Hop; learn how Capoeira is used in Broadway choreography, and why “swing dance” evolved during wartime. Students become familiar with the influential dance artists who contributed to shaping the trends in dance today. Videos, movies, and class presentations bring to life the history of dance in engaging ways.

PRINTMAKING: This class offers exposure to several different approaches to printmaking, including collographs, monoprinting, linoleum block printing, woodblock printing, and stencil cut silkscreen. Students explore the history, techniques, and artistic possibilities associated with this exciting and diverse art form.

MARTIAL ARTS: American Karate is a combination of Korean Tae Kwon Do, Japanese Karate, and applicable parts of other martial arts disciplines. This class is geared toward practicing in a group setting, through emphasized areas of respect, leadership, courtesy, self-control, and integrity.

THE SCIENCE OF FOOD, COOKING, AND NUTRITION: Why are chili peppers hot? What happens to fruit as it gets ripe? Does vitamin C really prevent colds? How do grapes become wine? Why is sourdough bread sour? Where did the phrase “he’s not worth his salt” come from? What is cholesterol and why is it dangerous? Why are beans “the musical fruit?” How did different cultures’ cuisines develop over time? Students learn the answers to these and many more questions in this exploration of the history of food and the science behind nutrition.

STUDY SKILLS: This class is designed to help students with organization, study skills, and homework questions. Students are given direct instruction on study skill strategies as well as time to complete work in a quiet, supportive environment. Students get help keeping up with assignments and budgeting their time on long-term projects.

GREEK AND ROMAN MYTHOLOGY: Love, death, destruction, mayhem, torture, carnal appetites, sibling rivalries, heroism, war, science, and nature. These stories make The Osbournes look like Sesame Street, and they're all more than 2000 years old! Come read and discuss the classic stories of Greek and Roman mythology. Act out the lives of gods and goddesses. Write your own myths and legends to describe the world around you. Learn how these stories still influence our literature, arts, and science, from the names of the planets to the plots of blockbuster movies.

SHAKESPEARE: In this elective students learn about Shakespeare’s language and the Elizabethan world through acting exercises, dramatic reading, and text work. Class time is spent auditioning, staging, and rehearsing for the final project, a performance of a Shakespearean play. There is also time to design props, costumes, and sets.

WEB DESIGN: Enter the exciting world of computer programming! Learn how to create your own Web site from a teacher with years of experience as a professional Web designer! We start with simple HTML, which lets you put pictures, drawings, music, and stories onto your Web site in a wide range of styles. From there, we learn about JavaScript, which makes Web pages come to life with simple games, interactive surveys, animations, and more. Finally, we explore the powerful tools of Flash, Java, and other cutting-edge Web programming languages, which unlock limitless possibilities.