Curriculum

MIDDLE SCHOOL
At Seven Peaks, teachers coordinate instruction across subject areas and grades to reinforce learning. Instruction includes project-based learning, direct instruction and field studies to motivate and inspire.

LANGUAGE ARTS
Language Arts teaches reading comprehension, writing skills, and analytical thinking. These goals are accomplished through teaching methods that link content and skills in Language Arts and Social Studies. Middle school students research topics, write essays, revise, present and participate in peer-editing. They also learn Greek and Roman root words, as well as English spelling and grammar. Throughout these years students read several works of classic literature.

SOCIAL STUDIES
The middle school classes learn both U.S. and World History, making connections between time periods and areas of the world. By reviewing questions of historical relevance and geographical significance, students learn the relationship between our history and the current world we live in. Most units in Social Studies are project-based with an emphasis on research and creativity to make the studies come alive. Activities incorporate current technology which increases proficiency in a variety of applications.

MATHEMATICS
Sixth grade mathematics covers number sense, geometry, statistics, and algebraic concepts. Many units include investigations and problem-solving exercises placed in real-world contexts. For example, a unit on gear ratios includes studying bicycles and a field trip to a local bike shop with a bicycle simulator. The use of applications such as Geometer's Sketchpad, Excel and Accelerated Math provides tools to explore concepts further.

Seventh and eighth grade students learn pre-algebra and algebra and are prepared to take Geometry or Algebra 1 as freshman in high school. When appropriate, a student may complete Geometry at Seven Peaks. The use of computers and graphing calculators enables students to visualize and manipulate concepts. The math curriculum is rigorous and students are well prepared for high school math courses.

SCIENCE
Middle school science focuses on understanding and doing science - a process of asking questions about the natural world and forming rational explanations. Students use a new, fully equipped science lab to explore each discipline in a hands-on way using science labs. A range of disciplines are covered including anatomy, biology, chemistry, ecology, physics and more. Field experiences at the John Day Fossil Beds and the Sun River Nature Center enhance the learning experiences as well. Through our science program, Seven Peaks students come to see how our world systems are all interrelated.

SPANISH
All middle school students take Spanish language courses. A variety of learning methods are used such as group rotations, presentations, and cultural celebrations. The Juntos curriculum is used, as well as Rosetta Stone software to reinforce speaking and listening skills. Most students are prepared for second year Spanish upon entering high school.

MUSIC AND BAND
Students study music or band throughout middle school and are offered a variety of opportunities. They study music of other countries, learn dance, compose music, create homemade instruments, study traditional instruments, learn to play xylophones, hand chimes and drums. Our music program is energetic and diverse and their hard work and practice culminates in wonderful concert performances throughout the year.

ART
All major media (e.g. ceramics, print-making, sculpture, drawing and paint) are explored in a hands-on environment. As a special project, students create ceramic soup bowls and donate them to a community wide fundraiser, Empty Bowls, to raise money for the needy. In addition, a year end Art Gala is held to celebrate every student's work.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Students take P.E. throughout middle school, which includes formal instruction on rules, score keeping and the history of sports, as well as the physical skills needed to participate. Students also receive lessons on health and well-being. We are fortunate to have a full-size wood gymnasium and 24 acres of playing fields adjacent to our school available for our use.

TECHNOLOGICAL INTEGRATION
Middle school students regularly use laptop computers to research, analyze data, publish work and master typing. Students work with Geometer's Sketchpad, Power Point, Word, Excel and a variety of science and web design applications. Families monitor student progress through our online accountability program.

For more information about Core Knowledge, please visit www.coreknowledge.org