FOR T WOR TH COUNTR Y DAY
2023-24 MIDDLE SCHOOL CURRICULUM fwcd.org/admission
Grade 5
Grade 6
Grade 7
Grade 8
HUMANITIES BLOCK Literature-based program that integrates reading, writing, vocabulary development within the entire Humanities curriculum. Students learn critical reading skills through annotation and discussion and writing skills through literacy models with an emphasis on proper grammar, mechanics, spelling and paragraph development related to themes in social studies and literature. Students begin using Membean, an online cumulative/differentiated vocabulary program. Units focus on archeology, Mesopotamia, Ancient Egypt, Ancient China, and two novels.
ENGLISH Students develop analytical and critical thinking through the study of literary and plot elements in poems, short stories, novels that reflect diverse cultures and correlate with grade 6 geography. Class emphasizes application of introduced grammatical skills through different types of writing. Students write multi-paragraph compositions that include an introduction and conclusion. Vocabulary study continues through Membean.
ENGLISH Students closely read fiction and nonfiction, annotate for literary and rhetorical devices that affect meaning, think deeply, and synthesize opinions with evidence in their writing while using varied syntax in analytical, argumentative, and creative writing. Emphasis on grammar review and proofreading. Students bolster vocabulary and development through novel study and Membean.
ENGLISH Students read and discuss fiction and nonfiction texts, including novels, poetry, short stories, and a play. Key works include To Kill A Mockingbird, The House on Mango Street, and a Shakespearean play. Course emphasizes strong analytical writing skills supported by a solid grammatical foundation, and students’ speaking and discussion skills grow through class projects. Vocabulary development continues through Membean.
WORLD GEOGRAPHY With a connection to the present, students are encouraged to better understand our complex world and how, by linking humans and their environment together, we can potentially find solutions to significant problems.
UNITED STATES HISTORY Encompassing the Pre-Columbian period through 1865, the course covers the political, social and economic issues associated with migration and settlement, establishing American identity and independence, building a new nation, westward expansion, slavery, sectionalism and the Civil War.
WORLD HISTORY Mediterranean cultures of Greece and Rome, culminating with medieval political, social and economic institutions of the pre-modern world around 1400 C.E. In-depth examinations of western and non-western civilizations allow students to comparatively explore various societies and develop a greater understanding of diverse cultures and value systems.
MATHEMATICS Interactive program, continued mastery of decimals, fractions, percent, geometry, measurement, statistics, probability, ratios in problem solving, some pre-Algebra.
MATHEMATICS Pre-algebra, variables, expressions, equations, application of problem-solving strategies through linear equations, probabilities, rates and ratios, exposure to geometry and statistics.
ALGEBRA I Linear and quadratic equations, algebraic fractions, radical equations and inequalities, exponentiation, problem solving and critical thinking skills through equations and expressions, integrated technology skills.
MATHEMATICS Mastery of whole number operations, interactive program of problem solving with fractions, decimals, statistics and geometry.
MATH 6 HYBRID
SCIENCE Science and engineering practices: asking questions/defining problems; developing and using models; planning/carrying out investigations; analyzing/interpreting data; using mathematics and computational thinking; constructing explanations/designing solutions; engaging in argument from evidence; obtaining, evaluating and communicating information. SCIENCE Environmental studies, physical science, health, plants. Wildflower collection.
EARTH SCIENCE Weather, geology, astronomy, energy, fossils, climate.
FRENCH OR SPANISH Continued development of conversational skills, more formalized presentation of grammatical structures and expansion of vocabulary and grammar through a program of listening, reading, speaking and writing. Written focus begins to expand beyond the production of short paragraphs into longer ones. 6th GRADE LATIN This entry level course will explore the connections between English and Latin grammar, the Latin language and vocabulary, Latin roots in English, and Roman History and classical mythology. Not a prerequisite for Latin 7.
LIFE SCIENCE Lab safety, cells, DNA; invertebrate/vertebrate compare/contrast with dissections; genetics; human reproduction system; botany, ecology; Texas plant/animal research with HTML coding.
PHYSICAL SCIENCE Chemistry and algebra-based Newtonian physics; projects centered on technology, engineering design cycle and Big Bend trip.
FRENCH I OR SPANISH I Further development of conversational skills, more formalized presentation of grammatical structures and expansion of vocabulary and grammar through a program of listening, reading, speaking and writing. Written focus begins to expand into the production of longer paragraphs as students progress from grade 7 to 8 or throughout the Level 1 course. LATIN I Acquisition and internalization of Latin vocabulary, with a particular emphasis on the conjugation of verbs and declension of nouns. Reading of simple paragraphs and stories, including passages inspired by classical Latin authors with extra vocabulary help. Study of Roman history and culture.
TECHNOLOGY The campus is connected by both wired and wireless networks. Desktops are located in the Moncrief Library, Lower School, Middle School, Visual Arts Department and also in the Journalism/Yearbook classroom. Every classroom features state-of-the-art audio visual equipment and interactive technology. Computer skills are integrated into instruction at every level. A 1:1 iPad program in the Middle School promotes the development of personal technology skills and enhances the instructional experience for every student. The TEAM Room, a fully equipped STEM makerspace, provides opportunities for teachers to implement engaging hands-on, project-based learning activities. The space is suited for all grades, JK-12. LIBRARY Library classes help students find, evaluate and select appropriate sources to answer questions as well as learn to find books for pleasure and personal growth. Students are exposed to a variety of technology tools for accessing information and pursuing inquiry. The wide variety of literature and nonfiction located in both libraries support FWCD’s philosophy that the library resources are created for a variety of purposes that are meaningful throughout one’s life. VISUAL ARTS Application of design concepts and art principles, development of techniques through drawing, painting, printmaking, clay formation. Art history is interwoven into projects. Art Club is offered. MUSIC – CHOIR – Music using voice as an instrument, basic elements of rhythm, harmony and melody. Show Choir is available for grades 7-8.
VISUAL ARTS Increased knowledge of techniques, two- and three-dimensional work, artistic style and art history. Media and techniques through drawing, painting, printmaking, clay formation and animation. NJAHS
BAND – Traditional wind and percussion band instruments; performances throughout the year. Drum line is available for grades 7-8.
ORCHESTRA – Violin, viola, cello and string bass. Blends traditional and Suzuki teaching methods. Class teaches basic foundation of string playing and includes ensemble performances and music theory education.
THEATRE Students explore and gain understanding of self and human nature through theatrical elements such as monologues, scene work, playwriting, improvisation, production work and class plays. THEATRE SURVEY (GRADES 7 & 8) – Acting, theatre tech and theatre history.
BALLET* Intermediate/Advanced Ballet – Ballet, barre and center floor exercises with emphasis on stability, strength and flexibility. Winter and spring recitals. Ballet is held during sports time and fulfills the athletic/ PE requirement. Jazz introduced in grade 6; pointe introduced to those fulfilling prerequisites.
INTRODUCTION TO ATHLETIC PROGRAMS Developmentally appropriate introduction to athletic programs offered at FWCD. Emphasis is on skill development, sportsmanship, basic team concepts and intramural play. Mini-units focus on flexibility, core strength development, cardiovascular conditioning and physical health. Single day units focus on a variety of developmental activities.
ATHLETIC PROGRAMS GIRLS PROGRAMS – Volleyball, Field Hockey, Cross Country, Basketball, Soccer, Softball, Tennis, Track, Ballet* (see above) BOYS PROGRAMS – Volleyball, Football, Cross Country, Basketball, Soccer, Wrestling, Baseball, Tennis, Track, Lacrosse, Ballet* (see above)