Curriculum

Although seventh and eighth graders are encouraged, when deemed appropriate, to take courses that earn high school credit, the following courses have been designed for their own needs. These courses do not earn high school credit, but are intended to prepare the student for high school work in the disciplines.

English

English 7

As with all middle school classes, English 7 aims to enhance students' abilities to deal with increasingly complex material, and to develop their skills so that they can have as much success as possible. To do this, we read works from a variety of genres including mythology, short stories, poetry, plays, and novels. Through class discussion and writing assignments, students move beyond simple book reporting, and learn to see the layers that exist within literature. In addition, student skills are developed through short and long writing assignments: creative, expository, and analytical. With these assignments, students are pushed to see writing as a process rather than an event by having all major assignments broken into smaller parts with periodic due dates. All of these goals are supported by consistent work in vocabulary and grammar.

English 8

In this course, students read three classic novels that deal with characters “coming of age,” a relevant topic as they prepare for high school. Students also read a play, poetry, and basic mythology. They learn literary techniques-building on what they learned last year-to use in discussion and analysis of readings. Grammar and vocabulary are emphasized, and a majority of time in and out of class is devoted to writing. Students will develop and increase writing and communication skills, close reading, critical thinking, and problem solving.

Foreign Language

Spanish and French IA and IB follow the same curriculum as Spanish and French I, but move at a pace more appropriate for middle-school learners and allow more time for cultural projects. Allowing two years for this material in middle school will ensure stronger foundations in the language. After IB, students would move directly into level II.

Mathematics

Pre-Algebra

This course studies the mathematical concepts that are essential prerequisites for Algebra I. Arithmetic operations using the rational number system are examined, with an emphasis placed on signed numbers. Students review and extend their knowledge of ratios, proportions, percents, exponents, basic geometry, probability, mental math, and the metric system. They learn to solve multi-step equations and inequalities, graph linear equations, and use scientific notation. Independent work as well as group work is used as a teaching tool to foster student learning and throughout the course an emphasis is placed on critical thinking skills using word problems and problem solving situations. To prepare for the demands of a high school mathematics course, study strategies, organization, and note taking techniques are underlying skills that Pre-Algebra students develop and practice throughout the year. Many 8th grade students will take Algebra I for high school credit.

Science

Earth and Life Science

The seventh grade science class is designed to give the young science students a chance to explore various topics in science. The course will be divided into three different sections. Section 1 will be a study of Earth Science. During this trimester, students will study the physical makeup of the Earth as well as weather, natural disasters and astronomy. Section 2 will be a study of some aspects of physical science. Topics studied in this section include forces, magnetism and electricity. Section 3 will be a study of basic classification of living things. Included in this trimester will be a study of all of the kingdoms of living organisms. In addition to the topics listed, there will be an emphasis on organization and study skills. This course is required for 7th grade students.

Physical Science

This is a hands-on, inquiry-based course. The central theme will be an empirical study of matter leading to the development of the atomic model. Through performing experiments, gathering data, drawing conclusions, and making presentations, students will gain an understanding of how science works and how to think like a scientist. Emphasis will be on learning through experimentation. Students will develop laboratory skills and, more importantly, realistic problem solving skills. The quantitative nature of science will be introduced at an age appropriate level. This course is required for 8th grade students.

Social Studies

Current Events and Global Perspectives

Current events around the globe may spark class discussions, but the historical and geographical context behind those events is the real focus of this yearlong course. Students learn about a wide range of topics and gather information on countries, cities, and people around the globe. Hopping from continent to continent and conflict to conflict, students begin in the ‘now’ and work backwards to the ‘why.’ In addition to learning about the physical world around them, students can see how people in other times and places have faced questions of truth and justice, and what they have judged to be worth fighting and often dying for. Throughout the year, students will develop and increase skills like communication, writing, research, teamwork, and critical thinking. This course is required for 7th grade students.

Civics

This course will attempt to enhance students' understanding of the way the government, the economy, and different aspects of society (i.e., the media) shape the world around us. To do this, we will study several periods of American history to make the abstract "Civics" information more real and tangible. In addition, students will work on their writing abilities through many short papers and several longer projects. This course is required for 8th students.

The Arts

Introduction to the Arts

The Middle School arts program is a three-trimester sequence typically taken during the winter and spring terms of 7th grade and the fall of 8th grade. Students who enter Solebury as 8th graders will take all three IARTS classes during their 8th grade year. The goal of the sequence is to show students the various types of arts classes that are available to them throughout their years at Solebury with the hope that each finds one or several areas that they wish to continue on in. Introduction to the Arts: Studio Arts is a great way for young students new to Solebury to spend time working in the art studio. Projects will expose students to 2 and 3-dimensional design, color theory, and art appreciation, incorporating skills learned in drawing and painting along with other materials with room for the students to express their creativity. Students’ work will be displayed for the community in an art show. Introduction to the Arts: Theater is an introductory theater class designed to develop students’ abilities to take on a role, enhance their confidence in front of an audience, and work collaboratively to stage a performance. The course culminates with students enrolled in the theater class staging a selection of one-act plays written by the 8th graders in their English class. The 8th graders also have the opportunity to assist in directing the pieces. This process gives our 8th graders the rare opportunity to view something they created come to life. Introduction to the Arts: Music is an introduction to music history and appreciation. Students will be exposed to musical genres from a variety of time periods so that they can better see and appreciate the things which all music has in common as well as the way it has developed over time. This course will teach students how to read music which is fundamental to this appreciation. As with all art, part of the process is sharing the product of one’s work, so this course will culminate with a musical performance by the students.

If a Middle School student already has had significant experience and education in music or visual arts, they may ask to demonstrate this knowledge to the head of the art department to gain an exemption from that segment of the sequence.

Health

This course is designed to help Middle School students develop and maintain physical, mental, social, and emotional health. This will be achieved by covering a broad range of topics including role models, decision making, life dilemmas, peer pressure, preparation for change, alcohol, drugs, tobacco, and teen sexuality. This course counts toward the high school health graduation requirement by covering the same material but in an age appropriate way.
This course is required for 8th grade students in the spring.

Quotes from Students, Alumni, and Parents

"After we visited Solebury we knew we had found the place for us. In the middle school our daughter received the individual attention we wished for her in a small, safe, environment. The philosophy of the school encourages the students' full expression within an environment of shared respect and educational inquiry."

Lilla Smerkanich, parent of Lauren ‘04 and Nick ‘08

"Middle School at Solebury was a wonderful balance of nurturing and encouragement. It gave our daughter the feeling of security she needed, while encouraging her to participate in upper school sports and activities. The self-esteem our daughter built in middle school has helped her to become a thriving, self-confident scholar/athlete in Solebury's high school."

Paula and Gary Rowe, Parent of Nicki ‘05

"My middle school experience was a lot of fun. In the smaller classes, we had more one on one time for questions and I feel I learned more. Not only did I form friendships with the students, but I feel I have friendships with almost everyone on the staff. I really like the friendly atmosphere of Solebury."

Elena ‘05