DANCE

In 5th and 6th Grade, students are introduced to ballet, modern, contemporary, jazz, and musical theater dance. Students learn and choreograph dances to develop a greater sense of spatial awareness, coordination, flexibility, confidence, and creativity. During this course, students conduct and present research on individuals who have made significant contributions to the field and participate in various dance performances.

Students take a semester of dance in the seventh grade. This is a project-based curriculum focused on movement composition. Students cultivate tools for their own choreography, participate in a group creative process, and practice structures for giving and receiving constructive criticism.

MUSICAL THEATHER

In the 8th grade drama/music/dance class, the students produce and perform a class musical.  They learn all production values that go into putting on a show, from auditioning to performing, from directing to tech/backstage management. Every student in the grade participates, and we look forward to working with them all.

ENGLISH & LANGUAGE ARTS

In 5th grade, the language arts program focuses on knowledge‑building and integrating literature, informational texts, and fine arts to build content knowledge while also developing reading, writing, speaking, listening, vocabulary, and grammar. Students use authentic, rigorous texts and interact deeply with complex texts. Instruction Includes explicit writing instruction, formative assessments, text‑dependent questions, grammar and vocabulary work. Units culminate with student projects in iLab, such as the interview project where students develop authentic questions, interview faculty and staff about culture, tradition and heritage, write and present the information about the interviewee and create a symbol of the information gathered.

The 6th grade course combines the study of grammar, literature, composition, and vocabulary as students read novels, short stories, plays, poetry, and nonfiction texts. Students review characterization, setting, plot, and theme, and more advanced terms such as conflict, symbolism, personification, and irony are explored. In writing workshops, students craft powerful life stories through personal narratives, compose literary essays, and write evidence-based research reports. Grammar is woven into lessons through daily oral exercises and structured lessons. Attention is given to the review and reinforcement of parts of speech and the function of each in a sentence. Presentations encourage students to apply the skills of oral communication and build their confidence as public speakers.

In 7th grade, students read historical fiction, realistic fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. They learn to make logical inferences and cite specific textual evidence to support conclusions. During the course of the year, students analyze how and why characters, events, and ideas develop and interact. Emphasis is placed on interpreting words and phrases, including determining technical, connotative, and figurative meanings. In writing workshops, students create a realistic narrative, focusing on symbolism and character development. Students then develop argument and research-based essays, using words, phrases, and clauses to clarify the relationship among claims and reasons. The year ends with a unit on literary analysis. In grammar, students learn to consistently apply subject-verb and pronoun-antecedent agreement, as well as correct inappropriate fragment and run-on sentences in their writing. They also learn to recognize and correct inappropriate shifts in verb tenses and correctly use punctuation to separate items in a series, as well as to use a comma to coordinate adjectives.

This 8th grade accelerated and regularly paced English course prepares students for success in the Upper School through a journey into investigative journalism, literary analysis, and research-based argument essays. Emphasis is placed on creating arguments and cultivating unity and precision in written work for an authentic audience. In conjunction with the writing process, students develop new strategies for prewriting, drafting, revising, and editing their work. Reading complements the writing program as students analyze fiction, nonfiction, and poetry for structure and craft. Vocabulary is enriched through the study of roots, prefixes, and suffixes. Grammar is taught for the purpose of improving writing style and includes a unit on usage and common grammatical issues. Sentence parts, clauses, phrases, and verbals are also reviewed, and writing with more sophisticated sentence patterns is stressed.

LIBRARY & RESEARCH SKILLS

The Middle School curriculum incorporates library and research skills through integration with the classroom curriculum. These skills are taught contextually and in conjunction with assignments and projects through the use of print and non-print media including the library’s physical collection, subscription databases, audio-visual materials, and online presentation tools. 

MATHEMATICS

Numbers, skills, and mathematics concepts are linked to contexts that are relevant to everyday life. 5th grade mathematicians participate in open-ended problem solving, hands-on explorations, and ongoing practice. In 5th grade, students develop fluency with addition and subtraction of fractions, integrate decimals and fractions into the place value system, and extend division to two-digit divisors. The pre-algebra and geometry foundation skills are developed, and students are provided with opportunities to apply new skills to cross curriculum topics.

In 6th grade, mathematicians  continue to participate in open-ended problem solving, hands-on explorations, long-term projects, and ongoing practice. This course focuses on procedures, concepts, and applications of the following critical areas: connecting ratio and rate to whole number multiplication and division; division of fractions; rational numbers, including negative numbers; writing, interpreting, and using expressions and equations; and developing the understanding of statistical thinking.
Seventh grade instructional time focuses on problem solving and mathematical concepts including integers; rational numbers; expressions and equations; inequalities; ratios and proportions; percent; constructions and scale drawings; circles and areas; surface and area; and probabilities and statistics. In seventh grade there is also an accelerated seventh grade math course where Instructional time focuses on problem solving and mathematical concepts including integers; rational numbers; expressions and equations; inequalities; ratios and proportions; percent; constructions and scale drawings; circles and areas; surface and area; and probabilities and statistics; transformations; angles and triangles, linear equations; real numbers and pythagorean theorem; volume and similar solids; and exponents and scientific notation.

The Introduction to Algebra course is a course that introduces and expands upon fundamental mathematical skills that are the building blocks needed for success later in Upper School mathematics courses such as algebra, geometry, and calculus and includes three critical areas: (1) formulating and reasoning about expressions and equations, including modeling an association in bivariate data with a linear equation and solving linear equations and systems of linear equations; (2) grasping the concept of a function and using functions to describe quantitative relationships; and (3) analyzing two- and three-dimensional space and figures using distance, angle, similarity, and congruence and understanding and applying the Pythagorean Theorem.

The prerequisite for the Algebra I course is mastery of procedures and concepts covered in 7th grade mathematics. This course progresses at an accelerated rate, with an emphasis on the exploration of new content. Concepts studied in the course include linear equations and inequalities, systems of equations and inequalities, absolute value, operations with exponents, and quadratic equations. 

MUSIC

The music courses focus on choral music and bells. Students learn to read, write and perform various choral pieces. Students are exposed to composers and musicians from around the world. Christmas and Spring performances showcase students ability in choral music and bell choir.

In the 8th grade drama/music/dance class, students produce and perform a class musical. They learn all production values that go into putting on a show, from auditioning to performing, from directing to tech/backstage management. Every student in the grade participates, and we look forward to working with them all.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Physical education courses are designed to encourage students to develop their levels of health, well-being, and fitness. Fifth grade students progress to more advanced team sport skills and strategies. Activities include softball, hockey, volleyball, basketball, badminton, golf, soccer, flag football, track, and recreational games. Perseverance and collaboration are emphasized. Basic health-related fitness concepts are reviewed, such as fitness, nutrition, and first aid techniques. 

RELIGION

The course reviews the central beliefs, practices, and traditions of the Catholic faith. Prayer, scripture, and guided self-reflection are integral components of the program. Themes include the doctrine of the Blessed Trinity, the role of Mary in the Church, and the Church as the Body of Christ.

Love and service to God and the world are presented as essential elements of Christian life. This formation course focuses on the study of the Old Testament, God’s call, and our response. Students become familiar with the stories of our sacred history and investigate the meaning of covenant as a special love relationship with God, approaching it from both a historical and a personal perspective. The course ends with an introduction to the New Testament and a look at the climate into which Jesus was born.  Prayer, reflection, and engaging activities are an integral part of this program.

Love of God, others, and self are presented as essential elements of Christian life.  The seventh grade course focuses on God’s revelation through New Testament and Church Tradition.  Students become familiar with Jesus’ ministry as they journey through the four gospels.  The course concludes with the Early Church as presented in the Acts of the Apostles.   Prayer, personal reflection, and cooperative learning activities are integral parts of this program.  

The eighth grade theology course is a Christ-centered curriculum based on sacred scripture. The goal is to help students become better disciples of Jesus, more open to the Holy Spirit, and stronger in their faith life. Students explore and discover the scripture, traditions, and teachings of the Church through engaging activities, service, and reflection.

SCIENCE

In fifth grade, students explore and experience a variety of areas within the field of science, including life, physical, and Earth sciences. Students learn through the use of reading, research, discussion, participation in group and individual projects, and utilization of the scientific research process in experiments. 

In sixth grade, students study earth science. During the course of the year, students expand their understanding of the earth’s rotation and revolution; patterns of the moon; rocks and rock strata; plate tectonics; ecosystems and natural disasters; weather and climate; the role of water in the earth’s surface; erosion; and issues facing Louisiana’s coastline. Throughout the year, students continue to apply the scientific process through guided laboratory investigations.

Life Science
Seventh grade students study life science including the backbone of all science, the scientific method. Students learn the parts and function of the microscope and then use the microscope to investigate the cell. The study of the cell continues with the structure, function, and processes of cells, including cell transport, photosynthesis, cellular respiration, and cell division.  Students also study placental mammal reproductive systems, DNA, genetics, evolution, and ecology. Throughout the year, students are involved in many different hands-on experiences including making a self-propelling craft to pick up simulated ocean trash in a wading pool, going to Lake Pontchartrain to pick up and study waterborne trash, and designing a functioning a prosthetic hand using string, cardboard, and straws.

Physical Science
In eighth grade, students are eligible to receive an Upper School Carnegie Unit. This course integrates concepts in chemistry, physics, and applied mathematics. During the course of the year, students explore the types of matter, elements, compounds, and mixtures, the periodic table, potential and kinetic energy, energy transfer and phase change, fluids and gas laws, forces, gravity, Newton’s laws, and energy resources.  Students practice experimental design and learn to think analytically using cross-disciplinary applications. Inquiry is encouraged, and hands-on laboratories and collaborative projects are integral parts of the program. 

SOCIAL STUDIES

The 5th grade social studies course develops a global perspective through the study of the early civilizations of Egypt, the Near East, India, China, Greece, and Rome. Students discover the achievements of these ancient cultures and critique how they continue to influence the modern world. Geography is taught within the context of each unit as students learn to annotate nonfiction text and develop evidence-based essays. Simulations, research, and technology are integrated into classroom activities on a regular basis.

The 6th grade course covers the study of human geography movement and impact through a stimulating case-study approach to geography. Lessons include modern human-environment interaction issues such as urban sprawl, shrinking water sources, population density crises, and the effects of monsoons. In the spring, students complete a unit on Louisiana’s history and geography. In conjunction with their social studies program, students also learn financial literacy skills and participate in a "Hearts for Humanity" social entrepreneurship project.

In the 7th grade course, students study the legacy of the Roman Empire, the development of feudalism in Western Europe, the Roman Catholic church in medieval Europe, Islam in medieval times, and Japan’s Golden Age.  Students also study current events, conduct research, and participate in simulations to bring history to life.

In the 8th grade American history course, the chronology begins with the first Americans and the European colonization of the New World. An overview of the American Revolution, the United States Constitution, the Age of Jackson, Manifest Destiny, the Civil War, and Reconstruction are examined through several lenses including geography, economics, and immigration. Students are encouraged to make connections between concepts studied and current events; read primary sources and secondary text; and create evidence-based essays, research writing, and oral presentations. Students attend the Louisiana Legislature Program in Baton Rouge.

TECHNOLOGY

All students in Middle School are issued a school owned Chromebook. Students continue to learn how to safely and responsibly navigate social media and the internet. They develop skills through the Google platform, practice keyboarding, and apply concepts learned to complement a variety of academic domains through the development of PowerPoints, blogs, website, videos, research, and storyboards.

The 8th grade program integrates technology in all classes. Electives in digital production and Innovation Lab provide students with opportunities to develop skills in movie making and television production, 3-D printing, web page design, the development of blogs, and the Google platform tools.

WORLD LANGUAGE

In 5th grade, students choose between either French or Spanish and continue with this language for three years. This year-long course develops the student’s ability to communicate in a language other than English and gain knowledge and understanding of other cultures. Equal emphasis is placed on aural and oral skills, reading, and writing. Students continue to learn through the kinesthetic Accelerated Integrated Methodology (AIM).

In 6th grade, students continue their study of either French or Spanish from the previous year. Building on last year’s progress, students will hone their ability to communicate in a language other than English and gain knowledge and understanding of other cultures. While focusing on aural and oral skills, reading, and writing, new attention will be given to grammatical study of basic concepts.  Students continue to learn through the kinesthetic Accelerated Integrated Methodology (AIM).

In 7th grade, the language courses emphasize developing conversational skills and building a repertoire of vocabulary to augment writing and aural fluency. Students learn idiomatic expressions, conjugate regular and irregular verbs, read and translate text, and participate in collaborative activities to hone their conversational skills.

Upon successful completion of the 8th grade course, students are eligible to receive an Upper School Carnegie Unit. The French and Spanish course continues the development of the concepts taught in the introductory courses. The instruction is student-centered and provides a balanced focus on listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. A deeper study of the grammatical elements of the language, an expansion of vocabulary, and an exploration of literature in the target language complete the level I course. 

VISUAL ARTS

5th grade Visual Arts students develop their skills in drawing, painting, ceramics, and mixed medium while studying works of art that contributed to the cultural heritage of ancient civilizations. Students grow in their understanding of perspective and design as they experiment with composition and color theory. Aesthetic appreciation, art criticism, and a group exhibition at the annual spring art show.

Students continue to develop their understanding of composition, perspective, texture, color, and proportion. Life drawing is introduced, and emphasis is on line and form. During the course of the year, students create collaborative art pieces, and create sculptures inspired by their Social Studies unit on ecology and water resources. 

In the 7th grade visual arts course, students expand their painting skills, and embark on an abstract painting unit. Color and line are explored as a method to create emotion in artwork.  Students also study one- and two-point perspective and proportion as they explore landscapes. 

8th grade program focuses on developing personal meaning and a sense of place in students’ artwork. They embark on projects that allow for more freedom in their concepts and choices of medium. Sprinkled throughout the year, there are lessons on drawing and painting to further the knowledge they gained in years past.