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CVSA Middle School Curriculum – Grades 6 through 8

 

Click here to view a curricula flowchart in pdf format.

 

Course Descriptions

 

classroom workYou may scroll through the course offerings or click on a department listed below to do directly to that section.

 

Math Department

Science Department

English Department

Social Studies Department

Health Department

 

 

Math Department:


Preparatory Math –  grade 6   Full Year  *Required

This course will continue to develop the concepts of integers and rational numbers, including the concepts of ratios, percents, and coordinate geometry. The content will include an increased emphasis on algebraic thinking. Other topics will include: data and statistics, probability, geometry, measurement, and proportions. Special attention will be given to critical thinking, problem solving, mental math, and journalizing.

 

Pre- Algebra – grades 7–8  Full Year  *Required

This year-long course is designed to prepare students for their first year of algebra. Areas of emphasis will include a review of the fundamental operations of arithmetic and basic concepts of rational numbers in both fractional and decimal form. In addition, students will learn to solve first-degree equations, perform operations on polynomials, graph first-degree equations, and apply these skills to problem solving.

 

Algebra I – grades 8–9  Full Year  *Prerequisite: Pre-Algebra or teacher recommendation

Students will learn basic algebra. The intent is to prepare students for higher level mathematics courses. The course includes exploration of equalities and inequalities, directed numbers, exponents, functions and relations, systems of equations, graphing, factoring, data collection and analysis, geometry, measurement, and problem solving.

 

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Science Department:

 

6th Grade Science – Full Year  *Required

Students will learn about plate tectonics, oceans, astronomy, energy, and the human body, especially the immune system. In addition, they will read brief biographies of some important scientists.


7th Grade Science – Full Year  *Required

Students will learn about atomic structure, chemical bonds and reactions, cell division and genetics, history of earth and life forms, and evolution. In addition, they will read brief biographies of some important scientists.


Earth Science – grades 8–9  Full Year  *Required

Earth Science is a detailed look at our planet and the processes that have shaped it. Students will learn important concepts in astronomy, meteorology, geology, and physical oceanography.


English Department:

 

Language Arts 6 – grade 6  Full Year


Language Arts 7 – grade 7  Full Year


Language Arts 8 – grade 8  Full Year
Students will learn writing and research; speaking and listening; grammar and usage; spelling and vocabulary; through the use of the Core Knowledge sequence. Poetry and classical literature form the basis for materials used within the class.

 

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Social Studies Department:

 

Social Studies 6 – grade 6   Full Year
Students will be exposed to world geography, ancient civilizations, the Enlightenment, the French Revolution, Romanticism, Industrialism, Latin American Independence, and American History and Geography through the Core Knowledge curriculum.

 

Social Studies 7 – grade 7  Full Year
Using the Core Knowledge curriculum, students will study American History from 1914 – 1950. Students will also be exposed to the geography of the United States.

 

Social Studies 8 – grade 8  Full Year
Using the Core Knowledge curriculum, students will study World History including the decline of European Colonialism, the Cold War, the Civil Right Movement, the Vietnam War, and the Middle East. Students will also study Civics as it applies to American Democracy.

 

Health Department:


Health – grades 6–8           
Students will study relationships and communication, stress and time management, first-aid, drug use, physical, emotional, and mental health wellness issues are discussed in the context of making good, responsible choices.

 

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