Curriculum

Students must have fully completed Algebra I and Geometry and need a teacher recommendation to be placed in Algebra II. This is a rigorous and competitive course that contains some of our top math students. The focus is on polynomials, operations and simplifying rational expressions, working with the graphing calculator and other graphing devices to explore functions and transformations. Students engage with radians and degrees, connecting the unit circle and the graphs of periodic functions to one another. Working both independently and cooperatively, students seek to solve word problems and other challenging material.

Advanced Ensemble is offered to students with experience playing a musical instrument. It provides an opportunity for your musicians to perform in a small orchestral setting. Goals are to develop a cohesive musical group working to establish fundamental technique, good intonation, and a keen musical sense of performing together as a team.

The goal of the Algebra I curriculum is to develop sound critical thinking and flexible problem solving skills while best preparing students for the rigors of their next math course. This course is designed to be completed in one or two years, depending on the proficiency of the student. It focuses on developing competency in reading, writing, and manipulating algebraic notations. The topics of study include the use of variables and exponents, evaluating and solving algebraic expressions, equations and inequalities, operations with polynomials, graphing linear equations, solving quadratic equations, and working with algebraic fractions. This approach to education puts an emphasis on discovery, independence, freedom of choice, and cooperative learning.

Students must have fully completed Algebra I and Geometry and need a teacher recommendation to be placed in Algebra II. This is a rigorous and competitive course that contains some of our top math students. The focus is on polynomials, operations and simplifying rational expressions, working with the graphing calculator and other graphing devices to explore functions and transformations. Students engage with radians and degrees, connecting the unit circle and the graphs of periodic functions to one another. Working both independently and cooperatively, students seek to solve word problems and other challenging material.

Ninth graders at Indian Mountain take Applied Biology, which we regard as gaining an understanding of the scientific processes and mechanisms that impact the human population living on Earth and, reversely, the impact that our population has on Earth’s systems. In addition to being a study of living systems, this course touches upon a myriad of key science disciplines including environmental science, ecology, oceanography, climate science, and human health.

Aligning with themes within other core courses, Applied Biology utilizes current events and the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations as a gateway to foundational science understanding and skills. Students delve into topics such as infectious diseases and consider the ethics behind genetic engineering. They study plant biology and human nutrition and contemplate how to feed a global population. They learn about keystone species and analyze the impact of population decline on other species within an ecosystem. Throughout the year, opportunities present themselves for students to follow their own interests as well as to work collaboratively with their peers.

Applied Biology aims to give students a relevant lens through which to learn about the science of today to address the problems of tomorrow.

Beginner Ensemble is offered to students with little or no experience playing a musical instrument. It provides an opportunity to young musicians to perform in a small orchestral setting. Goals are to develop a cohesive musical group working to establish fundamental technique, good intonation, and a keen musical sense of performing together as a team.

The eighth grade curriculum increases the emphasis on reading, writing, and communication through the study of literature, vocabulary, and grammar. Persuasive writing skills are interwoven with the literature. Learning how to write the five-paragraph essay is emphasized as a major component of the eighth grade curriculum. In the fall the students are introduced to mythic traditions and the heroic ideal. Throughout the year, the study of literature and development of writing skills are supplemented with grammar and vocabulary work. The study of grammar, accomplished through the practice of sentence diagramming, begins with a brief review of the parts of speech and the prepositional phrase, followed by the study of clauses and sentence types. Expansion of student vocabulary is achieved through the use of the book, Vocabulary Energizers I. The literature studied and texts utilized include: Beowulf, comparitive mythology, The Old Man and the Sea, poetry, Macbeth, Maus I & II, The Moon is Down, Anthem, and To Kill a Mockingbird.

Ethics is designed to be an introduction to the basic questions and issues of ethical philosophy and relies heavily on discussions in small group settings. Among the topics considered were Utilitarianism, Contractarianism, and altruistic behavior

Eighth graders at Indian Mountain take Lab Science, which centers around chemistry and engineering. Throughout the first two terms, students focus on matter and its physical and chemical properties. Through a great deal of experimentation and lab work, (hence the name: Lab Science) students gain an understanding that matter cannot be created or destroyed but rather cycles through different phases and forms based on what else is in its environment, including energy. Utilizing the data generated by their lab work, students practice analyzing results, graphing, and drawing conclusions. Additionally, writing scientifically, which is detailed yet concise, is emphasized.

The third term is reserved for an introduction to engineering, where they investigate the nature of function and design. In teams of two or three, students build an underwater ROV from scratch. Because the nature of this project demands it, by the end of the year, students are just as comfortable measuring a liquid in a graduated cylinder as utilizing a power drill or soldering a pin on a circuit board. The culminating affair is an Olympics-style contest where underwater ROVs participate in individual and team events.

Lab Science aims to give students a window through which to see the possibilities of further application of these fields of science as well as a mirror with which to see themselves doing that science.

Eighth grade Life Skills is an enrichment course entitled “Human Relationships and Sexuality.” Classes meet twice a week during the fall term for a total of twenty classes. Throughout the course, students will explore a variety of topics including personal values, decision-making within relationships, male/female anatomy, reproduction, abstinence, contraception, sexually transmitted infections (including HIV/AIDS), sexual orientation, and sexuality in the media. Classes will consist of discussions, participatory activities, group work, multimedia presentations, and selected readings. Altogether, this course is full of vital information that we hope students will carry with them for years to come.
NINTH LEADERSHIP

In the eighth grade history program, Modern United States and World History, students build upon the skills introduced in the seventh grade to examine the twentieth century. During the eighth grade students investigate the domestic and international issues that have shaped the world, giving the class a perspective from which to better understand the present day U.S. and its place in the world. Supplementing the course are map studies, documentary videos, first-hand accounts and related current event articles. This course also emphasizes the development of research and writing techniques through note taking, tests, essays, and a term paper.

The year will be divided into three main sections of study. The first section is entitled War and Conflict. In many ways, war has been the defining characteristic of the 20th century, and we will spend the fall term analyzing many of these conflicts, starting with the Spanish-American War, moving through the two World Wars, and concluding with the Cold War. Rather than focusing solely on the United States, we will use these conflicts as a lens to view the larger world.

The second section of study is entitled Social Movements. In this unit we will look at how people are able to affect great changes in society. We will study the likes of Mohandas Gandhi, Nelson Mandela, and Martin Luther King, Jr., but also many anonymous individuals who fought to make the world a more just place. Among the social movements we will study this year are the Women’s Suffrage movement, de-colonization in India and Africa, and the American Civil Rights movement.

After taking the final exam, the year concludes with the eighth grade research paper. Students, choose the topic they wish to explore in greater depth, and by the end of the year, will have completed a high-quality, high school level paper.

The Eighth Grade Study Skills focuses on two main topics. First and foremost is the research process. As the students work their way through term papers and assignments in other courses, they learn methods and techniques that support these assignments and other work to come in future courses. Time is spent investigating effective and efficient means to conduct internet research, how to find pertinent information in gathered sources and how to organize materials and information. The class also learns ways to enhance a paper through proper formatting and the introduction of graphics. The second topic of the course is preparation for comprehensive exams. Review and study techniques are covered.

This course is designed to increase reading, writing, speaking and listening proficiency through the study of literature and formal and creative writing. Included in each class will be: reading comprehension, analysis of themes, identifying the elements of literature, and using expressive language in order to communicate. The five-paragraph essay is emphasized as a major component of the eighth and ninth grade curriculum. In the fall, the students are introduced to mythic traditions and the heroic ideal. Throughout the year, students will discover connections between the readings they do under the overarching theme of heroism. The literature studied and texts utilized include (all or some of): Greek Mythology, Of Mice and Men, The Old Man and the Sea, short stories, poetry, Macbeth, Maus I and To Kill a Mockingbird.

This class is intended for second language learners who are attending IMS for the first time. Students learn and practice the intermediate/ advanced intermediate level grammatical structures and apply them in their speaking and writing. They progress from writing grammatically correct sentences to structured paragraphs and five paragraph essays. In addition, students write poetry, narrative fiction, and summaries. They are expected to participate in class discussions and to improve their listening skills. It is the goal of this class to prepare students for mainstream English class or ESL Bridge class the following year. Evaluations include regular quizzes and tests, as well as placement and cumulative testing using the Cambridge Michigan English Placement test.

This class is intended for second language learners who need an additional year of ESL instruction after taking ESL Writing and Reading classes, as well as incoming eighth grade international students. Students in this class need to have advanced intermediate to advanced level English proficiency. In Bridge class, students follow the mainstream eighth grade English class curriculum; however, it is modified so that they can complete assignments independently. They use the mainstream eighth grade English textbooks except for the vocabulary textbook: instead, they strive to master new vocabulary from their grammar and reading books. Students are expected to improve their reading, writing, listening and speaking skills in Bridge class; participation is expected during every class. Evaluations include regular quizzes and tests, as well as the SLEP and ITP (Institutional Testing Program) TOEFL test given in the spring.

ESL History covers American history from the pre-colonial era through the Civil War. Using Contemporary’s American History 1: Before 1865, students study Native American cultures, the age of exploration, the colonial period, the American revolution, the Constitution, the growth of the United States, and the Civil War

The course is designed to help students expand their vocabulary and grammar, develop their study and writing skills, and become comfortable making presentations to their classmates. Assessments include class participation and performance on nightly work, quizzes, tests, and projects.

First year international students take this class in addition to ESL Writing and Grammar Class. Students begin the year by completing Level 4 Focus reading and skills textbook, and advance to reading historical fiction, plays, poetry, and essays at their instructional reading level. They learn vocabulary words from their reading and from a comprehensive textbook, Vocabulary in Use. It is the goal of this class to provide ESL students with the practice and skills they will need to comprehend materials being read in mainstream or ESL Bridge class the following year. Evaluations include regular quizzes and tests, as well as placement and cumulative testing using the Cambridge Michigan English Placement test.

In the fifth grade students apply artistic processes and skills, using different kinds of paint, clay, foam board, and collage materials to communicate meaning and intent in original works of art. They develop creative skills in problem solving, communication, and time management that contribute to lifelong learning. All of these components of art making are combined in a safe and fun environment that encourages creativity and creative risk taking.

The Fifth Grade Chorus class is designed to encourage students to get on their feet and sing with enthusiasm. Everyone practices good posture, pronunciation, and performance techniques. Students are required to memorize the lyrics and melodies of the songs chosen for concerts. The curriculum explores the folk songs of America: songs of the workplace, spirituals, and songs of hearth and home.

Fifth grade Life Skills is an enrichment course that meets twice a week during the spring term. Throughout the term, students explore a variety of topics including: the changes of puberty, body image, building self esteem, nutrition, and the importance of exercise. Classes consist of participatory activities, group discussions, and selected readings. Through the class, students improve their understanding of how their bodies are growing and changing and develop skills for making healthy decisions about their bodies and health.

The goal of the fifth grade math program is to solidify, through review, the basic operations with whole numbers and decimals. The students are then introduced to the four operations with fractions. Units on geometry and measurement conclude the year’s work. A clear and thorough record of student achievement is maintained in each student’s notebook.

Math games and brainteasers are also employed to improve the student’s ability to think mathematically, notice patterns and solve problems logically. The class also emphasizes the practice of mental math activities.

The fifth grade science classroom is centered around the exploration of the world around us. It is our intent that lively discussions and hands-on lab experiences cultivate a love of science discovery.

Students begin the year with an introduction to the scientific method. Emphasis is placed on forming hypotheses based on what students already know, recording thorough observations and then forming conclusions from what they have observed. Introduction to the scientific method prepares students for laboratory work this year, in the sixth grade and beyond.

Students further develop their skills of observation in a year-long field study of Indian Mountain School’s pond. Through their study of the pond habitat, students make connections between what they are learning in the classroom and what they observe in the natural environment.

Connections are also made with the social studies curriculum. Students learn about humans’ interactions with their physical world, while studying the ecology of oceans and rainforests.

Reading assignments are enhanced by hands-on activities in order to facilitate comprehension. Short- and long-term research projects, many inspired by the students’ own questions, develop their familiarity with library and internet resources.

Foundations of Mathematics I seeks to provide a variety of successful learning experiences for each student to encourage growth and a positive attitude towards mathematics. Hands-on activities and short- and long-term projects that suit various learning styles enhance the program. Appropriate cross-curricular activities are also included.
Students start with a review of whole numbers, operations and place values. They then learn about measurement, including customary and metric systems, and measurement of time. Measurement is connected to the study of geometry as students learn area, perimeter, surface area, and volume. Students also explore ratios, proportions and percents, probability and statistics, and beginning algebraic equations.

A main goal of our math program is to expand students’ problem solving skills. Through activities which require mental math, paper and pencil computation, visual thinking, estimation, decision making, communication, and analysis, students gain skills in attempting various strategies, explaining the processes they use and the solutions they arrive at.

Foundations of Mathematics II focuses on the development of sound critical thinking and flexible problem solving skills. It is a course that begins the shift from the concrete realm of arithmetic into the abstract area of algebra. The focus of this course is to develop genuine understanding through a blend of problem based learning and explicit instruction, where an emphasis is placed on making connections between old and new concepts. Topics covered include operations with fractions, proportional reasoning, percent problems, algebraic expressions and equations, probability, and the measurements of geometric shapes and solids. Most students who complete this course will take Foundations of Mathematics III in the fall, although a student may be ready for Algebra I at the recommendation of the teacher.

Foundations of Mathematics III offers a bridge between Foundations of Mathematics II and Algebra I for those students who are still transitioning between the concrete realm of arithmetic and the abstract concepts of algebra. The focus of this course is to develop genuine understanding through a blend of problem based learning and explicit instruction, where an emphasis is placed on making connections between old and new concepts. Topics covered include properties of exponents, linear equations, functions, data analysis, systems of equations, congruence and similarity of geometric figures, the Pythagorean theorem and surface area and volume of geometric solids. The successful completion of this course will provide students with the mathematical foundation needed to take Algebra I in the fall.

Students must have completed an approved Algebra I program to place into Geometry. This course is covered in one academic year. A strong emphasis is placed on the importance of step-by-step proofs and other topics, such as parallel and perpendicular lines, relationships with triangles, polygons and quadrilaterals, right triangles and trigonometry, area, surface area and volume. Students are encouraged to become independent learners through challenging homework questions and in-class collaborative activities.

Guitar I is an introductory level course exploring both popular and classical music. Chords and melodies are taught using a combination of tablature and standard notation.

Guitar II is a continuation of the Guitar I course that explores both popular and classical music. Chords and melodies are taught using a combination of tablature and standard notation.

This course is designed as a fast paced, one year algebra program. The students in this course working both independent and cooperatively to master and apply the foundational skills necessary to find success in future math courses. Students will work through functions using rational numbers, make connections with both algebraic and graphical representations of the work, solve second degree (quadratics) equations and use introductory trigonometry.

This honors level course is for students who are mathematically and intellectually ready for a faster-paced and more challenging Pre-Algebra course. The concepts are generally the same as those covered in the regular Pre-Algebra course, but with a more in-depth study of each unit and topic.

Students must have completed an approved Algebra I program to place into Honors Geometry. This course is taught in one academic year. Emphasis is placed on the importance of step-by-step proofs and other topics, such as parallel and perpendicular lines, relationships with triangles, polygons and quadrilaterals, right triangles and trigonometry, area, surface area and volume. The Honors section explores these topics in greater depth, often involving more complex proofs and the detailed relationship between geometry and trigonometry. Honors students have skills that allow them to learn both independently and collaboratively.

Introduction to Latin is a presentation of the language with two primary goals. First, is to prepare the student for the study of Latin at the secondary school level. In this regard, the student is exposed to basic concepts of acquiring a second language such as vocabulary acquisition, word declentions, verb conjugation and a working knowledge of inflection. Intro to Latin stresses basic grammar, syntax and translation skills. The second goal of the course is to support students in general language acquisition, drawing the important connections between English and its Latin roots. Instruction is geared towards students with a variety of learning styles. Topics on Roman society are discussed, especially the impact of the language, as well as the history of Roman culture upon our society. By the end of this ninth grade class, students should be prepared to begin the study of Latin in high school.

Introduction to the SDGs class is centered on providing a basic understanding of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. These seventeen objectives, unanimously adopted by the UN member states in 2015, are designed to address social justice issues such as the reduction of poverty and equity, to environmental concerns, such as climate change and the protection of species and biomes. As course content, we make use of video lessons from a course offered by Columbia University’s Earth Institute in conjunction with the Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN), as well as teacher generated lessons. In addition, the students gain some insight into the importance of data science by exploring the Gapminder website and associated tools. Given that the SDGs are informing the curriculum in a number of the other ninth grade courses and in anticipation of the Poquonook Solutions Project in the spring, the hope is that this class provides useful background information, allowed students to practice certain skills they will use during the project, and helped students see the connections between their academic work and issues in the world beyond Indian Mountain.

Language Acquisition and Development (LAD) is designed to strengthen studentsí understanding of language, and to reinforce their skills in the areas of reading fluency, reading comprehension, word attack skills, vocabulary recognition and usage, grammatical concepts, and other rudiments of language. Throughout the year, students will study short stories, articles, short essays, and other literature to deepen their understanding of the material and be able to analyze, interpret, and converse constructively about what they have read. Vocabulary words will mostly derive from the context of assigned reading, and punctuation and grammar will complement reading-based coursework. Assessments will include a variety of informal writing assignments, creative projects and quizzes.

Language Acquisition and Development (LAD) is designed to strengthen studentsí understanding of language, and to reinforce their skills in the areas of reading fluency, reading comprehension, word attack skills, vocabulary recognition and usage, grammatical concepts, and other rudiments of language. Throughout the year, students will study short stories, articles, short essays, and other literature to deepen their understanding of the material and be able to analyze, interpret, and converse constructively about what they have read. Vocabulary words will mostly derive from the context of assigned reading, and punctuation and grammar will complement reading-based coursework. Assessments will include a variety of informal writing assignments, creative projects and quizzes.

Latin IA is the first half of a traditional high school first year Latin course taught over two years. Ia stresses vocabulary acquisition, a working knowledge of inflection, basic grammar, and syntax and translation skills. Topics on Roman society are discussed, especially the impact of Latin language and culture upon our society. By the end of the first year, the class has studied four conjugations of verbs in all six tenses of the active voice, five declensions of nouns, adjectives, and the uses of all six cases.

Latin IB, the second half of the two year program, begins with a thorough review of the material covered in Ia. Once the class has demonstrated a solid understanding of the basics, the course moves on to more difficult concepts, including the passive voice and participles. Passage translation becomes more prevalent, and more emphasis is placed on reading involving Roman mythology and history. The successful completion of the two year course earns credit for Latin 1 at the secondary school level.

In Latin II, drill and sentence work are replaced by translating a variety of stories, myths, and historical accounts by modern and ancient authors. Students complete their study of Latin grammar and translate the Latin of Caesar, Ovid, Horace, and Catullus.

In Latin II, drill and sentence work are replaced by translating a variety of stories, myths, and historical accounts by modern and ancient authors. Students complete their study of Latin grammar and translate the Latin of Caesar, Ovid, Horace, and Catullus.

Learning and the Brain is a general survey class focused primarily upon the “learning process” and principle topics associated with the acquisition, interpretation, organization, storage, and retrieval of information. Students are asked to continually reflect on their own learning process, their unique pattern of strengths and weaknesses, and the similarities and differences between their process and that of others in the class. Controversial topics, such as learning styles, laterality, multiple intelligences, and the like, are presented during class discussions in an effort to promote students’ critical thinking skills. Near the midpoint of the term, students complete an Executive Functioning Self-Assessment (adapted from the work of George McCloskey) to further examine their own strengths and weaknesses as it relates to the areas of attention, engagement, memory, efficiency, etc. The course concludes the term with studies of classical and operant conditioning, schedules of reinforcement, sensation, perception, and other related topics.

Mandarin 1A is an introductory course. The class begins with explanations of the five basic tones. Throughout the year this course presents Mandarin through pinyin and both traditional and simplified characters. Emphasis is placed on raising students’ comfort level when communicating in Mandarin. Vocabulary builds with each unit, and students finish the year with a solid core of the basic building blocks of Mandarin.

Mandarin 1B is an intermediate class that is a continuation of Mandarin 1A and builds upon the language and cultural study from the introductory course. Mandarin 1B students are expected to read Chinese characters, write, and communicate the ideas expressed within the language. Oral drills, the writing and memorization of stroke order, reading comprehension, and listening skills are further developed throughout the course.

Mandarin II is a course designed to match a second year high school level language program. Students continue learning new sentence patterns, grammar, and vocabulary, but they will then be required to apply what they have learned in a more formal written essay. Written reports as well as high-level oral exercises are two main components of Mandarin II. By the end of this third course, students will have learned close to 500 characters and will be able to read complicated passages.

Mountain Voices is a singing class where the songs are chosen from the age of great doo-wop, film songs of many decades, and contemporary hits and performs in public throughout the year. The students practice all the fundamentals of good singing: breathing deeply, staying on open vowels, maintaining good posture, memorizing lyrics and melodies, and perfecting techniques of successful performance. The goal is to have fun, achieve beautiful sounds, and learn to communicate as “one voice.”

Music Appreciation class works to bring music to life by providing an approach to perceptive listening, an introduction to musical elements, as well as an in-depth study of the various instruments, the use of forms, and musical time lines. The class aims to stimulate curiosity and musical enthusiasm.

9th grade history is a survey of political philosophy, ethics, sociology, and economics, and how these fields of study each inform human solutions for the modern world. The syllabus is designed to provide a historical foundation on which to build a contemporary and empathetic understanding of sustainability (specifically, as outlined by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals) in political, socioeconomic, and environmental contexts. Using pre-civilization, antiquity, and the current geopolitical landscape as vehicles for these conversations, the course seeks to develop individual and collaborative compassion, a capacity for analysis and persuasion, and a solutions-driven mindset to serve students both in their ninth grade and in future studies of history and human interaction.

The first trimester investigates early man and the Neolithic Revolution, exploring the economic and sociological factors that led to the first permanent settlements and civilizations, as well as the effects of permanent human settlement. Greece and Rome provide the underpinnings of the second trimester; students will use extensive primary source material and comparative analytics to learn how and why people are governed. The Harkness-style discussion model will be used extensively in each term, and students will write persuasive essays and complete summative group projects in debate and summit formats to assess skill development and understanding of material. In the final term, students will incorporate what they have learned throughout the year and in other disciplines to create a morally defensible and practical solution to a global sustainability challenge.

In Design and Coding class students explore the rudiments of the computer language, Swift, via the Playgrounds app on their iPads. This is a language developed by Apple for the creation of apps for their devices. The more overarching aim of this course was for students to engage in the Design Thinking process, which includes ideation, selection, sketching, and prototyping. Students engage in the various aspects of this process as they develope ideas for a product that uses recycled materials. Within this framework, students discuss affordances and signifiers as principles of design. They become critics of good and bad design. In the ideation process, they learn how to cross-ideas and use associations to innovate. Some students also explore the possibilities of the Reality Composer app for prototyping in augmented reality. At the culmination of the course, students present pitches in three minute videos for the object they would like to produce before an audience of teachers and peers. They prepare multiple sketches of the object and provide a detailed explanation of how it would work, what ages and genders they are targeting, and what problem or issue the product would address in the lives of their target group.

The ninth-grade English curriculum spurs students to consider the salient issues of the day––inequality, conflict, injustice, and environmental crisis––through the lens of literature; by so doing, they apprehend the human condition and begin the process of tracing society’s flaws back to the corresponding defects in our all-too human nature. This journey begins with introspection and self-assessment, as the students venture beyond the familiar terrain of the persuasive essay by crafting the personal narrative that will ultimately become their “This I Believe” address. Once they come to understand their particular circumstances, they can connect their individual stories to the universal themes explored in works like Behind the Beautiful Forevers, Baracoon, The Grapes of Wrath, The Tempest, and The Displaced, engendering empathy, awareness, and imparting a global perspective. While there is a rigorous emphasis on the technical aspects of various modes and forms of expression throughout the academic year, students delve just as deeply into the complexities of the persistent, systemic problems that presently imperil civilization. In a broad sense, the content introduced in the fall provides historical context; the winter term furnishes an accurate appraisal of the present; the spring term focuses on equipping students with the knowledge and know-how to identify and implement solutions. The goal of the course is to help produce compassionate, informed, articulate, and effective exponents of positive change.

Global Citizenship is a ninth grade course designed to touch on the overall concept of global citizenship and related ideas. During the term the topics explored include the definition of citizenship, what happens to the concept of citizenship when the word “global” is added, and what are human rights and where do they come from. The class also presents some basics about the functioning of the United Nations. In addition to discussions in the classroom, the students followed an online curriculum designed by the Asia-Pacific Centre and UNESCO for the Ban ki-moon Centre for Global Citizens. Class trips have included a visit to the headquarters of both the UN and of UNICEF.

Substance Use and Abuse is the title and focus in the ninth grade winter term. In addition to information about brain functioning, stress, addictive substances, treatment, and legal issues, discussion centers on making decisions regarding substance use.

The Poquonook Solutions Project is the capstone effort of the broader, year-long ninth grade focus on the United Nations Global Goals for Sustainable Development. Named after the School’s most significant geographic feature, the mountain, the project is one that engages the students in purposeful, project based learning. During the last month and a half of their time at IMS, small teams of 9th graders use the framework of the SDGs to identify a real world issue, and then work to develop a real world solution to that issue. Employing research, design, and presentation skills, the team members collaborate as they work toward the Poquonook Solutions Symposium, during which they present their efforts to a panel of outside sustainability experts, who assess the solutions’ viability and relevance with an eye toward implementation.

The seventh grade art curriculum focuses on creativity and learning various art making techniques, such as painting, printmaking, ceramics, drawing, and sculpture. Assignments encourage experimentation and invention and are designed to develop a relationship between arts, culture, history, and other academic subjects.

In the seventh grade history course, Early United States History, students begin their study of the principles and guidelines on which this nation was founded and built. A main goal is for the students to view American history as not just a series of events, but also to understand their causes and consequences in the development of the United States. Through outlines, quizzes, tests and a term paper, this course also emphasizes the development of reading, note-taking, writing, research and other organizational skills.

The text for this course is America: Pathways to the Present. The class begins with an introductory review of several important skills: map use, note-taking, outlining and how to read a text. This is followed by a brief look at the native peoples of North America and the Age of Exploration. The term concludes with a study of European colonization, with a particular focus on the English colonies.

In the winter the students examine life in the thirteen English colonies, the breakdown of British/colonial relations, and the American Revolution. Winter term concludes with the development of the independent American government, and in-depth study of the Constitution.

The spring term begins with a study of the growing young nation, the strengthening of the federal government, and the expansion of democracy during the Jacksonian period. Much of the middle part of this term is devoted to research and writing of a term paper as the class studies the westward expansion, the Mexican War, and the problems of maintaining the balance between the North and South. The year concludes with a study of the Civil War.

Seventh graders at Indian Mountain take Earth Science. The program investigates the following: geology, including studies of rocks, minerals, and plate tectonics, earthquakes and volcanoes; meteorology; astronomy, including the origins of the universe and the life of stars; and mapping. A major focus of the course is to give the students a sense of scale, time, and perspective regarding the earth, its history and its place in the universe.

Lab work is done as often as possible, and much time is devoted to discussion of how and why things work the way they do. Considerable emphasis is placed on the processes that occur in the lithosphere, atmosphere and deep space. Other skills that are stressed include highlighting, writing (and rewriting), reading for content, note-taking and organization. In preparation for the eighth grade program, seventh graders design and implement sociological and psychological data collection projects. Digital presentation, data analysis, and public speaking are all key skills that result from the research phase. As in every science course at IMS, creativity, curiosity, and independent thought are fostered throughout Earth Science.

Earth Science aims to give students a sense of understanding about the physical place in which they find themselves currently and in the future, here on Earth as well as within the universe.

The seventh grade course blends vocabulary development, poetry writing and analysis, creation mythology, grammar, and creative writing. Another element of the curriculum is the accrual sound study habits and self-discipline. The students write several essays over the course of the year, both expository and creative in nature, in which content and syntax are critically analyzed. The study of grammar begins by reviewing parts of speech and parts of the sentence and continues to extend the study of punctuation, including commas and semicolons. In the spring, the students are involved in an intensive poetry unit, during which they read write several poems. The literature studied and texts utilized: The Red Pony & The Giver (summer reading), Never Cry Wolf, excerpts from Mythic Voices, Little Worlds, Tom Sawyer, poetry, The Education of Little Tree, Wordly Wise 5, and Writing Skills 3.

The seventh grade winter course is entitled, Emotions and Relationships. Students explore communications skills, conflict management, tolerance, relationships with friends and family, and gender roles.

Public speaking class begins with the students reflecting on the typical feelings and fears surround speaking in front of others. The elements of public speaking (content, intent, audience, delivery, etc) are reviewed and students are asked to watch and review several examples. Students take turns practicing many of these elements in several different class activities, while receiving and provided feedback on delivery and presentation. In the final weeks of the term, students study rhetorical devices, watch and review several famous speeches, and then write and deliver their own original work in the Assembly Hall.

The Eighth Grade Study Skills focuses on two main topics. First and foremost is the research process. As the students work their way through term papers and assignments in other courses, they learn methods and techniques that support these assignments and other work to come in future courses. Time is spent investigating effective and efficient means to conduct internet research, how to find pertinent information in gathered sources and how to organize materials and information. The class also learns ways to enhance a paper through proper formatting and the introduction of graphics. The second topic of the course is preparation for comprehensive exams. Review and study techniques are covered.

In the sixth grade, art students learn to look at and respond to works of art, objects in nature, events, and the environment. They also learn to use the vocabulary of the visual arts to express their observations. Students use a variety of media to create increasingly complex original works of art reflecting personal choices and increased technical skill. All of these components of art making are combined in a safe and fun environment that encourages creativity and creative risk taking.

The Sixth Grade Chorus class continues the work of the fifth grade, with a concentration on international songs. Students investigate their family roots, and compile a list of countries of origin. Songs are selected that represent the always varied, and often fascinating, backgrounds of our students. Each year, the sixth graders get a chance to sing in Irish, English, French, Spanish, Russian, Italian, Korean, Czech, or any combination of these and many more languages. It brings the students closer together.

In 6th grade science the main area of study is human biology and health. Under an umbrella theme of “unity,“ the biology class investigates the major organ systems of the body, their functioning and interaction.

Textbook, laboratory experiments, note taking, discussion and writing activities are integrated during this study. The biology text itself incorporates social studies and literature materials in each chapter. Formal laboratory reports of class experiments are introduced in this class. Note taking skills are also reinforced as students develop study guides and chapter outlines needed for tests and for reference throughout the year.

Students investigate the structural organization of the human body through its systems: skeletal, digestive, circulator, respiratory, excretory, nervous and reproductive. The counseling center works with the class during the reproduction unit to help discuss and explain this sensitive subject. The counseling department and the organization FCD (Freedom from Chemical Dependency) also works closely with the class to inform them of the dangers associated with drugs, alcohol and tobacco.

Creative research projects assigned to coincide with each unit, give students a chance to work in cooperative groups, usually feature Internet research and other computer-generated sources.

Spanish 1 is the combination of the Spanish 1A and 1B courses into a single year class offered for ninth grade students only.

Spanish Ia is an introductory course. The class begins with verbal greetings and moves into descriptions of people, places and objects. Throughout the year this course covers grammatical rules and patterns. This grammar includes, noun/verb placement, noun/adjective agreement, possessives, the infinitive, present tense -ar, -er, and -ir verbs and ser and estar. In addition, vocabulary dealing with family, food, time, and daily activities are presented throughout the course. Each chapter of the text, ¡En Español!, focuses on a particular Latin country and culture and includes an audio and video program. The students also complete a cross-curricular project utilizing and combining their computer and Internet skills with the Spanish course content.

Spanish Ib builds upon the vocabulary, grammar and cultural study from Spanish Ia. A more detailed study of grammar includes stem changing verbs, irregular verbs, the future tense and the preterit tense. Vocabulary is geared towards the themes of each chapter of the text. The series develops an engaging story line involving two students who enter a contest to win a trip around Latin America. Spanish Ib students are expected to read, write, and communicate the ideas expressed within weekly assigned cultural essays. Oral drills, written work, reading comprehension and listening skills are further developed throughout the course.

Spanish II, our highest level course, is geared for those students who have completed Spanish Ia and Ib. Present, future, past and conditional tenses are reviewed and further studied. The course is taught completely in Spanish and students participate only in Spanish. Reading and writing are major components in this course. A two-page essay and oral report are due with the study of every chapter in the text. Grammar, reading, writing, oral communication, listening comprehension and the study of cultural events are woven into each daily lesson. Upon completion, students are ready for the second year of Spanish in most secondary schools.

Spanish II, our highest level course, is geared for those students who have completed Spanish Ia and Ib. Present, future, past and conditional tenses are reviewed and further studied. The course is taught completely in Spanish and students participate only in Spanish. Reading and writing are major components in this course. A two-page essay and oral report are due with the study of every chapter in the text. Grammar, reading, writing, oral communication, listening comprehension and the study of cultural events are woven into each daily lesson. Upon completion, students are ready for the second year of Spanish in most secondary schools.