Latin II

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.

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.

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.