Immanuel Lutheran School Curriculum by grades Preschool 3 and 4 The preschool classes at Immanuel Lutheran School believe in making learning fun so that children retain more and are better prepared for kindergarten. Preschool is the best time to introduce many skills and concepts. Young children are like sponges, soaking up all the experiences around them. Children are not expected to master all the skills introduced but are always encouraged to try. Immanuelʼs preschool is a place for hugs, smiles, happiness, and success! The teachers believe in consistent and caring discipline which is modeled after Lee Canterʼs Assertive Discipline. Children are given praise and other rewards for positive behavior. Children experience consequences like time out when they choose negative behavior. The main emphasis is on ‘warm fuzzyʼ, forgiving friendship. Jesus Time Or Bible story time is the most important part of our day. Books, songs, role playing, puppets, craft projects, prayer, and praising are all a part of our religion time. Children are growing in Godʼs love and they experience that love every day. The preschool joins in chapel services with junior high chapel buddies each Wednesday. Both the 3 year old and 4 year old classes begin the day with centers . Children play and learn in reading, puzzles, math, writing, housekeeping, blocks, filling and measuring, and art centers. Circle time is used to introduce letters, numbers, shapes, colors, and themes. Children participate in songs, finger plays, games, and stories. The superstar of the day leads calendar time and is able to tell about the show and tell items. Many art, writing, cutting, drawing, and tracing projects are completed during table activity time . Children gain experience in so many fine motor skills during these years that prepare them to trace, draw, and write as they grow older. Art projects are often completed in small groups and give children an opportunity to experiment with color and texture. Students in 4 year old preschool prepare entries for journals with the assistance of a teacherʼs aide. Both preschool classes use the Early Start Curriculum. The preschool classes have instruction in music , computer , library , and physical education Body awareness, motor skills, and self-concept are all improved through games, movement patterns, and turn-taking. Preschoolers participate in Trike-a-thon, a community service project to raise money for St. Jude Childrenʼs Research Hospital. Monthly calendars inform parents of themes, items to bring from home, field trips, and upcoming events. Possible field trips include the Bartlett library, Childrenʼs Museum, the Agricenter, the Memphis Zoo, Lichterman Nature Center, and the Memphis Botanic Gardens. Educational Experiences For 3 year olds include dressing up like Native Americans to ‘feastʼ with the eighth grade buddies, cooking together, and keeping tree journals. The 4 year olds get to participate in yoga, Grandparentʼs Day, Muffins with Mom, and Donuts with Dad. Both classes participate in the Christmas program and the Spring Sing. The preschoolers are able to participate in ‘big kidʼ activities like pep rallies and concerts with the whole school. Kindergarten Christian Faith Studies - Using a variety of childrenʼs religious books and Bible stories, Godʼs word is taught daily. Through the use of methods such as songs, prayers, art, puppets, etc. this knowledge is reinforced continually. Religion is integrated throughout the curriculum—for example, science is taught as the study of Godʼs marvelous creation, and many writing activities involve a Bible verse, concept, or short prayer. Reading/Language Development - The kindergarten class uses Sing, Spell, Read, and Write – a unique, innovative, and exciting instructional system that coordinates the teaching of six complete programs into one: reading, writing, phonics, spelling, speaking and comprehension. Through the use of storybooks, games, songs and rewards, children learn to read in a fun, relaxed atmosphere. This program is a multi-sensory method designed to actively involve students in learning. It is based on the notion that children donʼt have to be seated to learn to read. Online streaming is used to enhance author studies; students can hear a book read by its author. Phonics - Phonics is not taught as a separate subject but is definitely used in the Sing, Spell, Read, and Write program to teach children the sounds of the English language. These pieces begin to fit together so that reading makes sense. Mathematics - At the kindergarten level, children build a foundation that will help develop the childʼs math concepts. Math activities involve using hands- on manipulatives that are designed to develop reasoning and problem solving. Many activities involve creativity and develop thinking skills. The Saxon Math program is used to practice skills related to calendar, counting, patterning, reading a graph, time, and money. In addition, kindergarteners learn numeral recognition to 100 and addition and subtraction to 10. Science - The childʼs world of science is what is around him/her and what is important to him/her: the backyard, the beach, rocks, water, the kitchen, magnets, magnifying glasses, insects, pets/animals, his/her body. Kindergarteners have experiments, activities, and field trips to allow the students to experience fascinating, scientific phenomena. Social Studies - The social studies curriculum is guided by the overall concepts of family, neighborhood, and community structure and responsibilities. Students are introduced to these concepts through books, big classroom instructional books, and hands-on activities. Field trips are often used to enhance the concepts learned. Art - Art is more than color and form. For the young child, it is almost an extension of himself. By using brushes, crayons and other media, the child gains hand-eye coordination and visual perception that will help him with reading and writing. Music - Kindergarten learns many songs, fingerplays, and rhythm patterns related to religion lessons as well as to other curricular areas. Kindergarten participates in music class once during the week. The students participate in the Christmas program, a spring music night, and one chapel program. Physical Education - During gym time, kindergarteners learn basic components of movement and sports skills, including learning to jump rope. Jump Rope for Heart is a community service project that helps students learn to jump rope while raising awareness of the importance of exercise in preventing heart disease and stroke. Computer - Kindergarten has computer lab instruction weekly. Students learn how to use a computer and gain additional math and reading skills at their own pace. Educational Experiences - Kindergarten students eagerly await their turn to be Star of the Week. During this week, that student brings snack, show and tell, a storybook, and a guest. The children help care for classroom pets and even get the chance to hatch quail or chicken eggs. Field trips could include the zoo, the Botanic Gardens, and a hike at Shelby Forest. Virtual field trips take kindergarten students all over the world. Kindergarten participates in a graduation ceremony at the end of the year. First Grade Christian Faith Studies- The One in Christ curriculum includes many familiar Bible stories. Puppet shows introduce topics, and memory work that fits with that topic is included. Reading- In first grade, the focus is on learning and practicing key strategies of good readers. Studentsʼ love of reading is encouraged through related art and writing projects. The main text used is Reading Street by Scott Foresman. STAR Early Literacy is an assessment tool used to check on studentsʼ progress in phonetic skills. Phonics- The reading series Sing, Spell, Read, & Write teaches phonics rules and how to code words. This allows students to easily sound out and read new words. Writing- In addition to the Sing, Spell, Read, & Write program, students are given many creative writing experiences related to themes and other areas of study. Spelling- Students study two spelling lists each week. The spelling lists are grouped by common sounds beginning with short and long vowels and progressing to blends. English- First graders study the basics of sentence structure and parts of speech. Shurley English introduces nouns, verbs, and pronouns. E-transparencies are used to identify parts of speech. By the end of the year, students are able to write a three point paragraph. Mathematics- First graders use the Saxon Math program to learn new concepts and practice previously introduced information through guided written practice. New concepts are presented though discussion and an activity. Concepts and skills include computation, problem-solving strategies, pattern identification, measurement, geometry, money, time, fractions, graphs and charts. Number facts are introduced using fact strategies. Science- First graders study a number of topics including weather, plants, animals, the solar system, simple machines, and the human body. Science is taught using hands – on activities, experiments, and demonstrations. Social Studies- Thematic units are used to integrate social studies concepts into other subjects and to make learning interesting for students. Units include families, holidays, American heroes, teamwork, our country, our world, and map skills. Art- In first grade, studentʼs art time and activities tie into the themes the class is studying. Art masterpieces cover the walls and hallways. Students make their own masterpieces after learning about artists such as Van Gogh and Jackson Pollack. Music- First graders enjoy attending music class. Through movement, imitative singing, and large motor activity, students feel the beat and experience music. Cherub Choir- First graders participate in Cherub Choir and are invited to provide music for special events and Sunday services. Physical Education- Students improve their coordination, flexibility, agility, strength, and endurance through fitness testing. First grade is the introduction to the Presidential Physical Fitness program that will continue through the eighth grade. First graders participate in Jump Rope for Heart, a community service project that teaches students to jump rope while raising awareness of the importance of exercise in the prevention of heart disease and stroke. Computer- First graders learn to use a password to log on and log off the computer network. The students are able to take Accelerated Reader and Math Facts tests. Children navigate student friendly websites and use paint programs to create designs. Educational Experiences- Field trips are scheduled to coordinate with units of study. Possible trips include a play, the Agricenter International, the Sharpe Planetarium, Memphis Botanic Gardens, and an end of the year picnic. A highlight of the year for students and families alike is the Star Spangled Supper, an evening of patriotic fun for students and families. Students prepare the food and program which is a celebration of their study of early American history, including a study of all the Presidents. Second Grade Christian Faith Studies- Second grade uses the One in Christ curriculum from Concordia Publishing House. This program insures that children learn about Godʼs plan of love and salvation for His people. The teacher and students sing daily as they worship and praise. The students learn 10 core verses throughout the year. Each month a new verse is recited and related activities are completed so that the verses remain with the students their entire lives. Reading - The Reading Street text from Scott Foresman focuses on vocabulary development, high frequency word recognition, and usage and mastery of comprehension concepts. Centers, small groups, and Accelerated Reader are used to encourage independent reading and develop reading comprehension. “Book Bingo” is used to introduce students to new authors and encourage them in developing their independent reading skills. Writing- Students in second grade learn to write descriptive paragraphs, short stories, letters, and poems. Writing is utilized in all subject areas daily. Second graders also become published authors, going through the writing process from brainstorming to publishing. Spelling- Weekly spelling tests give students the opportunity to learn phonics rules as well as rule breakers. Words are grouped in a way that makes sense and students become better spellers and readers. English- Shurley English is used to teach students how each part of speech affects the other words in a sentence. This program follows a sequential order that progresses in logical steps. Students achieve success at each step. Mathematics- The Saxon Math program is used in second grade. Each day a new skill is added and a previously taught concept is advanced. Second grade learns to add and subtract up to 3 digit numbers, with regrouping. The students learn the concepts of multiplication and division. Online presentations help with practice of these skills and frequent assessments check for understanding. Science- Science is taught using the HMH Science Dimensions text. This follows the Next Generation Science Standards. Students learn to explore the world of science through reading, videos and hands-on activities. Social Studies- Second graders explore United states geography, communities, United States history, and government with Social Studies Weekly. Important people and places are highlighted throughout the year. Second graders also learn how to identify all 50 states in regions. Art- Students experience basic art concepts by using various media to emphasize a certain concept. Watercolors, oil pastels, and imagination combine to create colorful works of art. Artists from the U.S. and other countries are also studied. Music and choir - Music class is a fun experience for second grade because of all the activity. Students learn how to sing together as a group. Songs are selected from common simple hymns, worship and praise songs, action songs, folk songs, and songs based on Scripture. Students are given opportunities to perform at concerts and programs and sing at church services. The second graders also learn about the instruments of the orchestra throughout the year. Physical Education- Students continue in the Presidentʼs Physical Fitness program. Various team sports are introduced and students learn to cooperate and be part of a team. Second graders participate in Jump Rope for Heart, a community service project that teaches students to jump rope while raising awareness of the importance of exercise in the fight against heart disease and stroke. Computer- Second graders use the keyboard and learn the use of special keys. Student friendly websites are used to obtain and report information. Students are able to practice skills from classroom subjects using the computer. Educational Experiences- Students in second grade are encouraged to love reading and look forward to ‘read-insʼ when they get to bring blankets and read on the floor! Field trips include a festival at Memphis Botanic Gardens, the Fire Museum, and Davies Manor Plantation. Second graders host a Poetry Jam to perform their own poetry and other exciting poems. Families and friends are invited to share in this fun ‘coffee-houseʼ experience. Third Grade Christian Faith Studies- The One in Christ curriculum by Concordia Publishing House is used in third grade for Bible study and memory work. Third graders pray daily for their families and others who are in need. The students worship, recite Bible verses, and sing Christian songs Reading- Reading instruction in third grade focuses on vocabulary, comprehension, appreciation of literature, fluency of reading, and reading both for fun and information in all subject areas. Our new Reading Street curriculum has six units filled with excellent literature, featuring both fiction and non-fiction. The books are beautiful and can be supplemented with level-specific readers and online helps. Writing- Third graders write creative stories and read them to the class. Cursive writing is practiced and mastered by the end of the year. Spelling- Weekly spelling tests give students the opportunity to learn phonics rules as well as rule breakers. Words are grouped in a way that makes sense and students become better spellers and readers. English- The Shurley English materials assist students in understanding proper grammar, the role of words in a sentence, and various sentence structures from simple to complex. Students learn to communicate through writing paragraphs and stories related to other subjects. Mathematics- Daily introduction and practice of math concepts through the Saxon Math program results in measurable growth by the end of the year. Third graders improve on timed math facts and master multiplication facts to 9. Science- Science is taught using the HMH Science Dimensions text. This follows the Next Generation Science Standards. Students learn to explore the world of science through reading, videos and hands-on activities. Social Studies- Third grade students learn how people live in different sizes of communities in the United States and around the world. Units challenge students to become citizens who are informed about our countryʼs history, geography, and government. Art- Students have art time once a week. Various media and lots of creativity are used to allow students to express themselves. Each concept of art is explored with a related activity. Art is experienced during a field trip to the Brooks Museum of Art. Music and Choir- Students learn how to sing together as a group. Songs are selected from common simple hymns, worship and praise songs, action songs, folk songs, and songs based on Scripture. Students are given opportunities to perform at concerts and programs and sing at church services. Third graders also learn about music notation, reading music, and playing the glockenspiel. Physical Education- Boys and girls develop the proper form for manipulative skills, such as rolling, throwing, catching, dribbling, kicking, and striking. Students also improve basic fitness through activities, games, and fitness testing. Third graders participate in Jump Rope for Heart, a community service project that helps students learn to jump rope while emphasizing the importance of exercise in the prevention of heart disease and stroke. Computer- Third graders learn finger placement, hand positioning, proper posture, and letter placement on the keyboard. Students create word documents using proper typing skills. Font selection, font sizing, line spacing, numbering, and bullet points are all used in student documents. Educational Experiences- Third grade is a year to experience many unique learning opportunities in the Memphis area. Possible field trips include Chucalissa Museum (the ruins of an ancient Native American community), a riverboat ride on the Mississippi River, and a visit to Schwabʼs on Beale Street. Third graders dress up like Native Americans for a feast with the fourth grade pilgrims. Fourth Grade Christian Faith Studies- Fourth gradeʼs Bible study is centered on Godʼs people in the Old Testament and Jesusʼ life in the New Testament. Students become familiar with the Bible by locating verses and memorizing scripture. Reading- The Scott Foresman Reading series is organized into six themed units that allow students to experience fiction and nonfiction text in a variety of genre. Fourth graders work to build larger vocabularies, become more fluent readers, and strengthen their comprehension skills. Many science and social studies standards are reinforced throughout the text. The program is supplemented through the use of level-specific books and the Accelerated Reader program. Writing- Fourth graders recognize and identify the parts of speech and the parts of a sentence. They then practice these skills by writing personal narratives, informative and persuasive paragraphs, and explanations. Creative writing opportunities include poetry and journal writing. Studentsʼ work is compiled in individual writing portfolios. Spelling- Spelling lists are related to the reading series and are grouped by similar sound patterns or word structure. The weekly spelling tests give students many opportunities to become successful spellers. English- Through the Shurley English program, students learn basic sentence structure. By learning how words function in a sentence, students are able to improve their writing skills and language mechanics. Mathematics- Students develop much needed computation skills: multiplication of numbers, long division, square roots, and fractions. These more complex computations and other math concepts are used to solve word problems. Fourth graders continue to grow as they work from a math textbook rather than worksheets or workbooks. The downloadable textbook and the daily math warm up keep students practicing skills. Science- In fourth grade, science is a journey of discovery through investigations. Students learn and apply knowledge in the areas of living things, kingdom classification, ecosystems, weather and climate, and forces and energy. More complex answers are required from fourth graders as they move beyond fill-in- the-blank questions. Social Studies- Students examine past cultures and how they have affected the exploration and development of the United States. Fourth graders develop an understanding of our nationʼs history up to the Civil War. The new Harcourt text is colorful, current, and challenging. Art- Once a week fourth graders experience art through the use of a variety of media. They are introduced to the basic elements of art: line, shape, color, space, form, texture, and value. Students learn how these elements are used in harmony with one another to produce different types of art. Music- Fourth graders sing all year in music as they prepare for the school musical programs, learn echo songs, and begin to sing with proper breath support and clear diction. Students become more familiar with note names and values. Signing adds a greater depth of understanding to lyrics and is used at times in performances. Cherub Choir- Fourth graders participate in Cherub Choir and are invited to provide music for special events and Sunday services. Physical Education- Students continue to improve eye-hand coordination and increase strength. Fourth graders focus on proper form for manipulating objects. Jump Rope for Heart is a community service project that teaches students to jump rope while raising awareness of the importance of exercise in the prevention of heart disease and stroke. Computer- Fourth grade students learn to log on and use basic computer skills in a more independent way. Accuracy is stressed as students improve typing skills by using the home row. Students become familiar with Microsoft Word and internet research as they complete a research project. Educational Experiences- Fourth grade is a fun yet challenging year. Students move from workbooks to textbooks, write on notebook paper, and take steps to become independent learners. A document camera is used for math games, math manipulatives, art demonstrations, and guided instruction. Highlights include visiting Parker Pioneer Homestead in Arkansas, attending a performing arts show, participating in yoga, and caring for a class pet. Fifth Grade Christian Faith Studies- Fifth grade uses the One in Christ curriculum by Concordia Publishing House. Students study a variety of topics from the Bible, such as God, Jesus, the Holy Spirit, Salvation, Prayer, Worship, The Commandments, and Witnessing. Students are led to study what scripture says about each of the topics and how to apply those and live a Christian life. Mathematics- Saxon Mathʼs sequential program uses daily repetition to review and introduces new applications for all mathematical concepts. Concepts included in 5 kl grade: fractions, percentage and decimal equivalents, and writing problems in equations. Students are tested at the end of year to determine 6 kl grade math placement. The downloadable textbook and instructional CDʼs help students with classroom lessons and homework. Spelling and Vocabulary- Using the Scott Foresman reading series and other supplemental spelling curricula, students will decode larger words and analyze the structure of words. Students understand how words are formed using prefixes, suffixes, and root words. Reading and Literature- The Scott Foresman reading series places an emphasis on comprehension skills and strategies. The students improve their research and study skills by reading a variety of genres. In addition to the text, fifth graders read a novel together and complete related projects and assignments. English- Classification of sentences allows for the complete integration of all grammar concepts. Students use the eight parts of speech in this classification, giving students the tools to become better writers. Capitalization and punctuation rules and writing skills are part of the Shurley English comprehensive program. E- transparencies give students many opportunities for writing practice. Social Studies- Fifth graders are engaged in learning our nationʼs history from the Civil War to the present. Students will learn what it was like to live during the time of important historical events. They will ‘meetʼ some of the people who took part in those events and ‘travelʼ to the places those events happened. Science- Fifth graders change classrooms for this subject as they prepare for middle school. The MacMillan McGraw Hill text includes topics such as ecosystems, earth resources, weather and space, matter, forces and energy, life, earth and physical science. More lab experiences give students opportunities to become familiar with the scientific method as they evaluate and apply what they observe. Art- Once a week, fifth graders experience art through the use of a variety of media. They expand their knowledge of the basic elements of art: line, shape, color, space, form, texture, and value. The students will produce many different types of art using these elements. Music- Students in fifth grade learn to read music and become familiar with clefs, time signature, and music symbols. The students use this knowledge both in singing and through recorder instruction in the spring. Junior Choir- Fifth graders are members of Junior Choir and are invited to sing at various events. Junior choir members have the opportunity to sing at chapel and for Sunday services. Physical Education- Fifth graders continue to manipulate a variety of objects using eye-hand and eye-foot coordination. The emphasis now shifts to improving accuracy and distance while efficiently manipulating objects using body parts or implements. Students learn more about the human body and how to improve health and performance. Fifth graders participate in Hoops for Heart, a community service project to improve basketball shooting skills while raising money to fund research for the American Heart Association. Computer- Typing skills are reiterated as students improve in speed and accuracy. Students gain experience in using Excel, PowerPoint, Microsoft Publisher, and Microsoft Word. Fifth graders complete an internet research project. Educational Experiences- The SmartBoard in the 5 kl grade classroom is used in almost every subject. Students can work problems, correct sentences, take practice quizzes, and more. The DARE program is a part of Immanuelʼs fifth grade experience. Officers from the Bartlett Police Department come to school to lead students in the Drug Abuse Resistance Education instruction. As members of Junior Choir, students perform at a local retirement community (Lutheran Village) at least once a year. The Burkel home, believed to have been a stop on the Underground Railroad, is an eye-opening experience and coordinates well with a day at the Mud Island River Museum and Park. The Night at the Museum is an evening in the spring when figures in history come alive through 5 kl gradersʼ presentations. As they prepare for middle school, fifth graders are especially challenged to develop organizational skills and become more independent in completion of tasks. Sixth Grade Christian Faith Studies- The entire gospel of Matthew is used in religious study this year. Old Testament prophecies are compared with the fulfillment of those prophecies in the life of Christ. Scripture is experienced through both printed form and through the use of the Visual Bible series. Students are challenged to think beyond themselves and to ask, “How does Biblical truth change my life?” Servanthood and fulfilling the Great Commission are two important goals of our program. Mathematics- Students are divided into two groups, Course 1 or Course 2, based upon testing at the end of the previous year. The entire program of Course 1 gives students a foundation for algebra and geometry. Along with geometry concepts, Course 2 challenges students to solve more complex equations with unknown variables. Skills tests and mental math skills are practiced daily. Spelling and Vocabulary- Sixth grade spelling lists come from the literature selections the students are studying. Tests now include the definition and part of speech as students appreciate the weight of words in the context of their reading materials. Reading and Literature- The Pearson text includes selections from every genre. Quality literature is arranged by universal themes and common literary forms. Unit topics include, “How do we decide what is true?” and “How do we decide who we are?” Plot, character, and setting are discussed while reading letters, essays, dramas, poetry and more. Students gain perspective as literature exposes them to a world outside of their own. Each student can access the textbookʼs website to find comprehension help, vocabulary games, and much more. Students will help set personal quarterly goals for Accelerated Reader and work with the teacher and librarian to achieve those goals. English- Through the Shurley English program, students learn five basic sentence patterns with a question and answer flow for each pattern. Students learn how words function in a sentence and are therefore able to improve their writing skills. In spring, students additionally focus on report writing. Social Studies- Sixth grade explores ancient world civilizations in their study of World History. The students learn of the many changes and conflicts in the world in the periods leading up to and including World War I & II. Chapter videos provide overviews and PowerPoint presentations to assist with note taking. Science- Earth, life, and physical science are integrated in the science program in sixth grade. Students have opportunities to work in cooperative groups to investigate, discover, and question how the world works. Sixth graders are challenged to think beyond the ‘easyʼ answers as they process this new information. Students have access to online review quizzes and virtual lab experiences. Art- Sixth graders attend art twice a week where they apply their knowledge of the basic elements of art to the principals of design (balance, movement, rhythm, contrast, emphasis, pattern, and unity). Students use these elements and principles to produce unique art projects. Music- Students experience playing the recorder in the second semester and use this time to improve in reading music. Students learn music symbols, time signature, musical terms, phrasing, and practice sight reading. Students learn several songs in Spanish as well. Sixth graders are active participants in both the Christmas and spring musicals. Junior Choir- Sixth graders are members of Junior Choir and are invited to sing at various events. Junior choir members have the opportunity to sing at chapel and for Sunday services. Physical Education- Sixth graders work on cooperation in games and respect for individual differences. Students learn to set their own fitness goals and work to achieve them. Sixth graders participate in Hoops for Heart, a community service project of the American Heart Association. This effort improves studentsʼ basketball shooting skills while raising funds for research and raising awareness of heart disease and stroke. Computer- Students use the computer to complete research for a project. They become more familiar with popular applications such as Excel, Publisher, and Word. Sixth graders improve typing accuracy so that they can write and complete reports quickly using the computer. Educational Experiences- Sixth grade is the first year students take the middle school pledge for responsible behavior. The students become aware of their role as models for younger children as they carry out duties around the campus, including flag duty. Departmentalization is new for many of the sixth graders as they adjust and grow as learners. Sixth graders have opportunities for field trips such as plays or performances, the IMAX Theater, and the Pink Palace Museum. At Christmas, families in sixth grade join together to bless a family in need through the Neighborhood Christian Center. As members of Junior choir, students perform at Lutheran Village, a retirement home, at least once a year. Seventh Grade Christian Faith Studies- The Positive Action Bible Curriculum guides students travel through the Bible called Route 66. This book studies both Old Testament and New Testament books of the Bible. Through this study, students learn Bible truths that guide them as they make choices and decisions every day. Memory work includes passages from Lutherʼs Small Catechism and related Bible passages. Mathematics- Students are divided into classes based upon testing at the end of the previous year. The Course 2 group expands on the basics and begins Algebra concepts. The Course 3 math group prepares for Algebra by beginning to work more complex algebraic equations. A daily skill practice and mental math activity help with speed and accuracy in math computation. Instructional CDʼs and a downloadable textbook make learning more efficient. Spelling and Vocabulary- Words are chosen that occur in the literature the students read as part of the language arts program. Students learn the definitions and syntax of the words as well as spelling. Reading and Literature- Students are exposed to a variety of genres, including an exploration of poetry. Class novels complete the program. The Accelerated Reader program is used to give students an individualized goal for reading achievement. English- Students continue to learn patterns for sentence structure through the Shurley English program. This year students begin to self-edit writing assignments and complete a research paper by the end of the year. Seventh graders keep a writing journal which includes poetry, informational paragraphs, and creative essays. Social Studies- World Civilization is taught in seventh grade. Throughout the year, students study the worldʼs people, places, cultures, and landscapes. Students are tested on their knowledge of states, countries, and physical features of a region. Science- The science curriculum builds through the three years of middle school. In 7th grade, there is a special emphasis on life science. Through investigations, book work, and group assignments, students are challenged to think critically and process information to apply it in new ways. Online resources give access to the textbook and assist students with review of subject matter. Art- Seventh graders attend art twice a week. They continue to apply the principles of design (balance, movement, rhythm, contrast, emphasis, pattern, and unity) to their projects. They experiment with more advanced techniques such as perspective and value changes to create more elaborate pieces. STEMM- STEMM is a course centralized around the Engineering Design Process (EDP). The EDP is a four-step design cycle: (Re)Design, Build, Test, and Evaluate. Students will use project-based learning to develop goals to accomplish within the STEMM Lab. Depending on the goal and project, students may repeat steps and even repeat the entire design cycle itself. Professional engineers and inventors may go through the design cycle thousands of times before finalizing a project. Project categories include but are not limited to: Circuitry, Computer Graphics, Digital Communications, Mechanics and Structures, Robotics and Control Technology, Scientific Data and Analysis, Software Engineering, and Sustainability. Physical Education- As students continue to improve their overall physical fitness, seventh graders demonstrate mature techniques for the following patterns: overhand, sidearm, and underhand throwing; catching; kicking/punting; striking; trapping; dribbling (hand and foot); and volleying. Seventh graders participate in Hoops for Heart, a community service project that improves basketball shooting skills while raising funds for research. This program from the American Heart Association raises awareness of heart disease and stroke. Educational Experiences- In conjunction with an exploration of Tennessee history, seventh graders visit Shiloh National Park. Students are surprised to stand where Civil War soldiers fought and are challenged to comprehend what a battle would have been like. Seventh graders participate in the Commercial Appeal spelling bee, the Lutheran spelling bee, and the National Geographic geography bee. Some advanced students may qualify for the Duke University Talent Identification Program. Students in seventh grade adopt chapel ‘buddiesʼ from the PK-4 class to assist them in worship and activities through the year. Eighth Grade Christian Faith Studies- Eighth graders grow spiritually as they study and memorize Godʼs word and as they learn to apply it in their choices and actions. The curriculum is centered on New Testament history with an emphasis on the gospel of Mark and the epistles. Mathematics- Students are divided into classes based upon testing at the end of the previous year. In the Course 3 level, students are preparing for Algebra by beginning to work algebraic equations. Daily lessons begin with skills tests and mental math practice. The Algebra 1 students work all year and are prepared to take the Tennessee End-of-Course test in Algebra in May. Skills like using a graphing calculator prepare students for high school. Spelling and Vocabulary - Essential Words for Middle-Grade Students by Carson- Dellosa Publishing serves as the basis for spelling instruction. Students use the dictionary to attach meanings to words so that vocabulary is incorporated in writing and speech. Reading and Literature- Each unit of the curriculum addresses a Big Question to enrich exploration of literary concepts and reading strategies. An online component provides variety for practice and reinforcement of literary skills and concepts. Individualized Accelerated Reader goals encourage consistent growth in reading comprehension. English- The Shurley English curriculum teaches students the construction of language. As students understand our language in a deeper way, they are able to write more complex passages. Eighth graders study word parts and use their growing vocabulary to build analogies. Students complete a research paper in the third quarter of the school year. Social Studies- U.S. History is studied in eighth grade. The curriculum is an overview of our nation from exploration through modern times. The study of the United States Constitution is included this year. Online resources help students to summarize and study each chapter. Science- The three year science program for the middle school integrates earth, life, and physical science. Students are led in hands-on activities, computer labs, ongoing projects, and book work. Online streami