Grade level vocabulary workbooks are used in a systematic way to improve vocabulary skills in the Middle School. Students are tested after each unit as we!! as in cumulative tests.
Students practice their scientific method skills through research, hands-on lab activities and observations. To further enhance these skills student participate in a science fair project. 6th grade Science focuses on Earth Science and Life Science. Student study plate tectonics, earthquakes, volcanoes, and earth's waters. They also explore cells and heredity. 7th grade science also focuses on Earth Science and Life Science. Students study weather, astronomy, human biology and ecology. 8th grade science focuses on Physical Science. Students explore matter, energy, chemical interactions, and forces and motions of objects.
The primary focus of computer classes at Saint Peter is to equip the student with the necessary skills to succeed in an increasingly complex technological society. Young students are exposed to various educational games in order to build basic skills computer skills as well as providing support for regular classroom instruction. Students continue to learn about the Microsoft Office Suite with a continued emphasis on the more advanced features of the productivity suite. Students also continue to develop touch typing skills.
Mathematics education is differentiated in the Middle School, Students are placed Into grade-level math courses or accelerated math courses. Students who complete the grade-level math courses are well prepared for Algebra in High School. Students who complete the accelerated math courses are well prepared to enter Geometry in High School.
The Spanish curriculum revolves around both oral and written language. Students practice the vocabulary and grammar concepts through partner activities, listening activities, songs and skits. Each unit focuses on a particular country in order to explore the cultural aspects of the language. Middle school Spanish begins with the second part of level la, which was started in 5th grade, and continues through the end of level I b at the conclu¬sion of 8th grade.
In English, Middle School students learn study skills, grammar, punctuation, word usage, sentence structure, paragraph structure, and basic essay form. Students learn to express themselves through descriptive, narrative, expository, and persuasive writing.
Students read a wide variety of classic short stories, poems, dramas, and novels. Reading comprehension and analysis of story or poetic elements are stressed, independent reading for enjoyment and practice is encouraged through the Accelerated Reader Program.
Students in sixth grade study world geography from the differing views of how the world was created through the Middle Ages.
Students in seventh grade study U.S. History from the European exploration to the Civil War.
Eighth grade students continue their study of U.S. History from the Civil War to modern times.
Middle School students not only learn the facts and concepts of his¬tory, but also have the opportunity to participate and experience the social studies.
Middle School students learn the core concepts of art while completing projects that encourage their creativity and their unique personality. After understanding the different elements of art and what principles artists use in their creation students will look at how art has changed over time, how different cultures can be represented in art and how to create art with a message.
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