MS Link
Middle School Link
Grade Level: 6-8
Prerequisite: Forecasting with MS Link Liaison or PrimeLink Coordinator. Placement tests for reading, writing and math may also be required.
MS Link meets two days per week for instruction in literature, writing and/or history with continued study and completion of assignments expected at home. Classes are offered a la carte. MS Link students may join other RHL students in math, science and/or other elective classes as well.
In MS Link Literature (1 block, twice per week), students will experience a gradual release of responsibility from teacher-directed learning to a student-driven learning experience where they, with guidance and partnering with teacher and parents, design and customize their learning activities according to their own interests and choices. Using technology, students will create and curate a digital portfolio of evidence and reflections that showcase how and why their work and progress meets or exceeds grade-specific ELA learning standards in Reading and Speaking and Listening. Students will also build focus, stamina, and lifelong reading habits through independent reading that will prepare them for high school and beyond.
In MS Link Writing (1 block, twice per week), students will experience a gradual release of responsibility from teacher-directed learning to a student-driven learning experience where they, with guidance and partnering with teacher and parents, design and customize their learning activities according to their own interests and choices. Using technology, students will create and curate a digital portfolio of evidence and reflections that showcase how and why their work and progress meets or exceeds grade-specific ELA learning standards in Writing and Language. Argumentative, explanatory, and narrative writing modes will be explored, as well as research skills, process steps, and collaborative feedback on writing progress. Language focus will include grammar, conventions, usage and style, as well as vocabulary acquisition and use. Students will also build focus, stamina, and lifelong writing habits through independent blogging that will prepare them for high school and beyond.
In MS Link History (1 block, twice per week), the topics of study follow a two-year cycle as follows:
Even Years (2018/19, 2020/21, etc.)
■ The Medieval World (500 to 1500 CE)
■ Washington State History (completed independently for 8th graders still needing to complete this graduation requirement)
Odd Years (2019/20, 2021/22, etc.)
■ The United States (1865 to present)
■ Washington State History (integrated with US history)
Each year’s 8th grade history students will also complete the state-required Classroom Based Assessment (CBA), which is a formal, persuasive research assignment - either a written essay, oral presentation, or other digital product.
The MS Link History classroom is project-based, digital (home internet required), differentiated for many ages, learning styles and abilities, and includes an expectation of in-class discussion and collaboration.
MS Link is also unique in that there is a required weekly tutoring component. These tutorials are provided to support the individual needs of the student and to assist them with their homework.
8th grade students have a unique opportunity to become a MS Link Ambassador. Ambassador roles, which are by invitation, include mentoring younger or new students, tutoring during the week outside of class, teaching/leading lessons and discussions in class and other leadership responsibilities as designated by the MS Link teachers.
MS Link students are a part of the PrimeLink program, and as such, their parent(s) will join them for their consultations/tutoring at least twice per month (weeks A/C). This provides students support in subjects not covered in MS Link classes. Instructional materials are provided.
Teacher: Ryan Anderson (literature, writing) and Robin Crocker (history)
Consultations: Weekly tutoring that includes parents at least twice per month
Learning Location: Home, Coursework, School
At HOMELINK: One to three blocks, twice per week, depending on chosen schedule, plus options for math, science and/or other elective classes
At HOME: 2-3 hours per class per week
Parent Attendance: Parental attendance will be determined by student progress, but will be no less than once per month.