Embedded Files
Year at a Glance
Marking Period 1: Initially in the school year, the goal of the Patriot Period is to foster belonging and build bridges to success by providing the guidance, structure, and explicit instruction in the habits needed for success as students advance between grades.
Marking Periods 2-3: As students progress deeper into the school year they are provided opportunities to explore their interests via a wide range of enriching “micro-courses“ that are rooted in disciplinary content. Students will have the opportunity to participate in as many as 4 micro-courses taught by FAMS faculty over the course of two marking periods.
Marking Period 4: Finally students engage in a student-led inquiry-based project in which they apply the skills and knowledge developed via their 2nd and 3rd marking period “micro-courses.” In preparation for spring NJSLA testing, students will also explore practice test-taking strategies for success.
*Gifted & Talented Tier III (G&T) programming is offered on a rotating basis, ensuring students have opportunities for advanced enrichment without missing core instruction.
Marking Period 1
FAMS 101
Emphasizes organization, independence,
and FAMS community expectations
ADVANCED STUDY SKILLS
Strengthens study strategies,
time management, and academic focus.
NEXT STOP, CAREER EXPLORATION
Prepares students for the future with research skills,
career exploration, and independence.
Marking Period 2/3
A sampling of enriching "micro-courses" include:
Anticipated Offerings:
Passport to Progress: Inventions of Change
Country Quest
Public Speaking
Travel Agent: Planning a Dream Trip
Healthy Habits
Innovator's Garage
Sharks: A Cross Curricular Deep Dive
Anticipated Offerings:
Mindfulness Corner: Breathe, Believe & Become
Fuel, Flex, & Function: Exploring the Human Body
Public Speaking
Introduction to Economics
Spark & Fire: Discovering What Drives You
Journalism
Data Detectives
Anticipated Offerings:
Sports Media
Debate Lab
FAMS Entrepreneurs
Historian's Toolkit
Sports Psychology: Motivation and Nutrition
Current Events
Introduction to Forensic Science
Exposing students to a wide range of enrichment and exploratory opportunities. These experiences build toward a student-led, inquiry-based project in the final marking period, where students apply and showcase the skills and knowledge they’ve developed.
*Over the course of two marking periods, students will be exposed to four different "micro-courses"
Marking Period 4
Inquiry-Based Projects
An inquiry-based project is a student-driven learning experience where curiosity guides the process. Instead of being given all the answers, students identify a question or topic of interest, research it deeply, and design a final product that demonstrates their understanding. This process helps students strengthen essential skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, organization, time management, and effective communication. Along the way, they also practice independence and collaboration, learning how to take ownership of their work while seeking feedback and support. The goal is for students to connect their academic learning with authentic, real-world applications in ways that feel meaningful and personal.
Each grade level will approach the inquiry project with a different focus. Sixth graders will take on FAMS-centered projects, using their growing independence and organizational skills to explore topics related to their school experience and community. Seventh graders will shift their attention outward to the Franklin Lakes community, researching local issues, opportunities, or initiatives and applying study strategies and time management skills to create projects that connect them with their town. Finally, eighth graders will broaden their lens with projects on larger real-world issues or personal interests, drawing on their research and career exploration skills to prepare for high school and beyond. Together, these projects showcase how middle schoolers can apply what they’ve learned in thoughtful, creative, and impactful ways.
*Testing Boot Camp incorporated throughout to prepare for NJSLA
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