Middle School

About

English Language Arts (ELA)
Our main goal is to strengthen students' appreciation and love for reading and writing. We read a variety of genres and practiced through novel groups, independent reading, and whole-group reading. We believe that writing instruction should be based on developing the ability of a student to express themself whether through narrative or informational texts. Students also practice their speaking and listening skills through Socratic Seminars, circles, debates, mock trials, and project presentations. 

Science led by Amanda Winzenried

6th Grade - Students will develop an understanding of the integrated, disciplinary core ideas of physical, life, Earth and space science, as well as engineering, technology and applications of science. Students will explore components of critical cycles of matter and energy on Earth, the interaction of forces between objects on Earth and in space, and the availability of abiotic and biotic resources which leads to competition. 

7th Grade - Students will deepen their understanding of the integrated, disciplinary core ideas of life science, Earth and space science, and engineering, technology, and applications of science.  Students will explore energy transfer, weather and climate, natural hazards, functions and processes of cells, and examine evidence used to organize and shape Earth’s 4.6 billion-year-old history. Students will apply an understanding of the process of energy transfer and its effects on our changing environment, as well as how life has responded throughout time.  

8th Grade - Students will deepen their understanding of the integrated, disciplinary core ideas of life, physical, Earth and space science, and engineering, technology, and applications of science.  Students will explore how energy is conserved, information is sent and received, traits are inherited, and humans impact the world.

Math 

Woods Middle School Mathematics focuses first on fundamental skills and abilities that are foundational to all  math courses moving forward into High School.  Those skills and abilities include:

• Numerical operations with rational numbers (decimals and fractions) 

• Ratios and proportions 

• Solving multi-step equations and inequalities

• Writing equations from story problems

Armed with these foundational skills, we then explore the following extension topics:

• An introduction to Functions with a focus on Linear Functions

• Systems of Equations

• Exponents, Radicals and Scientific Notation

• Geometry topics to include Volume, Area, Similarity and Congruence

• Introductory topics in Probability and Statistics

Finally, our Algebra 1 course offers the opportunity to earn High School math credits including the following advanced topics:

• Linear Functions and their key features derived from different forms of their equations

• Polynomials

• Quadratic Functions

• Exponential Functions

Social Studies led by James Herbst
Social Studies standards are grouped together for the three years of 6,7 and 8.  The goal is to have students meeting the proficiency mark by the end of 8th grade.  

6th studies geography and cultures within the western hemisphere.

7th studies geography, detailing more with culture, and the eastern hemisphere.

8th studies American History, from the founding era through the Civil War.

Electives

CTE:  Career and  Technical Explorations with  emphasis  on college and career readiness.  This course uses modules, or kits, that focus on skills and knowledge of specific career clusters.  For example: Culinary Arts, Nursing, Robotics, Veterinary Tech, and others.  

STEAM: This elective will provide students an opportunity to meet the Engineering, Technology and Applications of Science standards. In addition, the elective will support mathematical practices and common core standards for ELA.   

Computer Science: Aligned with new state-mandated computer science standards and district curriculum.    Introduction to computing and problem solving.  Web development (CSS/HTML) with an examination of the legal, moral and ethical aspects of computing.  Programming focused on interactive animations and games.   

Band: At Woods Learning Center, the band program offers daily classes for middle school students to delve into the world of music. Students not only learn how to play various instruments but also explore the rich history behind each one. This comprehensive approach ensures that students not only develop their instrumental skills but also gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for music as a whole.

Student Leadership

Student Congress: middle school students have the opportunity to participate in our version of a student government. This group is student-led and run. 6-8 graders come together to improve their school environment whether it is to propose new policies or to create fun, inclusive events at the school. 

Student Mentorship: some students will get the chance to mentor younger students by helping them with their classwork and playing with them at recess. Opportunity is based upon their willingness and level of school engagement.

Circle Groups: circle groups are blended K-8 groups of students who meet weekly to work on different activities.

Field Experiences

Table in the Wilderness and Casper Mountain Science Program (CMSP): 

Other Trips: depending on the year, students have opportunities for several other field trips. Traditionally this can include trips to Alcova, Pathfinder, Independence Rock, Laramie and the University of Wyoming, Cheyenne, and even Denver. 

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Contact Information

amanda_winzenried@natronaschools.org

james_herbst@natronaschools.org