6th Grade

Students focus intensively on critical mathematical areas aligned with the PA Core Standards, which include the Standards of Mathematical Content and the Standards for Mathematical Practice. This course focuses on mastery of the PA Core Standards for Mathematics. As students progress through this course they will participate in a variety of learning experiences designed to develop strong math skills and math literacy for all students. To meet these expectations, the curriculum is student-centered and will allow for exploration, discovery, conjecture, and application of mathematics. Through numerous and interrelated experiences, students will connect and apply math concepts as well as attain strategies to communicate, hypothesize, and support conclusions. Ultimately, the goal is for students to realize that math is more than a body of knowledge and skills. It is a way of interpreting, predicting, understanding, and succeeding in a complex world.

Math 6+

Students focus intensively on critical mathematical areas aligned with the PA Core Standards, which include the Standards of Mathematical Content and the Standards for Mathematical Practice. This course focuses on mastery of the PA Core Standards for Mathematics. As students progress through this course they will participate in a variety of learning experiences designed to develop strong math skills and math literacy for all students. To meet these expectations, the curriculum is student-centered and will allow for exploration, discovery, conjecture, and application of mathematics. In addition, the curriculum is organized around mathematical “big ideas,” or clusters of related, important mathematical concepts, processes, and problems solving strategies. Through numerous and interrelated experiences, students will connect and apply math concepts as well as attain strategies to communicate, hypothesize, and support conclusions. Ultimately, the goal is for students to realize that math is more than a body of knowledge and skills. It is a way of interpreting, predicting, understanding, and succeeding in a complex world

Pre-Algebra

Grade 6

Students focus intensively on critical mathematical areas aligned with the PA Core Standards, which include the Standards of Mathematical Content and the Standards for Mathematical Practice. This course focuses on mastery of the PA Core Standards for Mathematics. As students progress through this course they will participate in a variety of learning experiences designed to develop strong math skills and math literacy for all students. To meet these expectations, the curriculum is student-centered and will allow for exploration, discovery, conjecture, and application of mathematics. In addition, the curriculum is organized around mathematical “big ideas,” or clusters of related, important mathematical concepts, processes, and problems solving strategies. Through numerous and interrelated experiences, students will connect and apply math concepts as well as attain strategies to communicate, hypothesize, and support conclusions. Ultimately, the goal is for students to realize that math is more than a body of knowledge and skills. It is a way of interpreting, predicting, understanding, and succeeding in a complex world.

Math 7

Grade 7
This course is aligned with the Pennsylvania Core Standards for Mathematics incorporating Pennsylvania Assessment Anchors to prepare students for the PSSA Exam and for their next course in math.  Number sense is expanded through units on integers and rational numbers.  There is a significant focus on proportional relationships (including ratios, rates, and percent calculations) and algebraic fluency (including simplifying algebraic expressions and solving equations).  The students continue to apply their algebraic skills during the two- and three-dimensional geometry portion of the 7th grade math course.  The final units focus  on probability and statistics.

Intermediate Algebra 7

Grade 7

The Intermediate course is set up for students who have shown they are above grade level, but not quite ready for Algebra I in 7th grade. The course is aligned to the Common Core Standards for 7th grade math. It will also cover the first half of Algebra I up to and including systems.

Seventh Grade Math focuses on four critical areas:  (1) developing understanding of and applying proportional relationships; (2) developing understanding of operations with rational numbers and working with expressions and linear equations; (3) solving problems involving scale drawings and informal geometric constructions, and working with two- and three-dimensional shapes to solve problems involving area, surface area, and volume; and (4) drawing inferences about populations based on samples. The main ideas we will focus on for Algebra are: (1) Solving Equations and Inequalities, (2) Graphing Equations on Coordinate Grids, (3) Functions and Relations, (4) Solving Systems of Equations and Inequalities.

Keystone Algebra

Grade 7

The Keystone 7th Grade course is designed for students who have shown a strong ability in math. The class will focus on all of Algebra I. Very little time will be spent on the 7th grade Common Core standards. Almost all of the standards covered will be Algebra Standards or 8th grade Common Core Standards. At the end of the course, students will take the Pennsylvania Keystone Algebra Exam. 

Mathematics 8
Grade 8

Students focus intensively on critical mathematical areas aligned with the PA Core Standards, which include the Standards of Mathematical Content and the Standards for Mathematical Practice. This course focuses on mastery of the PA Core Standards for Mathematics. As students progress through this course they will participate in a variety of learning experiences designed to develop strong math skills and math literacy for all students. To meet these expectations, the curriculum is student-centered and will allow for exploration, discovery, conjecture, and application of mathematics. Through numerous and interrelated experiences, students will connect and apply math concepts as well as attain strategies to communicate, hypothesize, and support conclusions. Ultimately, the goal is for students to realize that math is more than a body of knowledge and skills. It is a way of interpreting, predicting, understanding, and succeeding in a complex world.

Intermediate Algebra 8

Grade 8

Intermediate Algebra 8  is a yearlong course.  In addition to review of topics covered in Intermediate Algebra 7, students will learn all other topics included as eligible content on the Keystone Algebra Exam and 8th grade PSSA.  New Keystone Algebra  topics include Exponent Properties, Polynomials and Factoring, Quadratic Equations, Radical Expressions, Rational Expressions, Interpreting Data, and Probability of Compound Events.  Additional 8th Grade PSSA topics include Geometric Transformations, Pythagorean Theorem, Distance, Volume of Solids, and Two-Way Tables.  The Pennsylvania Keystone Algebra Exam and 8th Grade PSSA will serve as end of course exams to determine student mastery of content.

Algebra

Grade 8

Students focus intensively on critical mathematical areas aligned with the PA Core Standards, which include the Standards of Mathematical Content and the Standards for Mathematical Practice. This course is aligned with the Pennsylvania Academic Standards for Mathematics incorporating Pennsylvania Assessment Anchors to prepare students for the applicable PSSA and /or Keystone Exams.

Algebra provides a formal development of the algebraic skills and concepts necessary for students to succeed in advanced courses.  In particular, the instructional program in this course provides for the use of algebraic skills in a wide range of problem-solving situations.  The concept of function is emphasized throughout the course.  Topics include expressions, equations, functions, properties of real numbers, solving, graphing and writing linear equations and functions, graphing linear inequalities, exponents, operations with polynomials, and probability with data analysis. Throughout the study of Algebra, students will learn to reason symbolically, to apply thinking to real-world situations, and to develop the ability to communicate mathematics with appropriate symbols and language.

Geometry 8

Grade 8

Students focus intensively on critical mathematical areas aligned with the PA Core Standards, which include the Standards of Mathematical Content and the Standards for Mathematical Practice. 

Geometry with Advanced Algebra

Grade 8

This course is for eighth graders who took Keystone Algebra in seventh grade and passed the Keystone Exam at a proficient or advanced level. This is a high school level class worth 1 high school credit. Approximately three marking periods of the year will focus on geometry standards, while the fourth will focus on advanced algebra topics intended to make the transition to Algebra II in ninth grade seamless. One unit will focus on eighth-grade Pennsylvania Assessment Anchors and Pennsylvania Core Standards to help students prepare for the eighth grade PSSA. Some eighth-grade Assessment Anchors will be incorporated into various Geometry and/or Algebra units where they naturally fit.  

In geometry, a variety of topics will be covered in plane geometry, many of which extend into coordinate geometry. Emphasis is placed on the use of reasoning and logic in order to solve geometric problems algebraically by applying basic properties and theorems, as well as constructing formal proofs of geometric relationships. Most formal proofs will be written using a two-column format, but paragraph and flow proofs may be included. Topics include, but are not limited to: points, lines, and planes; segments and angles; reasoning and logic; parallel and perpendicular lines; triangle relationships; congruence and similarity of plane figures; types of quadrilaterals; right triangles and Pythagorean Theorem; trigonometry; circles; transformations; surface area and volume of solids. A variety of Algebra I skills will be used throughout geometry to help solve problems, including: equations, formulas, systems, and factoring quadratics.  Advanced algebra topics will include applications of factoring, rational expressions, and simplifying expressions with exponents and/or radicals. Additional eighth-grade Core topics include: Real numbers, functions, and bivariate data. 

6th Grade
This course focuses on mastery of the PA Academic Standards for Geography, Civics and Government, Economics, and History. As students progress through this course, they will participate in a variety of learning opportunities that help them develop an interest in Social Studies. Students will explore, discover, and hypothesize information while collaborating in groups throughout the year. Technology is an imperative piece of the instructional model used to motivate and inspire the students to succeed. The year begins with Personal Finance which includes students declaring their dream jobs and determining the education needed. Wants and needs follow along with smart shopping, investing, and Entrepreneurship. Students will participate in a Stock Market Game simulation that introduces the concept of economics and the real life aspect of saving for their future. In addition, students participate in the Budget Game which simulates a real life scenario. Students will participate in the Dream Learn Pitch competition which involves developing a product or business idea, writing a business plan, and creating and presenting an elevator pitch in groups. The culture unit  sets the course toward the ancient civilizations. Students have opportunities throughout the year to use their creativity and passion through the option of projects as assessments. The goals of this class are for students to realize that the past is used everyday to pave the future and for them to develop collaborative skills, and a business sense which will lead to success in their future endeavors.

7th Grade
Seventh grade Geography focuses on the mastery of the PA Academic Standards for Geography.  As students progress through this course, they will participate in a systematic study of basic geography skills such as, reading and interpreting maps and more deeply studying the physical geography, government, economics and cultural diversity of the world. The intent of the course is to educate students on geographic and global perspectives in order to make them more informed citizens and future decision makers of the world. This course begins by studying physical geography of our world, followed by a study of human geography. Then, that information is applied to studying various countries of Asia.

8th Grade
8th Grade Social Studies  will focus on American History.  We will review some big ideas from previous learning including colonial settlement and events leading to the break with Britain, and founding documents.  We will focus on other major periods from 1787, the founding of a new nation, through the period of Sectionalism just prior to the Civil War.  Appropriate review of concepts and content prior to this period as well as contemporary topics will be drawn on to facilitate understanding of continuity and change.  Reading and writing in the content area as well as use of primary sources will be skills emphasized in this course of study.  Civics and News Literacy will also be incorporated into our course of study.

6th Grade Family & Consumer Science

The middle school Family and Consumer Science curriculum provides students with opportunities to explore and develop skills that will serve them throughout their lives. The goal is to teach skills that will help students grow to adults who can take care of themselves, their families, their homes, and their belongings.  These learning opportunities will be based on both the Pennsylvania and National Standards for Family and Consumer Science.

Throughout the 15 classes/9-week marking period sixth grade Family and Consumer Science students will learn basic skills in kitchen safety, nutrition, table manners, and food preparation.  While working in the kitchen they will practice teamwork and problem-solving.  It is anticipated that this basic introduction to food preparation will lead to a continuing interest in meeting the nutritional needs of themselves and their families.

7th Grade Family & Consumer Science

The middle school Family and Consumer Science curriculum provides students with opportunities to explore and develop skills that will serve them throughout their lives. The goal is to teach skills that will help students grow to adults who can take care of themselves, their families, their homes, and their belongings.  These learning opportunities will be based on both the Pennsylvania and National Standards for Family and Consumer Science.

Seventh grade Family and Consumer Science students will learn basic skills in measuring, sewing safety, hand sewing, and machine sewing. Throughout the 15 classes/9-week marking period they will practice teamwork and problem-solving as well as individual skills.  The primary focus of the skills acquisition is the completion of a pillowcase. It is possible that this basic introduction to sewing will lead to a continuing interest in creating and repairing items made from a variety of textiles. This class meets 15 times over the course of a 9-week marking period, and our sequence has us travel from learning sewing vocabulary, to learning to use a sewing machine, to completing a sewing project with assistance, to, finally, completing a sewing project independently.

8th Grade Family & Consumer Science

The middle school Family and Consumer Science curriculum provides students with opportunities to explore and develop skills that will serve them throughout their lives. The goal is to teach skills that will help students grow to adults who can take care of themselves, their families, their homes, and their belongings.  These learning opportunities will be based on both the Pennsylvania and National Standards for Family and Consumer Science.

Eighth graders are developmentally ready to begin learning basic adult skills that will prepare them to be on their own in as few as 5 years. Basic money management, basic kitchen skills, basic clothing care skills, basic repair skills, and basic decision-making about purchases are appropriate means to start students on the road to being independent adults. This course will use Pennsylvania and National Standards in FCS to inform short- and long-term activities to expose students to age-appropriate realistic situations in which to practice the skills explored. This class meets 15 times over the course of a 9-week marking period, and our sequence has us travel from opening a bank account through finding and furnishing an apartment, meal planning and shopping for groceries, discussing clothing care, paying bills, and budgeting to create a savings account “safety net”.

6th Grade Music
In 6th grade general music, students build upon their previous music knowledge by exploring the diverse world of global musical traditions. The course begins with a review of fundamental rhythmic patterns and note names, reinforcing skills in writing, performance, and composition. Students actively engage in singing, movement, instrument-playing, and listening activities. They explore form, pitch, rhythm, and multicultural music, while also developing their understanding of expressive elements such as dynamics and articulation. This course provides a hands-on and immersive experience in world music, fostering creativity, teamwork, and cultural appreciation.

6th Grade Band

This course focuses on mastery of the PA Academic Standards for the Arts and Humanities and the National Standards for Music Education at the middle level. As students progress through this course they will participate in a systematic study of a Band Instrument applying tone production, music notation reading skills, instrument specific  fingerings, articulation, breathing, and basic phrasing to the performance of that instrument at a minimum of first year level (Grade .5 - 1.5 Level Music). During this year of study the students will participate in various performances (at least two) that will include music with a variety of cultural and historical styles and forms. 

6th Grade Orchestra
Sixth Grade Orchestra is a performance ensemble open to all students in 6th grade who play or want to play an orchestral string instrument. This ensemble is a string orchestra made up of violins, violas, cellos, and string basses. Students will have the opportunity to grow and learn both in large ensemble and small group lesson settings. This course has a scheduled time during the 6 day school cycle in addition to having pull out lessons. During pull out lessons, students will leave their scheduled class for a duration of time to complete small group instruction on a string instrument. There will be several concerts and performances given throughout the school year open to the community. Enrollment in this course opens students to also have the opportunity to audition for additional after school orchestrals programs such as Dragon Chamber Strings, PMEA festivals, and additional various orchestral activities

7th Grade Music
In 7th grade general music, students build upon their previous music knowledge by exploring American music history. The course begins with a review of fundamental rhythmic patterns and note names, reinforcing skills in writing, performance, and composition. Students actively engage in singing, movement, instrument-playing, and listening activities. They explore form, pitch, rhythm, guitar, blues, jazz, ragtime, and early rock and roll and historical music, while also developing their understanding of expressive elements such as dynamics and articulation. This course provides a hands-on and immersive experience in American music, fostering creativity, teamwork, and cultural appreciation.

8th Grade Music
In this 8th-grade music course students will deepen their understanding of musical elements like rhythm, pitch, composition, and expressive techniques while exploring music-related careers. The course begins with a review of rhythms, note names, and an introduction to GarageBand. Students dive into the art of sound design as Foley artists, adding sound effects to a Tom and Jerry cartoon and creating compositions using environmental sounds. Building on this, students explore film scoring by performing scores on Orff instruments and Boomwhackers, adding mood-enhancing music to their earlier sound effects project.

The journey continues with songwriting and jingle writing, as students refine guitar skills, compose original songs, and craft catchy jingles for local companies. The course concludes with performance skills, where students collaborate in groups to rehearse and perform a cover song for their peers. Through singing, playing instruments, composing, and listening activities, students gain valuable musical insights and practical experience in diverse music careers.

7/8th Grade Band
This course focuses on mastery of the PA Academic Standards for the Arts and Humanities and the National Standards for Music Education at the upper middle level. As students progress through this course they will participate in a systematic study of a Band Instrument applying tone production, music notation reading skills,instrument specific  fingerings, articulation, breathing, and basic phrasing to the performance of that instrument at a minimum of second year level (Grade 1.5 - 3 Level Music). During this year of study the students will participate in various performances (at least two) that will include music with a variety of cultural and historical styles and forms. 

7/8th Grade Orchestra
7/8th Grade Orchestra is a performance ensemble open to all students in 7th or 8th grade who play or want to play an orchestral string instrument. This ensemble is a string orchestra made up of violins, violas, cellos, and string basses. Students will have the opportunity to grow and learn both in large ensemble and small group lesson settings. This course has a scheduled time during the 6 day school cycle in addition to having pull out lessons. During pull out lessons, students will leave their scheduled class for a duration of time to complete small group instruction on a string instrument. There will be several concerts and performances given throughout the school year open to the community. Enrollment in this course opens students to also have the opportunity to audition for additional after school orchestrals programs such as Dragon Chamber Strings, PMEA festivals, and additional various orchestral activities.