An important note on “priority courses.” Due to specific program needs for some students, some courses are unable to fit within individualized schedules. Such courses include: Music 7, Visual Arts 7, MakerSpace 7 or Classical and Modern Languages. If this is the case, families are asked to work with their student’s school counselor on prioritizing courses that meet the academic, social and emotional needs of students on a case-by-case basis. The aforementioned courses listed are typically scheduled for students in most cases, but the school does recognize that some exceptions need to be made to accommodate other student needs. In these cases, prioritizing course preferences is necessary to complete a student’s full schedule.
When choosing a language program, we recommend that students study through year four or five at the High School, if they wish to become reasonably proficient. Students in grade 6 can choose to begin a language in grade 7. The Middle School sequence is the equivalent of a first-year course at the High School. When these students enter the High School, they are enrolled in the second-year course (assuming that were recommended by their eighth grade teacher). A grade in the D range would suggest the need for repeating the course.
An important note: Due to specific program needs for some students, some courses are unable to fit within individualized schedules. Such courses include: Music 7, Visual Arts 7, MakerSpace 7 or World Languages. If this is the case, families are asked to work with their student’s school counselor on prioritizing courses that meet the academic, social and emotional needs of students on a case-by-case basis. The aforementioned courses listed are typically scheduled for students in most cases, but the school does recognize that some exceptions need to be made to accommodate other student needs. In these cases, prioritizing course preferences is necessary to complete a student’s full schedule.
Students who do not elect to begin one of the language offerings in the Middle School may be limited in their selection of languages when they arrive at the High School due to anticipated student enrollment trends and other constraints. When student enrollment allows, year one courses are offered in French, German, Latin, Mandarin Chinese, and Spanish at Wellesley High School.
SIX BLOCKS PER CYCLE
Students learn real-world communication skills in all three modes: the interpretive mode (reading, listening, viewing), the presentational mode (speaking, writing), and the interpersonal mode (active, unrehearsed communication between individuals). Instruction is activity oriented. Students should expect regular homework assignments, and frequent quizzes, tests and/or projects.
SIX BLOCKS PER CYCLE
Students learn real-world communication skills in all three modes: the interpretive mode (reading, listening, viewing), the presentational mode (speaking, writing), and the interpersonal mode (active, unrehearsed communication between individuals). Instruction is activity oriented. Students should expect regular homework assignments, and frequent quizzes, tests and/or projects.
SIX BLOCKS PER CYCLE
This course introduces students to the ancient world through the language and ideas of the Romans. Students acquire some basic elements of Latin syntax and a significant vocabulary base. They become skilled in deriving English words from Latin roots, learn numerous Latin sayings used in English, and through reading Latin become acquainted with Roman customs and mythology. Students' experiences in learning Latin are enriched and enlivened by drama activities, games, projects and films. Students should expect regular homework assignments, and frequent quizzes, tests and/or projects.
SIX BLOCKS PER CYCLE
Students learn real-world communication skills in all three modes: the interpretive mode (reading, listening, viewing), the presentational mode (speaking, writing), and the interpersonal mode (active, unrehearsed communication between individuals). Instruction is activity oriented. Students should expect regular homework assignments, and frequent quizzes, tests and/or projects.
SIX BLOCKS PER CYCLE
Students learn real-world communication skills in all three modes: the interpretive mode (reading, listening, viewing), the presentational mode (speaking, writing), and the interpersonal mode (active, unrehearsed communication between individuals). Instruction is activity oriented. Students should expect regular homework assignments, and frequent quizzes, tests and/or projects.
THREE BLOCKS PER CYCLE
SEMESTER COURSE
The focus of the Grade 7 art program is to develop a deeper understanding and greater competency of the skills that were introduced in Grade 6. Art mediums may include drawing, painting, sculpture, collage, printmaking and ceramics. The focus in Grade 7 is on developing technical skills such as observational accuracy, facial proportion, higher standards for finished work, and the articulation of visual concepts for formative assessment. The elements and principles of design will continue to be emphasized. Projects are developmentally designed to improve confidence and competence in students.
THREE BLOCKS PER CYCLE
SEMESTER COURSE
In Grade 7 general music, students study American popular music. This overview includes units on: West African Music, Plantation Songs, Appalachian ballads, Blues, Ragtime, Dixieland, Boogie Woogie, Big Band, Bluegrass, Swing and BeBop. We also study the beginnings of Rock and Roll. The class gives students the opportunity to understand the evolution of popular music in the United States, practice using their critical analysis skills and experience using music as a means of expression and communication.
THREE BLOCKS PER CYCLE
ONE SEMESTER
As part of the Grade 7 teaming schedule, students will participate in a Flex block. Flex blocks, composed of smaller class sizes, will focus on reinforcement, extension, and enrichment experiences that develop important academic, social and emotional skills. Students will have opportunities to work with English, math, social studies, and science teachers and class peers on academic projects, to receive direct instruction and practice on subject-specific skills, receive individualized help on difficult tasks, connect with team teachers and classmates, and tackle challenging problems and projects. Flex blocks also encourage cross-team flexible grouping when appropriate and available.
THREE BLOCKS PER CYCLE
SEMESTER COURSE
Makerspace in Grade 7 seeks to strengthen students’ understanding of the central role that Technology and Engineering play in culture. Three modest hands-on projects provide vehicles to continue our students’ engagement in the iterative design process: a model bridge, a model rocket, and a carved wooden box. These projects present opportunities for students to better understand and appreciate not only the design-build process but also the simple joys of building things.