MIDDLE SCHOOL (GRADES 6-8)
The Middle School years are a time of rapid change
as students enter adolescence. Our program supports the desire
for increasing autonomy with opportunities for independent work
throughout the curriculum. The social needs of young adolescents
are responded to with flexible grouping.
With a low student-teacher ratio and the assignment
of a teacher-advisor to each student, the Middle School provides
personal attention and supportive relationships with caring
adults.
The academic program emphasizes
the development of strong skills across the curriculum. Thematic
studies continue throughout the three-year program, focusing
on concepts related to Ancient Civilizations, the Middle Ages,
and the Early Modern Period. This approach transmits a core
of common knowledge and provides the structure for integrating
work across various disciplines.
Literature study is theme based. When studying
the Middle Ages, for example, students read literature pertaining
to European, African, and Asian cultures of the period. Language
arts classes include a formal study of grammar.
The science curriculum includes life, earth and
space, physical, and environmental units. For an example of
a typical Middle School science project, click
here. The mathematics program, which uses Connected Mathematics, provides a strong foundation
in algebra and geometry.
All students attend Spanish class four times a
week, and Latin is taught in eighth grade. Middle School students
attend "specials"--classes in
A Middle School Study
Hall, supervised
by Middle School faculty and provided at no additional fee,
is available from 3:20 to 4:30 p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays, and
Thursdays. Study Hall provides an opportunity for students
to get a head start on their homework and to receive one-on-one
support from a teacher.
The Philadelphia School provides outstanding academic
preparation for a successful high school experience. Students
and their families receive counseling in the selection of secondary
schools.
To see a recent Middle School project related
to last year's all-school theme,
go to Franklin
Remixed.
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SAMPLE RESEARCH REPORT TOPICS
Ancient Civilizations:
Amina of Zaria
Ancient Israel
Chinese Pottery
Egyptian Mummies
Hannibal
Marine Archaeology
Pompeii
Middle Ages:
The Black Death
Chivalry & Bushido
The Crusades
The Islamic World
Joan of Arc
The Magna Carta
West Africa
Renaissance:
Brunelleschi's Dome
Devastation of the Indies
Mary, Queen of Scots
Mansa Musa of Mali
The Ming Dynasty
The Spanish Inquisition
Thomas More's Utopia
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