THE NATURE OF THE PROGRAM

A good education prepares young people for life in the world as competent, contributing members of society. Our middle school students learn in an active, stimulating atmosphere that honestly reflects the rhythms and patterns of real-life adult activity.  The broad base of knowledge and skills that are taught are based on Florida’s Sunshine State Standards. Teaching a long list of isolated academic objectives, however, does not honestly reflect the real nature of the world.  In reality, most adults are called on to seamlessly integrate a broad spectrum of skills and knowledge.

LANGUAGE ARTS

The Language Arts Workshop includes an individualized project-based writing time, guided independent reading, and personal word study. We develop a community of writers and readers through lots of sharing, speaking, and listening as well. Enjoy considerable freedom in this class to read and write what your heart desires, with enough structure and one-on-one conferencing to ensure that a range of genres and grade-appropriate skills are addressed. Daily whole group lessons engage students in word play and shared readings for enjoyment, analysis, and practice with reading and writing strategies. In mixed-grade classes, we will incorporate 6th graders into the workshop while 7th and 8th graders will provide leadership, continue to advance at their individual challenge level, and enjoy a new yearly theme with fresh shared readings.

MATH

Cornerstone’s middle school offers four math classes as well as a math resource room for individualized instruction. Students in Everyday Math will continue to develop and master skills that will prepare us for higher level math classes. This is the final level in the program that CLC begins in Kindergarten. It will be a fast-paced, exciting class. In Pre-Algebra, the first semester focuses on any integral skills and concepts from prior math classes that need to be reviewed and secured. Then algebraic concepts will be introduced in preparation for the next level. In Algebra, get ready for some excitement! Algebra is a challenging new subject for many, but it can be so much fun. In Geometry, we will review previously learned algebra skills and explore new ones during the first few weeks. Then we will dive into the exciting world of geometry. All math students can anticipate nightly homework and nifty projects throughout the year.

SOCIAL STUDIES

The social studies curriculum for Cornerstone’s middle school has an underlying emphasis on responsible citizenship and social justice. Students meet in multi-grade classes that use an inquiry- and project-based approach for exploring nationally recognized social studies themes. Skills in geography and active citizenship are interwoven throughout each course. Classes are offered on a three-year cycle (“U.S. History,” “Civics and Economics,” and “World Cultures and Personal Identity”). This year’s course is Civics and Economics. You will begin the year with a look at government, with many exciting opportunities in a presidential election year. Umbrella concepts for this course include: how people create, interact with, and change structures of power, authority, and governance; how people organize for production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services; and the relationships among science, technology, and society.

SCIENCE

The science program is expanding this year! Science classes will enjoy direct observation and inquiry-based investigation. In the 6th Grade Science class, students will focus on the Earth as a system, beginning with the topic of the sun as a source of energy. 7th Grade Science students will focus heavily on life science, beginning with a study of genetics through crossing fruit flies. The 8th Grade Science class will also pursue life science and then transition to physical science with a focus on properties of matter in preparation for high school. We’re excited to offer each grade its own science class this year and as much time for science as the other academic classes.

FOREIGN LANGUAGE

The Prima Lingua class gives 6th graders a foundation for studying any foreign language. They gain awareness of languages spoken worldwide and develop an understanding of the nature of human communication. Students will enjoy lots of interaction, games, online activities, and music. 7th and 8th graders begin to focus their language studies with an Introduction to French and German, which emphasizes conversation and cultural awareness.

TECHNOLOGY

This class explores different aspects of technology as part of our everyday culture. While the historical and societal aspects of technology will be explored, the curriculum will mainly be created around the students’ interests. Groups will collaborate to question how technology works, find new ways to use technology, and will help create a menu of personal technological abilities and understandings.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Classes meet twice a week for games, exercise, health, nutrition, and teamwork.

STUDY SKILLS

6th graders meet once a week to learn the study habits that will help them transition to the academic demands of middle school.

ELECTIVES

Year-long special area offerings include Percussion Ensemble, Chorus, Creative Drama, Art, Yearbook/Literary Magazine, Sport, and Academic Competition). In addition, the Wednesday Wheel classes change focus each trimester. It is always a fun surprise to see what will be offered each time! This year elective classes are longer for even more hands-on creativity.

SERVICE LEARNING

We have woven service projects throughout our curriculum. These experiences combine academic goals with character development and community service. Many of our service learning components continue weekly or monthly, year after year, and thus promote long-term commitment in our students: Reading Buddies, 100 Books for 100 Kids, Hope Community lunch service. Students also have regular opportunities to respond to specific needs through other, one-time service learning projects. Many of these are initiated by the Student Council, an open forum with representatives from grades 3 through 6. Eighth graders participate in an Eighth Grade Gift program, which takes their service learning to an even more personal and independent level in preparation for a lifetime of self-directed community service.