POLLARD MIDDLE SCHOOL NEEDHAM, MASSACHUSETTS PROGRAM OF STUDIES 2004-2005 GRADE 7
POLLARD MIDDLE SCHOOL STATEMENT OF PURPOSE: At Pollard, we dedicate ourselves to cultivating the personal growth, academic excellence, and civic responsibility of each member of our community. MIDDLE SCHOOL YEARS Teaching and learning during the middle school years occur at a critical phase of a student's development. Students experience rapid physiological changes, heightened emotional sensitivity, an emerging sense of self, and an increasing need for self-assertion. Cognitively, middle school students move from concrete toward abstract thinking. A pervasive yearning for self-acceptance and belonging also shapes their behavior and perceptions. Healthy connections with adults are crucial in recognizing and reinforcing a middle school student s sense of worth and the ability to balance extreme and competing developmental needs. Our students also face a rapidly changing world which challenges them to deal with many complex issues. We believe that a positive working relationship with parents and community is of vital importance to support our children in this challenging task. Together, we must engage students in a rigorous program that sets high expectations and provides opportunities for all learners to be successful. When students leave the middle school, they should feel pride in who they are, what they stand for, and what they have learned. They should be well-prepared to face the choices and challenges that await them in their high school years and beyond. A TRUE PARTNERSHIP Positive working relationships with families are of crucial importance. The successful growth and achievement of students depend on ongoing home/school communication about student progress. Parental input on programmatic issues and volunteer opportunities within the school provide other important bridges between home, school, and community. Beyond their family bonds, students also develop their identity as citizens of the school, the community, and the world. In these roles, students are given opportunities to make positive contributions while being taught about the interrelationship of freedom and responsibility. They experience cooperation and the respect for others perspectives-- values which are strongly emphasized along with a true sense of community within the school. TOGETHER, WE WILL WORK TO INSURE YOUR CHILD'S SUCCESS
REQUIRED COURSES ENGLISH/LANGUAGE ARTS Through a wide variety of classroom learning experiences, which are largely literature based, our goal is to teach children how to fully comprehend and respond to what they read and teach them how to use the English language most effectively in their writing and speaking. The English curriculum draws on the four main literary genres: fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and drama. Selected age-appropriate readings within these genres are meant to expose students to a vibrant crosssection of viewpoints, cultures, and communities from around the world--past and present--and foster an appreciation of this diversity. Along with gaining skills in comprehending text on a factual level, students also learn how to think critically while they read and are given the tools to respond analytically and personally through small group and whole-class discussions and through an array of written responses, as well as projects that tap students' strengths in visual and performing arts. Students are also encouraged to read independently outside of what is required in school by teachers who model for children a love of reading as a lifelong habit of mind. In all three grades, emphasis is placed on using the five-step writing process (prewriting or brainstorming, drafting, revising, editing, and publishing) to meet success in conveying ideas on paper. Students will increasingly learn how to adapt the writing process to fit the demands of individual assignments and shape their writing to satisfy specific purposes and audiences. Generally, writing assignments ask students to: provide information or explain what something is about (expository); tell a story (narrative); describe a place or person (descriptive); persuade others to understand and accept your point of view (persuasive); express thoughts and feelings and create fictional worlds (expressive). In all the writing they do, students are encouraged to develop their own individual voices and styles. In January of every year, students take part in the Pollard Writing Assessment, an "informative" essay exam administered to all three grade levels which tests student's ability to read and understand a long composition prompt, focus and develop ideas, and edit for standard English conventions in spelling, punctuation, and grammar. Students' scored exams are filed in individual writing portfolios. From grade six to eight, each student is expected to build and maintain his/her own portfolio as a way to demonstrate writing growth in the middle school years. Grade 7 students take the English Language Arts MCAS exam in two parts: In April, students write a Long Composition (which the Pollard Writing Assessment is modeled after) and in May the Language and Literature portion of the exam which tests a student's ability to understand and respond analytically to a variety of tests.
GRADE 7 This program has two components, one in language arts which emphasizes writing and a second in reading and literature. Language Arts 7 The seventh grade program continues the development of skills in reading, writing, listening, speaking, observing, and in study and research found in the sixth grade program. There is stress on process writing but also increasing work with open-ended questions and impromptu writing. Grammar and usage, and mechanics at a level of greater complexity are studied directly but primarily through student writings. These writings include formal and informal pieces as students develop an awareness of the different levels of language usage. Reading/Literature 7 Students read across various genres, developing an increasing understanding of their various characteristics and purposes. Selected novels are read by all students to develop a common knowledge of themes and to introduce literary analysis. Attention is given to furthering critical thinking, comprehension, vocabulary, and research skills through work with novels, short stories, poetry, drama, and nonfiction. MATHEMATICS The Mathematics Department of the Pollard Middle School has the following student goals: That students learn to value mathematics. That students become confident in their mathematical ability. That students become mathematical problem solvers. That students learn to communicate mathematically. That students reason mathematically. In addition to the above stated student goals, the overall goal of the Pollard Middle School Mathematics Program is to provide a sequential transition between the basic arithmetic, geometric, statistical, and problem solving skills studied in the elementary grades to the advanced mathematical skills of algebra, geometry, analysis, calculus, and statistics taught at the high school. The study of Pre-Algebra and Algebra at the middle school prepare the students for a successful transition to high school mathematics. Students begin the Pollard Middle School Mathematics Program in Grade 6 in an unleveled classroom. In this transitional year, all students will review and extend the mathematical concepts introduced in Grades K to 5. Students are able to demonstrate the necessary mastery of skills and knowledge that are essential for success in the following years at the middle school. Grade 6 mathematics also begins the transition from concrete learning to the learning of abstract concepts. Following Grade 6, the middle school mathematics sequence in Needham has two paths. Both paths lead to a college preparatory sequence at the high school. Those students who have demonstrated a mastery of Grade 6 Mathematics and have excellent study habits will take Pre-Algebra A in Grade 7. Pre-Algebra A begins the study of Algebra I. Those students who have not yet mastered the essential skills, concepts, and study habits of Grade 6 will enroll in Pre-Algebra B in Grade 7. Pre-Algebra B further develops the foundation of mathematical knowledge needed for success in later math courses. This course also begins the study of Algebra 1 but at a pace and depth that matches the students' skills.
Whenever possible, the middle school teachers attempt to integrate the mathematics curriculum with other disciplines. This integration demonstrates to the students that all subjects are connected and not just separate entities. In these units, students take knowledge learned in one subject and apply it to situations in other classes. The skills of analysis, synthesis, and generalization are the expected outcomes. Calculators are an essential part of the middle school mathematics program. Students will use calculators to study certain mathematical topics where tedious computation detracts from the learning of concepts and development of problem solving strategies. Calculators will not be used for all units. Mathematical competency should not be dependent upon the use of a calculator. Pre-Algebra 7A Pre-Algebra 7A covers the same topics as Pre-Algebra 7B with an approach that develops new ideas through student investigation. This approach is designed for students who thrive in a discovery learning model and work well independently. In addition, mathematical concepts and skills are introduced using a balance of abstract and concrete experiences. Students must have complete mastery of basic skills, be able to think algebraically, be prepared to understand multiple concepts in each lesson and have demonstrated excellent study skills in homework completion and test/quiz preparation. This course will include some review of difficult topics that need skill reinforcement. Specifically, the students will study the following topics: Variables, Expressions, and Number Properties, Integers and Rational Numbers, Equation Solving, Algebraic Word Problems, Ratio, Proportion, and Percent, Inequalities, Statistics, and Two and Three Dimensional Geometry. Calculators, computers, and interdisciplinary units are used when appropriate to instructional goals. Pre-Algebra 7B Pre-Algebra 7B covers the same topics as Pre-Algebra 7A with a more hands-on concrete approach that provides frequent content practice. Therefore, mathematical concepts are introduced at a concrete level and developed when possible toward a level of abstraction. In addition, this course allows for continued skill development and reinforcement of basic skills and concepts Pre- Algebra 7B is designed to support the learning of students who have not fully retained the skills and concepts covered in Mathematics 6. Students will learn to solve problems through repetition with emphasis placed upon the introduction and learning of new algebraic concepts and skills. Students in this level, thrive in a structured, directed learning environment. Specifically, the students will study the following topics: Variables, Expressions, and Number Properties, Integers and Rational Numbers, Equation Solving, Algebraic Word Problems, Ratio, Proportion, and Percent, Inequalities, Statistics, and Two and Three Dimensional Geometry. Calculators, computers, and interdisciplinary units are used when appropriate to instructional goals. SCIENCE Earth, Life, and Physical Sciences, as well as Technology principles, are continually integrated throughout sixth, seventh, and eighth grades. An emphasis is placed on relating the various principles and concepts to real life and multicultural experiences. Various teaching strategies such as hands-on laboratory activities, interdisciplinary lessons, differentiated learning techniques, team teaching, and student presentations are used throughout the students' middle school years. Development of reading, writing, problem solving, laboratory techniques, and study skills are important objectives of the science program. The integrated, spiraled approach of the curriculum insures that students develop a strong science foundation.
Science 7 This course introduces biological science. The emphasis is on the understanding and appreciation of all forms of life: plants, animals, humans, and their ecological relationships. Concepts are taught by multiple teaching strategies including team teaching, hands on activities, experimentation, and student presentations. Considerable emphasis is placed on the development of reading, writing, problem solving, and study skills. SOCIAL STUDIES Now, more than ever, social studies is a key component of a child's education. The world is changing and offering tremendous challenges to our communities, country, and planet. Events like 9/11 and the war with Iraq highlight a need for informed, thoughtful citizens. We aspire to equip children with some knowledge of history so that they can begin to understand the multiple reasons why events unfold as they do and that the future is a result of the past. Knowledge of governments, past and present, help students understand how people organize themselves in different ways. Experience with the viewpoints of diverse cultures and individuals challenge students and teachers alike to examine our own opinions and approaches to living. Of course, without attention to essential skills such as geography and research, social studies fluency can not be achieved. We also dedicate ourselves to providing important experiences in areas such as teamwork and public speaking. Please note that the Social Studies curriculum detailed below is currently under review by a K-12 Committee and may change. Social Studies 7 The seventh grade program shares the Grade 6 course s emphasis on history and geography. Ancient civilizations, from regions such as South Asia and East Asia, are examined as well as selected key connections to the modern world. There is an emphasis on major world religions and philosophies. FOREIGN LANGUAGES Pollard Middle School offers instruction in two foreign languages, French and Spanish, with an emphasis on the ability to communicate. Students entering Pollard in Grade 6 select the language they will study for their three years at Pollard. The curriculum focuses on language functions what do you know and are able to do and is based on the state frameworks and national foreign language proficiency guidelines. At the same time students are learning a second language, they are also learning about the culture and history of countries where those languages are spoken, and making connections to the world around them. At each grade level students develop their four basic language skills speaking, listening, reading, and writing and use audio, video, and Internet resources to build their skills. Continuing French 7 This is a continuation of Beginning French 6 and also meets every other day. Vocabulary topics include the family, house, food, restaurant and travel. Continuing Spanish 7 This course is a continuation of Spanish 6 and meets every other day. Vocabulary topics include describing clothing, going shopping, travel, the house and household chores, and health and the body.
Continuing Integrated Learning Block (ILB) 7 Students who did not take a World Language in Grade 6 must continue in ILB in Grade 7. This regular education program option provides students individualized support with required course work in small student/teacher ratios. The support will be provided by the grade level team teachers in lieu of World Language. Enrollment will be limited. ELECTIVE COURSES MEDIA AND TECHNOLOGY Media instruction in literature and information skills is integrated into project based learning experiences that occur in Science, Social Studies, Language Arts, Health, or Arts classes. The media specialist collaborates with teachers to integrate these skills while curriculum topics are being studied. Students work in the media center to gather, organize, evaluate, and use information from a broad range of print and electronic sources. Technology instruction occurs in two ways. The technology integration specialist collaborates with teachers to help students use educational software and produce effective presentations. Students also receive direct technology instruction though the courses offered at each grade level. Technology instruction is part of a K-12 sequence of skill development. Through integrated and direct instruction, students engage in a variety of technology learning experiences. Computer 7: Presentation Tools The focus of this course will be on using the computer to create presentations. Content will include integration of graphics in word processing documents, desktop publishing, spreadsheets, and linear and non-linear presentations. An effort will be made to coordinate activities and projects with the academic classes. It is intended that students will be taught these concepts as related to computer use rather than application specific skills. The intent is that if they understand how each concept works that they will be able to transfer these skills to other applications and computers. Computer Tools 7 Students will be introduced to a variety of word processing, desktop publishing, electronic research, spreadsheets, graphing, presentation, and multimedia software. An effort will be made to coordinate activities and projects with the academic classes and the emphasis will be determined by specific tie-ins to the academic classes. HEALTH AND PHYSICAL EDUCATION Health, Physical Education, and Experiential Education make up the middle school portion of our K-12 comprehensive wellness program. Although each course is taught separately, they each embrace a multidimensional approach to understanding human health and well-being. Each course contributes, in its unique way, to students ongoing development of skills, knowledge, and attitudes needed to participate in an active healthy lifestyle. The wellness curriculum emphasizes each students responsibility for their own health and well-being based on a six-dimensional wellness model (social, emotional, physical, intellectual, spiritual, and occupational/leisure). The middle school wellness program builds upon the knowledge, skills, and behaviors learned and practiced in grades K-5, and is valuable in preparing middle school students for their high school experience.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION The physical education program recognizes the uniqueness of the middle school child and is designed to support students healthy development as adolescents. Through the use of Games, Sports, Gymnastics, Adventure Activities, Fitness, and Dance students are involved in activities designed specifically to help them improve their individual fitness levels and practice and develop physical skills, social skills, and emotional skills. Units are carefully sequenced so that appropriate skills and strategies are delivered to each grade. In addition, health fitness assessments are conducted each year to provide data in areas of cardiovascular health, abdominal strength and endurance, upper body strength, and flexibility. Students are given the results of their individual tests and are encouraged to develop exercise practices that will help them to improve their scores. Healthy lifestyles are encouraged throughout the curriculum. Emphasis is on encouraging each student to try a variety of different activities and to pursue those that are enjoyable. Each student s enjoyment in an activity increases as they become more competent in their skills. Students have an opportunity to improve their skills as they progress through the program as each level provides a higher level of challenge. Team sports consist of units in lacrosse, field hockey, basketball, volleyball, flag football, and team handball. Individual activities consist of units in track and field, badminton, tennis, frisbee, outdoor activities, and dance. Wellness activities include aerobics, weight training, and CPR. HEALTH EDUCATION The overall theme of the middle school health program is Respect, Responsibility, and Resourcefulness. The goal of the Health Education Program is to promote healthy behaviors and a dedication to wellness. Through a carefully developed series of lessons, students have opportunities to learn and practice social and emotional skills, increase their knowledge, and develop healthy attitudes. The program is designed to help students make life-style decisions that encourage optimal physical, emotional, social, and environmental health. Students participate in health education during all three of their years at the Middle School. The 7th grade program focuses on l) Introduction to Wellness, 2) Learning Styles, 3) Physical Health and Disease Prevention, 4) Emotional and Social Health, and 5) Substance Abuse. EXPERIENTIAL EDUCATION Using a variety of teacher directed challenge activities, students develop and practice social and emotional skills and discuss ways these skills can be applied to their daily lives now and in the future. At the core of this program is the student's need for a safe, risk-taking environment which fosters appreciation of differences and promotes individual contribution, commitment, and follow through. Specific activities stress accepting differences, communication, cooperation, decision making, self awareness/self management, social and interpersonal skills, and trust.
VISUAL ARTS The department has four distinct goals: To build upon and add a layer of complexity to students knowledge of art elements, principles, and techniques. To develop students critical and creative thinking skills through the process of making art (creating the idea, problem-solving, analyzing, evaluating, etc.). To develop intra and interpersonal skills through both independent and cooperative learning (including the ability to challenge themselves and explore new possibilities). To connect the visual arts to life outside the classroom using art and cultural history, current events, etc. Art 7 This course is required for all 7th grade students. Students will explore the dynamics of color interaction such as the contrasting effects of complimentary and analogous color schemes. Composition skills will extend from unity to include the Art Principles of contrast and emphasis. Design and Illustration 7 Design and Illustration s emphasis is on visual problem-solving. Students will develop their visual language skills to communicate an idea clearly in two or three dimensions. For example, students will stylize and simplify objects to represent a larger idea. Drawing and Painting 7 This course focuses on technical skills in drawing and painting. Students learn the difference between observational and imaginative drawing. They use line, value, shape, composition, and color to create the illusion of form in space. Art and Computer 7 Art and Computer 7 focuses on applying art elements and principles to computer art. Students learn about various artists, art movements and cultures. Students learn to create original artwork on the computer. Ceramics 7 This course provides students with additional opportunities to create functional and sculptural kiln-fired clay objects. Emphasis is placed on developing appropriate hand-building techniques, primarily in the making of slab-built pieces, along with the skillful use of ceramics tools. Students will develop their clay surfaces additionally with some form of sculptural enrichment, such as relief, engraving, stamping, etc. Glaze and/or paint will also be used. MUSIC DEPARTMENT The Pollard Music Program offers the middle school student opportunities in three distinct areas of the musical arts: performance, music theory/skills, and individual self expression. Performance: Our choruses and instrumental ensembles provide an opportunity for shared group expression, high-level emotional and technical thinking, and the experience of teamwork Music Theory/Skills: Our keyboard and guitar classes provide students with individualized training in music reading, technical skill, and performance. Composition: Our Composition classes provide opportunities for self-expression, creativity, and organization skills.
GRADE 7 The Performing Groups (Choruses, Concert Band, String Ensemble) meet every other day for the full school year. The Performing Groups participate in at least two public concerts each year. Boys Chorus 7 This course is open to all 7th Grade boys on a non audition basis. Chorus members combine with Boys Chorus 8 to develop the unique quality of the early adolescent boys voice. Students experience a variety of musical styles designed to give chorus members a strong, positive choral experience. In addition to the two major concerts each year, the chorus may also perform for functions in Needham and surrounding communities. Members of Boys Chorus 7 may audition for Treble Choir. Girls Chorus 7 This course is open to all 7th Grade girls on a non audition basis. Students learn to develop healthy vocal techniques by experiencing various styles of choral music. Students also learn the important skills of ear training, sight-singing, and dictation. In addition to the two major concerts each year, the chorus may also perform for functions in Needham and surrounding communities. Members of Girls Chorus 7 may audition for Treble Choir. Concert Band 7 This course is open to 7th grade students who play brass, woodwind, or percussion instruments at a beginning or intermediate level with a minimum of one year experience on their instrument. Students learn the fundamentals of musicianship and technical skill through the study of different styles of band literature. The Concert Band participates in the December concerts, spring concerts, assembly programs, and the biannual Bandorama. Concert Band 7 may join with Concert Band 8 for combined performances throughout the year. String Ensemble 7 This course is open to 7th grade students who play violin, viola, cello, or string bass with a minimum of two year s experience on their instrument. The String Ensemble performs a variety of intermediate level orchestra literature. String Ensemble 7 may combine with String Ensemble 8 for school concerts as well as the biannual Stringfest. String Ensemble members may audition for the select Town Orchestra. Private lessons are offered through the Needham Public Schools. Individual instruction can greatly improve the student s success in class. Piano/Electric Keyboard 7 This course is a practical introduction to the fundamentals of performance on electric keyboard. This course equips students with the basic skills of keyboard posture, note reading, and rhythm. Students enhance their listening skills through rhythmic dictation and writing. Using Middle C Position and C Position, students learn a variety of melodies with and without choral accompaniment. Through self-expression and in-class performances, students enhance their self-esteem. This course meets every other day for one trimester. Creative Composition 7 This course gives the middle school student a positive experience in selfexpression through musical composition. Students prepare a series of projects, working both individually at a computer/keyboard workstation. Projects include melody and duet writing, as well as a film-scoring experience and jazz/pop writing. This course meets every other day for one trimester. Theater 7 This course is an introduction to the process of producing and performing dramatic works. The course will address acting techniques and the staging/directive aspects of producing a play. Students with participate in dramatic projects which may include presentation of poetry readings, pantomime, multiple scene work, monologues, and one act plays. This course also explores literature through drama. This course meets every other day for one trimester.
PERFORMING GROUPS MEETING AFTER SCHOOL WITH MEMBERSHIP BY AUDITION These performing groups are open to sixth, seventh, and eighth grade students by audition. Participating students must be members in good standing in the corresponding school ensembles. Pollard Treble Choir This performing group is composed of students selected by audition from the sixth, seventh, and eighth grade choruses. Treble Choir Girls rehearse on Tuesday afternoons from 2:05-2:50 pm; Treble Choir Boys rehearse on Wednesday afternoons from 2:05-2:50 pm; and the combined choir rehearses on Friday afternoons from 2:05-2:50 pm. In addition to the afternoon rehearsals, sectional rehearsals are held before school in the morning as scheduled by the director. The Treble Choir has performed for professional organizations, regional festivals, and community organizations. Jazz Ensemble This performing group consists of students selected by audition from the Sixth, Seventh and Eighth Grade Concert Band. Jazz ensemble begins in January and meets through the end of the school year. Students study and perform multiple styles of Jazz and popular music. The Jazz Ensemble performs at the Spring Concert, Pollard Pops Concert, and 8th Grade Graduation. Instrumentation includes saxophones, trumpets, trombones, drum sets, guitar, bass, and piano. The Jazz Ensemble meets on Tuesday afternoons from 2:15-3:00 pm from January to June. All students must be in Concert Band except guitar, bass, and piano. Private lessons are offered through the Needham Public Schools. Individual instruction can greatly improve student's success in the ensemble. Town Orchestra This performing group consists of string players from Grades 3-8 who are selected by audition. Middle School students must be members of the Sixth, Seventh or Eighth Grade String Ensembles to audition for the orchestra. The Town Orchestra performs in the Winter and Spring Concerts with the Pollard Treble Choir. Town Orchestra meets on Thursday afternoons from 3:00-4:15 pm at Pollard. Private lessons are offered through the Needham Public Schools. Individual instruction can greatly improve student's success in the ensemble.