6-8 Core Content Standards & Skills Overview for Parents

Middle school is an exciting time for students to deepen their knowledge and explore a variety of subjects. In English Language Arts (ELA), students focus on reading comprehension, writing, and communication. They analyze texts, develop arguments, and create narratives while improving their critical thinking and collaboration skills. Each grade level builds on these foundations, with honors and accelerated options providing advanced opportunities for students to engage with complex texts and demonstrate mastery. Mathematics instruction covers topics such as ratios, geometry, algebra, and probability, with an emphasis on problem-solving and real-world application. Honors courses provide accelerated content, including Algebra I and Geometry for high-achieving students.

Science and social studies provide a comprehensive look at the world. Science instruction encourages inquiry through hands-on investigations and modeling. Topics range from cellular biology and energy systems in earlier grades to genetics, ecosystems, and physics in later grades. Social studies explore historical events, geographical relationships, and the development of civilizations, emphasizing critical thinking about cultural and political changes. Students develop skills in analyzing primary sources and connecting historical contexts to current global issues. Honors courses and projects, such as National History Day, provide enriched learning experiences for motivated students.

Key Highlights:

• ELA: Critical reading, writing, and communication skills with honors options for deeper analysis.

• Math: Proportional reasoning, geometry, algebra, and data analysis; advanced courses like Algebra I Honors.

• Science: Hands-on learning in biology, ecosystems, physics, and earth sciences.

• Social Studies: Historical analysis, cultural studies, and connections to global and local perspectives.

• Resources: Schoology for assignments, iReady and digital tools for personalized learning paths.