In grades 6-8 emphasis is placed on perfecting English skills through increasing reading skills with specialized classes that focus on analysis of text while exploring a variety of genres. In Math, students learn to solve multi-step problems through real world applications and are introduced to pre-algebra. Advanced learners are able to start Algebra in 8th grade and continue on to advanced Mathematics in high school. The integrated Science curriculum gives students opportunities to explore different Science disciplines while developing inquiry skills and enforcing the use of the scientific process. Lessons take place in science labs where students can be inventive and conduct experiments.
In this phase, students’ attainment and progress is monitored through the following types of assessments:
• Cognitive Abilities Test 4 (CAT4) given from grades 6-8 in three-year cycles. The purpose of this assessment is to measure each child’s abilities and approach to learning. Data from this test helps teachers design lessons that meet the needs of all learners based on how students think.
• Measurement of Academic Progress (MAP) given from 6-8 three times per year. The performance is measured from the previous two years performance as well as within the same academic year. The assessment is catered to simplify or increase in difficulty as the child answers each question. The assessment is specific to reading, language, math and science.
• Internal benchmarks are used from the curricular resources to support and triangulate our student data based on curricular standards for each grade. Internal benchmarks are taken three times per year.
• Formative and summative assessments are administered to students for each subject to check mastery of skills and objectives. They are given as units of studies are completed and are communicated to parents via the Parent Portal on a weekly.