A Learning Community - 6th through 8th Grade: The Core Curriculum Overview The middle school curriculum follows the Diocese of Raleigh standard course of study. Students deepen and extend knowledge and skills learned in earlier grades and they begin to specialize. Students change classes for different subjects. Research skills are honed in all disciplines and emphasis is placed on development of critical thinking. At points throughout the program, students learn appropriate computer skills including the use of spreadsheets and databases. Field trips enhance the curriculum. Religion In grades 6-8, students focus on the texts and lessons of both the Old and New Testaments. They reflect to understand and act on their roles as Christians in the community. Religion instruction centers on living the Gospel. Language Arts Aimed at developing increasingly sophisticated reading, writing, and speaking skills and at facilitating students' understanding of and love for literature, the language arts program encompasses two class periods. In one class period, the focus is on grammar and writing skills. During the other class period, students and teacher investigate literature. Vocabulary development is emphasized. Seventh graders take the Riverside Writing Test. Mathematics In grades 6 and 7, all students pursue the nationally acclaimed curriculum, Mathscape: Seeing and Thinking Mathematically. This curriculum provides students with the opportunity to explore four strands of mathematics: numbers and operations, algebra and functions, geometry and measurement, and probability and statistics. Students engage in active problem solving through hands-on activities that help to develop higher level mathematical understandings. In grade 8, students pursue either advanced 8th grade mathematics or algebra. Eighth graders in algebra take the North Carolina end-of-course test for algebra. All eighth graders take the North Carolina computer literacy test. Social Studies In middle school social studies, students develop knowledge and skills that provide a foundation for critically thinking about and understanding the world today. In grade 6, students explore history, cultures, and geography of Europe and Russia including the republics which formerly comprised the Soviet Union. In grade 7, students study Africa and Asia. Particular attention is paid to the political, economic, and social structures of geographic regions. In grade 8, students investigate the history of North Carolina and its connections to U.S. history. In all grades, students develop the tools of active citizens: map reading and interpretation, critical thinking, and public issue problem solving. Science The aim of middle school science is to develop students' scientific thinking and problem solving through the study of the solar system, ecosystems, energy transfer, the atmosphere, cell theory, interactions of matter, the hydrosphere, population dynamics, change and constancy, and motion and forces. Students learn to prepare slides for microscopes, use microscopes, measure accurately and precisely, and conduct scientific investigations. Electives Middle school students enjoy special courses twice a week that allow them to explore interests more deeply. In the past, electives have included drama, chess, guitar, scrap booking, art club, math challenge, and public speaking. Students change electives periodically to gain exposure to a variety of activities.

		© 2005 Immaculata Catholic School, All Rights Reserved	Terms of Use and Privacy