Middle School Advisory: Building Connections and Skills for Success

Our Middle School Advisory program fosters personal growth, collaboration, and academic success through a balance of social-emotional learning and practical skill development. Guided by the essential questions Who am I? Who are you? and How can we work together to contribute to our community?, students engage with the Habits of Mind and Heart curriculum to build empathy, self-awareness, and teamwork.

In Academic Lab, students hone key skills like self-advocacy, time management, and organization, ensuring they are equipped to navigate their academic journey with confidence. Twice a year, they take center stage during student-led family-advisor conferences, presenting evidence of their personal and academic growth—a hallmark of Whitfield's commitment to empowering students as reflective learners and leaders.

English at Whitfield: Unlocking the Power of Language

At Whitfield, the English program inspires students to build character, purpose, and passion in an environment that champions communication, connection, and innovative thinking. Through an engaging curriculum that balances collaborative experiences with personalized instruction, students discover the beauty and power of the English language. From thought-provoking literature to creative and expository writing, our program equips students with the tools they need to become skilled, effective, and enthusiastic communicators—prepared for college, careers, and the world beyond.

Middle School English: Building Skills, Exploring Ideas

In grades 6–8, students explore essential questions about identity, community, and freedom through thematic literature, creative expression, and critical analysis. The Middle School English curriculum is designed to spark curiosity, deepen understanding, and provide a strong foundation in writing, grammar, and vocabulary.

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Grade 6: Building a Community of Readers and Writers

Students in 6th grade dive into the wonders of the natural world through a variety of genres, including novels, short stories, and poetry. With a focus on age-appropriate reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills, they learn to craft their own poetic expressions and analyze literary works.

• Highlights:
  • Mastering grammar fundamentals and sentence variety through interactive lessons.
  • Exploring personal reading choices alongside class reads.
  • Presenting book reviews in creative formats.
• Essential Questions:
  • How can I use the natural world to inspire my writing?
  • What role does literature play in broadening our understanding of the world?

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Grade 7: Discovering the Emerging Self

Through an exploration of folktales, mythology, and contemporary novels, 7th-grade students uncover universal archetypes and cultural values. This journey inspires personal storytelling, creative writing, and critical analysis.

• Highlights:
  • Researching global cultures and humanitarian issues.
  • Expressing ideas through personal narratives and expository paragraphs.
  • Building a strong vocabulary and grammar foundation.
• Essential Questions:
  • What do a culture’s stories and myths reveal about its values?
  • How can we use our voice to drive positive change?

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Grade 8: Exploring Freedom and Identity

In this pivotal transition year, 8th-grade students tackle complex themes of freedom and identity through literary classics like Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, Fahrenheit 451, and Macbeth. Alongside their studies, students refine their analytical and compositional skills.

• Highlights:
  • Seminar discussions and essays that connect literature to the world and personal experiences.
  • Expanding vocabulary through the study of Latin and Greek roots.
  • Independent reading alongside anchor texts.
• Essential Questions:
  • What factors shape our freedom and identity?
  • What is the relationship between freedom, love, and power?

Middle School Fine Arts Department Overview

The Middle School Fine Arts program at Whitfield School provides students with opportunities to explore and develop their creativity in various artistic disciplines, including Visual Arts, Performing Arts, Instrumental and Vocal Music, and Theater. Each discipline is designed to foster self-expression, technical skills, and collaborative learning, all while nurturing a deep appreciation for the arts.

Visual Arts

The Visual Arts program in Middle School emphasizes creativity, craftsmanship, and confidence in the art-making process. Students are encouraged to engage with various media, solve problems creatively, and develop their artistic voice. The curriculum introduces students to the elements of design and the artistic processes essential for creating meaningful artwork and visual communication.

• Visual Arts 7 (Grade 7): Seventh-grade students explore different media to enhance their creative problem-solving abilities and technical skills. Projects foster individual engagement with art as a visual language, allowing students to build confidence in their artistic expression.
  Essential Questions:

  • How do artists use the elements of design to discuss both their work and that of others?
  • How do we create a studio environment where every artist is encouraged to take creative risks and speak about their work?
  • What attitudes and behaviors support creativity while working with a range of media?
  • What is an artist?
     

• Visual Arts 8 (Grade 8): In eighth grade, students focus on personal investment in their creative processes, with an emphasis on visual communication. Students explore the elements of design and how these concepts structure their artwork. This course prepares students for upper-level visual arts courses and encourages students to refine their creative choices and voice.
  Essential Questions:

  • How do artists apply the elements of design to communicate both verbally and visually?
  • How do we create a studio environment where every artist can be confident in their creative choices and voice?
  • How does producing multiple solutions and revisions improve the individual creative process?
  • In what ways am I an artist?

Instrumental and Vocal Music

Music is central to the Fine Arts program, with students engaging in both instrumental and vocal music as part of their curriculum. Whether through individual performances or ensemble work, students will learn the essential skills of musicianship, including reading and performing music, technique development, and understanding music theory.

• Beginning Band (Grades 6-7): Students will be introduced to woodwind and brass instruments, learning instrument care, playing technique, and basic music theory. The focus will be on developing proficiency as both a soloist and a member of the ensemble.
  Essential Questions:

  • What are the essential elements of reading and performing music?
  • How can I work together with others to create an ensemble?
     

• Concert Band (Grades 6-8): Students will refine their skills on wind, brass, or percussion instruments, learning advanced techniques such as major scales and arpeggios. They will have the opportunity to explore music interpretation and balance within small ensembles.
  Essential Questions:

  • How can I develop my skills as a musician?
  • What are the elements essential to reading and performing music?
  • How do individuals collaborate to create an ensemble?
     

• MS Concert Choir (Grades 6-8): Choir students will be introduced to vocal techniques such as breath control, tone production, and articulation, all while singing choral repertoire. Through vocal exercises and music appreciation, students will enhance their musical and performance skills.
  Essential Questions:

  • How do I develop as a musician?
  • How do I work together with others to create a musical ensemble?

Theater

The Middle School Theater program is designed to foster both onstage and behind-the-scenes skills. Students will explore performance techniques, creative problem-solving, and collaboration in the theater arts. Through exercises, games, and projects, they will learn to develop concentration, observation, and imagination while building their confidence and comfort in performance.
Essential Questions:

• What roles can I play in the creative process of making theater?
• How does theater contribute to society?
• How can I build my confidence and creativity as a performer?

Middle School Mathematics at Whitfield School

Whitfield School’s Middle School Mathematics program is designed to foster mathematical confidence and competence, with courses tailored to students’ individual abilities. Through a focus on problem-solving, critical thinking, and real-world applications, students gain a deep understanding of key concepts in algebra, geometry, and beyond.

Placement in courses such as Skills & Strategies, Pre-Algebra, Algebra I, and Geometry is based on students’ abilities, ensuring that each student is appropriately challenged. Whether reinforcing foundational skills or advancing to more complex topics, our curriculum supports students in developing the mathematical fluency necessary for success in high school and beyond.

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Middle School Math: Skills & Strategies

COURSE DESCRIPTION:
The "Skills & Strategies" course serves as a foundational bridge between basic math and algebraic thinking. This course emphasizes hands-on problem-solving techniques that foster mathematical confidence. Students will practice a variety of strategies for tackling different mathematical problems and determine the reasonableness of their solutions. Key concepts include operations on integers, fractions, decimals, percentages, ratios, proportions, number theory, and basic coordinate plane geometry.

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Emphasis on developing mathematical confidence
• Hands-on problem-solving techniques
• Exposure to foundational algebraic concepts
• Focus on number theory, including prime factorization and least common multiples

ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS:

• How can my prior mathematical knowledge/skills be applied to solve real-world problems?
• How can I use multiple approaches to solve a variety of math problems?
• How will I respond to obstacles that I encounter with challenging math topics?
• How can I assess if my solution is reasonable?

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Middle School Math: Skills & Strategies II

COURSE DESCRIPTION:
Building on "Skills & Strategies," this course deepens algebraic thinking and mathematical reasoning, preparing students for pre-algebra. Students will explore a range of problem-solving strategies and work on assessing the reasonableness of their solutions. Key concepts include order of operations with real numbers, ratios, proportionality, linear relationships, algebraic expressions and equations, inequalities, probability, angles, triangles, and three-dimensional figures.

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Strengthened algebraic thinking to prepare for future math courses
• Exploration of proportional relationships and linear functions
• Focus on geometry, including angles and three-dimensional figures
• Probability concepts integrated with algebraic reasoning

ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS:

• How can my prior mathematical knowledge/skills be applied to solve real-world problems?
• How can I use multiple approaches to solve a variety of math problems?
• How will I respond to obstacles that I encounter with challenging math topics?
• How can I assess if my solution is reasonable?

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Pre-Algebra

COURSE DESCRIPTION:
The Pre-Algebra course prepares students for the transition to Algebra I and Geometry by building skills in identifying and representing patterns, communicating mathematically, and employing problem-solving strategies. Topics covered include integers, rational numbers, writing variable expressions, solving one-variable equations, ratios, proportions, percentages, introduction to linear functions, and basic geometry.

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Solid foundation for Algebra I and Geometry
• Focus on recognizing patterns and relationships
• Introduction to linear functions and basic geometry
• Problem-solving strategies that connect math to real-world scenarios

ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS:

• How can I use mathematics to model, predict, and make decisions about the world in which I live?
• How do I choose and use the most effective means of mathematical communication: words, pictures, tables, graphs?
• How do I choose and use the best problem-solving strategy?
• How can I assess if my answer is reasonable?

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Middle School Algebra I

COURSE DESCRIPTION:
The Algebra I course introduces formal algebraic concepts and encourages independent learning. Students will use their writing skills to express mathematical ideas clearly. Key topics include solving equations, inequalities, and systems of equations, writing and graphing functions, evaluating and simplifying exponential expressions, and simplifying and factoring polynomials.

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Introduction to formal algebraic concepts and functions
• Focus on solving and graphing equations and inequalities
• Emphasis on writing and communicating mathematical ideas
• Application of exponential expressions and polynomials in real-world problems

ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS:

• How do I solve and graph various functions?
• How do I use multiple representations such as words, equations, graphs, and numbers to effectively communicate mathematical ideas?
• How do I assess if my answer is reasonable?

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Middle School Geometry

COURSE DESCRIPTION:
The Geometry course invites students to investigate and work with key geometric postulates and theorems. Students explore geometric tools, reasoning, and justification through various topics including parallel and perpendicular lines, congruent triangles, relationships within triangles, polygons, quadrilaterals, similarity, right triangles, trigonometry, and area. Students will apply learned concepts to construct logical, written arguments.

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Deep dive into geometric postulates, theorems, and reasoning
• Emphasis on constructing logical, written geometric arguments
• Focus on trigonometry and right triangle relationships
• Application of geometric concepts to solve real-world problems

ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS:

• How can I use my knowledge of algebra to solve geometric problems?
• How do I make my own discoveries through geometric investigations?
• How do I use reasoning and problem-solving strategies to draw logical conclusions?

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Middle School Algebra II

COURSE DESCRIPTION:
Algebra II is a more formalized study of algebraic concepts, including expressions, equations, inequalities, functions, graphs, and more. Students will explore polynomial, quadratic, rational, and radical functions, as well as linear systems. Geometry concepts are integrated at various levels to enhance understanding. Graphing calculators are utilized to facilitate discovery and help students understand algebraic concepts in a deeper way.

HIGHLIGHTS:

• In-depth study of polynomial, quadratic, rational, and radical functions
• Integration of geometry concepts to reinforce algebraic understanding
• Use of graphing calculators to enhance mathematical discovery
• Application of algebraic concepts to real-world situations and problems

ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS:

• How can I translate real-world situations into mathematical expressions that require algebraic manipulations?
• How can I graphically represent algebraic expressions?

Middle School Physical Education Department Overview

The Physical Education program at Whitfield School is designed to support the development of a healthy body, mind, and character. The program focuses on helping students build the skills, knowledge, and habits that will enable them to lead active, healthy lifestyles. Through a combination of team sports, recreational activities, and lifetime fitness, students are encouraged to pursue physical well-being and character development.

Physical Education 6-8

This course is required for all middle school students at Whitfield. It introduces students to a variety of sports and activities, aiming to develop physical fitness, teamwork, and personal wellness. The program is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills they need to be physically active and healthy for a lifetime.

Course Description:
​​​​​​​The Physical Education program provides students with opportunities to learn essential vocabulary, rules of play, and strategies related to various sports. In addition to sport-specific instruction, students also explore topics related to lifelong fitness, such as resistance training, coordination, balance improvement, agility, and conditioning. The program rotates quarterly, allowing students to select activities in the following categories: team sports, recreational games, or lifetime fitness.

Essential Questions:

• How can I build habits for lifelong physical fitness?
• What skills are necessary to succeed in both team and individual sports?
• How can I take care of my body to maintain good health throughout my life?
• What strategies can I use to improve my physical abilities, such as strength, coordination, and agility?

Science at Whitfield: Developing Scientific Minds and Critical Thinkers

The Whitfield School science department is committed to nurturing critical thinking and collaboration through hands-on learning in scientific theory, process, and technique. From Earth Science to Physical Science, our middle school students explore the natural world and engage in real-world problem-solving through laboratory investigations and projects. With a focus on inquiry-based learning, our students are empowered to become scientifically literate and confident individuals, ready to thrive both in school and beyond.

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Science 6: Earth Science

COURSE LENGTH: 2 Semesters
GRADE: 6

COURSE DESCRIPTION:
In sixth grade, students embark on an exciting exploration of Earth Science, utilizing the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). The curriculum introduces key scientific concepts, including Earth’s place in the Universe, the Earth’s history, weather, climate, and human impacts on our planet. Students will also engage with engineering design principles and the scientific method to solve problems. Hands-on activities allow students to apply these concepts in real-world contexts, from coding and building models to conducting laboratory investigations and collaborating on projects. The year culminates in an independent engineering project, putting their skills to the test.

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Exploration of Earth’s place in the solar system
• In-depth study of weather, climate, and human impact
• Hands-on engineering project to apply learned skills
• Focus on scientific method, coding, and design thinking

ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS:

• How do scientists and engineers solve problems?
• What is Earth’s place in the Universe?
• How do people figure out that the Earth and life on Earth have changed over time?
• How does the movement of tectonic plates impact the surface of the Earth?
• How do human activities affect Earth systems?

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Science 7: Life Science

COURSE LENGTH: 2 Semesters
GRADE: 7

COURSE DESCRIPTION:
Seventh-grade science dives into the study of living organisms through the lens of the scientific method and NGSS standards. Students develop essential scientific skills, such as taking accurate measurements, recording data, and interpreting graphs. The course focuses on the structure and function of organisms, including plants, animals, bacteria, and fungi, and the interactions within ecosystems. Throughout the year, students engage in independent investigations and laboratory experiments, where they apply these skills to better understand how organisms grow, reproduce, and thrive in their environments.

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Study of organisms and ecosystems with hands-on investigations
• Independent projects to explore key biological concepts
• Emphasis on understanding energy flow and genetic traits in organisms
• Integration of scientific method and engineering design in all activities

ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS:

• How do organisms obtain and use matter and energy?
• How do organisms grow, develop, and reproduce?
• How does genetic variation affect survival and reproduction?
• How does the environment influence genetic traits over generations?

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Science 8: Physical Science

COURSE LENGTH: 2 Semesters
GRADE: 8

COURSE DESCRIPTION:
Eighth-grade students in Physical Science engage in an activity-based curriculum that emphasizes the importance of trial and error, conceptual design, and measurement. Topics explored include fluids and pressure, motion, flight, and basic chemistry. Students will apply mathematical concepts to understand physical processes and solve real-world problems. Collaborative work and effective study strategies are essential components of the course, helping students develop strong teamwork and technical writing skills. This course challenges students to think critically about the physical world and its various processes.

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Hands-on activities focusing on fluids, pressure, and flight
• Application of mathematical formulas to physical concepts
• Trial-and-error approach to conceptual design and measurement
• Collaborative work to strengthen problem-solving and communication skills

ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS:

• How does mass and distance affect balance?
• What is mass, volume, and density, and how are they measured?
• How are fluids and pressure related?
• What are Newton’s Laws, and how are they demonstrated?
• How do planes fly?

Middle School Social Studies

At Whitfield, the Middle School Social Studies curriculum fosters students’ curiosity about the world while building critical thinking and analytical skills. Through engaging coursework and hands-on projects, students examine the connections between history, geography, culture, and government, learning to think deeply and make informed decisions. This dynamic program helps students build empathy, understand diverse perspectives, and grow as global citizens.

Grade 6: America: The Story of US

Students embark on a journey through key moments in American history, exploring stories of change and progress through multiple perspectives. Using primary and secondary sources, including artwork, photographs, letters, and music, students gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of American history. Through projects, discussions, and collaborative work, students develop skills in research, note-taking, writing, and critical thinking while learning the importance of studying “hard history” to understand the present.

Highlights:

• Deep exploration of American history through primary and secondary sources.
• Emphasis on close-reading, note-taking, and critical thinking skills.
• Engaging projects, seminars, and collaborative learning opportunities.

Essential Questions:

• How is the story of history constructed? Is history “finished”?
• Why is studying “hard history” important?
• What voices are needed to understand the story of America?
• How does learning the story of others impact our understanding of our nation and ourselves?
• How does a nation’s past impact the present?
• How do people create change?

Grade 7: World Cultures & Geography

This yearlong exploration of world cultures introduces students to the Middle East, Asia, Africa, and the Pacific. Students delve into the richness of these regions through literature, cartography, and historical analysis, examining the interplay between geography and culture. By engaging in thought-provoking projects and discussions, students cultivate an appreciation for cultural diversity and develop essential skills for thriving in a global community.

Highlights:

• Study of diverse cultures through fiction, nonfiction, and cartography.
• Examination of human interactions, geographical concepts, and political systems.
• Projects and seminars to build collaboration, research, and critical thinking skills.

Essential Questions:

• How and why do communities form?
• How do human beings create, learn, share, and adapt to culture?
• Why is it important to study other cultures?
• How does geography affect culture?
• How can culture be used to empower and/or limit people?
• What happens when cultures meet?
• What factors determine political borders? How and why do they change over time?

Grade 8: Civics & US Government

Eighth graders discover what it means to be an active citizen in the United States by studying the foundations of American democracy, the Constitution, and key moments of political and social change. Through debates, persuasive writing, and analysis of current events, students deepen their understanding of government systems and their role in shaping society. This course emphasizes critical thinking and collaboration, preparing students to engage thoughtfully with the world around them.

Highlights:

• Examination of the development of American democracy from colonialism to today.
• Analysis of Supreme Court decisions, elections, and social movements.
• Focus on debate, persuasive writing, and collaborative projects.

Essential Questions:

• What is the role of government in the United States?
• What is the relationship between liberty and security?
• What is patriotism?
• What does it mean to be a citizen?

Middle School Language Department Overview

In middle school, language learning is an integral part of the curriculum, with students required to take language courses each year. The language program offers French, Spanish, and Mandarin, with a focus on building strong communication skills and cultural awareness.

Language courses in grades 6-8 are designed to foster a foundation in the three modes of communication: interpersonal, interpretive, and presentational. Small class sizes allow for personalized attention and active participation in language practice through speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Students engage in a variety of activities, including partner conversations, cultural explorations, and hands-on projects, all of which promote confidence in using the target language.

Middle School Language Requirements

Language is required for all students in grades 6 through 8. Students begin by exploring the basics of language acquisition in Grade 6 and continue to build upon these skills in Grade 7 and 8, with the option to study French, Spanish, or Mandarin.

Heritage speakers may not take their heritage language in middle school, but will be encouraged to pursue advanced language courses in high school.

Introduction to Languages

Course Description: This class builds a foundation in language acquisition, exploring language families, communication types, and language learning through an introduction to Latin. In the second semester, students are exposed to French, Mandarin, and Spanish phonetics and structures, helping them decide which language to pursue.
Essential Questions:

• What are the four types of communication?
• Where do languages come from and how do they develop?
• How do we learn language?
• What language(s) and culture(s) interest me?

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MS French I-A

Course Description: This class builds confidence and success in the three modes of communication: interpersonal, interpretive, and presentational. It is the first part of a two-year foundational course. Emphasis is on oral proficiency with collaborative speaking activities, creating a community of learners.
Essential Questions:

• Who and what comprise the French-speaking world?
• What are the elements of culture?
• How do we find meaning in exploring the French language and culture?

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MS French I-B

Course Description: Building on French I-A, this class emphasizes oral proficiency and communication through paired conversations, written exercises, and cultural exploration. Students engage in more advanced conversations and expand their skills.
Essential Questions:

• How do we understand a different language and culture?
• How do we effectively communicate in French?
• How do we cope with and adapt to unknown situations in a different culture?

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MS French II

Course Description: This course prepares students for higher proficiency in the three modes of communication. Students will engage in activities, discussions, and projects to enhance their language skills. Topics include everyday communication, personal expression, and deeper cultural exploration.
Essential Questions:

• How do we understand a different language and culture?
• How do we effectively communicate in French?
• How do we cope with and adapt to unknown situations in a different culture?

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MS Mandarin I-A

Course Description: This introductory course focuses on the three modes of communication in Mandarin. Students learn basics such as pinyin, numbers, and simple descriptions. The class includes stories, videos, and written exercises.
Essential Questions:

• How do Chinese-speaking cultures compare to my home culture?
• How can I communicate and describe daily needs and opinions effectively?
• How can I describe myself and my family?

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MS Mandarin I-B

Course Description: Students continue to develop communication skills in Mandarin, focusing on speaking, writing, and listening in the language. The class includes stories, videos, and written exercises with an emphasis on spoken language.
Essential Questions:

• How can I communicate essential needs and information in Mandarin?
• How can I communicate with locals when I travel?
• How do Mandarin-speaking cultures compare to my home culture?
• Who comprises the Mandarin-speaking world?

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MS Mandarin II

Course Description: In Mandarin II, students deepen their oral and written skills, expanding their vocabulary and ability to express ideas more creatively and sophisticatedly. Discussions, articles, and informal writing provide opportunities for more complex communication.
Essential Questions:

• How can I communicate and describe school life in the context of Chinese and American schooling?
• How do we educate ourselves about the social differences and similarities of Chinese-speaking cultures?

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MS Spanish I-A

Course Description: This class focuses on building confidence and success in the three modes of communication: interpersonal, interpretive, and presentational. The course introduces students to Hispanic culture and basic Spanish communication.
Essential Questions:

• Who and what comprise the Spanish-speaking world?
• How can I communicate essential needs and information?
• How can I describe myself and my environment?
• How do Spanish-speaking cultures compare to my home culture?

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MS Spanish I-B

Course Description: In Spanish I-B, students continue to develop their language skills through paired conversations, short stories, songs, and written exercises. Topics include food preferences, family, celebrations in Spanish-speaking countries, and descriptions of homes.
Essential Questions:

• Which people and what countries comprise the Spanish-speaking world?
• How can I communicate essential needs and information?
• How can I describe myself and my environment?
• How do Spanish-speaking cultures compare to my home culture?

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MS Spanish II

Course Description: Spanish II continues to develop proficiency in the three modes of communication, with an emphasis on oral skills. Students will engage in partner conversations, presentations, and discussions on topics like money habits, health, and travel. They will also learn the preterite tense for discussing past events.
Essential Questions:

• How can I effectively communicate using verbal and non-verbal language?
• How can I describe daily needs, events, and opinions creatively?
• How can I discuss my habits, both past and present, regarding spending, health, and travel?