Language Arts & Literature
The Language Arts and Literature curriculum focuses on knowledge and application of skills in reading, writing, speaking and listening. Students write structured essays and further develop skills in narrative, expository, persuasive and descriptive writing. Students will incorporate research techniques and technology skills as they move into more sophisticated forms and styles of writing.

Independent reading will be expected of each student. Students will develop vocabulary in cultural, historical, literary and specialized contexts. This fosters the understanding of ideas, arguments and perspectives found in the text. Enrichment and remedial activities will be included in the regular program.

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Mathematics
The Mathematics Department is designed to provide a mathematical fuondation for students living in a world of rapidly developing technology. In addition to learning basic arthmetic concepts and appropriate computational skills, students will have the opportunity to learn higher thinking mathematical skills.

Courses offered in mathematics are:

• Math - 6th grade
• Math - 7th grade
• Math - 7th grade enriched
• Math - 8th grade
• Pre-Algebra
• Algebra I

Students eligible for Algebra I will be screened through a selection process which includes:

• District Mandated Differential Aptitude Test Scores (DAT)
• Teacher Recommendation/Signature
• Parent Permission

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Science
The integrated approach to science shows students how science interconnects. In our science program we will help students frame questions, derive concepts and obtain evidence.

There are three science textbooks for middle school students. All three textbooks integrate all the natural sciences, presenting them as a single area of study. Themes are the constructs that unify the sciences. Woven throughout these textbooks, themes integrate facts and concepts. They are the "big ideas" that link the structures on which the science disciplines are built.

We believe the science is not just a collection of facts for students to memorize. Rather, it is a process of applying these observations and intuitions to situation and problems, formulating hypothesis and drawing conclusions. This interaction of the thinking process with the content of science is the core of science and is the focus of our teaching.

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U.S. History
U.S. History is offered to eighth graders as a general survey course. It is organized chronologically with special focus on the Colonial Period, the Constitution and the modern period. Students are expected to use the content to strengthen skills in communication, geography, critical thinking, research and group work.

The sixth grade course of study will focus on the Eastern Hemisphere of the world. In covering the history, geography and culture of the Eastern Hemisphere, an investigation of early civilization as well as a brief overview of history to the current time will be included. Geography will concentrate on developing familiarity with cities, countries, continents and major physical features. Cultural aspects examined will include the religions, language, ethnic backgrounds, technologies, standards of living, social lives, politics and economic systems of the people in the Eastern Hemisphere.

The curriculum for the seventh grade is divided into two parts: One semester students will study Canada and Latin America. The second semester students will study New Mexico. The history, culture, geography and current issues of the regions will be addressed.

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