
"The mission of the Tredyffrin Easttown Middle Schools is to educate and challenge students to fulfill their potential within a community where children are valued, empowering these emergent adolescents to discover and appreciate who they are, what they may become, and what they can contribute to others."
What We Expect From Our Middle Schools
The program is designed for the needs of our students. Through their experience in our middle schools we may expect several outcomes. Among these are:
Enhanced interest in life-long learning
Greater propensity for intellectual risk-taking
Increased pride and quality in school work products
Broader facility with fundamental academic skills
A richer knowledge base on which to make informed decisions
Enhanced ability to solve academic and real-life problems
Further development of the interests, talents, and abilities within each person
A healthy self-concept
A greater appreciation of, and respect for, teachers and peers
A deeper understanding of the importance of our environment
A more flexible and creative mind
Ability to work in groups and demonstrate leadership
FIFTH GRADE COURSE OF STUDY
Five Academic Classes Daily
Two Special Areas Subjects Daily
Family and Consumer Sciences 2 times in 6 day rotation, 12 weeks
Applied Technology 2 times in 6 day rotation, 12 weeks
Technology Education 2 times in 6 day rotation, 12 weeks
Health 2 times in 6 day rotation, all year
Physical Education 2 times in 6 day rotation, all year
Art 2 times in 6 day rotation, all year
Music 2 times in 6 day rotation, all year
Foreign
Language Experience in Spanish 2 times in 6 day rotation, all year
Enrichment Seminar 2 times in 6 day rotation, all year
Students enrolled in the gifted program receive their program through Enrichment Seminar.
Students in Band, Orchestra, and Choral performing groups have practices after school. Instrumental lessons occur on a rotating, pull-out basis.
Language Arts
The fifth grade language arts course provides continuity between the elementary and middle school reading and writing programs. Children expand their reading skills through lessons revolving around a literature-basal reader as well as full-length novels. They continue their development in writing, focusing particularly on basic paragraph structure - topic sentence and supporting details - as a foundation for future work on the essay. Students explore their language through activities in grammar and usage, as well as spelling and vocabulary. They learn basic research skills and participate in both individual and group oral presentations.
Social Studies
|
Grade 5 |
Ancient Cultures/Mesopotamia, Egypt, India, China, Israel, Greece and Rome. |
|
Grade 6 |
Geography and the World Around Us/Human and Physical Geography; Five Themes of Geography (location, movement, place, region, human/physical interaction). |
|
Grade 7 |
American Studies (Age of Exploration through the War of 1812) Periscope to the 20th Century. |
|
Grade 8 |
Andrew Jackson to the 20th Century. |
Mathematics
This course is offered at three ability levels to meet the needs of students. Those working a full year above grade level use a sixth grade textbook to develop the following topics: set theory, operations with whole numbers, number theory, integers, fractions, decimals, geometry, ratio, proportion, percent, probability and statistics. Students are selected for this program based upon their level of math achievement and the recommendation of the fourth grade mathematics teacher. All other students use a fifth grade textbook as these topics are developed: place value, whole number operations, decimals, statistics, graphing, number theory, fractions, geometry, measurement, perimeter, area, volume, ratio, percent, and probability.
Science
This course deals with a variety of topics which students find interesting. A hands-on approach is used as frequently as possible. Students pose questions and engage in activities as they seek answers to their questions. The major topics of study are: animals without backbones, animals with backbones, living communities, electricity, sources of energy, changes in the earth, changes in the weather, and experiments with plants. Topics of current interest such as ecology are also part of the curriculum. Retaining and increasing the students' interest in science is an important goal of this course.
Applied Technology
Students use one of several software packages and computers to develop personal keyboarding skills. Students progress at their own pace using correct finger placement on the home row and students learn to type at the rate of ten to twenty words per minute. Students are also introduced to a word processing program. If time permits, students are encouraged to produce covers and title pages for assignments and projects in other subject areas by using skills learned in applied technology.
Art
The fifth grade art program is designed to enhance children's exposure to works of art, and to help them look at art more perceptively and understand that art continues to be a valid mode of expression. They develop basic skills in drawing, painting, and clay, using elements such as line, shape, texture, space, value and color. The arts of ancient civilization are integrated into the fifth grade art program, giving it a multi- cultural focus. Student art work is displayed throughout the year, in the school and in the community. A special art exhibit is held in the spring, concurrent with the Spring Concert.
Enrichment Seminar
Enrichment Seminar provides fifth grade students with an additional learning experience in math, science, social studies, and English. Each course is designed to encourage creativity and student participation through a variety of "hands-on" learning experiences. Students rotate to a different subject area every 9 weeks.
Family and Consumer Science
Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) prepares students to begin their journey toward becoming independent, productive citizens. The program emphasizes hands-on involvement; practical problem solving skills in developmentally appropriate real-life applications; learning environments designed to meet developmental needs of all students; and our educational goals for all learners. The FCS curriculum includes three units of study that are essential for all students. Fifth graders learn basic sewing skills, including sewing on a button and using a sewing machine for a straight seam. Each student will complete a sewing project. In the foods area, students study the food pyramid and prepare simple, nutritious snacks. In the home alone/self-care unit, students explore self-care strategies for behavior while home alone.
Health
This course introduces the students to the study of health. Emphasis will be on the following body systems: circulatory, respiratory, and digestive. Included in the course of study will be family life, safety & first aid, and fire safety. All students will be required and expected to maintain a three-ring binder specifically for health, throughout year.
Music
Classroom music instruction in the Tredyfrin-Easttown School District focuses on singing, music reading, classroom instruments, music appreciation, improvisation and composition, and movement. Fifth grade students use individual vocal range in two-part singing. They read simple melodies and rhythms, and apply them to the creation of music on classroom instruments, including the recorder. Students arrange simple pieces for voice or for instruments other than those for which they were written. They learn about musical theater, experiencing various real works. Finally, students learn and perform dances from different cultures and time periods.
Foreign Language in the Elementary School (FLES)
Physical Education
This course is an introduction to team and individual sports and has an emphasis on basic skill development through participation in drills, modified games, and the parent form of the games. Activities include basketball, volleyball, softball, team handball, floor hockey, field hockey, and wrestling. All programs are developed on a continuous progress basis for preparation in 6th, 7th and 8th grade physical education. The Presidential Physical Fitness test will be administered in the fall and the spring.
Technology Education
Fifth graders are new to Technology Education/Industrial Arts. Accordingly, the program is designed to introduce them to the field. They learn basic tools and safety issues surrounding their use. Students design personal folders and create a logo for their class to apply to their folders. In a plastics unit, students become familiar with basic pieces of equipment used with plastics for cutting, sanding and thermoforming. In a leather unit, students learn to condition leather, and to bevel, slick edges, stamp, dye and finish leather.
SIXTH GRADE COURSE OF STUDY
Five Academic Classes Daily
Two Special Areas Subjects Daily
Family and Consumer Sciences 2 times in 6 day rotation, 12 weeks
Applied Technology 2 times in 6 day rotation, 12 weeks
Technology Education 2 times in 6 day rotation, 12 weeks
Health 2 times in 6 day rotation, all year
Physical Education 2 times in 6 day rotation, all year
Art 2 times in 6 day rotation, all year
Music 2 times in 6 day rotation, all year
Foreign Language Experience 2 times in 6 day rotation, all year
Students in Band, Orchestra, and Choral performing groups have practices after school. Instrumental lessons occur on a rotating, pull-out basis.
English
In sixth grade, students refine their control of paragraph structure and write longer descriptive pieces as well as poetry. They read and discuss a variety of literature, including novels and short stories, and learn to recognize basic features of literature such as character development, plot and setting. They develop their research skills through individual and small group projects and presentations involving a variety of applications. Students continue their study of the English language, focusing particularly on effective word choice, subject-verb agreement, sentence variety, pronoun usage and correct punctuation.
Reading
Using both a literature-based basal reader and a number of full-length novels, students work to gain control of reading skills which will aid them in all subject areas in middle school, high school, college and beyond. Sixth graders respond to reading through writing, expand their vocabulary, and learn a variety of reading and study strategies which will enable them to approach any text with confidence. Teachers provide encouragement for students to read for pleasure as well as for information.
Social Studies
The sixth grade social studies program is based upon the study of human and physical geography. The study centers around the five themes of geography: location, place, interaction, movement and region. The purposes of the program are for students to acquire and understand geographic information, to learn about the significant conditions and processes of their work, and to think and act as geographers in solving problems of the global community. Teaching and learning activities of the sixth grade social studies program may include, but are not limited to, oral and written presentations, database and media research, field trips, telecommunications, composition writing, cooperative and group learning, map construction, map interpretation, and the discussion of current events. Geographic topics and units are often coordinated with learning in other disciplines. The art, music, family and consumer sciences, and technology education programs support the students' learning in geography.
Science
This course makes use of the scientific method in many contexts as students design and carry out experiments to answer questions. Students are actively involved in doing science as they investigate patterns of living things, cells and microbes, matter, chemical changes, energy, temperature, and heat. Microscopes and other technologies are used to support a variety of hands-on activities. Science students participate in interdisciplinary units which are supported by the entire core team. Although these units differ in each of the middle schools, they are directly related to science or to great scientific achievements of the past.
Mathematics
This course is offered at three ability levels to meet the needs of all students. Those working a full year above grade level use a seventh grade textbook to develop the following topics: set theory, number numeral concepts including square root, integers, number theory, rational numbers including decimals, ratio, proportion, percent, probability, statistics, functions, graphing, and basic principles of geometry. Students are selected for this program based upon their level of math achievement and the recommendation of the fifth grade mathematics teacher. All other students use a sixth grade textbook to develop the following topics: set theory, operations involving whole numbers, number theory, integers, fractions, decimals, ratio, proportion, and percent.
Art
The sixth grade art program is designed to include studio work experiences that give repeated, gradual building experiences with a range of media, skills and techniques. Emphasis will be placed on design and composition in drawing, painting and three-dimensional form, utilizing the principles of organization, such as rhythm, unity/harmony, variety and proportion. Interdisciplinary connections are made when appropriate. Students become acquainted with various art forms from cultures around the world. A special art exhibit is held in the spring, concurrent with the Spring Concert.
Applied Technology
Students continue to develop their personal keyboarding skills as they use one of several software packages and Macintosh computers. Students are refreshed on proper keyboarding techniques as they develop speed and accuracy. The remainder of the time is spent developing facility with productivity tools including a word processor, databases, spreadsheets, and graphs. Students are introduced to projects relating to a variety of subject areas.
Family and Consumer Sciences
Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) prepares students to begin their journey toward becoming independent, productive citizens. The program emphasizes hands-on involvement; practical problem solving skills in developmentally appropriate real-life applications; learning environments designed to meet developmental needs of all students; and our educational goals for all learners. The FCS curriculum includes three units of study that are essential for all students. Sixth graders use basic sewing skills to complete a sewing project. In the foods area, students develop their food preparation skills and explore life-long healthy food choices. In the babysitting/child care unit, students develop skills to positively interact with children.
Foreign Language Experience (FLEX)
(French,
German, Latin, Spanish)
Middle
school FLEX expands students' awareness of various forms of international
communication by acquainting them with the languages and cultures that they can
choose to study in the T/E foreign language program. Students concentrate on one
of the above languages in each marking period. Through a sequence of oral
activities, students learn basic vocabulary and phrases for greetings, names,
colors, the weather, families, sports, and other topics of interest. They also
take part in cultural activities, games and video presentations relating to the
language itself and to the countries where that language is spoken. The
Spanish FLEX program takes into account prior knowledge gained in the FLES
program in grades 1-5.
Health
The health course is designed to promote an understanding of physical and emotional aspects of healthy living. The emphasis in sixth grade is on the skeletal system, muscular system, nervous system, family life, prevention of drug & alcohol abuse, care of the body, and safety & accident prevention. All students will be required and expected to maintain a three-ring binder specifically for health, throughout the year.
Music
Classroom instruction in the Tredyffrin/Easttown School District focuses on singing, music reading, classroom instruments, music appreciation, improvisation and composition, and movement. Sixth grade students sing with expression and technical accuracy in two parts. They read increasingly complex melodies and rhythms, and apply them, or play by ear, on classroom instruments, including the recorder. Students arrange simple pieces, with increased use of music notation, for voice or for instruments other than those for which they were written. They learn about musical theater and other musical genre, experiencing various real works. Finally, students learn and perform dances from different cultures and time periods.
Physical Education
This course is a continuation of the introduction to team and individual sports and has an emphasis on basic skill development through participation in drills, modified games, and the parent form of the games. Activities include basketball, volleyball, softball, team handball, floor hockey, field hockey, and wrestling. All programs are developed on a continuous progress basis for preparation in 7th and 8th grade physical education. The Presidential Physical Fitness test will be administered in the fall and spring, and the results of the previous year will be compared.
Technology Education
The focus area of technology education in sixth grade is manufacturing. Students participate in a measurement unit then learn about processes associated with manufacturing. They design and manufacture a bug barn, engaging in problem solving and collaboration, and using manufacturing processes, such as production organization and assembly line.
SEVENTH GRADE COURSE OF STUDY
Five Academic Classes Daily
Two Special Areas Periods Daily
Family and Consumer Science 2 times in a 6
day rotation, 12 weeks
Applied Technology 2 times in a 6 day
rotation, 12 weeks
Technology Education 2 times in a 6 day
rotation, 12 weeks
Physical Education 2 times in a 6 day
rotation, All year
Health 3 times in a 6 day rotation, half of
the year
Music 2 times in a 6 day rotation, all year
Art 3 times in a 6 day rotation, half of the
year
Students in Band, Orchestra, and Choral performing groups have practices before school. Instrumental lessons occur on a rotating, pull-out basis.
English
The seventh grade English program combines the study of literature, writing, language structure and oral communication. Students read and respond to short stories, novels, poetry and drama. In writing they focus on polishing and expanding their control of paragraph structure (persuasive, comparison/contrast, analytical, critical) and writing longer creative pieces. They continue their exploration of the research process through a variety of activities and take part in speeches and other oral presentations.
Social Studies
American Studies I focuses on the political, economic, and social foundations of the United States. The program begins with a brief review of the Age of Exploration and delves into the Colonial era with an emphasis on Pennsylvania history. The course’s chronological presentation follows the struggle for Independence and the emergence of a new nation. The course continues with the historical development of the Constitution, the Federalist era, Jeffersonian America, and concludes with early Westward Expansion.
Science
This course deals with many topics from the life and physical sciences. Students are engaged in hands-on activities on a regular basis as they gain insights into the mysteries of science. The major topics of study include the diversity of living things, interactions, solutions, forces, motion, structures, and design. Science students also participate in interdisciplinary units which are supported by the entire core team.
Mathematics
This course if offered at three ability levels to meet the needs of all students. Those working a full year above-grade level use an eighth grade textbook as pre-algebra concepts are developed including the solution of linear equations and introduction to polynomial expressions. Other topics include: sets or probability and statistics, integers, geometry, number theory, rational numbers including fractions and decimals, percent, functions and graphing, patterns and problem solving. Students are selected for this program based upon their level of math achievement and the recommendation of the sixth grade mathematics teacher. All other students use a seventh grade mathematics textbook to develop these topics: sets or probability and statistics, number/numeral, number theory, geometry, fractions, ratio and proportion, decimals, percent, integers, and patterns and problem solving.
Foreign Language - French 7, German 7, Latin 7 or Spanish 7
Following their participation in the 6th grade FLEX program, students choose one language on which to concentrate in 7th and 8th grade and through high school. The seventh grade program in French, German, and Spanish provides students with the basics of language structure and focuses heavily on spoken language. A key component is development of oral proficiency through engaging lessons in vocabulary and the provision of many opportunities for speaking. A wide variety of individual and group activities are used in the classroom as students learn language and culture, and increase their international awareness. In Latin many of the same types of activities occur, with a focus on word derivation and elementary grammar.
Individualized Reading
For students who need some additional instruction and practice in developing reading skills, this course provides individual and small group instruction by a reading specialist. Student interest and abilities are taken into account as the young people are taught strategies to help them to succeed in reading in all content areas as they continue their education.
Applied Technology
Several class periods are devoted to reviewing keyboarding, but the majority of time is spent on projects relating to other subject areas and improving the use of productivity tools. Students learn to use a spreadsheet, design graphs and charts, timeline software, and import images into a variety of documents. Students are instructed to use many software packages and are encouraged to relate all of their emerging computer skills to all subject areas. The Applied Technology teacher works closely with all subject area teachers to design projects of interest which transcend subject area boundaries.
Art
The seventh grade art program advances the students' understanding and skills in drawing, painting, and three-dimensional form through a double period studio experience. Elements of design, principles of organization, art styles and movements, and art criticism are further explored by the students as media skills and techniques refine and blossom creatively at this pivotal age. Interdisciplinary connections are utilized when applicable. The students meet three times during a six day cycle for double period studios for one marking period. Student artwork is displayed throughout the year in the school community. A special art exhibit is held in the spring, concurrent with the Spring Concert.
Health
The health program in seventh grade is designed to promote an understanding of the physical and emotional aspects of healthy living. The emphasis in seventh grade health is on chemicals and addictives, wellness, mental health, anatomy and physiology, and family life. All students will be required to complete a chemicals and addictives game project, and will be required and expected to maintain a health three-ring binder throughout the year.
Family and Consumer Sciences
Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) prepares students to begin their journey toward becoming independent, productive citizens. The program emphasizes hands-on involvement; practical problem solving skills in developmentally appropriate real-life applications; learning environments designed to meet developmental needs of all students; and our educational goals for all learners. Seventh graders take an in-depth look at nutrition and wellness with an emphasis on breakfast foods. Students will experience an extended period of time in the foods lab setting which will prepare them for an at-home breakfast project.
Music
Classroom music instruction in the Tredyffrin-Easttown School District focuses on singing, music reading, classroom instruments, music appreciation, improvisation and composition, and movement. In seventh grade, students continue to become familiar with their own vocal range. Additionally, they expand their music reading skills, with opportunity to use standard notation to record musical ideas. Students improvise simple melodies and harmonies by ear on various classroom instruments. The continue their investigation of music as an art form, comparing the capacity of various forms of art to express ideas and emotions. Seventh graders can recognize dance movement as a separate form of expression, and show awareness of the relationship of movement to different styles of music and other art forms.
Outdoor/Indoor Adventure
This course is designed to give seventh grade students exposure to activities and experiences that are often not included in their traditional physical education classes. Students will be required to complete a partner or individual project on a lifetime sport or activity. Students will also be involved in cooperation games, group challenges, and problem solving activities throughout the duration of the course. The final concentration of the course is devoted to the understanding and development of physical fitness.
Physical Education
This course is a continuation of team and individual activities with an emphasis on basic skill development. All students are encouraged to participate at maximum effort, no matter what their ability level is, to obtain the social and physical benefits of participation. The Presidential Physical Fitness test will be administered in the fall and spring, and the results of the previous two years will be compared.
Technology Education
Technology Education students in seventh grade experience materials, including plastics and metal. In their work with plastics, students learn cutting, buffing with a variety of abrasives, thermoforming, drilling and laminating. With metals, students learn bending, shaping, cutting, assembling, spot welding and soldering. Safety procedures are emphasized throughout the course.
EIGHTH GRADE COURSE OF STUDY
Five Academic Classes Daily
Two Special Areas Periods Daily
Family and Consumer Science 2 times in a 6 day rotation, 12
weeks
Applied Technology 2 times in a 6 day rotation, 12 weeks
Technology Education 2 times in a 6 day rotation, 12 weeks
Physical Education 2 times in a 6 day rotation, All year
Health 3 times in a 6 day rotation, half of the year
Music 2 times in a 6 day rotation, all year
Art 3 times in a 6 day rotation, half of the year
Students in Band, Orchestra, and Choral performing groups have practices before school. Instrumental lessons occur on a rotating, pull-out basis.
English
The eighth grade English program provides students with the academic focus in writing, language structure and literature that will help them to succeed in high school and beyond. Writing instruction relates to basic essay structure - development of the thesis statement and support - as students critique literature they are studying and write about other topics of interest. Opportunities for creative writing and journal writing are also provided. Working as a whole class as well as a member of a smaller discussion group, students read a variety of novels and relate them thematically. Eighth grade English students do a research project and take part in various speech activities to expand their confidence and speaking ability.
Social Studies
American Studies II focuses on the political, economic, and social foundations of the United States. The course chronologically traces the history of the U.S. from the Jacksonian Era to 1914, focusing on significant events and their long-term consequences. The course includes an in-depth study of the causes and effects of the Civil War, the technological and cultural developments of the Industrial Revolution, and the social reforms that shaped life in the 19th century.
Science
This course deals with a variety of topics from the life, physical, earth, and space sciences. Students do many hands-on activities and experiments. The major topics include: life processes, machines, work, energy, oceans, climate, particles, radon testing, the continuity of life, and simple genetics. As time permits other interesting topics are considered. These topics may include environmental issues, orienteering, or bridge building and testing. Students also participate in all inter- disciplinary units which are supported by the entire core team.
Mathematics 8
Students in this course are exposed to the basic principles of arithmetic. The topics of study include: operations with whole numbers, decimals, fractions, geometry, measurement, and applications of mathematics in career situations.
Pre-Algebra
At this level, students are exposed to a variety of topics including: integers, number theory, geometry, rational numbers, decimals, percents, functions and graphing. Students examine the role of a variable in each of the units covered. Upon completion of this course, students begin a formal study of algebra in ninth grade.
Pre-Algebra/Algebra IA
Students are selected for this course on the basis of their achievement in mathematics and the recommendation of the seventh grade mathematics teacher. Many of the topics listed under Pre-Algebra are quickly covered prior to the formal study of Algebra I, part A. The algebra topics include: linear functions and inequalities, functions and linear graphing, linear systems, proportions and variation. Students successfully completing this course will complete Algebra IB/Geometry in grade nine.
Algebra I
This course begins the formal study of algebra. Among the topics developed are an introduction to algebra, linear functions and inequalities, functions and linear graphing, linear systems, proportions and variation, polynomial and exponent operations, factoring, radicals, quadratic expressions, and rational expressions and equations.
Foreign Language - French 8, German 8, Latin 8 or Spanish 8
Students in eighth grade continue their program in foreign language, experiencing a wide variety of instructional situations which enable them to expand their speaking ability. They extend their knowledge of the basics of grammar and increase their vocabulary through oral, visual, and written prompts. They also learn more about the culture of the countries in which the target language is spoken. When they enter the high school program, they are prepared to take the second year high school course in French, German, Latin, or Spanish.
Individualized Reading
For students who need some additional instruction and practice in developing reading skills, this course provides individual and small group instruction by a reading specialist. Student interests and abilities are taken into account as the young people are taught strategies to help them in all content areas as they enter high school.
Applied Technology
FIFTH GRADE
The fifth grade applied technology program explores Windows NT environment using
Dell computers so students are comfortable navigating on the PC platform.
Students discuss our Network Acceptable Use Policy and gain access to an
individual account where they store all middle school computer files. The
Applied Technology program expands on the development of personal keyboarding
skills using UltraKey, one of three keyboarding software packages. Students
progress at their own pace with emphasis on correct finger placement on the home
row, proper keystrokes, accuracy and then finally speed. Students are encouraged
to keyboard at 20 words per minute with 90% accuracy. This cumulative skill is
reinforced as students actively engage in utilizing various software
applications such as Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Publisher to create word webs,
word process, and explore drawing tools.
SIXTH GRADE
The sixth grade applied technology students continue to explore Windows NT
environment using Dell computers so students are comfortable navigating on the
PC platform. Students review our Network Acceptable Use Policy and review the
features of their individual log-on account where they store all middle school
computer files. Students continue to develop their keyboarding skills as they
use All The Right Type and Mavis Beacon Teaches Typing software applications.
Students refresh their keyboarding techniques and are given opportunities to
develop their accuracy and speed. Students are expected to key at 20 words per
minute with 95% accuracy. Additionally, students develop facility and
productivity with tools including a scanner and digital cameras as they work
with word processing, desktop publishing, table creations, and slide show
applications.
SEVENTH GRADE
The seventh grade applied technology students continue to explore Windows NT
environment using Dell computers so students are knowledgeable navigating on the
PC platform. Students review our Network Acceptable Use Policy and review the
features of their individual log-on account where they store all middle school
computer files. Students refine keyboarding techniques and are given
opportunities to develop their accuracy and speed. Students are expected to key
at 25-30 words per minute with 95% accuracy. The majority of time is spent
exploring, improving, and developing creative projects centered on word
processing/drawing, spreadsheets, graphing, newsletters, desktop publishing, and
slide show applications. Websites, scanners and digital cameras are incorporated
into class projects. The uses of these applications promote creativity and
reinforce learning in all disciplines
EIGHTH GRADE
The eighth grade applied technology students continue
to explore Windows NT environment using Dell computers so students are
proficient navigating on the PC platform. Students review our Network Acceptable
Use Policy and review the features of their individual log-on account where they
store all middle school computer files. Students develop a mastery level of
keyboarding techniques and are expected to key at 30 words per minute with 98%
accuracy. Students are actively engaged in creating and designing quick
publications (Publisher), spreadsheet survey, multimedia PowerPoint slide show,
and desktop publishing projects. Websites, scanners and digital cameras are
incorporated into class projects. Project development promotes collaboration
with other classmates, problem-solving and critical thinking.
Art
The eighth grade art program continues to provide experiences consistent with the interests and the intellectual, social and aesthetic maturity of the students. The course provides experience in enhancing personal development, self-awareness and confidence in one's ability. By increasing their understanding of art heritage and recognizing artistic styles and achievements, the students grow in their awareness of the art world. Exploration of additional units may include interdisciplinary approaches, multi-cultural perspectives and technology. Students who wish to continue in art at the high school level are encouraged and given guidance. Students meet three times a six-day cycle for a double period studios for one marking period during the year. Student art work is displayed throughout the year, in the school and in the community. A special art exhibit is held in the spring, concurrent with the Spring Concert.
Family and Consumer Science
Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) prepares students to begin their journey toward becoming independent, productive citizens. The program emphasizes hands-on involvement; practical problem solving skills in developmentally appropriate real-life applications; learning environments designed to meet developmental needs of all students; and our educational goals for all learners. The FCS curriculum includes three units of study that are essential for all students. The consumerism unit explores skills needed to make wise consumer decisions and manage money successfully. In the textile unit, students participate in a community service project that they design and create. In the nutrition and wellness unit, students use their knowledge of healthy food choices to prepare a variety of meals.
Health
The health program in the eighth grade is designed to promote an understanding of the physical and emotional aspects of healthy living, as well as increasing the development of strong decision making skills. Students will learn where to find accurate and valuable information outside of school. The emphasis in eighth grade health is on chemicals & addictives, disease prevention, aging, death & dying, environmental health, social health, and consumer health. All students will be required to complete a chemicals and addictives project, disease report, and will be required and expected to maintain a health three-ring binder throughout the year.
Music
Classroom music instruction in the Tredyffrin-Easttown School District focuses on singing, music reading, classroom instruments, music appreciation, improvisation and composition, and movement. In eighth grade, students sing accurately with good breath control and expression, alone and in small and large ensembles. They read basic notation in various meters, identifying standard notation for pitch, rhythm, dynamics, tempo, articulation and expression. Students evaluate the quality of performances, compositions, arrangements and improvisations, applying specific criteria. They reproduce melodies and rhythms on classroom instruments. Students show awareness of the relationship of movement to different styles of music and other art forms.
Physical Education
Students continue to participate in team sports with more emphasis placed on advanced knowledge and skills. The Presidential Physical Fitness teat will be administered in the fall and in the spring, and the results of the previous three years will be compared.
Technology Education:
Eighth grade technology education is an introduction to the elements of drafting. Students develop different pictorial drawing forms, including oblique, isometric and perspective. They work with orthographic drawing, including sketching. Students work together on plans for projects, collaborating on problem solving for design and on dimensioning. Students apply their plans, using wood and a variety of basic wood tools and equipment. Attention to safety issues when working with tools and equipment is on-going.
Student Services
Student services are designed to help each student obtain maximum benefit from the school program. These services are centered around the guidance counselors* and include the school nurse, school psychologist, and therapists for hearing, speech, and occupational therapy.
Philosophy of Guidance Services
Guidance is concerned with the educational, emotional, and social
development of all students in relation to their total school experience. Guidance
is an integral part of the school program, consisting of a coordinated plan involving
pupils, parents, and all members of the professional staff, as well as numerous
specialists. Although the counselor plays a major role in developing and implementing
a plan of guidance, the cooperation and active participation of teachers and administrators
are essential for an effective program. The classroom teacher, because of the
direct involvement with the students on a daily basis, plays an essential role
in any guidance program. The school administration provides the climate and helps
set appropriate guidelines and conditions for an effective guidance program to
succeed. The counselor is the key figure in the program, working directly with
students and serving as a resource person for parents, teachers, and administrators
in helping children meet their developmental needs. The center of the guidance
program is the individual student for whom the counselor hopes to provide meaningful
educational experience. Counselors stay with the same students from fifth grade
through eighth grade.
English
and Math Seminar Students, whose PSSA or ERB scores indicate the need for additional support,
will be scheduled to participate in the English and/or Math Seminar courses.
Each seminar will meet two or three days of the six-day cycle for one or two
marking periods. Teachers will instruct students in small groups. Specific academic
standards that are assessed on the PSSA will be emphasized. Practice books,
textbooks, web-based programs, and computer software are among the materials
students will use to improve understanding of the skills included in the academic
standards. Occasional homework may be given. The courses are graded on a pass/fail
basis.
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