7th

Seventh Grade

• Humanities

  In this course, scholars study English language arts (including grammar and writing), medieval history, classic Literature, as well as logic. Primary sources-- like the Magna Carta-- and classic Literature--like Beowulf-- mentor scholars in their understanding of life in Medieval Times. Additionally, scholars read literature--like the Chronicles of Narnia-- unrelated to the historical period as a way to better understand the Academy's mission and vision, our core values, and to develop their own sense of virtue and self. Scholars' study of English Language Arts with Well-Ordered Language and Writing and Rhetoric aid in communication and analytical skills. Logic instruction gives scholars the opportunity to explore philosophical questions and become familiar with the framework of how we think.

• Math

  In this course, scholars study grade-appropriate mathematical concepts and learn how to think and wonder like a mathematician using the Singapore Math Method. Mentors use Dimensions Math curriculum and classics in creating content. This course is composed using the CPA approach (concrete, pictorial, abstract) that aligns with the Academy’s core values of learning Mathematics through the use of models and classics. Our approach to teaching math is exploratory and builds a conceptual and concrete understanding of grade-level content.

• Science

  In this course, scholars explore matter and its properties, particle theory, the periodic table, chemical reactions, cellular reactions, weathering, and plate tectonics by experiencing phenomena, engaging with simulations, making observations, analyzing data, developing ideas, and finding clarity through discussion. Mentors use inquiry activities, simulations, classic texts, and primary sources in creating content.  Classic texts include biographies about natural philosophers and scientists who pioneered the concepts considered in this course. Primary sources include research conducted by scientists and descriptions of observed phenomena in the world at large. These texts align with the Academy’s core values.

• Latin

  In this course, scholars will study the Latin language, while learning the culture and history of Ancient Rome on the way. Lingua Latina: Familia Romana is the curriculum for the class. This book is itself a well-respected classic, written for students to learn Latin through the reading of Latin, without recourse to their native language. It also incorporates passages from classic Latin poets, historians, and philosophers.

• Logic and Grammar

  In this course, scholars will learn the structure and usage of the English Language, examine the relationship between words and concepts, and discover, judge, and formulate definitions. The curriculum used in this course is Tammy Peters and Daniel Coupland's Well Ordered Language 3A, Peter Kreef's Socratic Logic, Plato's Meno, Porphyry's Isagoge, and Aristotle's Organon.  

8th

Eighth Grade

• Humanities

  In this course, scholars study English language arts (including grammar and writing), American history, classic Literature, as well as logic. Primary sources-- like the Narrative of Frederick Douglass-- and classic Literature--like To Kill a Mockingbird-- mentor scholars in their understanding of America's National Heritage. Additionally, scholars read literature--like The Merchant of Venice-- unrelated to the historical period as a way to better understand the Academy's mission and vision, our core values, and to develop their own sense of virtue and self. Scholars' study of English Language Arts with Well-Ordered Language and Writing and Rhetoric aid in communication and analytical skills. Logic instruction gives scholars the opportunity to explore philosophical questions and learn to evaluate arguments.

• Math

  In this course, scholars study grade-appropriate mathematical concepts and learn how to think and wonder like a mathematician using the Singapore Math Method. Mentors use Dimensions Math curriculum and classics in creating content. This course is composed using the CPA approach (concrete, pictorial, abstract) that aligns with the Academy’s core values of learning Mathematics through the use of models and classics. Our approach to teaching math is exploratory and builds a conceptual and concrete understanding of grade-level content.

• Science

  In this course, scholars explore motion, force, momentum, collisions, energy, electrostatics, and magnetism by experiencing phenomena, making observations, engaging with simulations, analyzing data, developing ideas, and finding clarity through discussion. Scholars also engineer solutions to problems using their understanding of the phenomena studied in this course. Mentors use inquiry activities, simulations, classic texts, and primary sources in creating content.  Classic texts include biographies about natural philosophers and scientists who pioneered the concepts considered in this course and primary sources written by those scientists. These texts align with the Academy’s core values.

• Latin

  In this course, scholars will study the Latin language, while learning the culture and history of  Ancient Rome on the way. Lingua Latina: Familia Romana is the curriculum for the class. This book is itself a well-respected classic, written for students to learn Latin through the reading of Latin, without recourse to their native language. It also incorporates passages from classic Latin poets, historians, and philosophers.

• Logic

  In this course, Scholars will perfect their knowledge and usage of the English Language through their study of Grammar. Scholars will also learn how to formulate and identify valid and sound arguments while investigating the different forms of reasoning.  The curriculum used in this course is Tammy Peters and Daniel Coupland's Well Ordered Language 3B, Peter Kreeft's Socratic Logic, and Aristotle's Organon. Art – In this course scholars study the elements of art as well as artists and masterpieces that have influenced our heritage over time and develop their artistic skills in multiple mediums. Mentors use the Core Knowledge sequence as a guide in building their own content.