In the computer science program, students develop fluency with problem solving and a variety of platforms and software programs. They learn practical, logical, and creative computer programming and important technological skills. Middle School students are enrolled in Digital Essentials automatically and may elect to take other courses and pursue computer science education through Upper School. Courses include:
• Digital Essentials (grades 6–8)
• Introduction to Apps (grades 7–8)
• Introduction to 3D Video Game Design (grade 8)
Digital Essentials || Teacher: Ms. Michelle Addison
Students master basic computer literacy, improve their understanding of Internet etiquette, and
explore Google Apps for Education in detail. The class emphasizes digital productivity. Students will
learn to apply Google Sheets formulas and standard mathematical/statistical functions to create, edit,
and print spreadsheets. In addition, students will master advanced features to publish documents
in Google Docs, explore template design, and create a slideshow presentation. Students also will
use other online web 2.0 productivity tools to create larger projects such as online portfolios, blogs,
and discussion boards.
Introduction to Apps || Teacher: Mr. Tim Ahn
This class is an introductory programming class that teaches students the programming basics.
Students use programming blocks in Scratch to develop logic and creative thinking skills. Students
then use App Inventor designed by MIT and are introduced to the Java programming language,
which is the primary language taught in the upper school. The class is based on a series of projects,
with the final project being a standalone app that the students create for the Android operating
system. At the end of this course, the student will have a working Android based application that
they may distribute or showcase on any Android device.
Introduction to 3D Video Game Design || Teacher: Mr. Henry Akachukwu
Students will be taught the fundamentals of programming. Students will apply these principles
beginning with the application, Alice. Students will use 3D imagery and manipulation to control
graphical images on the screen and will learn to program through graphical user interface (GUI). After
mastering Alice, students will use their programming knowledge to work in the Unreal Development
Kit (UDK) to create their own virtual worlds and video games. Students interested in taking this class
will have met the school’s computer proficiency requirements and will need recommendations from
the Middle School principal and their computer teacher.
Courses include acting techniques, literature, history, stagecraft and design, playwriting, improvisation, and performance. Students learn through active practice, rehearsal, and creation or performance of artistic works, including concerts, dramas, and musicals. Middle School classes lay the foundation for involvement in advanced classes and performance in Upper School. Classes include:
. Introduction to Dance (grades 6–8)
. Advanced Middle School Dance (grade 8)
. Middle School Boys Hip-Hop (grades 6–8)
. Theatre 6 (grade 6)
. Middle School Theatre I (grades 7 and 8)
. Middle School Theatre II (grade 8)
. Scriptwriting (grades 6–8)
Introduction to Dance || Teacher: Mr. James Altuner
A one-semester dance course is offered at the Middle School level as part of the arts rotation.
Students work on basic principles of movement and expression by studying jazz dance, modern,
ballet, hip-hop, improvisation, and choreography. Along with the movement component, this course
contains an academic element that focuses on keeping a journal to document ideas, analyze
personal experiences, and help develop writing skills. The goal of journal writing is to help students
become critical thinkers and to become more articulate when discussing dance in particular and the
arts in general. This class is open to both males and females at all skill levels.
Advanced Middle School Dance || Teacher: Mrs. April Bain
In the second semester, Advanced Middle School Dance is offered for those eighth graders who
have already taken Intro to Dance, who are interested in continuing their dance experience, and
who have the instructor’s permission to enroll in the course. Students in this class are expected to
have a basic understanding of dance and choreography techniques and should have a genuine
interest in dance. The class builds on the fundamentals that were presented in the introductory
course while simultaneously preparing students for their participation in the Spring Dance Festival.
Journal writing, class discussions, and reflective activities complement dance experiences and
prepare students for possible involvement in the Upper School Dance program.
Middle School Boys Hip-Hop || Teacher: Ms. Vivanie Barrios
This one-semester course is offered to middle school boys both with and without previous experience
or dance training. Students will learn beginning principles of Hip-Hop dance through the exploration
of its music, history, and culture. The development of strength, flexibility, rhythmic skills and
coordination will be emphasized. Techniques such as isolations, “popping & locking”, breakdancing,
House, Street, and other forms will be explored. Group choreography will be emphasized, including
project-based assessments that allow for choreographic skill development, composition, and artistic
freedom. Throughout the course, students will focus their inquiry by listening to historical recordings,
reading narratives, viewing a variety of media, and writing creatively and reflectively. Students will
be expected to perform in various in-class assessments.
Theatre 6 || Teacher: Mr. Gillon Blank
Sixth-grade theatre offers students an opportunity to explore some of the basic elements of theatrical performance. While the bulk of the students’ work is experiential, participants begin developing skills that allow for the creation of an informed, critical approach to theatre and performance. The students’main focus is on using theatre games as tools for increasing concentration, refining improvisational creativity, strengthening ensemble-building skills, and exploring the politics of the performance making process.
Middle School Theatre I || Teacher: Mr. On Chan
This is a one-semester class for seventh and eighth-grade students and is designed to develop
improvisational and ensemble acting skills. Throughout the first half of the course, students will
work individually and as an ensemble to accomplish specific tasks through theatre games and
improvisations. These tasks will include defining specific characters, developing physical awareness,
exploring emotions, and working cooperatively within an ensemble. During the second half of the
course, students will join together to write, revise, direct, and rehearse original scenes, which will
culminate in a final informal performance.
Middle School Theatre II || Teacher: Mr. Hong Chao
This course focuses on the basic acting skills necessary to communicate a story and character
to an audience. Attention is focused on the student’s sensory awareness and imagination in
order to bring realism and vitality to the stage. The semester is divided into four units: the Body,
the Voice, Improvisation and Scene Building, and Scripted Text. The class will culminate in an
informal presentation of monologues or 2-person scenes. Middle School Theatre II is designed
for students who have taken Middle School Theatre I and want to further explore the art and
discipline of theatre.
Scriptwriting || Teacher: Mrs. Jung Choi
This course offers students an introduction to the process of playwriting. Primary emphasis is on
the creation of an original script for the stage. Students will have an opportunity to explore a variety
of creative strategies as they work to craft their play. Although students spend the greatest part of
their class time writing and reading their own work (as well as work by others in the class), some
time is devoted to reading and critiquing short plays written by established authors.
The English department provides thorough training in the thoughtful and efficient use of language and the development of analytical skills needed for a critical appreciation of literature. The department emphasizes developing a love of reading in students and a solid foundation in composition with instruction in grammar, vocabulary, punctuation, and study skills. Courses include:
. English 6: Language Arts (grade 6)
. English 7: An Introduction to Language (grade 7)
. English 8: A Study of Literary Genre (grade 8)
. Middle School Journalism (elective)
The Writing Lab offers workshops and individual tutoring. Summer reading is assigned.
English 6: Language Arts || Teacher: Ms. Miriam Chow
This course is designed to teach children to think creatively and analytically as well as to speak,
write, and read with understanding. Writing assignments provide practice in descriptive, narrative,
persuasive, expository, and creative writing. Vocabulary exercises employ word lists culled from
novels covered in class. Study/academic skills such as listening skills, following directions, and
organizing facts and materials are emphasized. In addition, a love of and appreciation for literature
are fostered by class reading of works by such authors as Paul Fleischman, Gary Schmidt, Carl
Hiaasen, Deborah Ellis, Gene Luen Yang, Langston Hughes, Lois Lowry, and Edgar Allan Poe.
Students are also exposed to other authors through required outside reading.
English 7: An Introduction to Literature || Teacher: Ms. Stephanie Coffey
This course introduces the student to more mature writing standards and to an in-depth study of literature. Areas of focus include reading comprehension and inferential skills, literary terminology, grammar and usage, paragraph organization, vocabulary development, use of library resources, and the development of study, organizational, and test-taking skills. Projects include analytical essays, personal narratives, and incorporating research into essays. Literature studied includes poetry, plays, essays, fiction, and nonfiction selected from a variety of works including: Jack London, Ray Bradbury, S. E. Hinton, George Orwell, and William Shakespeare.
English 8: A Study of Literary Genre || Teacher: Ms. Thuy Dang
This course continues the introductory work of the previous year, reinforcing composition and
grammar skills while defining and introducing students to literary genre: the essay, the novel,
the short story, the drama, and poetry. Works read for this course include April Morning, To Kill a
Mockingbird, Raisin in the Sun, Romeo and Juliet—works which concern important values such as
racial equality, the nature of good and evil, and the limitations of materialism. Compositions expand
skills mastered the previous year and allow instruction in paragraphing, transition, and organization.
Vocabulary and spelling exercises continue throughout the year.
Middle School Journalism || Teacher: Ms. Arielle De Paolo
This one-semester course introduces sixth, seventh, and eighth-grade students to reporting,
interviewing, researching, and journalistic writing. Students will have the opportunity to strengthen
their writing skills by studying and writing examples of news, sports, features, and editorials. Middle
School Journalism students will learn basic layout guidelines, headline writing, and copy editing
skills when writing and publishing The Junior Voice.
The goal of the mathematics department is to instill in students an appreciation of the beauty and power of mathematics and to provide a solid foundation in the basics of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, functions, and numerical, graphical, and statistical analysis. In Middle School, Honors, Advanced, and Regular Sequences are offered. Courses include:
. Math 6
. Pre-Algebra
. Algebra I
The Math Lab provides support for students in mathematics from teachers and volunteer students. Students are given formal instruction on the use of calculators, including graphic calculators used for college entrance exams.
Math 6 || Teacher: Mr. Alexander Dinh
An in-depth review of the properties of whole numbers, decimals, and fractions precedes the
development of equality, metric measurement, and the definition of basic geometric figures and
geometric relationships. The concepts of ratio, proportion and percent are explored, and integers are
introduced. Data organization and the creation and interpretation of graphs are studied. Problem-solving
strategies are reinforced throughout the year. An introduction to algebraic expressions and
equations, inequalities, functions, patterns, graphing, and number theory is also provided. The TINspire
CX calculator is introduced through in-class sets.
Pre-Algebra || Teacher: Mr. Jared DuPree
Students study algebraic expressions, equations, inequalities, ratios, proportions, coordinate
geometry and radicals. Additional topics may include polynomials, Euclidean geometry and
elementary statistics and probability. Facility in computation with whole numbers, integers, decimals
and fractions is reinforced throughout the year. Problem-solving techniques are emphasized. The
TI-Nspire CX calculator is introduced through in-class sets.
Algebra I || Teacher: Mr. Romel Edolmo
This course presents the language of algebra and explores a variety of conceptual applications.
The relationships among method, application, and theory are examined. Equations, inequalities,
lines, graphing, systems of equations and inequalities, polynomials and radicals are studied.
Developing critical thinking skills and applying concepts are encouraged and enhanced through
problem-solving. The TI-Nspire CX CAS graphing calculators are introduced and incorporated
throughout the curriculum.
The music department offers courses in vocal and instrumental music, composition, music technology and production, and experiential classes. Students have extensive opportunities to perform in various ensembles. Sixth- through eighth-grade students are enrolled in introductory classes as part of Arts Rotation. Classes include:
. Choir 6 (Sixth-Grade Choir)
. Choir 7–8 (Seventh/Eighth-Grade Choir)
. Middle School Concert Band (grades 6–8)
. Orchestra 6 (Sixth-Grade Orchestra)
. Orchestra 7–8 (Seventh/Eighth-Grade Orchestra)
. Experience Music: Jazz and Blues (grades 6–8)
. Experience Music: Rock and Roll (grades 6–8)
. Introduction to Music Composition and Technology I (grades 6–8)
Choir 6 || Teacher: Ms. Lydia Fernandez
Admission to the Sixth Grade Choir is open to all interested students. The course is designed to
improve students’ vocal and critical listening skills, foster a love of singing, increase knowledge of music
theory, develop sight-singing abilities, and provide performance experiences. Vocal techniques and
repertoire in a variety of styles, including pop, rock, classical, and world music are examined in depth,
and the mastery of repertoire in two and three parts is featured. Membership requires enthusiasm and
focused participation during rehearsals and concerts, including the Buckley Spring Choral Concert,
an adjudicated festival in the spring, and other appearances. Students will be required to commit to
a regular practice schedule outside of class in order to be prepared for class meetings.
Note: Choir 6 is a year-long course that prepares students for more advanced study in the 7th/8th Grade Choir.
Choir 7-8 || Teacher: Ms. Karen Flummerfelt
Admission to Choir 7-8 is open to all interested seventh and eighth-grade students. The course
is designed to build upon skills learned in Choir 6, though this ensemble is open to students of all
levels of musical experience. This choir primarily performs three and four-part repertoire in a variety
of styles, including pop, rock, classical, traditional and World Music, representing a diversity of
cultures and languages. Intermediate-level music theory, sight singing, microphone technique, and
stimulating performing experiences are significant components of the course. Membership requires
enthusiasm and focused participation during rehearsals and concerts, including the Buckley Spring
Choral Concert, an adjudicated festival in the spring, and other appearances. Students will be
required to commit to a regular practice schedule outside of class in order to be prepared for class
meetings.
Note: Choir 7-8 is a yearlong course that may be repeated for credit and is designed to
prepare students for membership in our Upper School vocal ensembles.
Middle School Concert Band || Teacher: Mr. Romel Edolmo
The Middle School Concert Band is open to all wind and percussion players in grades six through eight
by permission of the instructor. Students study and perform various styles of concert band repertoire
while working to improve their technical facility, sight-reading ability, and ensemble coordination.
Students will be exposed to the beginning elements of improvisation to further enhance their training
and musical expression. Students will be evaluated through recorded playing examinations, effort,
and participation during rehearsals and concerts. Membership involves performances at the spring
concert, community performances, and weekend festivals. Students will be required to commit to a
regular practice schedule outside of class in order to be prepared for class meetings.
Note: Middle School Band is a year-long course that may be repeated for credit.
Orchestra 6 || Teacher: Mr. Andrew Frangos
Orchestra 6 provides the foundation for a sequential string program in the Middle School (violin,
viola, cello, bass). Students develop individual and group skills in instrumental technique, listening
to music, improvisation, and musical composition. Also included are experiences designed to
develop students’ ability to read music, use music notation, know the terminology of music, analyze
and describe musical form, make informed evaluations concerning musicality, and understand
musical practices in relation to history and culture. The course repertoire represents diverse genres
from various periods and cultures. Students perform at the Middle/Upper School Spring Orchestra
Concert, as well as an adjudicated festival in the spring.
Note: Orchestra 6 is a year-long course that prepares students for more advanced study in Orchestra 7-8. Additionally, Please note that there are a very limited number of openings in the class for pianists, and students who are interested in those positions are required to audition.
Orchestra 7–8 || Teacher: Ms. Veronica Galvez
Admission to Orchestra 7-8 is open to all string players and pianists in grades seven and eight
by permission of the instructor. A basic placement audition will be performed at the beginning of
each year to determine seating in each instrument section. Students study and perform various
styles of orchestral literature while gaining the technical facility, music theory, and reading ability
needed to perform in the Upper School Chamber Orchestra. Membership requires participation
in the Middle and Upper School Spring Orchestra Concert, as well as an adjudicated festival in
the spring. Practicing outside of class between course meetings is mandatory.
Note: Orchestra 7-8 is a yearlong course that may be repeated for credit. Additionally, please note that there are a very limited number of openings in the class for pianists, and students who are interested in those positions are required to audition.
Experience Music: Jazz and Blues || Teacher: Ms. Lisha M. Gonzalez
Experience Music: Jazz and Blues teaches students to develop the ability to be informed, active
listeners of music in these genres by listening to and evaluating jazz and blues compositions and
recorded performances throughout the course of the semester. Jazz and Blues played an important
part in the development of modern music from the late 1800′s through to today. From its humble
beginnings with the Ragtime of Scott Joplin, through the Big Band and Swing Eras, to Be-Bop and
infuences in Blues and Rock and Roll, this course will present an overview of these important musical
styles in the development of American music. Coursework will also include watching educational
videos, interactive Fun Music Co. lessons with the Smart Board, rhythm review and analysis,
understanding musical terminology, participating in class discussions, and musical ensemble
practice with Orff instruments, applicable to Jazz and Blues styles.
Note: This is a one-semester course, designed to be a part of a rotating series of Experience Music classes in the Middle School.
Experience Music: Rock and Roll || Teacher: Ms. Nancy Gonzalez
Experience Music: Rock and Roll teaches students to develop the ability to be informed, listeners
of Rock and Roll music by listening to and evaluating and recorded performances, as well as
learning the history of rock and roll throughout the course of the semester. The course presents
an overview of the development of the Rock styles over the last fifty years, from how Rock music
began with Chuck Berry and Little Richard, learning of the profound influence of Elvis Presley, the
“Day the Music Died”, The British Invasion, Soul and Surf Music, Woodstock, Punk, Disco, solo
artists, Hard Rock, Grunge, Dance Music and One-Hit Wonders through to the of rock music
today. Coursework will also include watching educational videos of the styles, interactive lessons
with the Smart Board, musical score reading, rhythm review, and analysis, understanding musical
terminology, participating in class discussions and musical ensemble practice with Orff instruments,
applicable to Rock Music styles.
Note: This is a one-semester course, designed to be a part of a rotating series of Experience Music classes in the Middle School.
Introduction to Music Composition and Technology I || Teacher: Ms. Sandra Hise
This course is designed to introduce the students to basic music theory, music composition, and
production. They will use state-of-the-art technology and software, including Garage Band and
ProTools in our Digital Arts and Music Center for composing, recording, editing, and producing creative
projects. In addition, the students will study musical form, song structure, and instrumentation while
exploring a variety of musical genres and styles. Previous musical experience is recommended
but not required as a prerequisite for taking the class.
Note: This is a one-semester course, and enrollment is limited to fifteen students.
Students in grades 6–8 have the opportunity to choose physical education courses or to participate in athletics to fulfill their school requirements. Buckley physical education curriculum and activities emphasize strength, flexibility, endurance, coordination, balance, game skills, and cognitive capabilities.
Each trimester consists of three different activities. Our physical education and athletics program are designed to give students a successful experience. Classes and athletic activities include:
Classes
Middle School Physical Education
Co-ed Physical Education (grade 6)
Co-ed Physical Education (grades 7–8)
Fall Sports
Boys’ Flag Football
Girls’ Basketball
Co-ed Swimming
Equestrian
Co-ed Cross Country (grades 7 and 8)
Girls’ Tennis (grades 7 and 8)
Winter Sports
Boys’ Basketball
Girls’ Soccer
Boys’ Soccer (grades 7 and 8)
Girls’ Softball (grades 7 and 8)
Equestrian
Spring Sports
Girls’ Volleyball
Boys’ Tennis (grades 7 and 8)
Boys’ Baseball
Boys’ Soccer (grade 6)
Boys’ Volleyball (grades 7 and 8)
Co-ed Golf (grades 7 and 8)[/center]
The science department develops students’ scientific literacy through hands-on learning and experimentation and fosters an appreciation of science in everyday life. Course work emphasized the “Three Ps”: posing questions, problem-solving, and persuasive argument. Courses include:
. Topics in Science (grade 6)
. Life Science (grade 7)
. Physical Science (grade 8)
. Middle School Robotics (elective)
Topics in Science || Teacher: Ms. Sun Kyoung Hong
The sixth-grade Earth science course assists students in becoming lifelong learners who grow in their
understanding of the world. The nature of science includes the concepts that scientific explanations
are based on logical thinking; are subject to rules of evidence; are consistent with observational,
inferential, and experimental evidence. The concept of change is explored through the study of
Earth’s formation, processes, history, landscapes, how and why Earth changes over time. Topics
to be addressed include, but are not limited to, the scientific method, building blocks of life, Earth’s
surface, Earth’s interior and convection, plate tectonics, earthquakes, volcanoes, Earth’s water, and
ecology resources. The course will also explore how current actions of man interact and affect Earth’s
spheres leading to local and global changes. Students will participate in laboratory exercises, small
group activities, web-based investigations, class discussions, projects, and research.
Life Science || Teacher: Ms. Stephanie Jacob
Life Science examines the defining features of living things. Topics include animal behavior,
evolutionary theory, cell structure and function, the chemical basis of life, and reproduction and
development. Readings for this course are designed to give the student a different kind of experience
in learning about life science, offering students an opportunity to practice important thinking skills
as they journey through history in search of how living things work. Students practice posing
hypotheses, designing experiments, and interpreting results.
Physical Science || Teacher:Mr. Clark Jarrett
This course includes a survey of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics education
with a focus on the engineering design process during hands-on projects. Physical Science students
design, build and program robots, as well as build circuits and electronics and several other projects
focusing on clean energy and the environment. Students are also introduced to 3-dimensional
modeling and computer programming using industry standard software.
Middle School Robotics || Teacher: Mr. Daniel Jocz
Students will learn to design, build, test, and program a robot to enter a VEX Robotics Competition,
where robots compete with each other to accomplish a series of tasks in an allotted time period. Over
the course of a semester, students will learn about engineering principles, the design process and
3D modeling, and programming skills with the robot. Teamwork and collaboration are emphasized
during class meetings, as students will need to consistently participate in small, cooperative groups.
Students will work within their design team with the goal of constructing a robot that will achieve the
tasks set forth annually by Robotics Education & Competition Foundation (REC Foundation) and will
prepare to enter their robot in at least one local VEX Robotics Competition, typically on a Saturday.
The Buckley Department of Social Science curriculum is designed to impart a global and historical understanding of humanity to our students to equip them to engage thoughtfully in an ever-changing and complex world. Courses include:
. History 6: World Geography and Cultures (grade 6)
. History 7: Global Studies (grade 7)
. History 8: Social Issues in American Society (grade 8)
History 6: World Geography and Cultures || Teacher: Ms. Rachael Keels
With the importance of geopolitics and globalization, it is more vital than ever that students
comprehend their world and their place in it. Sixth-grade geography examines the locations and
cultures of our planet, allowing us to better understand the world and get along with our fellow
passengers on “spaceship Earth.” Among the objectives in sixth grade, students should be able
to make interconnections with the world around them, comprehend cause and effect of local and
global events, see the world in terms of the five themes of geography (location, place, regions,
movement, and interaction) and apply geographical understanding to their everyday lives. This
takes students through a brief overview of the physical and cultural importance of regions and
countries across the globe. In addition, students will develop good study skills such as mapping,
highlighting, outlining, note taking, summarization, test preparation, time management, and
reading comprehension.
History 7: Global Studies || Teacher: Ms. Miki Kelley
The 7th Grade Global Studies course centers on both historical and modern world issues. Students
will broadly focus on how regional conflicts and movements affect global interdependence. Looking
more deeply, students will learn about the elements of culture - religion, economics, political
structure, technology, philosophy, social structure, psychological structure, and community - and
how they have influenced modern history. Studies begin by learning about the different types of
governments, which will enable them to better understand complex global affairs and events, such
as post-Cold War relations and issues throughout the Middle East, modern Africa, and Asia. Woven
into each unit is an emphasis on technological connectivity, environmental sustainability, the role of
minorities, and how embracing equity fosters cultural competency. In addition, students will continue
to build upon the importance of good study habits by honing executive functioning skills in note taking,
time management, project execution, work speed and accuracy, and self-advocacy. The 7th
Grade Global Studies course exemplifies 21st-century education as it is technologically-led and
paperless, and this also reinforces Buckley’s commitment to sustainability. Students improve public
speaking skills when they address the larger class on a daily basis through blog responses, guided
debate, and open discussion. Many project-based assignments will assess a student’s ability to
manage tasks that are independent in nature, with a community-based action project surrounding a
relevant social issue serving as a capstone to their year. Students should move into the 8th grade
as competent and effective social studies learners, conscious of the world around them, and mindful
of their role as citizens in a larger world.
History 8: Social Issues in American Society || Teacher: Ms. Jessica Kim
In this course, students will look at American history thematically as well as in a timeline. Starting
in the post-revolutionary era and moving into the 21st century, this class will examine the social
issues that face American society, both historically and currently, and help students understand their
place in that society. The curriculum will focus on the intersections of race, class, and gender, and
students will make continual connections with how our history impacts our present. This course will
be writing intensive, emphasizing the writing process, close reading and annotating, critical thinking,
and discussions skills. There will be an emphasis on using texts and research to support student
claims, using multiple sources, following MLA citation methods, structuring persuasive writing,
logical reasoning, and revision skills.
In Buckley visual arts classes, students are encouraged to explore individual, creative approaches to their art and to develop technical skills with a variety of media. The study of art history and modern concepts provide students with a cultural context of art. Classes include:
. Art 2D (grades 6–8)
. Art 3D (grades 7 and 8)
. Middle School Video (grades 7 and 8)
Art 2D || Teacher: Mr. Larry Krant
The course covers a range of assignments using two-dimensional assignments including drawing,
painting, printmaking, collage, and an introduction to Photoshop. The course has students develop
personal, creative solutions to a range of visual problems. Media used in the course include pastel,
charcoal, acrylic paint as well as digital media on the Mac computers.
Art 3D || Teacher: Ms. Diana Lee
In this course, students create artworks in three-dimensional sculptural and architectural forms. The
course explores materials including clay, wood, foam core, metal as well as concepts involved with
sculpture and architecture. An emphasis is on developing personal solutions to three-dimensional
design problems as well as learning skills in working with the various materials and tools.
Middle School Video || Teacher: Ms. Sonia Leffall
This course introduces Middle School students to the basic elements of digital filmmaking and
editing techniques from concept to finished product. Over the course of the semester students will
create 3 or 4 projects both individually and as collaborative teams. For all of these projects, students
will write, shoot and edit during class time. The projects include a public service announcement, a
commercial, and a news/magazine broadcast. Students will learn filmmaking terminology, the use
of a variety of digital video camcorders, editing with Final Cut, screenwriting and storyboarding,
essential lighting and sound elements, and green screen.
The world languages curriculum is designed to develop students’ proficiency in the four primary skills of language: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Each language course — Chinese, French, Latin, and Spanish — is taught in the target language and guided by the National Standards for World Language learning. Courses include:
. Introduction to Chinese Culture and Language (grade 6)
. Chinese IA (grades 7–9)
. Chinese IB (grades 8–10); prerequisite: Chinese IA
. French IA (grades 7–9)
. French IB (grades 8–10); prerequisite: French IA
. Latin IA (grades 7–9)
. Latin IB (grades 8–10); prerequisite: Latin IA
. Spanish IA (grades 7–9)
. Spanish IB (grades 8–10); prerequisite: Spanish IA
Introduction to Chinese Culture and Language || Teacher: Mr. Raphael Lieberman
In this course, our goal is to introduce students to China through explorations in language, culture,
and history. Students will experience the spoken and written language of China. We will examine
how collectivist societies shape culture and compare it to our own American culture. Students
will learn the etiquette associated with meeting elders and how body language plays a key role in
social situations. Students will also investigate elements of Chinese culture such as Confucianism,
Daoism, holidays, art, history, and customs.
Chinese IA || Teacher: Ms. Sandra Mangandy
This course introduces students to the fundamentals of Mandarin Chinese and builds skills in
listening, speaking, reading and writing. The class begins with the pronunciation system (Pinyin)
and the basic principles of Chinese character writing: strokes, stroke order, and radicals. Simple
vocabulary and grammar as well as, reading and writing skills are introduced. Students will learn
about and discuss topics such as the Chinese people, family, and calligraphy in addition to the
cultural richness of Chinese lifestyle, values, and beliefs.
Chinese 1B || Teacher: Ms. Lynda McGee
The course emphasizes grammar and vocabulary acquisition, as well as the development of speaking
and listening skills. Daily dialogues provide a foundation for improving students’ communication
abilities. New characters continue to be introduced and writing skills are enhanced. Students learn
how to use the language with topics such as calendar, money, food, market, and school life. Students
also learn how to use a Chinese dictionary and Chinese computer software. Cultural concepts are
presented in greater depth.
French IA || Teacher: Ms. Rita Miller
This course is open to students who are beginning their language study. The course comprises the
first half of Level 1 instruction. Students will learn everyday vocabulary regarding friends, school,
activities, family, home, food, meals and clothing as well as basic grammar and sentence structure.
Students will practice speaking through dialogues and simple conversations with classmates and
with the teacher. They will also become familiar with the culture of many French-speaking countries.
French 1B || Teacher: Ms. Vivian Miranda
Students will build on the foundation begun in French 1A by adding vocabulary and structure. The past
tense and personal pronouns will be added to this year’s learning, allowing students more freedom
in conversations. Cooperative learning will allow students to acquire an extensive vocabulary and to
practice oral skills. Readings will increase cultural knowledge about daily life in France.
Latin IA || Teacher: Ms. Jane Nakamoto
This course is open to students who are beginning their language study. This course introduces
students to the Latin language, its vocabulary, and basic grammatical structures. The course explores
the foundations and traditions of Rome, Greek and Roman Olympian deities, the Roman house,
Roman family structure, and the basics of Mediterranean geography. Proficiency is developed
through written exercises, oral participation, grammatical analysis, games, and skits. Through the
study of Latin and Greek root words, students develop and strengthen their English vocabulary and
grammar. Students are encouraged to take on personal projects that connect their knowledge of the
ancient world with their own personal interests.
Latin 1B || Teacher: Ms. Jennifer Nutting
This course completes level I instruction that began in the previous course. The class continues
to introduce new vocabulary and more complex points of grammar with the goal of increased
reading and writing proficiency. Readings focus on the city of Rome, its architecture, geographic
location and historical development. There is also significant focus on the development of
English vocabulary through mastery of Latin root meanings. As in the previous year, students are
encouraged to take on personal projects that connect their knowledge of the ancient world with
their own personal interests.
Spanish IA || Teacher: Ms. Andrea Paik
This course introduces the Spanish language by focusing on listening, speaking, reading, and writing
skills. Students learn vocabulary relating to the self – family, personal descriptions, likes and dislikes,
school, and the home. Students view video and listen to audio from a variety of speakers in order to aid
them in developing better listening comprehension. Classwork focuses on providing comprehensible
input and opportunities to engage in dialogues and simple conversations with classmates and the
teacher. Student-led work focusing on explorations of the Spanish-speaking world round out the course.
Spanish 1B || Teacher: Mr. Frank Pisano
This course builds on the foundation established in Spanish IA by adding more complex grammar
and vocabulary. In addition, speaking and aural comprehension skills are emphasized, and the
students have more in-depth conversations in Spanish. The progressive and near future tenses
are introduced and expand students’ ability to express themselves. Vocabulary and grammar
games are an integral part of this course, as are authentic materials that expose students to
native speakers. Following current events, watching newscasts, and listening to music videos are
practices used to introduce cultural material and unfamiliar vocabulary as well as to pique student
interest. A number of engaging projects like publishing a student newspaper and shopping for others
during the holidays, allow the students to perfect certain real-life tasks. Students will also utilize
tools such as GoogleVoice, Edmodo, and Blogger as vehicles to journal, record pronunciation and
communicate with classmates..
