Fifth and Sixth Grades
The fifth and sixth grades are primarily taught in self contained
classrooms. The children learn independently and cooperatively
within groups and classes. Students are grouped by their ability
in reading and math. The curriculum is integrated among the disciplines
to allow the children an in-depth understanding of a topic. In
fifth and sixth grades the children have specialized teachers
for science, computers, world language, library skills, performing
arts, fine arts, physical education.
Seventh & Eighth Grades
Instruction for seventh and eighth grade students is departmentalized.
Teachers are specialists in their subject areas and share
their knowledge and insights with their students. They explore
issues
and concepts in greater detail, and emphasis is placed on
the skills essential to each discipline. During this period of
intellectual, physical, and emotional maturation, seventh
and
eighth graders receive the nurturing, positive support of
caring adults.
Literature
The goal of the Middle School literature program is two-fold:
to foster a love of reading by presenting well-written and age
appropriate works and to teach the students to become more effective
readers. Books read are often associated with social studies topics
and thematic units. Each student is challenged to read novels
that will stretch his or her understanding and reading ability.
Literal and inferential comprehension skills, vocabulary development,
prediction and reflection, and technical analysis are all emphasized
within the program.
Writing, Vocabulary, Grammar & Spelling
The Middle School writing program is designed to help students
express their ideas clearly. The formal study of creative and
expository writing begins with simple sentences and expands into
the study of paragraph writing. Expository writing skills are
further developed with three paragraph essays, which allow ample
opportunity for personal expression. At the end of the Middle
School experience, each eighth grade student writes a research
paper in conjunction with the history curriculum. A coordinated
vocabulary program begins in the third grade and builds through
the Upper School. Instruction of grammar is used as a tool for
increasing the clarity of communication.
Social Studies
The goals of the Sanford School social studies curriculum are
to foster an understanding of world cultures, a familiarity
with historically significant personalities and events, and
an understanding of current issues facing the world. As students
examine past and present world events, they develop a sense
of civic responsibility. The development of critical thinking
and research skills is emphasized.
World Languages
All children participate in the Foreign Language Exploratory
"FLEX" program beginning in the fourth grade. Each trimester
they study a different language: French, Latin, and Spanish. In the fifth and sixth grades, students
select a language and begin to develop an ear for the language
and acquire accurate pronunciation skills. Students also are introduced
to the concept of foreign cultures and begin to speak, read, and
write in their chosen language. Basic grammar and child centered
vocabulary are presented. A formal study of one of the two modern
languages or Latin starts in the seventh and eighth grades. Students
learn the material of a traditional first year high school offering
over the course of two years. They begin to master the four essential
modern language skills: listening comprehension, speaking, reading,
and writing. Vocabulary study focuses on age appropriate materials
and everyday activities. Verb conjugations and correct use of
gender and number also are addressed. Sentence structure and paragraph
composition are modeled through short stories, articles, and books.
Please see the upper school for additional information on Upper
School language
curriculum.
Mathematics
The mathematics classes provide a variety of instructional
levels and approaches, which are designed to accommodate a variety
of learning styles and abilities. Individual help and informal
guidance are available to all students as they acquire the
necessary skills to be successful. The mathematics program
fosters the development of analytical and critical thinking
skills, problem-solving abilities, initiative, confidence,
and self discipline. By the beginning of eighth grade, all
students begin the study of algebra. Mathematically talented
students progress to enriched classes or to Upper School
courses
suitable for their abilities and skills.
Science
The Sanford Middle School science program encompasses a diverse
range of learning experiences designed to cultivate a lifelong
interest in science. Active discovery, observation, discussion,
and evaluation offer opportunities for each individual to
incorporate science into his or her daily life. The three Middle
School science
laboratories offer hands-on experiences designed to teach
a variety of scientific skills.
Technology
Technology is fully integrated into the Middle School curriculum.
Using content from other classes, students become familiar with
computer networks and telecommunication. They learn to program,
word process, and design databases and spreadsheets. Multimedia
presentations using technology are also covered. A variety of
projects synthesize the students' skills and understanding. Computers,
used as problem-solving tools, support and enrich the entire Middle
School curriculum.
Middle School Library
Students learn proper and efficient use of a variety of reference
sources, including dictionaries, atlases, encyclopedias,
and almanacs. In addition, they learn to obtain information from
multimedia references, as well as from the Internet. Students
work both independently and collaboratively when they visit
the library to research topics. Recreational reading is encouraged
in the library, and all homeroom classes visit the Middle
School
Library weekly for this purpose. Lunch in the library is a popular optional time for students in grades 5 through 8 to spend time reading for pleasure with friends.
Studio Art
Encouraging experimentation and instilling a positive attitude
toward each student's work are the goals of the Middle School
art program. Activities include drawing, painting, photography,
collage, batik, weaving, macramé, stitchery, sculpture,
woodworking, printmaking, and ceramics. Art history is introduced
through examination of pertinent works of past and present
artists.
Performing Arts
Students in grades 5-8 meet twice weekly for performing arts
class. This class is designed to be a continuation of the Lower
School program. (see Lower School) Instrument playing, singing,
and movement remain essential to the program, and more focus is
given to improvisation and recorder playing. More difficult musical
concepts and advanced techniques are also introduced at this level.
In 7th and 8th Grade students are introduced to a wide variety
of topics in Performing Arts class, which meets twice per week.
These topics include
music
of different cultures, in-depth study of musical concepts and
music history, perceptive listening, musical styles, and the
varying functions of music in society. This class also incorporates
performance projects, composition projects, and an introductory
unit on guitar.
Physical Education, Health, & Athletics
All Middle School students have daily physical education classes.
Emphasis in fifth, and sixth grades is on building the physical
and social skills which ensure good teamwork. Students are introduced
to the rules and skills of the sports that they will be participating
in for their remaining years at Sanford. Interscholastic competition
begins in seventh grade. Each student participates at the level
at which he or she feels most confident.
Fall Team Sports (1st Trimester)
Field Hockey
Soccer
Cross Country
Volleyball
Winter Sports (2nd Trimester)
8th-Swimming
Basketball
Wrestling
Fitness
Spring Sports (3rd Trimester)
7/8 Girls' Soccer
Tennis
Baseball
Lacrosse
For more information click on Athletics.
