Middle School Curriculum

Please use the drop down menu to explore our Middle School curriculum. For more information or specific questions, please contact us at 480-991-9141 or admissions@pardesschool.org.

Fifth Grade

Language Arts

In fifth grade, students continue to build important reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. Students read a range of literature including fiction, nonfiction, biography, and poetry. They learn information about history, science, the world, and many other areas through reading. Fifth-grade students are expected to understand and clearly summarize what they have learned from readings and classroom discussions, referring to specific evidence and details from the text. Through Writer’s Workshop, students write different types of pieces including narrative stories, opinion essays, literary essays, and informational writing. Students write regularly and continue to develop their ability to gather, organize, interpret, and present information. Learning the rules of spoken and written English through vocabulary and grammar instruction prepares students with effective grammar practice to communicate clearly through oral and written language.

Social Studies

The social studies curriculum for fifth grade introduces students to the study of the world’s ancient civilizations. In addition to opportunities for content-area integration, the global nature of the ancient civilizations curriculum provides students the chance to explore the development of many diverse cultures. By exploring how ancient people lived day-to-day, governed themselves, and solved problems related to environmental and other issues, students begin to see how the past informs our current way of life. Students explore the impact of geography on civilizations and how the elements of culture; attitude, beliefs, customs, and behaviors affect the development of civilizations. Students examine how the foundations of civilization; government, religion, social levels, specialized labor, and the arts overlap and vary among ancient civilizations.

Science

Fifth-grade science students are first exposed to the scientific method and the concept and components of experiments. Through reading, discussion, “labs”, and other hands-on activities, students are then introduced to four main branches of science: Earth Science (Earth’s composition, rocks and minerals, the rock cycle, water and the water cycle, natural disasters, Earth in space, and the solar system); health science (nutrition, hygiene, and physical fitness); life science (plants and animals, human cells, tissues, organs, and body systems); physical science (introduction to matter, energy, motion, and the laws that govern the physical world). Fifth-grade science helps students obtain a better understanding of science, in general, and it helps provide a solid foundation for the specific individual branches of science that will be covered in sixth, seventh and eighth grades.

Mathematics

Fifth-grade students are enrolled in either Grade 5 Math, Math 1 or Math 2.

Grade 5 Math (grade level math): Topics covered in on-level 5th-grade math include a review of many previously introduced concepts at a more advanced level. Students become strong thinkers of mathematics who are confident in their strategies and abilities to do the math. New concepts covered are multiplication and division of whole numbers and decimals; exponents; adding, subtracting, multiplying and dividing fractions and mixed numbers; prime and composite numbers; algebraic expressions and equations; geometry, percent; ratios; probability; and integers. Completion of this course will prepare students to take Math 1.

Math 1 (sixth grade level math):

This important course includes a review of many previously-introduced concepts explored at a deeper level. Students become strong critical thinkers with confidence in their strategies and abilities to do math. Concepts covered are: operations with whole numbers, decimals, fractions and mixed numbers; percent-fraction-decimal relationships; ratios, rates and proportional relationships; integers and exponents; order of operations; algebraic expressions and equations; functions and inequalities; area and volume; statistical measures and displays, and more. Completion of this course will prepare students to take Math 2.

Math 2 (seventh-grade level math):
In the first semester, Math 2 builds upon previous concepts taught in Math 1, and then leads students through basic algebraic, geometric, and statistical procedures in the second semester. The major goals of this course are to analyze proportional relationships; calculate percents in real-world applications; extend previous understandings of operations with the new twist of positive and negative integers; extend operations with fractions by including positive and negative numbers; introduce algebraic expressions to generate equivalent expressions; use properties of equality in algebraic expressions; solve one- and two-step algebraic equations and inequalities; draw, construct, and describe geometrical figures and describe the relationships between them; solve real-life and mathematical problems involving angle measure, area, surface area, and volume; investigate, develop, and use probability models; and use random sampling to draw inferences about a population. Students will develop problem-solving skills to apply these problems to real-life circumstances. Students will use manipulatives and scientific calculators as learning tools Successful completion of this course will prepare students for Pre-Algebra.

Spanish

This class serves as an introduction to the Spanish language. The main emphasis is on vocabulary which includes classroom objects, animals, shapes, colors, and numbers. Proper demonstration of vowel sounds is the main focus as students develop simple conversations using proper greetings and expressions of courtesy. Classes meet twice a week and are taught using multimedia presentations and interactive activities.

Jewish Studies

Pardes Jewish Day School has the distinct honor of participating in the Jewish Theological Seminary Standards and Benchmarks Program. The core goal is that our students will leave with an in-depth knowledge of various selections of the Tanakh (Bible) as the primary source. With this goal in mind, the 5th-grade Judaic studies curriculum is focused on the second book of the Torah, Shemot (Exodus). After a quick review of B’raisheet (Genesis) and Moses’ birth, students continue learning texts involving Moses and the taskmaster, the burning bush, the Ten Plagues, and the Ten Commandments. Our learning is focused on two themes: the first theme is moral courage and the second theme is from slavery to peoplehood. Using these ideas as a guide, the students delve into investigating our moral obligation to help others and how a disjointed group of former slaves have become the Jewish people.

Judaic Studies classes are designed as an engaging experience with a great deal of active learning strategies to help the students to not only connect to the material, but also to connect to each other and Judaism in general. Therefore, while examining the texts,

students also develop their analytical skills by studying Torah in the same method as the ancient rabbis: working with chevrutot (partners) and learning to ask questions about the texts. Along the way, students write and perform skits, create storyboards, write letters to characters, and create original songs, all with the goal of putting themselves into the “sandals” of the Torah personalities.

Hebrew

Our fifth graders start using the Chaverim B’Ivrit reading series. This curriculum is based on the most current understanding of language acquisition in children. Chaverim B’Ivrit develops active language production in children by treating Hebrew as a living language. Through age-appropriate stories, conversations, poems, songs, journals, and many other child-centered activities, this unique curriculum pays special attention to the beyond-the-classroom interests and needs of students, allowing learners to transfer and apply their learning in new contexts and situations. Moreover, Pardes students learn about Jewish values and holidays using modern Hebrew reading, writing and conversational skills that are enhanced each unit.

Sixth Grade

Humanities

Humanities is an integration of language arts and social studies. The emphasis is to provide students with a rich, literary-based curriculum which includes a variety of texts, both fiction and nonfiction, and integrates reading and writing daily. Class novel studies, combined with a focused independent reading program, develop comprehension and analytical skills, as well as an advanced vocabulary and a deeper understanding of grammar and sentence structure. While utilizing reading and writing strategies gained via a workshop model and based on the Columbia Teachers College Reading and Writing Project, students engage in content-rich lessons which enhance their abilities as readers, writers, and thinkers. Students write narrative, informational, and argument essays displaying their ability to independently transfer strategies gained in the workshop. Social Studies content areas include Ancient Civilizations such as Mesopotamia, Egypt, India, China, and Greece. Class literature studies include author studies on various middle grade authors, as well as short stories, and poetry. A rigorous vocabulary and grammar program are integrated within the various texts and written work.

Science

Earth Science provides students with a deeper understanding of our home planet. Concepts examined include geology, meteorology, astronomy, hydrology, plate tectonics, volcanoes, earthquakes, topography, and resource utilization and conservation. These concepts are investigated through a variety of activities. Emphasis is placed on the scientific method, allowing students to develop appropriate skills in science as an inquiry. Students learn about the continuous forces shaping our dynamic Earth and the universe beyond. Earth Science promotes students’ awareness of the history, structure, and complexity of our planet.

Mathematics

Sixth-grade students are enrolled in either Math 1, Math 2 or Pre-Algebra.

Math 1 (sixth grade level math):

This important course includes a review of many previously-introduced concepts explored at a deeper level. Students become strong critical thinkers with confidence in their strategies and abilities to do math. Concepts covered are: operations with whole numbers, decimals, fractions and mixed numbers; percent-fraction-decimal relationships; ratios, rates and proportional relationships; integers and exponents; order of operations; algebraic expressions and equations; functions and inequalities; area and volume; statistical measures and displays, and more.

Math 2 (seventh grade level math):

In the first semester, Math 2 builds upon previous concepts taught in Math 1, and then leads students through basic algebraic, geometric, and statistical procedures in the second semester. The major goals of this course are to analyze proportional relationships; calculate percents in real-world applications; extend previous understandings of operations with the new twist of positive and negative integers; extend operations with fractions by including positive and negative numbers; introduce algebraic expressions to generate equivalent expressions; use properties of equality in algebraic expressions; solve one- and two-step algebraic equations and inequalities; draw, construct, and describe geometrical figures and describe the relationships between them; solve real-life and mathematical problems involving angle measure, area, surface area, and volume; investigate, develop, and use probability models; and use random sampling to draw inferences about a population. Students will develop problem-solving skills to apply these problems to real-life circumstances. Students will use manipulatives and scientific calculators as learning tools. Successful completion of this course will prepare students for Pre-Algebra.

Pre-Algebra (eighth grade level math):

This course centers on reinforcing and expanding the mathematical skills taught in general mathematics with additional advanced computation, with an emphasis on Algebraic concepts. A major goal of this course is to use beginning algebra to compute with positive and negative exponents, simplify monomials, simplify expressions, solve equations and inequalities, and utilize both algebra and graphing as a representation of linear functions and systems of equations. Students will additionally further develop and solidify the concepts of integers, rational numbers, ratios, proportions, percents, powers, roots, statistics and probability. Students will also be introduced to congruence, similarity, and transformations in the coordinate plane, as well as extending their knowledge of volume and surface area. Students will develop and expand problem-solving skills, both creatively and analytically, to solve word problems and apply it to real-world applications.

Spanish

This introductory level class, which again meets twice a week, focuses on expanding vocabulary and grammar from Spanish 5 while continuing to improve verbal skills and proper pronunciation. Units of study will include parts of the body, clothing, physical traits, and parts of the home. Simple verb conjugations will be the main emphasis in grammar. Students will be actively engaged in their own language learning, while making comparisons to the cultural practices and perspectives of various Spanish-speaking countries.

Jewish Studies

Bible Studies: The Books of Joshua, Judges and Samuel I – Students examine the narrative of selected stories from Nevi’im (The Prophets). Through critical lenses, they learn about the life of ancient Israel’s leaders. 6th-grade students investigate their leadership skills, weaknesses and strengths, and their historical impact on the development of the new nation in Eretz Yisrael. Some of the key questions to be investigated include the following: What is a prophet? What was God’s role in the development of Israel and its leaders? What were the distinct social roles for the prophets in the society of ancient Israel? How the events in Nevi’im shaped the land of Israel and its political forces.

Jewish Leaders/Heroes: Students examine the work of various prominent Jewish heroes who espoused and promoted Jewish values. Key questions: Who is a Hero? What makes a Jewish Hero? How one’s actions lead to Tikkun Olam? Through an individual project, each student investigates the life of one Jewish hero and his/her historical impact.

Jewish Lifecycle Events: Students learn about traditions and rituals of each of the Jewish lifecycle events. How do we celebrate a birth of a child? What does it mean “to become a Bar/Bat Mitzvah”? What rituals make a Jewish wedding a special ceremony? What is a Jewish burial? Through this experiential program, students hear from presenters such as a Mohel and a congregational Rabbi who present their role through each of the lifecycle events.

 

Hebrew

Our 6th graders continue using the Chaverim B’Ivrit reading series. This curriculum is based on the most current understanding of language acquisition in children. Chaverim B’Ivrit develops active language production in children by treating Hebrew as a living language. Through age-appropriate stories, conversations, poems, songs, journals, and many other child-centered activities, this unique curriculum pays special attention to the beyond-the-classroom interests and needs of students, allowing learners to transfer and apply their learning in new contexts and situations. Moreover, Pardes students learn about Jewish values and holidays using modern Hebrew reading, writing and conversational skills that are enhanced.

Seventh Grade

Humanities

Humanities is an integration of language arts and social studies. The emphasis is to provide students with a rich, literary based curriculum which includes a variety of texts, both fiction and nonfiction and integrates reading and writing daily, building the foundation for historical thinking and developing critical reasoning and analytical skills. Class novel studies, combined with a focused independent reading program, develop comprehension and analytical skills, as well as an advanced vocabulary and a deeper understanding of grammar and sentence structure. Class literature studies include The Little Prince, Flight of the Sparrow, A Break With Charity, Chains, The Poet Slave of Cuba, Fever,  To Be a Slave, and Salt: A Story of Friendship in a Time of War. Utilizing reading and writing strategies gained via a workshop model based on the Columbia Teachers College Reading and Writing Project, students engage in content-rich lessons which enhance their abilities as readers, writers,  and thinkers. Students write narratives, informational, and persuasive essays displaying their ability to independently transfer strategies gained in the workshop. A rigorous vocabulary and grammar program are integrated within the novel studies and written work.Content areas include indigenous civilizations, colonization of the Americas, slave trade, Native Americans/colonial settlement, American Revolution, foundations of the United States Government, and factors leading to Civil War.

Science

Seventh-grade science focuses on the study of biological science. This laboratory science course investigates the relationship between structure and function from molecules to organisms and systems, the interaction of biotic and abiotic components of the environment and mechanisms that maintain continuity and lead to changes in populations over time. This course also emphasizes internal and external anatomical structures and their functions, the processes of living things, the importance of biodiversity and changes in life forms over time. Students explore these concepts through hands-on investigations, discussion and direct instruction. In an effort to prepare students for advanced science coursework, students learn to write comprehensive lab reports and utilize an elevated text.

Mathematics

Seventh-grade students are enrolled in either Math 2 (grade level), Pre-Algebra or Algebra

Math 2 (grade level math)
In the first semester, Math 2 builds upon previous concepts taught in Math 1 and then leads students through basic algebraic, geometric, and statistical procedures in the second semester. The major goals of this course are to analyze proportional relationships; calculate percents in real-world applications; extend previous understandings of operations with the new twist of positive and negative integers; extend operations with fractions by including positive and negative numbers; introduce algebraic expressions to generate equivalent expressions; use properties of equality in algebraic expressions; solve one- and two-step algebraic equations and inequalities; draw, construct, and describe geometrical figures and describe the relationships between them; solve real-life and mathematical problems involving angle measure, area, surface area, and volume; investigate, develop, and use probability models; and use random sampling to draw inferences about a population. Students will develop problem-solving skills to apply these problems to real-life circumstances. Students will use manipulatives and scientific calculators as a learning tools. Successful completion of this course will prepare students for Pre-Algebra.

Pre-Algebra (Eighth Grade Level Math)
This course centers on reinforcing and expanding the mathematical skills taught in general mathematics with additional advanced computation, with an emphasis on Algebraic concepts. A major goal of this course is to use beginning algebra to compute with positive and negative exponents, simplify monomials, simplify expressions, solve equations and inequalities, and utilize both algebra and graphing as a representation of linear functions and systems of equations. Students will additionally further develop and solidify the concepts of integers, rational numbers, ratios, proportions, percents, powers, roots, statistics and probability. Students will also be introduced to congruence, similarity, and transformations in the coordinate plane, as well as extending their knowledge of volume and surface area. Students will develop and expand problem-solving skills, both creatively and analytically, to solve word problems and apply it to real-world applications.

Algebra (Ninth Grade Level Math)
The Algebra curriculum allows students to make connections, discover relationships, choose strategies to solve problems, and explain their thinking. Students are challenged to develop 21st-century skills such as critical thinking and making real life connections while engaging with exciting material within STEAM related fields. The curriculum emphasizes a depth of mathematical reasoning skills. Students will learn to write and simplify algebraic expressions;  perform operations with integers and rational numbers; solve equations and inequalities; simplify, solve and graph quadratic, radical, rational, special, and exponential functions; and simplify polynomials. Factoring and graphing are emphasised in the last semester of the year. Algebra students will cover basic Trigonometry and Data Analysis.

Spanish

This advanced level Spanish class, which meets twice a week, focuses on developing and refining listening, speaking, reading and writing skills. The main goal is to demonstrate a greater proficiency in verb conjugations, conversational Spanish and a better understanding and appreciation of the Hispanic culture. Projects include biographical poems and storybook writing.

 

Jewish Studies

Seventh-grade students explore major events of Jewish history that impacted world Jewry. The students learn about Dreyfus Affair and the pogroms in Europe during the late 19th century. Additionally, the seventh-grade Jewish studies class discusses the rise of the Zionist movement and the events that led to the Holocaust.

Holiday celebrations and a closer look at the mitzvot and traditions of each of the holidays is an integral part of the Jewish studies curriculum.

Hebrew

Our seventh graders progress to advanced levels of the Chaverim B’Ivrit reading series. This curriculum is based on the most current understanding of language acquisition in children. Chaverim B’Ivrit develops active language production in children by treating Hebrew as a living language. Through age-appropriate stories, conversations, poems, songs, journals, and many other child-centered activities, this unique curriculum pays special attention to the beyond-the-classroom interests and needs of students, allowing learners to transfer and apply their learning in new contexts and situations. Moreover, Pardes students learn about Jewish values and holidays using modern Hebrew reading, writing and conversational skills that are enhanced each unit.

Eighth Grade

Humanities

The emphasis in eighth-grade Humanities is to continue to develop students’ abilities to read, comprehend, and effectively respond to increasingly complex literary texts. Students learn to think historically, deepening critical reasoning and analytical skills. Class novel studies, combined with a focused independent reading program, further develop comprehension and literary analysis. Students are engaged in identifying and deconstructing major themes and connecting their insights within today’s society. Class literature studies include The Book Thief, The Absolutely True Diary of a Part Time Indian, To Kill a Mockingbird, and To Be a Slave.  There is also a unit on short stories written by great authors such as Mark Twain, O. Henry, Guy Maupassant, Langston Hughes, and Shirley Jackson. Students engage in Socratic seminars, and they write critically about the readings, using structured essay formats. Drawing from best practices, students continue to develop their writer’s voice, utilizing a workshop model. A rigorous vocabulary and grammar program are integrated within the novel studies and written work.  Content areas include an in-depth study of the early history of the United States, beginning with the Civil War. Students use skills of historical and geographical analysis to understand ideas and events that strengthened our nation: immigration, industry and labor, civil rights, war, civics, and economics . Each strand is presented with particular emphasis on democratic ideals and citizenship.  The goal is to provide students with a better understanding of and a greater appreciation for the major movements and concepts that have characterized the United States, while making thoughtful connections to the modern world.

Science

Eighth-grade science focuses on the study of chemistry and physics. This laboratory science course investigates the composition of matter and the physical and chemical changes it undergoes. Students use science process skills to study the fundamental structure of atoms, the way atoms combine to form compounds, and the interactions between matter and energy. The students will also learn physics where a strong emphasis in mathematics is taught. Students continue to strengthen their lab report skills and utilize an elevated textbook in preparation for advanced science coursework.

Mathematics

Eighth-grade students are enrolled in either Pre-Algebra, Algebra or Geometry:

Pre-Algebra:
This course centers on reinforcing and expanding the mathematical skills taught in general mathematics with additional advanced computation, with an emphasis on Algebraic concepts. A major goal of this course is to use beginning algebra to compute with positive and negative exponents, simplify monomials, simplify expressions, solve equations and inequalities, and utilize both algebra and graphing as a representation of linear functions and systems of equations. Students will additionally further develop and solidify the concepts of integers, rational numbers, ratios, proportions, percents, powers, roots, statistics and probability. Students will also be introduced to congruence, similarity, and transformations in the coordinate plane, as well as extending their knowledge of volume and surface area. Students will develop and expand problem-solving skills, both creatively and analytically, to solve word problems and apply it to real-world applications.

This course centers on reinforcing and expanding the mathematical skills taught in general mathematics with additional advanced computation, with an emphasis on Algebraic concepts. A major goal of this course is to use beginning algebra to compute with positive and negative exponents, simplify monomials, simplify expressions, solve equations and inequalities, and utilize both algebra and graphing as a representation of linear functions and systems of equations. Students will additionally further develop and solidify the concepts of integers, rational numbers, ratios, proportions, percents, powers, roots, statistics and probability. Students will also be introduced to congruence, similarity, and transformations in the coordinate plane, as well as extending their knowledge of volume and surface area. Students will develop and expand problem-solving skills, both creatively and analytically, to solve word problems and apply it to real-world applications.

Algebra:
The Algebra curriculum allows students to make connections, discover relationships, choose strategies to solve problems, and explain their thinking. Students are challenged to develop 21st-century skills such as critical thinking and making real life connections while engaging with exciting material within STEAM related fields. The curriculum emphasizes a depth of mathematical reasoning skills. Students will learn to write and simplify algebraic expressions; perform operations with integers and rational numbers; solve equations and inequalities; simplify, solve and graph quadratic, radical, rational, special, and exponential functions; and simplify polynomials. Factoring and graphing are emphasised in the last semester of the year. Algebra students will additionally cover basic Trigonometry and Data Analysis.

The Algebra curriculum allows students to make connections, discover relationships, choose strategies to solve problems, and explain their thinking. Students are challenged to develop 21st-century skills such as critical thinking and making real life connections while engaging with exciting material within STEAM related fields. The curriculum emphasizes a depth of mathematical reasoning skills. Students will learn to write and simplify algebraic expressions;  perform operations with integers and rational numbers; solve equations and inequalities; simplify, solve and graph quadratic, radical, rational, special, and exponential functions; and simplify polynomials. Factoring and graphing are emphasised in the last semester of the year. Algebra students will cover basic Trigonometry and Data Analysis.

Geometry:
The primary objective of Geometry is to develop concepts and skills to construct informal as well as formal algebraic and logical arguments and proofs in a Geometry setting. Students will develop analytical and spatial reasoning. Topics include geometric notation; reasoning and proof; parallel and perpendicular lines; congruent triangles; angle and side relationships within triangles; quadrilaterals; geometric proportions; similarity; transformations; symmetry; circles; area; surface area; and volume as it relates to measurement. Also included is a study of basic Right Triangle Trigonometry, and additionally, non-right triangles utilizing the Laws of Sines and Cosines. Spherical geometry and vectors will be introduced as well. Students will use their knowledge from Algebra 1 to solve problems and make connections between Algebra and Geometry in the coordinate plane.

Spanish

This class is a culmination of three years of learning and is designed to prepare students for high school Spanish. Units of study include family and food and will engage students in projects that demonstrate proficiency in the use of possessive adjectives, the preterite tense, stem-changing verbs and informal commands. Many students graduate from Pardes and easily enter into advanced level Spanish classes.

Jewish Studies

Eighth graders continue to learn about major historical events. The study of the Holocaust includes a meeting with a Holocaust survivor. Moreover, students look at the events that followed the Holocaust and how this atrocity impacted the American and Israeli Jewish communities. The students also learn about the establishment of Israel and the events that shaped the face of the new nation. Through debates and presentations, eighth graders are engaged in discussing Israel’s political and social issues.

Hebrew

Eighth graders use an advanced unit of the Chaverim B’Ivrit reading series. This curriculum is based on the most current understanding of language acquisition in children. Chaverim B’Ivrit develops active language production in children by treating Hebrew as a living language. Through age-appropriate stories, conversations, poems, songs, journals, and many other child-centered activities, this unique curriculum pays special attention to the beyond-the-classroom interests and needs of students, allowing learners to transfer and apply their learning in new contexts and situations. Moreover, Pardes students learn about Jewish values and holidays using modern Hebrew reading, writing and conversational skills that are enhanced each unit.

Middle School Physical Education

Middle School students participate in Physical Education one class period each week.  Sports teaches vital team building skills and fosters healthy mind-body awareness. The program provides students with many opportunities to participate in well conceived and well-taught learning experiences in a safe and constructive environment. Students learn the benefits of lifelong fitness while gaining physical competence, skill development, self-discipline, and self-confidence.

Middle School Electives

Middle School students enjoy the opportunity to have “choice” within their weekly courses. In addition to a weekly session in our brand new Makerspace, students in grades five through eight have the opportunity to select a semester-long elective of interest to them. Electives, which meet once per week, allow creative development and hands-on experiences in a less formal classroom setting.

Class options are very diverse. This year’s electives are:

  • Architects in Training
  • Action/Reaction
  • Picture This!
  • Electronic Journalism
  • Jewish Art
  • The Wizarding World and Words of Harry Potter
  • Strings
  • Sign Language
  • Volunteering at the Jewish Community Center preschool
  • Rock Band

Whether it is developing their own business, learning healthy lifestyle choices through yoga or competing in the digital world, electives allow students to explore current interests and develop new ones.