Middle School

But you must continue in the things which you have learned and been assured of, knowing from whom you have learned them, and that from childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. II Timothy 3:14,15

 

What is Middle School?

Middle Schools have developed from a recognition that students in this age group have unique needs which make them different from elementary children and high school students. It is a school program designed to meet the emotional, social, spiritual and physical needs of the pre-adolescent. Middle School gives a separate identity to these young people by giving them a special school organization. Most authorities agree the adolescent is primarily concerned with emotional-social needs. The Middle School schedule allows teachers the freedom to address the individual differences of students with average to above average ability. Study and research skills are emphasized. Our Middle School program prepares students for an honors level program at the high school level.

 

The Middle School Program

The Middle School Program emphasizes strong academics as well as an expanding Fine Arts program. The school day consists of a Bible class, four academic classes (Math, English, History, Science), Physical Education and one elective. The Middle School department has its own science lab and transportable computer lab with 30 laptop computers. A new technology program is being introduced to all the students and will be taught one day a week during the science class. The computers will be used in all the classes for subject enhancement.

 

Electives

The electives are designed to broaden the interests of our students. We offer subjects in the Fine Arts and an exploratory course. The choices for the current year are art, band, choir, and Expanding Horizons.

 

Discipline

Discipline in the middle school is aligned with the developmental characteristics of the adolescent. There is an emphasis on parent involvement and teacher counseling. The goal of the program is to develop positive attitudes of self-control in the students.

Our main disciplinary program for teaching self-control is the lunch detention program. If a student experiences a difficulty in the classroom or with his/her peers, the student is counseled and the parent is informed. If the situation is not resolved or corrected, the student is assigned to lunch detention. This involves eating lunch apart from the group in a separate room with a guided writing assignment addressing the situation.

The parent is informed of this via a document that is sent home on the day of the problem and returned the next day with the parent signature. Those students who are not assigned lunch detention during a quarter are rewarded with dress down passes, etc. Using this program of positive and negative consequences for behavior has proven very effective for this age group.

 

What opportunities will the RBS Middle School give my child for individual progress?

The instructional goal is mastery of academic skills, not just a passing grade. Students have access to a broader teaching staff than just one primary teacher. The elective program is a powerful addition that motivates students to love learning. We believe in training young people to think creatively. The Middle School at RBS creates a climate that responds to the nature of adolescents.

 

Core Subjects (required of all students)

Bible – Each year the content varies so that throughout a student’s middle school years, he/she will acquire a basic understanding and knowledge of biblical principles, doctrine and application of Scripture to life.

English – This subject incorporates the study of grammar, literature and vocabulary. Composition and the parts of speech are emphasized so that the student can become proficient at written communication. Reading is emphasized in the form of book reports and classroom readings so that the student can become a seeker of knowledge on his/her own.

Science – This subject is designed to encourage the natural curiosity of the students in order to understand God’s orderly design of the natural world. Each year a survey course is presented of the various fields of science. Students are encouraged to ask questions, explore answers and find solutions. Hands-on projects are a large part of the learning process.

Social Studies – This subject is intended to give students a well-rounded background in American History (8th), World History (7th) and Ancient History/Geography (6th). The social studies program provides an introductory concept of our government as well.

Physical Education/Health (required for 6th and 7th grades only) – This course emphasizes fitness, coordination and sportsmanship through student participation in team and individual sports. This program varies from year to year. Health issues will be discussed on a regular basis in a classroom.

Math 87 – All 6th grade students are required to take this math course. The course covers the fundamentals of arithmetic operations, decimals, fractions and other integrated mathematical concepts.

General Math 7 – This course is designed to reinforce the basic principles of math. It is for the student who needs to master basic math operations and concepts before moving on to pre-algebra. (This course is for 7th graders only.)

Pre-Algebra – This course prepares students to take Algebra I. It may be taken by qualifying 7th graders or as an 8th grade math. In this course, students learn the concepts and applications of basic algebraic principles. Concepts and applications of general math are also strengthened. Prerequisite for 7th graders is a B average or better in math or teacher recommendation.

Algebra I – This course gives an introduction to real numbers, rational numbers, square roots and graphing. Problem solving is emphasized through linear equations, polynomials, equations and quadratic equations. Prerequisite is completion of Pre-Algebra with a minimum grade of C and teacher recommendation. This course is taken for high school credit.

 

Electives

Middle School electives are annual electives only. Students in 6th and 7th grades will select one elective and one alternate in case of scheduling problems. Students in 8th grade will choose two electives and one alternate in case of scheduling problems. (Be aware that physical education is not required for 8th graders but may be chosen as an elective.)

Art – This course involves learning the fundamentals and composition of art. The study of art history is introduced and integrated with the course. The curriculum for this course varies each year to accommodate the levels of student knowledge. Students do hands-on drawing, painting and sculpting. A $25 lab fee will be charged.

Beginner Band – This course is designed for students who are interested in learning how to play the wind or percussion instrument of their choice. Students will be taught the basic fundamentals of music. Students will perform at various programs including concerts and chapels.

Intermediate Band – This course is geared toward students who have participated in band for at least a year. This course serves to develop skills on an intermediate level. Students will perform at various programs including concerts and chapels. Prerequisite: The band director will interview and approve all participants.

Choir – This course is designed to teach students to sing well as a group and to develop vocal skills. Students will learn proper breathing techniques, intonation, rhythm and balance. The course will expose students to music as a medium of praise and adoration as well as cultural enrichment. Students will have the opportunity to perform in various competitions as well as several concerts. Concert attendance is mandatory.

Expanding Horizons – This is an exploratory course. There will be four separate  subjects taught through the year on a quarterly schedule. The subjects will vary according to grade level and teacher availability. Each subject will be approached on an introductory level with the hope that students will be intrigued enough to continue on their own after the course is finished. Possible subjects include newspaper, chess, drama, etc.