Middle School

“Because of the foreign language foundation at Rivermont, I was able to double major in Elementary Education and Spanish and am now pursuing a bilingual teaching certificate. Rivermont was also a great place to be involved – I cannot think of any other school environment where someone could be in student council, drama productions, cheerleading, and choir at the same time. These activities helped build great friendships and also taught me how to balance the many projects I encounter in my professional life.”

Jennifer Neff, Class of 2003

6th through 8th Grade

Rivermont’s Middle School recognizes the developmental uniqueness of this age group. These are years of transformational growth – socially, academically, and emotionally. Our family-like environment and strong advisory program support and empower students to become increasingly responsible and independent as they move towards Upper School.

Middle School curriculum emphasizes how to study, explore, research, and write well in small, engaged classes that address a variety of learning styles. In addition to a challenging curriculum, Middle School students also explore a variety of technology classes, Latin (in addition to French or Spanish), and “out-of-the-box” elective courses such as Robotics, and Aikido.

Middle School students develop independence as they travel between classes and manage coursework, yet are supported by their advisor and teachers to set goals, develop study habits, become involved in extracurricular activities, and manage their time effectively. By participating in athletics, visual and performing arts, extracurricular clubs and activities, school trips, and special events and competitions (both on and off campus), Middle School students build experiences, discover interests and talents, and develop leadership skills.

Middle School Arts Curriculum

At the Middle School age, it’s impossible to determine how and when hidden talents will bloom. Middle School students are exploring what they’re drawn to and where their talents lie. For this reason, Rivermont’s robust arts program exposes Middle School students to a quarter of visual art and a quarter of drama each year. In addition, every Middle School student participates in a music ensemble: choir, or band.

Whether it’s with a paintbrush or a script, creative expression at Rivermont is encouraged and celebrated. Middle School courses are designed to allow students to build a foundation of skills and develop and showcase those skills through performances and exhibits. Students participate in Rivermont events including the Winter Concert, SpringFest, and the All School Art Show, as well as community and national events such as the Quad City Arts’ Festival of Trees and the National Art Education Association’s Youth Art Month.

VISUAL ART (6TH GRADE)

6th Grade students create sketchbook journals and study the work of artist-advocate Dan Eldon. Sketchbook journals are used throughout the course as a tool to compose preliminary ideas for projects.

Students study the elements of pattern and the concept of positive and negative space within a work of art. They create a composition that expresses movement, illustrates positive and negative space, and emphasizes patterns. Students use complimentary colors and repetition to achieve contrast, balance, and unity in their artwork and further their exploration of space with still life drawings. Students learn the methods of two-point perspective to create the illusion of three-dimensional space on a two-dimensional surface and apply these techniques to their utopian cityscapes, which make a cross-curricular connection to The Giver in English.

Students demonstrate blending and shading techniques to illustrate different values throughout their artwork. They establish a dominant light source and shade objects according to that light source. Students evaluate and articulate the reasoning behind their favorite work of art by creating an artist statement video. 6th Grade students share their artwork and artist statement videos with a large audience during the annual Family Art Night and All School Art Show.

VISUAL ART (7TH GRADE)

7th Grade students create pinwheel radial name designs. Through this project, they learn how to use radial symmetry to create an interesting and balanced composition. They visibly represent their personality by utilizing creative vocabulary and color combinations and also demonstrate lettering and shading techniques.

Next, students make a cross-curricular connection to East Asia geography curriculum with the study of contemporary South Korean artist Do-Ho Suh, who addresses the dynamic of personal space vs. public space and explores the fine line between the individual and the collective in our increasingly global society. Dominating principals of design are space, repetition, and unity and students utilize a variety of media in their artwork.

Students also explore ceramics, architecture, and the concept of home by creating a clay house. Students’ last project communicates a theme inspired by contemporary artist Nick Lampert. Students create a collage-drawing of the merging of animal and machine and their relationship to each other.

7th Grade students share their artwork with a large audience during the annual Family Art Night and All School Art Show.

VISUAL ART (8TH GRADE)

8th Grade students create sketchbook journals while focusing on lines. Sketchbook journals are used throughout the course as a tool to compose preliminary ideas for projects.

Students study the work of contemporary American artist Jasper Johns and create a composition utilizing a number design. They practice using complimentary and analogous colors to achieve contrast, balance, and unity in their artwork. Next, students create a ceramic ship of dreams, practicing a variety of hand-building techniques and sculpting methods to manipulate the clay to achieve the desired features of their three-dimensional ship. After the initial bisque firing, students choose from a variety of colored glazes to allow further individual expression.

Students also complete a map of Verona, Italy, making a cross-curricular connection to English and the reading of Romeo and Juliet. They familiarize themselves with Verona and its historical landmarks and use their choice of mixed media materials to create a map from a modern perspective or in the style of Pietro Bertelli’s Renaissance maps. Students’ final project is to invent an alter ego using their choice of mixed media materials. To do so, students explore a variety of contemporary artists who incorporate identity and the use of alter egos as core themes in their artwork.

Students evaluate and articulate the reasoning behind their favorite work of art by creating an artist statement video. 8th Grade students share their artwork and artist statement videos with a large audience during the annual Family Art Night and All School Art Show.

DRAMA (6TH GRADE)

6th Grade students explore the origins of drama, focusing on the storytelling tradition. Students participate in a variety of exercises to develop the voice and body for performance. Students also explore playwriting, directing, technical theater, and acting as they collaborate in small groups to create original stories, which are developed into scripts for rehearsal and performance.

DRAMA (7TH GRADE)

7th Grade students examine the structure of drama, theatrical conventions and terminology, and theater history. Students read and analyze one-act and full-length plays and participate in performances of scenes and monologues.

DRAMA (8TH GRADE)

8th Grade students investigate the ways in which American history has been reflected in theater and how technology has impacted American theater. Students participate in a variety of actor training exercises and explore career options in the dramatic arts.

MIDDLE SCHOOL BAND (6TH – 8TH GRADE)

Every Middle School student participates in a music ensemble: choir, band, or strings. Middle School Band students concentrate on the development of individual proficiency with complex rhythm and scale studies, while also exploring multiple musical styles. “Small-but-mighty” is the nature of the Middle School Band – students are often called upon to fill multiple parts, which not only expands their proficiency to multiple instruments but creates a true sense of teamwork.

Middle School Computer Science Curriculum

Middle School students do not learn technology skills in isolation, but instead in conjunction with curriculum across all disciplines, leveraging a wide variety of technology in their work. From video conferencing with students and experts around the world via Skype to accessing digital textbooks or designing a multimedia presentation, students feel at home in the digital world and understand both the benefits and limitations of technology.

Middle School students complete a quarter of technology each year and may also choose to participate in Middle School Robotics, building and programming a LEGO robot for competition. Under Rivermont’s 1:1 technology program, Middle School students bring personal laptops to school (Bring-Your-Own-Device – BYOD) and Rivermont will install necessary tools and software. (1:1 refers to each student having their own electronic device to access the internet, digital course materials, digital textbooks, software, apps, and more.) In addition to BYOD, Middle and Upper School students also utilize PC desktops in the School’s computer lab.

COMPUTER SCIENCE (6TH GRADE)

6th Grade students build on the computer science foundation from Lower School, including keyboarding technique, digital citizenship, and using Microsoft Office tools. Technology is integrated into the curriculum as students use a variety of word processing and presentation software to complete academic projects. Students also build on their computer programming skills, moving into increasingly complex programming.

COMPUTER SCIENCE (7TH GRADE)

7th Grade students explore a variety of computer programming languages and continue to work with digital cameras and webcams, expanding their skills with photo and video editing software. Technology is integrated into the curriculum as students use a variety of tools and software to complete projects and deliver presentations.

COMPUTER SCIENCE (8TH GRADE)

8th Grade students build on skills developed throughout Middle School, including increasingly complex computer programming, enhanced skills with Microsoft Office tools and photo and video editing software, and digital citizenship. Technology is integrated into the curriculum as students use a variety of tools and software to complete projects and deliver presentations.

MIDDLE SCHOOL ROBOTICS (6TH – 8TH GRADE)

Middle School Robotics is an exhilarating course built on teamwork, problem-solving, and project-based research. Students are divided into teams to build and program an autonomous robot using LEGO MINDSTORMS technology. In addition, teams explore a real-world problem that today’s scientists and engineers are trying to solve, develop an innovative solution to that problem, and share their project presentation at the competition. Past challenges have been based on topics such as food safety, quality of life for senior citizens, and weather & climate.

Teams then attend FIRST LEGO League (FLL) competitions, which begin at the regional level and advance to state and national levels. At competition, teams compete head-to-head with their robots on a thematic playing field to score points. Teams are scored not only on the robot game but also on their project presentation and their demonstration of the FLL Core Values (including Gracious Professionalism and Cooperation).

For more information on FIRST LEGO League, click here.

Middle School English Curriculum

In the English curriculum, the core skills of reading and writing are thematically integrated with social studies curriculum as students make cross-curricular connections. Linking literature to its historical period and understanding the culture and geography of world and American history, for example, creates a deeper understanding and brings both history and literature alive for students.

An emphasis on the writing process, coupled with detailed feedback only possible in small classes, develops students’ grammatical, vocabulary, and research skills. Middle School students are challenged daily to participate in an in-depth discussion of literature and take creative risks with writing.

7th Grade students prepare a Living Biography performance on an influential person of their choice for the annual Academic Fair.

ENGLISH (6TH GRADE)

Students will build on the foundation established in Lower School to refine skills needed for Middle School writing and analytical thinking. Special emphasis is placed on cause and effect relationships, reading in different genres and for various purposes, cultural understanding, the use of literary techniques, and recognizing universal themes. Assessment of these and other skills important to academic and personal growth will be analyzed in a variety of ways.

ENGLISH (7TH GRADE)

Students will build on the foundation established in sixth grade to refine skills needed for middle school writing and analytical thinking. Special emphasis is placed on cause and effect relationships, reading in different genres and for various purposes, cultural understanding, the use of literary techniques, and recognizing universal themes. Assessment of these and other skills important to academic and personal growth will be analyzed in a variety of ways. 7th Grade students prepare a Living Biography performance on an influential person of their choice for the annual Academic Fair.

ENGLISH (8TH GRADE)

English 8 students focus on thinking abstractly and making meaningful connections between what they are learning and what they already know. The curriculum also emphasizes writing and analysis. The goal is for students to read with excellent comprehension, to synthesize information, and to write clearly. In addition to the required works, there is an independent reading component which helps to promote a lifelong interest and appreciation of literature. Writing assignments include academic writing and personal responses to literary themes, as well as creative pieces.

Middle School Math Curriculum

Building on the philosophy of the Singapore Math curriculum begun in Lower School, Middle School students do more than learn equations and ratios – they apply math to real-world problems to create a deep understanding. When students see the practical use of what they learn in math class in everyday life, they approach it with enthusiasm and purpose.

ALGEBRAIC PRINCIPLES

In Algebraic Principles, the proven Singapore Math curriculum is used to expand students’ comprehension of key math concepts, applying them to solve complex real-world applications. The course explores a wide spectrum of content including beginning algebra, rational numbers, radicals, functions, probability, statistics, and even geometry.

PRE-ALGEBRA

In Pre-Algebra, students are introduced to algebra concepts that serve as the foundation for their future math study. The course reinforces the concepts of variable recognition, signed numbers, formulas, and single variable equations. Students explore the fundamental principles of algebra, including algebraic symbolism, simplifying expressions, and the graphic representations associated with functions. Students create and algebraically represent solutions involving linear relationships.

ALGEBRA I

Algebra I serves as the bridge from the concrete to the abstract. In this course, students dive deeper into the exploration of algebra principles, including writing and solving equations and inequalities and graphing linear and quadratic equations. Continued emphasis is placed on problem-solving skills and application.

GEOMETRY

In Geometry, students are actively engaged in guided and open-ended math investigation. The course covers the recognition, understanding, and use of geometric properties and relationships among points, lines, planes, angles, triangles, quadrilaterals, and other polygons of Euclidean geometry. Students complete algebraic, coordinate, and deductive proofs of these relationships and study measurements of both two and three-dimensional figures.

Middle School Physical Education & Health Curriculum

Rivermont’s P.E. curriculum helps ensure students are healthy and physically fit and understand that being active is an essential part of leading a healthy, productive life. Students develop physical fitness, useful physical and athletic skills, good sportsmanship, and an enjoyment of physical recreation. By the time they reach Middle School, students have developed a solid foundation of skills in a variety of sports and may choose to participate in school-sponsored athletics.

In addition, students are introduced to a variety of health topics, including healthy behaviors and decision-making. Students learn and practice life skills and are encouraged to think critically about healthy living.

Middle School Science Curriculum

Middle School students study one year of earth science, one year of life science, and one year of physical science. Science curriculum is based on the belief that the answer to any science question is best found through firsthand experience. Thus, interactive labs bring concepts to life and keep students engaged in actually doing science, not just memorizing it.

6th Grade students complete original science research projects for the annual Academic Fair.

Though not a requirement, a number of Middle School students choose to enter projects in the State Science and Technology Fair of Iowa (SSTFI) each year. At the 2014 SSTFI, Rivermont students brought home a variety of awards, including Grand Champion in the Overall Junior High Physical Science category and 1st place in both the 8th Grade Physical Science and 6th Grade Biological categories.

EARTH SCIENCE (6TH GRADE)

In Earth Science, students explore topics that encourage curiosity, inquiry, and creative problem solving. Units of study include mapping, plate tectonics, earthquakes, volcanoes, the rock cycle, weathering and erosion, the cycle of water, the atmosphere, and the solar system.

LIFE SCIENCE (7TH GRADE)

In Life Science, students continue to expand their investigative skills. Units of study include cellular structure, the roles and functions of organs, genetics and heredity, how organisms adapt to their environment, and human health and reproduction.

PHYSICAL SCIENCE (8TH GRADE)

In Physical Science, students increasingly use the scientific method to solve problems. Units of study include an introduction to geology, the solar system, astronomy, the principles of energy and motion, the periodic table of elements, and chemical reactions.

Middle School Social Studies Curriculum

The Middle School social studies curriculum encourages students to ask probing questions and to view contemporary issues through a historical lens. Students develop a global understanding of the past and present, an appreciation for our diverse society, and become informed, engaged citizens.

SOCIAL STUDIES (6TH GRADE)

In 6th grade, Social Studies students build upon foundations of basic geography vocabulary. This class is designed to help students integrate the study of cultures, historical events, and geography. Students build on the foundation established in Lower School to refine skills needed for Middle School writing and analytical thinking. Special emphasis is placed on cause and effect relationships, reading in different genres and for various purposes, cultural understanding, the use of literary techniques, and recognizing universal themes. Assessment of these and other skills important to academic and personal growth will be analyzed in a variety of ways.

SOCIAL STUDIES (7TH GRADE)

This course is designed to help students integrate the study of cultures, historical events, and geography. Students build on the foundation established in sixth grade to refine skills needed for Middle School writing and analytical thinking. Special emphasis is placed on cause and effect relationships, reading in different genres and for various purposes, cultural understanding, the use of literary techniques, and recognizing universal themes. Assessment of these and other skills important to academic and personal growth will be analyzed in a variety of ways.

SOCIAL STUDIES (8TH GRADE)

In United States History, students develop an understanding of the current issues facing the U.S. through a survey of the nation’s past, from early colonization to the present. While U.S. history provides the foundation, subjects are explored within a global context. Geography skills are enhanced through analysis of maps, graphs, charts, and diagrams linking people, places, and events in history. The course also examines the African-American experience, women’s issues, and the history of Native Americans.

Middle School World Languages Curriculum

In Lower School, students study both French and Spanish, selecting either one or the other to study exclusively in 4th and 5th Grade. Though most 6th Grade students choose to continue with the language they selected in 4th Grade, they do have the option to change at the beginning of Middle School. Whether they study French or Spanish, students will continue with this language through graduation.

In Middle School, students also take one-quarter of Latin each year. When students study Latin, they acquire a certain logic and intuitive sense of language. This, in combination with Latin’s linguistic connections to English, French, and Spanish, translates into improved language understanding and mastery.

Foreign language study at Rivermont goes far beyond conjugations, pronunciation, and vocabulary – students are immersed in culture and customs. Events like Rivermont’s annual school-wide International Week create a culture-rich environment and students develop an appreciation of our global community.

FRENCH (6TH GRADE)

Comparable to a first-semester high school foreign language course, French A focuses on expanding students’ vocabulary and composition skills through various reading, writing, speaking, and listening activities. Students also explore French culture with celebrations of various French and Francophone holidays throughout the year.

FRENCH (7TH GRADE)

Comparable to a second-semester high school foreign language course, French B expands students’ vocabulary, composition, and conversational skills through various reading, writing, speaking, and listening activities. Specific units of study include food, clothing, shopping, and travel. Students also explore French culture with celebrations of various French and Francophone holidays throughout the year.

FRENCH (8TH GRADE)

In French C, students continue their French study with an increased focus on vocabulary acquisition and basic present and past tense structures. Literature is introduced through poetry and short stories. Specific units of study include an exploration of greetings, descriptions, school materials and classes, family conversation, hobbies, invitations, making plans, vacation, and travel. Students also explore French culture with celebrations of various French and Francophone holidays throughout the year.

SPANISH (6TH GRADE)

Comparable to a first-semester high school foreign language course, Spanish A focuses on expanding students’ vocabulary and composition skills through various reading, writing, speaking, and listening activities. Students also explore the culture and history of Spanish speaking countries and learn to appreciate the diversity of other cultures around the globe.

SPANISH (7TH GRADE)

Comparable to a second-semester high school foreign language course, Spanish B expands students’ vocabulary, composition, and conversational skills through various reading, writing, speaking, and listening activities. Specific units of study include advanced sentence structure and an exploration into the global influence of the Spanish language.

SPANISH (8TH GRADE)

In Spanish C, students continue their Spanish study with an increased focus on vocabulary acquisition and basic present and past tense structures. Literature is introduced through poetry and short stories. Specific units of study include an exploration of greetings, descriptions, school materials and classes, family conversation, hobbies, invitations, making plans, vacation, and travel. Students also explore a variety of cultures with celebrations of Spanish holidays throughout the year.

LATIN (6TH – 8TH GRADE)

All Middle School students take one quarter of Latin each year. Taught using the a variety of approachs, the course introduces Latin vocabulary and grammar using a literacy-based approach. Latin’s linguistic connections to English, French, and Spanish help students understand linguistics and why Latin is still relevant today. Students also explore Roman history and culture.