General Studies – 6-8
Science
The primary goal of the Eleanor Kolitz Academy Middle School science program is to increase the scientific literacy of our students. It is a laboratory-based, experiential, hands-on program designed to engage students as they develop a stronger understanding of how scientists study the natural world. The curriculum is built on spiraling concepts from all disciplines of science.
Social Studies
The middle school students study history, geography, economics and current political events, using original source material wherever possible. We enrich the program by integrating Jewish history and culture throughout. Middle School social studies units include:
Mathematics
In Grades 6-8, students build a foundation of basic understandings in number, operation, and quantitative reasoning; patterns, relationships,
and algebraic thinking; geometry and spatial reasoning; measurement;
and probability and statistics.
Electives
Each quarter students will have the opportunity to choose an elective class which meets once a week. Past offerings have included: Spanish, Physical Fitness, Mah Jung, Digital Photography and Batik.
Language Arts
The goal of our comprehensive and integrated reading/language arts program is to develop proficient, lifelong readers, writers, thinkers, and learners. Our teachers create a risk-free environment in which students are comfortable in sharing their unique writing voice and in reflecting sincerely about what they’ve read. Our Middle School English Language Arts program emphasizes.- Text analysis and thinking skills. Reading, writing, and thinking activities are enhanced and complemented as students explore and analyze literature.
- The "writing process" philosophy guides the writing program. Students learn to write by writing, receiving and giving feedback, revising, and rewriting.
- Speaking and listening skills are essential elements of this program and students are expected to demonstrate these skills during book report presentations when they discuss the book they have read and the project they chose to demonstrate.
Science
The primary goal of the Eleanor Kolitz Academy Middle School science program is to increase the scientific literacy of our students. It is a laboratory-based, experiential, hands-on program designed to engage students as they develop a stronger understanding of how scientists study the natural world. The curriculum is built on spiraling concepts from all disciplines of science.
- All Middle School students are required to participate in Science Fair as this provides a unique opportunity for them to experience science as scientists and researchers do.
- Sixth grade students concentrate on properties of matter, measuring change in motion, energy, space, and the solar system, ground and surface water, forces that change the surface of the Earth, cell structure, and connections in the environment.
- Seventh grade students study the physics of force and motion, simple machines, chemical structure (elements, compounds, and mixtures), ecological interdependence, human body systems, and weathering and erosion.
Social Studies
The middle school students study history, geography, economics and current political events, using original source material wherever possible. We enrich the program by integrating Jewish history and culture throughout. Middle School social studies units include:
- World History from Pre-historic to Modern Times with an added emphasis on Geography.
- Texas History is combined with a semester of Geography.
- U.S. History will concentrate on the settlement of America as well
as the building of a new government. Studies will also include a
unit of Government. U.S. History will conclude with the Civil War
and Reconstruction.
Mathematics
In Grades 6-8, students build a foundation of basic understandings in number, operation, and quantitative reasoning; patterns, relationships,
and algebraic thinking; geometry and spatial reasoning; measurement;
and probability and statistics.
- Manipulative materials, calculators, and cooperative learning are
used to introduce and reinforce new concepts and skills. - An emphasis on real-world applications, problem-solving
strategies, communication and critical thinking develops higher
order thinking skills. - Five different levels of mathematics are offered – 6th grade Math, 7th grade math, Pre-Algebra, Algebra I Honors*, Geometry Gifted and Talented* *Students in our advanced Math classes may qualify for up to 6 years High School Credit.
Electives
Each quarter students will have the opportunity to choose an elective class which meets once a week. Past offerings have included: Spanish, Physical Fitness, Mah Jung, Digital Photography and Batik.
January
2nd - Welcome Back
16th - MLK Day – School in Session
17th - 3rd Qtr Begins
26th - Spelling Bee
31st - 100th day of School
February
1st - PIE Ladies Night Out
2nd - 8:15 PIE Mtg
3rd - ISAS Conference - No School
10th - Grandparents/Special Guests Day 12 pm dismissal
