Rivermont’s Grade Six English program includes a full year of English and one quarter of Young Adult Literature. The program is reading and writing intensive, with special focus on the mechanics of each. Students are challenged daily to participate in in-depth discussion of texts, take creative chances with writing and develop their Language Arts skills through experience with failure and success. Outcomes include close familiarity with diverse genres, proficiency with numerous writing styles, effective written communication and a deep understanding of the relevancy of literature to both individuals and the global community.
English 6
This course meets daily to rigorously approach the basic pillars of writing composition: structure, grammar and vocabulary. Students are closely coached through the writing process, with ample feedback and several drafts to create a strong final product. The Literature component of the course is comprised of selections chosen for their analysis of the theme “American Heroes.” Newberry Award winner Karen Hesse’s Out of the Dust, and Kristiana Gregory’s popular historical fiction work Earthquake at Dawn are special subjects of analysis.
Young Adult Literature 6
This quarter-long course explores several notable contributions to the genre of Young Adult fiction, generally presented to ages 12-18. Students read, discuss and compose scholarly papers on adolescent-themed narratives and subjects. This aptly-themed course serves to promote a life-long interest in reading for enjoyment and personal growth.
Sixth graders begin a formal study of either French or Spanish at a level equivalent with the first semester high school course. The curriculum builds upon Lower School achievements in listening and speaking comprehension, with more overt emphasis on the study of grammar and verb conjugation. Students are held to higher standards in reading, writing, speaking and listening in their target language. Topical content is similar in each language.
In addition, a ten-week Latin course introduces students to Roman history and culture, beginning with Rome’s foundation and ending with the empire’s decline. Students participate in simulations which allow them to learn about and experience many of the aspects of Roman life that have subtly and significantly influenced modern culture and institutions. Individual and group projects, dramatic presentations and artistic replications are integral to student success. This eventful class is capped with a traditional Roman feast and celebration.
Students find wonder in the art of mathematics, experience the power of problem-solving, and delight in attaining new skills in the Middle School Mathematics program. Care is taken to place students in the level of math appropriate to their mastery of skills and concepts, aptitude and interest, and work ethic.
General Math I
This course is designed to engage and appropriately challenge each student in the study of general mathematics. Recognizing that the prime mode to foster talent in math is to develop problem-solving capabilities, students are routinely challenged with fast-paced drills and practices. Students train daily to identify number patterns, utilize beginning geometric and algebraic concepts, and strengthen ratiocinative powers. Functions, decimals, integers, fractions, percents and statistics and the analysis and display of data are areas of strong focus.
General Math II
This course is the second half of a two-year sequence. Students continue to build upon problem-solving achievements, and work cooperatively to begin mastery of algebraic, geometric, statistical, analytical and data concepts in preparation for Pre-Algebra and further mathematics explorations. Activities such as the “Problem of the Day” help students to appreciate the connection math has, and always will have to their everyday life.
Pre-Algebra
Pre-Algebra provides the strong foundation in algebraic and geometric concepts, probability, data analysis and problem-solving that is the prerequisite for advanced scientific and mathematic studies. Additionally, students cultivate independent study skills and review general math theories.
Physical Science
This course offers students their first comprehensive exposure to the basic ideas of Chemistry and Physics. The course’s emphasis is on developing underlying concepts in an atmosphere of experimentation, problem-solving, and hands-on activities. Additionally, each student conducts their own independent research project for presentation at the school’s Academic Fair.
Global Studies 6
This course begins a two-year global studies program and introduces students to twenty-one geographic concepts derived from the National Geographic Standards. Class discussions, daily assignments and cooperative projects apply these concepts to gain broader appreciation of the patterns and processes that shape the world. The curriculum is complimented by scholarly periodicals, field trips, guest speakers. Sixth graders cap their experience with a trip to the Chicago Field Museum.
Sixth and seventh grade partner with domestic and international schools to compete in the National Association of Independent School’s prestigious “Global Challenge 20/20” competition. In 2007-2008 teams found local solutions to 20 imminent global threats such as failing global financial architecture.
Art
This quarter-long course is part of a three-year sequence that focuses on the elements of design: line, shape, color, pattern, texture, and movement. Students study historical masters, contemporary artists, and modern art publications and use drawing, painting and ceramic mediums to illustrate their understanding of theory and technique. Independent journal assignments compliment in-class curricula and promote a strong artistic work ethic. Field trips and exhibitions foster student involvement in the local art community.
Band
Woodwind, brass, and percussion players develop skills in tone production and quality. Students perform at several school and public events to foster a sense of pride in their musical accomplishments while experiencing the demands of a performance opportunity. Students perform for school and public audiences.
Choir
Students experiment with singing in a flexible setting, while developing traditional technical abilities. Students learn to produce clean choral tones and achieve proper vocal balance within and between sections. Students perform for school and public audiences.
Drama
Sixth grade students explore the origins of drama, focusing on the storytelling tradition. As the oral interpretation of literature is examined, students learn how to vocally and physically prepare for performance. Seventh graders explore the structure and varieties of drama. Also, students make connections through reading and analysis of one-act plays and two full length plays: The Diary of Anne Frank and Miracle Worker. Play production is the focus of the eighth grade course. Students learn the principles of directing, playwriting, and scenic, costume, lighting and sound design.
Strings
Viola, violin and cello players develop listening skills such as tone, pitch, rhythm and timing, while improving technical operation of their instruments. Students perform for school and public audiences
The first aim of the required three-year Physical Education & Health program is to determine and support each student’s social, emotional, physical and academic needs. Students meet weekly with their advisor to communicate about academic, social and behavioral challenges and goals.
Physical Education
Gym class meets three times weekly to engage students in traditional sports, recreational games, fitness activities and learn cooperation, teamwork, sportsmanship, and the importance of fair play and effort.
Health
Health classes meet once weekly to formally study and discuss health elements and best practices. The sixth grade component focuses on life skills, seventh graders learn grooming and prepare for independent living, and the focus of eighth grade is a healthy balance of mental, physical and social needs. The school dietician provides regular nutritious snacks and meals as healthy lifestyle examples.
This weekly hands-on trimester course provides instruction and experience with modern technology. Students learn the basics of, and successfully master Microsoft Office Suite software including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, also HyperStudio, PageMaker and HTML. Particular emphasis is placed on the use of technology to accomplish the academic goals of other Middle School courses. Students are given the solid background in computer science necessary for high achievement in the world of twenty-first century communications.