Middle School (5-8) in Lexington, KY | Sayre School
Source: http://www.sayreschool.org/academics/middle-school
Archived: 2026-04-23 17:20
Middle School (5-8) in Lexington, KY | Sayre School
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Middle School
Sayre Middle School, grades 5-8, is a place where academic excellence meets joyful learning. We are committed to helping young people delve deeply into intellectual topics through cooperation, collaboration, and rich investigations. We teach students to ask important questions and to analyze, synthesize, and evaluate information to find solutions. Our faculty are experts at working with this developmental age, allowing young people to stretch their boundaries and find their place in the world.
A 1-to-1 iPad program brings 21st century learning strategies into the classrooms
100% of students take Visual Art, Theatre, and Music classes each year
Students participate in about three hours of Physical Education classes each week, daily recess and morning breaks, and wrap-up sessions at the conclusion of every day
Over 75% of students are involved in one or more school-sponsored athletic teams
Students present publicly the results of their research and original work.
Elective period provides opportunities for exploration in theatre, community, art, chorus, Quick Recall, videography, and other technology topics.
Weekly Flex Period affords time within the schedule to conduct all-school programs, grade level meetings, and division-wide celebrations
Students have the opportunity to take classes at the Upper School level in Modern Language and Mathematics
RESOURCES
MS Newsletter
MS Student Handbook
Dress Code
Grade 5 Weekly Schedule
Grades 6-8 Weekly Schedule
Forms and Information
SAYRE WINS FIRST PLACE!
Curriculum
Sayre's Middle School provides a curriculum designed to equip young people with the information, skills, and discernment they need to make good choices. In a nurturing and supportive atmosphere, our students learn the value of attaining fluency in another language in order to thrive in a diverse global society, to see that community service and awareness are the responsibilities of every concerned citizen, to grasp the importance of communication, both written and oral, to realize that education is a life-long process, and to recognize that increased freedom and independence come with heightened responsibilities.
English
Fine Arts
History
Mathematics
World Languages
Physical Education
Science
Technology and Computer Science
Sayre creates an environment in which students are immersed in literature and writing, encouraging students to become accurate, life-long readers and skilled writers aware of their own voices, while deepening students' awareness of themselves, others, and the world.
5th Grade
6th Grade
7th Grade
8th Grade
Read from a variety of genres
Introduce students to figurative language
Practice using text evidence for comprehension
Practice inference skills for comprehension
Explore theme(s) in literature
Write daily
Build vocabulary through lessons
Study and practice grammar skills
Introduce plot and the elements of narrative
Write daily in short/medium/long formats
Learn to write for different rhetorical types
Read critically from a variety of genres
Investigate interdisciplinary themes (especially in relation to 6th grade Social Studies)
Study and practice grammar skills
Build vocabulary through lessons and use
Read literature in its historical context
Develop an increasingly sophisticated vocabulary for use in both oral and written formats
Write creative pieces that spring from the novels read
Write expository pieces analyzing the works studied throughout the year
Review books through oral presentations, book trailers, and posters
Analyze novels, short stories, and poems
Develop an understanding of writer's voice
Develop transitional sentences in writing
Study the rules of grammar and mechanics in relation to the development of one’s writing
Focus on outside readings as a means of not only exploring interests but also increasing reading fluency and comprehension.
Write original short stories focusing on voice, character, and conflict
Develop an increasingly sophisticated vocabulary for use in both oral and written formats
Closely read literary passages with an eye for figurative language and literary devices
Analyze themes of utopia, dystopia, individuality, and power
Extend poetry and short story analysis
Read and write several forms of poetry
Read a Shakespearean play
Continue to review books through oral presentations, book trailers, and posters
Further focus on grammar usage and punctuation in the context of student writing
Compose and peer edit multiple essays
Focus on outside readings as a means of not only exploring interests but also increasing reading fluency and comprehension.
Sayre incorporates creativity, aesthetics, criticism, and history into a flexible and evolving curriculum which emphasizes the development of increasingly sophisticated skills and concepts through students' experiences in the arts. Each student in the Middle School takes Music, Theatre, and Visual Art every year. Fine Arts classes are scheduled each marking period and meet four times per week.
Music
Theatre
Visual Arts
5th Grade
Explore in detail instruments of the orchestra and the art form of ballet
Discover famous composers throughout history
Introduce beginning guitar skills
6th Grade
Explore the history of Rock and Roll by reading and discussing the book,
What is Rock and Roll
, by Jim O'Connor
Learn the rudiments of guitar, including pitches and chords
Facilitate performance skills by practicing and performing songs played on the guitar
7th Grade
Discover the history of Jazz Music in America
Continued learning of technique and performance etiquette associated with playing the guitar (including performances in front of an audience)
In depth study of rhythm, musical form, note identification, music history, and other music theory concepts
8th Grade
Discover and explore the various genres of music, from rock to the history of classical music
Expand on the guitar skills students learned in the 6th and 7th grades, becoming proficient on the guitar before leaving the 8th grade
NOTE: Chorus in offered to students in the 5
th
through the 8
th
grade during the school day.
NOTE: Students in the 7
th
and 8
th
grade have the opportunity to participate in the middle school musical.
6
th
Grade
Introduce theatre vocabulary and early history with an exploration of Greek and Roman theatre
Develop observation skills and discuss etiquette through ensemble-based activities
Develop storytelling and character development skills through improvisation in large ensembles
Explore essential vocal performance skills by recording radio play scripts and providing voiceovers for animation
7
th
Grade
Explore musical theatre history, from vaudeville to Disney on Broadway
Develop essential physical performance skills through the creation of an original pantomime scene
Develop skills for scene work through improvisation in pairs and small ensembles
Apply and hone essential acting skills by presenting monologues
8
th
Grade
Develop script analysis skills through scene work activities and duet scene performances
Introduce the concept of acting tactics and character objectives
Explore Shakespeare’s impact on scripted dialogue and character development
Explore backstage and offstage roles in the theatre industry through hands-on design activities
5th Grade
Explore the Elements and Principles of Art
Create a variety of color pallets
Create two- and three dimensional artworks
Discover and explore art genres
Develop an art vocabulary
Proper care of art supplies and tools
Safety in the art studio
6th Grade
Broaden awareness and application of the Elements and Principals of Art and Design
Create two- and three- dimensional artworks
Discover and explore art genres
Experiment with a variety of media and techniques
Participate and discuss art concepts
Proper care of art supplies and tools
Safety in the art studio
7th Grade
Continue to develop a deeper understanding of Elements and Principles of Art and Design and the application of these concepts in compositions
Create two- and three- dimensional artworks
Appreciate art from other cultures, perspectives
Experiment with art processes and techniques
Care of art supplies
Safety in the art studio
8th Grade
Apply and discuss the Elements and Principles of Art and Design in finished compositions, discussions
Create two- and three- dimensional artworks
Appreciate art from other cultures, perspectives
Experiment with a variety of art media and techniques
Independent research and projects
Care of art supplies
Safety in the art studio
Sayre prepares students to comprehend the past and to identify and understand the challenges facing our diverse nation in an increasingly interdependent world.
5th Grade American History and Geography
6th Grade World Cultures and Geography
7th Grade Social Studies
8th Grade American Studies
Identifying geographical and physical features of the world
Understanding latitude, longitude, compass rose, intermediate points
Analyzing migration of North American and settlements
Studying Early European explorers to America and colonization
Understanding the Great Depression - causes, how it affected American society
Introducing concepts of U.S. civics
Analyzing geography and its effects on climates, the movement of people, and production
Reading physical, political, and thematic maps
Understanding the use of a world atlas and how to create charts/graphs/maps to illustrate trends and political relations
Analyzing topical articles to better geo-political dynamics
Incorporating the five key geographic themes: location, place, region, human environment interaction, and movement
Researching global issues topics
Understanding the concept of globalization
Understanding ancient and medieval civilizations through the GRAPES framework.
G= Geography
R= Religion
A= Achievements
P= Politics
E= Economics
S= Social Structure
Analyzing the civilizations of MesoAmerica, western Africa, and Japan.
Incorporating current events study through Socratic Seminar.
Exploring historical writing through the teaching and use of thesis essay.
Evaluating online resources by way of the Stanford History Education Group’s Civic Online Reasoning curriculum.
Analyzing the geographic theme of “Movement” while
Emphasizing the historical thinking skills of corroboration, contextualization, close reading, and sourcing.
Understanding the physical movement of peoples to (and within) the U.S. through understanding indigenous cultures and colonization.
Analyzing the movement of ideas and the changes that resulted throughout U..S history with an emphasis on:
The U.S. Constitution
The American Civil War and resulting Civil Rights Movement
Women’s Rights
Labor Rights
Incorporating current events study through Socratic Seminar
Sayre communicates mathematical concepts through independent reasoning and cooperative exploration using comprehensive mathematical knowledge.
5th Grade
6th Grade
7th Grade
8th Grade
Decimals
Prime and composite numbers
Multiples and factors
Tables and graphs
Numerical and algebraic expressions
Fractions, mixed numbers, and reducing
Geometric concepts
Major Projects:
How would you change the world with a million dollars? Decimals, itemized lists, graphing
Color percentage skittle lab
Fractions and percents with Hershey's bars
Tessellation art
Ratios and Rates
Decimals, Fractions, Percents
Integer Operations
Coordinate Plane
Numeric and Algebraic Expressions
Functions and Inequalities
Estimation
Geometric concepts
Pre-Algebra:
Order of operations and algebraic properties
Operations with integers
Ratios, proportions, and percentages
Scale drawing and Model project
Dream Vacation Budget Project
Algebraic equations and inequalities
Introduction to Linear Functions
Statistics and Probability
7th Grade Algebra I*:
See Algebra I under 8th Grade
*
Specific criteria
must be met
Algebra I:
Simplifying / Solving Expressions, Equations and Functions
Linear Equations, Functions, and Inequalities
Systems of Equations and Inequalities
Quadratic Expressions and Equations
Exponent Properties
Simplifying Radicals
Geometry*:
Proper geometric notation- Including an understanding of Euclidean Geometry including Conjectures, theorems and axiums
Geometric constructions (with construction tools and GeoGebra)
Students explore constructions on an extensive level through Napolean’s triangle, the Nine Point Circle and the Euler line.
Inductive and deductive reasoning
Thorough exploration of paragraph proofs
Congruent and similar polygons
Circles and polygons (emphasis on triangles and quadrilaterals)
Coordinate geometry- with an emphasis on calculating midpoints and distance between points
Area and volume of two and three dimensional figures
Introduction to trigonometry and the Pythagorean Theorem.
Extensive Geometric Exploration research paper utilizing LaTex coding software
*
Specific criteria
must be met
Sayre empowers students to explore, comprehend, and appreciate cultures and languages as curious and empathetic world citizens.
Students are engaged in an active learning process in developing cultural competency and language proficiency for interpersonal, interpretive, and presentational communication. The thoughtful use of authentic materials, the target language, and existing and emerging technologies, guides students towards building both language and general literacy skills.
5th Grade
6th Grade
7th Grade
8th Grade
Lingua Franca
is latin for common language, or language of the people. In this class we explore the importance of language in an increasingly globalized world via project-based learning activities and student-driven research. This class serves as a bridge between the lower school language program and their 6th grade year, at the beginning of which they select their foreign language.
First Semester
Through experiential learning, students will explore origins of various languages of the world both historically and geographically
Students will learn English base (root) words
Native speakers will visit to talk about their country and native language
Every student will keep a notebook to record their discovers
For example, each student will learn how to write their name in Arabaic, Urdu, Mandarin, Japanese... “
Second Semester
Students will take a full semester of French for an introduction to and exploration of the language.
Some example topics include greetings, colors, days of the week, likes/dislikes, etc.
Students will be introduced to various French cultures by researching food, clothing, and traditions of France/Francophone countries
French 6
Spanish 6
French 6 is an introductory and exploratory course that serves as the entryway into the world of Francophone studies. The class is based around what could be coined as “tourist” French - things that would help one “survive” were they to be plopped in Paris. It’s a foundational course that will be built upon as they continue on in their years of French at Sayre.
Introduction of various basic conversations / sentence structures and vocabulary based around the following units:
Greetings / salutations
Tastes/preferences and asking further questions (age, birthday, etc.)
Family and nationality
Sports / favorite activities
School vocabulary / “collège français” comparisons
“La mode” - fashion and style, clothes
The home, furniture, and daily tasks
Food, restaurant etiquette, and recipes
Introduction of grammatical concepts such as:
The most common irregular verbs
Regular -er and -ir verbs
Adjectives and basic adverbs
Indefinite and definite articles
Partitives and contractions
Linguistic gender and number agreement
6th grade Spanish is an introductory course that provides a variety of content intended to serve as a foundation on which to build. Students first learn to become familiar with the sounds of the target language through vocabulary and practicing pronunciation. In addition, students learn phrases that could be useful while engaging with a native speaker or traveling in a Spanish speaking country. Students have an opportunity to gain familiarity with the geography of Spanish-speaking countries. Cultural themes and projects are built into the class to allow students an opportunity to explore Hispanic Holidays and Traditions.
Phonetic system of pronunciation
Vocabulary: instructional phrases, conversational dialogue, terms used for each unit
Using verbs to describe self and others, likes and dislikes
Infinitive verbs and verb conjugation (present tense)
Study of pre-Columbian groups and their influence on Hispanic culture
French 7
Spanish 7
French 7 builds upon the foundation of French 6 to more thoroughly explore common everyday subject areas listed below. They will also work further in the structure of the language to learn to speak beyond just the present moment, incorporating elements of both the past and future tenses.
Continuation of structures learned from 6th grade, as well as more vocabulary and culture based around the following units:
Travel, destinations (countries, cities, etc.) and weather / climate
City attractions (including certain shop types), transportation, directions
Personality descriptions, emotions, and health
The world of media, news, and giving advice
Heros / historical figures, recounting stories and past experiences
The environment and ecology
Money and everyday object descriptions
Our personal passions and qualities, imagining the future
Introduction / review of grammatical concepts such as:
An expansion of irregular verbs
Partitives and expressions of quantity
Prepositions review
Introduction to direct object pronouns
Immediate future tense and past tense
Spanish for 7
th
grade is designed to build upon material covered in 6
th
grade, or introduce the language to students without previous language instruction. Assignments are given to students that require them to sharpen speaking skills, while maintaining grammatical accuracy. The course expands the students' vocabulary and phrases on a variety of topics including clothing, shopping, food, and travel. Students learn basic conversation and interpretation skills built around these topics for use in a real-life setting. Through discussions, films, and projects students are encouraged to compare and contrast differences found in Hispanic culture.
Expansion of vocabulary use and acquisition
Study of correct adjective/noun agreement, in/definite article use
Further study of verbs: stem change, and irregular verbs
Growth in translative listening, writing, speaking and reading
Acquire knowledge of traditions and holidays observed in Spanish speaking countries
French 8
Spanish 8
French 8 builds upon the foundation of French 6 and French 7 to explore common everyday subject areas listed below. Students will practice everyday conversations both in the classroom and outside with native speakers through TalkAbroad. They engage in reading practice with age- and level appropriate books and write coherent narrations and descriptions on topics of interest to them.
Continuation of structures learned from 6th and 7th grade, as well as more vocabulary and culture based around the following units:
Weather / climate
City attractions (including certain shop types), transportation, directions
Physical and personality descriptions
Recounting stories and past experiences
The environment and ecology
Everyday object descriptions
Our personal passions and qualities
Food culture
National symbols, geography
Introduction / review of grammatical concepts such as:
Comprehending narrations in the past tense
Using the past to create narrations
Using structuring adverbs and conjunctions to create coherent narratives
Partitives and expressions of quantity for shopping
Prepositions review for directions
Introduction to direct object pronouns
Immediate future tense
Spanish 8th grade continues to integrate language practice with culture (practices, products and perspectives). Students are motivated to discover the importance and value of the Spanish-speaking world.
Spanish 8th grade subjects include:
Vocabulary expansion, including technology, health & well-being, travel, Places in the city and other related expressions.
Grammar expansion including present & past tense, present progressive, pronouns, reflexive verbs and parts of a sentence.
Growth in fluency relating to oral, written, and read expression
Study of Spain, Latin America’s indigenous population, the Dominican boom in New York, and Mexican legends.
Acquire knowledge of Latin American social media use, Colombian fashion, the importance of medical interpreters, and Caribbean Coast cuisine.
Sayre gives students the opportunity to participate in team and individual activities designed to promote the physical, social, and cognitive domains.
• Efficiency of motor skills
• Apply rules, concepts, and strategies to games and activities
• Develop and display leadership skills
• Develop a knowledge and a positive attitude toward fitness and wellness
• Maintain and improve fitness
• Positive teamwork and sportsmanship in competitive sports
• Develop an interest in lifetime activity/fitness
• Students are scheduled for Physical Education classes three times per week for 5th grade and our times per week for 6th-8th grades
Sayre students understand science as a method of inquiry capable of answering many questions about the world and beyond, through analytical thinking, hands-on activities, investigations, and formalized laboratories.
5th Grade
6th Grade
7th Grade Life Science
8th Grade Physical Science
Structure and Properties of Matter
Matter and Energy in Organisms and Ecosystems
Earth's Systems
Matter and Energy in Organisms and Ecosystems
Space Systems: Stars and the Solar System
Human impact on Environment
Engineering Design (embedded)
Nature of Science and Scientific Processes (Imbedded)
Ecosystems: Energy, Interactions, and Dynamics
Thermal Energy and Weather
Human Impact on the Environment
Earth-Sun-Moon Relationship
Engineering Design Process (Explicit and Imbedded)
Nature of Science and Scientific Processes (Imbedded)
Characteristics Living Organisms
Cell structure and function
Heredity and evolution
Human anatomy and physiology
Engineering Design Process (Explicit and Imbedded)
Unit 1 - Growth mindset & scientific skills
Unit 2 - Laboratory safety
Unit 3 - Engineering design process & experimental design
Unit 4 - Physics introduction (potential & kinetic energy)
Unit 5 - Newton’s laws of motion, unbalanced & balanced forces (friction, inertia, etc.)
Unit 6 - Intro to the periodic table (a somewhat historical approach to the purposeful arrangement of the periodic table)
Unit 7 - Atomic theory & structure of the atom
Unit 8 - States of matter, physical & chemical changes/properties @ molecular level
Unit 9 - Law of conservation of energy -- types of energy (mechanical, kinetic, potential, thermal, electrical, nuclear, etc.), and energy conversions
Unit 10 - Clean energy alternatives/environmental issues (geothermal energy, windmills, hydropower, nuclear power, etc.)
Sayre students use technology to communicate, acquire information, increase productivity, and stimulate creativity as well as increase technological proficiency and promote flexible, lifelong learning.
Maintaining and troubleshooting hardware and software
Configuring the desktop and managing network files
Refining word processing and spreadsheet skills
Working with multiple applications simultaneously
Intermediate graphic editing, design, and layout
Creation of intermediate electronic/multimedia presentations
Video production and editing
Self-directed
Internet research
All 6
th
grade students are given touch typing reinforcement during the first weeks of school
An on-line touch typing program is available
Character Development
Sayre School values students as individuals and works to foster their understanding of themselves and their roles in the larger community. Our core values of wisdom, integrity, respect, and compassion are woven throughout the school. Our efforts to promote these core values include classes, clubs, and activities to reach all students. Topics and skills are taught and practiced on a developmentally appropriate continuum centered on these themes: student mentoring, giving back to community, understanding personal and cultural differences, awareness of self, and development of social skills.
Sayre defines its core values as:
Wisdom
– knowledge of what is right combined with sound judgment
Integrity
– understanding and practice of what is honest, decent, and good
Respect
– holding self and others in high regard
Compassion
– empathy for others combined with helpful action
The Middle School years are a time of significant emotional, intellectual, social and physical change. Since Sayre is committed to the promotion of "intellectual, emotional, physical, social and aesthetic growth," it is imperative that character development be an integral component of our Middle School curriculum.
Although character development is woven throughout every class and activity, there are a number of programs that have been established in our Middle School curriculum in an effort to promote integrity, to foster respect and compassion, and to encourage positive relationships.
Service Learning
Student Council
Grade Level Meetings
Advisory Groups
Conflict Resolution
Community Matters
KIDS-to-Kids
Class Trips
Clubs and Activities
Projects are organized through affinity groups according to students’ interests. Students also participate in raising money or making other donations for the benefit of others.
The Student Council serves the student body as a liaison to the faculty and administration. Members are expected to be students in good standing. Elected students learn about leadership and civic action through their activities representing the student body. The council makes proposals to the faculty for their consideration.
Grade Level Meetings are designed to offer students a full voice in their community and a time to address issues of concern to students, faculty and the community at large. Students establish their own meeting ground rules, and a fluid curriculum is maintained to respond to the concerns of the developmental age as well as the specific group. The meeting groups remain flexible to allow movement from a large group to small groups and from coed to single sex.
Advisory groups provide a small "family" unit within the Middle School community. Each group is comprised of students from all three grades and one or two faculty advisors. A student's Advisory is designed as an advocacy group which also acts as a "home" base throughout the day. Daily meetings are scheduled with a special thirty minute session each Wednesday. Advisory groups participate in special programs and social activities to build and support community. All community service activities are performed through Advisory groups. The faculty advisor serves as an adult resource and advocate for those students.
Conflict Resolution is a program available to all Sayre Middle School students who find themselves in a conflict with another member of our community. Our program begins with the premise that conflict is a part of life and that dealing with conflict in an appropriate manner is a life skill we learn and refine. In the presence of a faculty facilitator, Conflict Resolution sessions offer an opportunity for all parties to speak uninterrupted and to brainstorm ideas and propose solutions. The program empowers students to design and draw up a contract of acceptable behavior. A follow-up meeting is held to determine progress.
These life skills classes are taught in the 6th, 7th, and 8th grades. Topics include organizational skills, coping skills/stress management, social skills, puberty/sexuality issues, understanding and dealing with bullying/harassing behaviors. When called for, some classes are gender specific. Eighth grade students benefit from the intensive FCD (Freedom from Chemical Dependency) drug and alcohol education program.
A program designed to foster greater recognition and appreciation of human diversity, Sayre's KIDS-to-Kids helps prepare our students for life in a global environment and instills a positive sense of one's own worth while recognizing the value of peers. Trained Upper School students lead and mentor Middle School students in this program based on four important principles:
Kindness, Inclusion, Differences, and Self-worth
, which form the acronym KIDS. KIDS-to-Kids sessions address issues of self-esteem, sources of conflict, and techniques of conflict resolution. By helping students build bonds of awareness, respect and civility, the school actively seeks to promote a school climate of understanding and acceptance.
5
th
Grade Class Overnight Trip to Cedar Ridge Camp
During this overnight trip, fifth-graders will enjoy the outdoors by fishing, canoeing, and participating in archery and gaga ball.
6
th
Grade Class Trip to Life Adventure Center
This class trip offers an opportunity to be immersed in experiential learning with the help of naturalists and to experience team-building activities that help sixth-graders bond as a group and move into the year with confidence. This will be the seventh year that Life Adventure Center offers climbing, hiking, and ziplining for our sixth grade students.
7
th
Grade Class Trip to St. Louis
The 7th Grade trip to St. Louis with Grand Classroom as our Tour Operator allows our students to experience one of the great American cities in an adventure that includes a boat tour on the Mississippi River, a visit to the St. Louis Arch, a trip to the St. Louis Zoo, and time at Busch Stadium.
8
th
Grade Class Trip to Chicago
The trip to Chicago has been a feature of Sayre's Middle School experience for over 25 years. While other trips have come and gone, Chicago, with the Wendella boat tour, the elevator to the top of the Willis Tower, and fabulous deep dish pizza has been a perennial favorite and a part of our capstone Sayre Middle School experience.
The Middle School offers several
programs and/or committees
for students.
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Middle School
Sayre Middle School, grades 5-8, is a place where academic excellence meets joyful learning. We are committed to helping young people delve deeply into intellectual topics through cooperation, collaboration, and rich investigations. We teach students to ask important questions and to analyze, synthesize, and evaluate information to find solutions. Our faculty are experts at working with this developmental age, allowing young people to stretch their boundaries and find their place in the world.
A 1-to-1 iPad program brings 21st century learning strategies into the classrooms
100% of students take Visual Art, Theatre, and Music classes each year
Students participate in about three hours of Physical Education classes each week, daily recess and morning breaks, and wrap-up sessions at the conclusion of every day
Over 75% of students are involved in one or more school-sponsored athletic teams
Students present publicly the results of their research and original work.
Elective period provides opportunities for exploration in theatre, community, art, chorus, Quick Recall, videography, and other technology topics.
Weekly Flex Period affords time within the schedule to conduct all-school programs, grade level meetings, and division-wide celebrations
Students have the opportunity to take classes at the Upper School level in Modern Language and Mathematics
RESOURCES
MS Newsletter
MS Student Handbook
Dress Code
Grade 5 Weekly Schedule
Grades 6-8 Weekly Schedule
Forms and Information
SAYRE WINS FIRST PLACE!
Curriculum
Sayre's Middle School provides a curriculum designed to equip young people with the information, skills, and discernment they need to make good choices. In a nurturing and supportive atmosphere, our students learn the value of attaining fluency in another language in order to thrive in a diverse global society, to see that community service and awareness are the responsibilities of every concerned citizen, to grasp the importance of communication, both written and oral, to realize that education is a life-long process, and to recognize that increased freedom and independence come with heightened responsibilities.
English
Fine Arts
History
Mathematics
World Languages
Physical Education
Science
Technology and Computer Science
Sayre creates an environment in which students are immersed in literature and writing, encouraging students to become accurate, life-long readers and skilled writers aware of their own voices, while deepening students' awareness of themselves, others, and the world.
5th Grade
6th Grade
7th Grade
8th Grade
Read from a variety of genres
Introduce students to figurative language
Practice using text evidence for comprehension
Practice inference skills for comprehension
Explore theme(s) in literature
Write daily
Build vocabulary through lessons
Study and practice grammar skills
Introduce plot and the elements of narrative
Write daily in short/medium/long formats
Learn to write for different rhetorical types
Read critically from a variety of genres
Investigate interdisciplinary themes (especially in relation to 6th grade Social Studies)
Study and practice grammar skills
Build vocabulary through lessons and use
Read literature in its historical context
Develop an increasingly sophisticated vocabulary for use in both oral and written formats
Write creative pieces that spring from the novels read
Write expository pieces analyzing the works studied throughout the year
Review books through oral presentations, book trailers, and posters
Analyze novels, short stories, and poems
Develop an understanding of writer's voice
Develop transitional sentences in writing
Study the rules of grammar and mechanics in relation to the development of one’s writing
Focus on outside readings as a means of not only exploring interests but also increasing reading fluency and comprehension.
Write original short stories focusing on voice, character, and conflict
Develop an increasingly sophisticated vocabulary for use in both oral and written formats
Closely read literary passages with an eye for figurative language and literary devices
Analyze themes of utopia, dystopia, individuality, and power
Extend poetry and short story analysis
Read and write several forms of poetry
Read a Shakespearean play
Continue to review books through oral presentations, book trailers, and posters
Further focus on grammar usage and punctuation in the context of student writing
Compose and peer edit multiple essays
Focus on outside readings as a means of not only exploring interests but also increasing reading fluency and comprehension.
Sayre incorporates creativity, aesthetics, criticism, and history into a flexible and evolving curriculum which emphasizes the development of increasingly sophisticated skills and concepts through students' experiences in the arts. Each student in the Middle School takes Music, Theatre, and Visual Art every year. Fine Arts classes are scheduled each marking period and meet four times per week.
Music
Theatre
Visual Arts
5th Grade
Explore in detail instruments of the orchestra and the art form of ballet
Discover famous composers throughout history
Introduce beginning guitar skills
6th Grade
Explore the history of Rock and Roll by reading and discussing the book,
What is Rock and Roll
, by Jim O'Connor
Learn the rudiments of guitar, including pitches and chords
Facilitate performance skills by practicing and performing songs played on the guitar
7th Grade
Discover the history of Jazz Music in America
Continued learning of technique and performance etiquette associated with playing the guitar (including performances in front of an audience)
In depth study of rhythm, musical form, note identification, music history, and other music theory concepts
8th Grade
Discover and explore the various genres of music, from rock to the history of classical music
Expand on the guitar skills students learned in the 6th and 7th grades, becoming proficient on the guitar before leaving the 8th grade
NOTE: Chorus in offered to students in the 5
th
through the 8
th
grade during the school day.
NOTE: Students in the 7
th
and 8
th
grade have the opportunity to participate in the middle school musical.
6
th
Grade
Introduce theatre vocabulary and early history with an exploration of Greek and Roman theatre
Develop observation skills and discuss etiquette through ensemble-based activities
Develop storytelling and character development skills through improvisation in large ensembles
Explore essential vocal performance skills by recording radio play scripts and providing voiceovers for animation
7
th
Grade
Explore musical theatre history, from vaudeville to Disney on Broadway
Develop essential physical performance skills through the creation of an original pantomime scene
Develop skills for scene work through improvisation in pairs and small ensembles
Apply and hone essential acting skills by presenting monologues
8
th
Grade
Develop script analysis skills through scene work activities and duet scene performances
Introduce the concept of acting tactics and character objectives
Explore Shakespeare’s impact on scripted dialogue and character development
Explore backstage and offstage roles in the theatre industry through hands-on design activities
5th Grade
Explore the Elements and Principles of Art
Create a variety of color pallets
Create two- and three dimensional artworks
Discover and explore art genres
Develop an art vocabulary
Proper care of art supplies and tools
Safety in the art studio
6th Grade
Broaden awareness and application of the Elements and Principals of Art and Design
Create two- and three- dimensional artworks
Discover and explore art genres
Experiment with a variety of media and techniques
Participate and discuss art concepts
Proper care of art supplies and tools
Safety in the art studio
7th Grade
Continue to develop a deeper understanding of Elements and Principles of Art and Design and the application of these concepts in compositions
Create two- and three- dimensional artworks
Appreciate art from other cultures, perspectives
Experiment with art processes and techniques
Care of art supplies
Safety in the art studio
8th Grade
Apply and discuss the Elements and Principles of Art and Design in finished compositions, discussions
Create two- and three- dimensional artworks
Appreciate art from other cultures, perspectives
Experiment with a variety of art media and techniques
Independent research and projects
Care of art supplies
Safety in the art studio
Sayre prepares students to comprehend the past and to identify and understand the challenges facing our diverse nation in an increasingly interdependent world.
5th Grade American History and Geography
6th Grade World Cultures and Geography
7th Grade Social Studies
8th Grade American Studies
Identifying geographical and physical features of the world
Understanding latitude, longitude, compass rose, intermediate points
Analyzing migration of North American and settlements
Studying Early European explorers to America and colonization
Understanding the Great Depression - causes, how it affected American society
Introducing concepts of U.S. civics
Analyzing geography and its effects on climates, the movement of people, and production
Reading physical, political, and thematic maps
Understanding the use of a world atlas and how to create charts/graphs/maps to illustrate trends and political relations
Analyzing topical articles to better geo-political dynamics
Incorporating the five key geographic themes: location, place, region, human environment interaction, and movement
Researching global issues topics
Understanding the concept of globalization
Understanding ancient and medieval civilizations through the GRAPES framework.
G= Geography
R= Religion
A= Achievements
P= Politics
E= Economics
S= Social Structure
Analyzing the civilizations of MesoAmerica, western Africa, and Japan.
Incorporating current events study through Socratic Seminar.
Exploring historical writing through the teaching and use of thesis essay.
Evaluating online resources by way of the Stanford History Education Group’s Civic Online Reasoning curriculum.
Analyzing the geographic theme of “Movement” while
Emphasizing the historical thinking skills of corroboration, contextualization, close reading, and sourcing.
Understanding the physical movement of peoples to (and within) the U.S. through understanding indigenous cultures and colonization.
Analyzing the movement of ideas and the changes that resulted throughout U..S history with an emphasis on:
The U.S. Constitution
The American Civil War and resulting Civil Rights Movement
Women’s Rights
Labor Rights
Incorporating current events study through Socratic Seminar
Sayre communicates mathematical concepts through independent reasoning and cooperative exploration using comprehensive mathematical knowledge.
5th Grade
6th Grade
7th Grade
8th Grade
Decimals
Prime and composite numbers
Multiples and factors
Tables and graphs
Numerical and algebraic expressions
Fractions, mixed numbers, and reducing
Geometric concepts
Major Projects:
How would you change the world with a million dollars? Decimals, itemized lists, graphing
Color percentage skittle lab
Fractions and percents with Hershey's bars
Tessellation art
Ratios and Rates
Decimals, Fractions, Percents
Integer Operations
Coordinate Plane
Numeric and Algebraic Expressions
Functions and Inequalities
Estimation
Geometric concepts
Pre-Algebra:
Order of operations and algebraic properties
Operations with integers
Ratios, proportions, and percentages
Scale drawing and Model project
Dream Vacation Budget Project
Algebraic equations and inequalities
Introduction to Linear Functions
Statistics and Probability
7th Grade Algebra I*:
See Algebra I under 8th Grade
*
Specific criteria
must be met
Algebra I:
Simplifying / Solving Expressions, Equations and Functions
Linear Equations, Functions, and Inequalities
Systems of Equations and Inequalities
Quadratic Expressions and Equations
Exponent Properties
Simplifying Radicals
Geometry*:
Proper geometric notation- Including an understanding of Euclidean Geometry including Conjectures, theorems and axiums
Geometric constructions (with construction tools and GeoGebra)
Students explore constructions on an extensive level through Napolean’s triangle, the Nine Point Circle and the Euler line.
Inductive and deductive reasoning
Thorough exploration of paragraph proofs
Congruent and similar polygons
Circles and polygons (emphasis on triangles and quadrilaterals)
Coordinate geometry- with an emphasis on calculating midpoints and distance between points
Area and volume of two and three dimensional figures
Introduction to trigonometry and the Pythagorean Theorem.
Extensive Geometric Exploration research paper utilizing LaTex coding software
*
Specific criteria
must be met
Sayre empowers students to explore, comprehend, and appreciate cultures and languages as curious and empathetic world citizens.
Students are engaged in an active learning process in developing cultural competency and language proficiency for interpersonal, interpretive, and presentational communication. The thoughtful use of authentic materials, the target language, and existing and emerging technologies, guides students towards building both language and general literacy skills.
5th Grade
6th Grade
7th Grade
8th Grade
Lingua Franca
is latin for common language, or language of the people. In this class we explore the importance of language in an increasingly globalized world via project-based learning activities and student-driven research. This class serves as a bridge between the lower school language program and their 6th grade year, at the beginning of which they select their foreign language.
First Semester
Through experiential learning, students will explore origins of various languages of the world both historically and geographically
Students will learn English base (root) words
Native speakers will visit to talk about their country and native language
Every student will keep a notebook to record their discovers
For example, each student will learn how to write their name in Arabaic, Urdu, Mandarin, Japanese... “
Second Semester
Students will take a full semester of French for an introduction to and exploration of the language.
Some example topics include greetings, colors, days of the week, likes/dislikes, etc.
Students will be introduced to various French cultures by researching food, clothing, and traditions of France/Francophone countries
French 6
Spanish 6
French 6 is an introductory and exploratory course that serves as the entryway into the world of Francophone studies. The class is based around what could be coined as “tourist” French - things that would help one “survive” were they to be plopped in Paris. It’s a foundational course that will be built upon as they continue on in their years of French at Sayre.
Introduction of various basic conversations / sentence structures and vocabulary based around the following units:
Greetings / salutations
Tastes/preferences and asking further questions (age, birthday, etc.)
Family and nationality
Sports / favorite activities
School vocabulary / “collège français” comparisons
“La mode” - fashion and style, clothes
The home, furniture, and daily tasks
Food, restaurant etiquette, and recipes
Introduction of grammatical concepts such as:
The most common irregular verbs
Regular -er and -ir verbs
Adjectives and basic adverbs
Indefinite and definite articles
Partitives and contractions
Linguistic gender and number agreement
6th grade Spanish is an introductory course that provides a variety of content intended to serve as a foundation on which to build. Students first learn to become familiar with the sounds of the target language through vocabulary and practicing pronunciation. In addition, students learn phrases that could be useful while engaging with a native speaker or traveling in a Spanish speaking country. Students have an opportunity to gain familiarity with the geography of Spanish-speaking countries. Cultural themes and projects are built into the class to allow students an opportunity to explore Hispanic Holidays and Traditions.
Phonetic system of pronunciation
Vocabulary: instructional phrases, conversational dialogue, terms used for each unit
Using verbs to describe self and others, likes and dislikes
Infinitive verbs and verb conjugation (present tense)
Study of pre-Columbian groups and their influence on Hispanic culture
French 7
Spanish 7
French 7 builds upon the foundation of French 6 to more thoroughly explore common everyday subject areas listed below. They will also work further in the structure of the language to learn to speak beyond just the present moment, incorporating elements of both the past and future tenses.
Continuation of structures learned from 6th grade, as well as more vocabulary and culture based around the following units:
Travel, destinations (countries, cities, etc.) and weather / climate
City attractions (including certain shop types), transportation, directions
Personality descriptions, emotions, and health
The world of media, news, and giving advice
Heros / historical figures, recounting stories and past experiences
The environment and ecology
Money and everyday object descriptions
Our personal passions and qualities, imagining the future
Introduction / review of grammatical concepts such as:
An expansion of irregular verbs
Partitives and expressions of quantity
Prepositions review
Introduction to direct object pronouns
Immediate future tense and past tense
Spanish for 7
th
grade is designed to build upon material covered in 6
th
grade, or introduce the language to students without previous language instruction. Assignments are given to students that require them to sharpen speaking skills, while maintaining grammatical accuracy. The course expands the students' vocabulary and phrases on a variety of topics including clothing, shopping, food, and travel. Students learn basic conversation and interpretation skills built around these topics for use in a real-life setting. Through discussions, films, and projects students are encouraged to compare and contrast differences found in Hispanic culture.
Expansion of vocabulary use and acquisition
Study of correct adjective/noun agreement, in/definite article use
Further study of verbs: stem change, and irregular verbs
Growth in translative listening, writing, speaking and reading
Acquire knowledge of traditions and holidays observed in Spanish speaking countries
French 8
Spanish 8
French 8 builds upon the foundation of French 6 and French 7 to explore common everyday subject areas listed below. Students will practice everyday conversations both in the classroom and outside with native speakers through TalkAbroad. They engage in reading practice with age- and level appropriate books and write coherent narrations and descriptions on topics of interest to them.
Continuation of structures learned from 6th and 7th grade, as well as more vocabulary and culture based around the following units:
Weather / climate
City attractions (including certain shop types), transportation, directions
Physical and personality descriptions
Recounting stories and past experiences
The environment and ecology
Everyday object descriptions
Our personal passions and qualities
Food culture
National symbols, geography
Introduction / review of grammatical concepts such as:
Comprehending narrations in the past tense
Using the past to create narrations
Using structuring adverbs and conjunctions to create coherent narratives
Partitives and expressions of quantity for shopping
Prepositions review for directions
Introduction to direct object pronouns
Immediate future tense
Spanish 8th grade continues to integrate language practice with culture (practices, products and perspectives). Students are motivated to discover the importance and value of the Spanish-speaking world.
Spanish 8th grade subjects include:
Vocabulary expansion, including technology, health & well-being, travel, Places in the city and other related expressions.
Grammar expansion including present & past tense, present progressive, pronouns, reflexive verbs and parts of a sentence.
Growth in fluency relating to oral, written, and read expression
Study of Spain, Latin America’s indigenous population, the Dominican boom in New York, and Mexican legends.
Acquire knowledge of Latin American social media use, Colombian fashion, the importance of medical interpreters, and Caribbean Coast cuisine.
Sayre gives students the opportunity to participate in team and individual activities designed to promote the physical, social, and cognitive domains.
• Efficiency of motor skills
• Apply rules, concepts, and strategies to games and activities
• Develop and display leadership skills
• Develop a knowledge and a positive attitude toward fitness and wellness
• Maintain and improve fitness
• Positive teamwork and sportsmanship in competitive sports
• Develop an interest in lifetime activity/fitness
• Students are scheduled for Physical Education classes three times per week for 5th grade and our times per week for 6th-8th grades
Sayre students understand science as a method of inquiry capable of answering many questions about the world and beyond, through analytical thinking, hands-on activities, investigations, and formalized laboratories.
5th Grade
6th Grade
7th Grade Life Science
8th Grade Physical Science
Structure and Properties of Matter
Matter and Energy in Organisms and Ecosystems
Earth's Systems
Matter and Energy in Organisms and Ecosystems
Space Systems: Stars and the Solar System
Human impact on Environment
Engineering Design (embedded)
Nature of Science and Scientific Processes (Imbedded)
Ecosystems: Energy, Interactions, and Dynamics
Thermal Energy and Weather
Human Impact on the Environment
Earth-Sun-Moon Relationship
Engineering Design Process (Explicit and Imbedded)
Nature of Science and Scientific Processes (Imbedded)
Characteristics Living Organisms
Cell structure and function
Heredity and evolution
Human anatomy and physiology
Engineering Design Process (Explicit and Imbedded)
Unit 1 - Growth mindset & scientific skills
Unit 2 - Laboratory safety
Unit 3 - Engineering design process & experimental design
Unit 4 - Physics introduction (potential & kinetic energy)
Unit 5 - Newton’s laws of motion, unbalanced & balanced forces (friction, inertia, etc.)
Unit 6 - Intro to the periodic table (a somewhat historical approach to the purposeful arrangement of the periodic table)
Unit 7 - Atomic theory & structure of the atom
Unit 8 - States of matter, physical & chemical changes/properties @ molecular level
Unit 9 - Law of conservation of energy -- types of energy (mechanical, kinetic, potential, thermal, electrical, nuclear, etc.), and energy conversions
Unit 10 - Clean energy alternatives/environmental issues (geothermal energy, windmills, hydropower, nuclear power, etc.)
Sayre students use technology to communicate, acquire information, increase productivity, and stimulate creativity as well as increase technological proficiency and promote flexible, lifelong learning.
Maintaining and troubleshooting hardware and software
Configuring the desktop and managing network files
Refining word processing and spreadsheet skills
Working with multiple applications simultaneously
Intermediate graphic editing, design, and layout
Creation of intermediate electronic/multimedia presentations
Video production and editing
Self-directed
Internet research
All 6
th
grade students are given touch typing reinforcement during the first weeks of school
An on-line touch typing program is available
Character Development
Sayre School values students as individuals and works to foster their understanding of themselves and their roles in the larger community. Our core values of wisdom, integrity, respect, and compassion are woven throughout the school. Our efforts to promote these core values include classes, clubs, and activities to reach all students. Topics and skills are taught and practiced on a developmentally appropriate continuum centered on these themes: student mentoring, giving back to community, understanding personal and cultural differences, awareness of self, and development of social skills.
Sayre defines its core values as:
Wisdom
– knowledge of what is right combined with sound judgment
Integrity
– understanding and practice of what is honest, decent, and good
Respect
– holding self and others in high regard
Compassion
– empathy for others combined with helpful action
The Middle School years are a time of significant emotional, intellectual, social and physical change. Since Sayre is committed to the promotion of "intellectual, emotional, physical, social and aesthetic growth," it is imperative that character development be an integral component of our Middle School curriculum.
Although character development is woven throughout every class and activity, there are a number of programs that have been established in our Middle School curriculum in an effort to promote integrity, to foster respect and compassion, and to encourage positive relationships.
Service Learning
Student Council
Grade Level Meetings
Advisory Groups
Conflict Resolution
Community Matters
KIDS-to-Kids
Class Trips
Clubs and Activities
Projects are organized through affinity groups according to students’ interests. Students also participate in raising money or making other donations for the benefit of others.
The Student Council serves the student body as a liaison to the faculty and administration. Members are expected to be students in good standing. Elected students learn about leadership and civic action through their activities representing the student body. The council makes proposals to the faculty for their consideration.
Grade Level Meetings are designed to offer students a full voice in their community and a time to address issues of concern to students, faculty and the community at large. Students establish their own meeting ground rules, and a fluid curriculum is maintained to respond to the concerns of the developmental age as well as the specific group. The meeting groups remain flexible to allow movement from a large group to small groups and from coed to single sex.
Advisory groups provide a small "family" unit within the Middle School community. Each group is comprised of students from all three grades and one or two faculty advisors. A student's Advisory is designed as an advocacy group which also acts as a "home" base throughout the day. Daily meetings are scheduled with a special thirty minute session each Wednesday. Advisory groups participate in special programs and social activities to build and support community. All community service activities are performed through Advisory groups. The faculty advisor serves as an adult resource and advocate for those students.
Conflict Resolution is a program available to all Sayre Middle School students who find themselves in a conflict with another member of our community. Our program begins with the premise that conflict is a part of life and that dealing with conflict in an appropriate manner is a life skill we learn and refine. In the presence of a faculty facilitator, Conflict Resolution sessions offer an opportunity for all parties to speak uninterrupted and to brainstorm ideas and propose solutions. The program empowers students to design and draw up a contract of acceptable behavior. A follow-up meeting is held to determine progress.
These life skills classes are taught in the 6th, 7th, and 8th grades. Topics include organizational skills, coping skills/stress management, social skills, puberty/sexuality issues, understanding and dealing with bullying/harassing behaviors. When called for, some classes are gender specific. Eighth grade students benefit from the intensive FCD (Freedom from Chemical Dependency) drug and alcohol education program.
A program designed to foster greater recognition and appreciation of human diversity, Sayre's KIDS-to-Kids helps prepare our students for life in a global environment and instills a positive sense of one's own worth while recognizing the value of peers. Trained Upper School students lead and mentor Middle School students in this program based on four important principles:
Kindness, Inclusion, Differences, and Self-worth
, which form the acronym KIDS. KIDS-to-Kids sessions address issues of self-esteem, sources of conflict, and techniques of conflict resolution. By helping students build bonds of awareness, respect and civility, the school actively seeks to promote a school climate of understanding and acceptance.
5
th
Grade Class Overnight Trip to Cedar Ridge Camp
During this overnight trip, fifth-graders will enjoy the outdoors by fishing, canoeing, and participating in archery and gaga ball.
6
th
Grade Class Trip to Life Adventure Center
This class trip offers an opportunity to be immersed in experiential learning with the help of naturalists and to experience team-building activities that help sixth-graders bond as a group and move into the year with confidence. This will be the seventh year that Life Adventure Center offers climbing, hiking, and ziplining for our sixth grade students.
7
th
Grade Class Trip to St. Louis
The 7th Grade trip to St. Louis with Grand Classroom as our Tour Operator allows our students to experience one of the great American cities in an adventure that includes a boat tour on the Mississippi River, a visit to the St. Louis Arch, a trip to the St. Louis Zoo, and time at Busch Stadium.
8
th
Grade Class Trip to Chicago
The trip to Chicago has been a feature of Sayre's Middle School experience for over 25 years. While other trips have come and gone, Chicago, with the Wendella boat tour, the elevator to the top of the Willis Tower, and fabulous deep dish pizza has been a perennial favorite and a part of our capstone Sayre Middle School experience.
The Middle School offers several
programs and/or committees
for students.
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