MIDDLE SCHOOL OVERVIEW
Middle
School Webpage
Objectives for Core Classes
Student Life Overview
Grades 6-8
Rocky Mount Academy's Middle School combines traditional and hands-on experiences that challenge our students to participate in their learning and apply their knowledge in a variety of settings. We focus on oral and written communication, reading, mathematical reasoning, critical thinking, independent and cooperative problem solving, and the development of good study habits. Small classes and dedicated faculty members help students gain intellectual confidence and independence.
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English: In preparation for demanding high school programs, Middle School English focuses on three main areas: literature, grammar, and writing. Students study a variety of genres in literature with attention to literary techniques, characteristics common to the genres, and vocabulary in context. Parallel readings complement selections read and discussed in class. Grammar study includes sentence structure, parts of speech, punctuation, mechanics, spelling, and agreement and usage problems. Students practice applying grammar skills and word choice along with sentence structure, function, and variety through short and long writing assignments. In addition, students learn to use the writing process as a way to refine their thinking and writing. | |
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Mathematics: Math in Middle School focuses on problem solving, mathematical reasoning, and practical application. Sixth grade math reinforces applications with decimals, fractions, integers, ratios, percents, and proportions as well as introduces students to introductory statistics, algebra, and geometry. Students move into either Pre-Algebra or Algebra 1 Honors in seventh grade. Both classes carry students through increasingly complex algebra concepts such as function and graphs, rules of Algebra, writing and graphing linear equations and inequalities, solving systems of linear equations, and factoring and polynomial equations. Eighth grade math sections consist of Algebra 1 spread over two years, Algebra 1 in one year, or Geometry. These sections continue to build on and increase existing knowledge. |
Science: Middle School science incorporates frequent hands-on lab activities, real-life problem solving, and computer activities to allow students to apply their learning and understanding in a variety of ways. Sixth grade science introduces students to force and motion, human biology, and ecology. Life science in seventh grade includes the study of the scientific method, cellular biology, heredity, evolution, classification and taxonomy, and the structure of simple organisms, fungi, plants, and invertebrates. Eighth grade science focuses on four major areas: the Earth’s atmosphere, hydrosphere, and lithosphere. In addition, students investigate Earth in space and the importance of conservation.
Social Studies: Middle School social studies courses lead students
to think about the geographical, cultural, historical, social, and political
world around them. The study of physical geography, cultural geography, and
current events forms the basis of sixth grade geography. In
seventh grade, students study the history of America, from its settlement by
migrating peoples in 10,000 BC through modern day events. Eighth grade history
consists of North Carolina history and American Civics.
World Languages: Formal study of Spanish or French can begin in eighth grade. Both French I and Spanish I emphasize reading and oral comprehension skills as well as speaking and writing skills. Students learn pronunciation rules and vocabulary words that allow them to converse in the language studied.
Co-Curricular Courses: Several co-curricular classes complement
the above core courses. Middle School students have physical education,
guidance, computer, art, and music for all or part of the school year.
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Middle School Life: RMA’s Middle School is an active and exciting place. With the help of the Middle School Student Government Association, RMA students enjoy a variety of activities that include dances, a talent show, faculty-student sporting events, and field day. Students also look forward to the annual class trips, special events such as Colonial Day, and monthly buddy activities. In addition, the vast majority of seventh and eighth graders (sixth graders are not allow to) participate on athletic teams, so cheering on classmates is a vital part of our Middle School during all three seasons. |
GRADE REPORTING
Providing parents and students written appraisals of classroom performance is a vital objective for the school. Report cards include a narrative description as well as a grade, and they are sent home every twelve weeks. In addition, teachers send home midterm reports at 6 weeks and interim deficiency reports as needed. To earn a place on the Headmaster's List, a student must maintain an average of 93 or above in each course.
93-100 indicates that a student is excelling in several if not all of the following: skill development, application of skills, sustained and effective use of knowledge, frequent contribution to class discussion and initiative by going well beyond standard requirements and expectations.
85-92 indicates that a student is excelling in fulfilling requirements and expectations in some areas and displaying competence in many areas.
77-84 indicates that a student is satisfactorily fulfilling requirements and expectations sometimes exceeding or falling below them.
70-76 indicates that a student is not satisfactorily fulfilling requirements and expectations in many areas.
Below 70 indicates that a student is not fulfilling basic requirements and expectations.
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