Middle School (7 – 8)
The Middle School years are predictably unpredictable, which makes working with students in grades 7 and 8 a unique and wonderful experience. Our goal at Bear Creek is to embrace students at their own level, acknowledging the uniqueness of the Middle School years. Our small, gender-separated classes permit individualized attention from the teachers, which means that students feel both challenged and cared for at the same time.
Curriculum
The intentionality of our curriculum consists of a carefully structured, classical, Christian course of study which advances the “intentionality or logic of learning.” Central to our curriculum are six core academic subjects: Christian studies, English, history, Latin, math, and science. A variety of electives provides students additional curricular breadth and exploration. Each subject at Bear Creek is taught from a Christian worldview which builds a critical framework to help each student become the individual God intends.
Math
Students are encouraged to advance beyond traditional grade-level math competency. Based on ability and motivation, many Middle School students take advanced-level math courses and enter high school ready to enroll in a strong pre-collegiate advanced math course sequence.
Curriculum: McDougal Littell and Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
Courses:
- Pre-Algebra
- Algebra 1
- Geometry
- Algebra 2
Students placed by ability level not grade level.
English
Curriculum: Literature-based
- Grade 7: Narration, argument, grammar, literary terms, sentence structure, punctuation, easily confused words, and literature including Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, Much Ado About Nothing, and others
- Grade 8: Read and analyze primary sources, including sermons, essays, histories, pamphlets, short stories, poetry, and literature including To Kill a Mockingbird, Animal Farm, and others
Science
- Grade 7: Introductory Biology and Epidemiology
- Grade 8: Earth Science and Engineering Design
History
- Grade 7: Medieval Western Civilization including Feudalism, Monasticism, and Hundred Years’ War
- Grade 8: Modern Western Civilization including Renaissance, Scientific Revolution, Enlightenment, and French Revolution
Christian Studies
- Grade 7: Trace the narrative of salvation; history from creation to the establishment, judgment, and restoration of Israel; themes in the Old Testament
- Grade 8: Introduction to the New Testament; examine the Gospels; discuss growth in the Church in Acts; examine basic Christian belief and practice as presented in the Epistles
Latin
Latin is key to a classical, Christian education. The early study of Latin prepares students for advanced study of foreign languages and improves English grammar and vocabulary.
- Grade 7: Grammar and vocabulary, proper pronunciation, composition, listening, and reading comprehension
- Grade 8: Careful listening and reading, grammar and comprehension, written compositions and speaking, Greek and Roman mythology, literature, history, and connections between modern and ancient languages
Physical Education
Curriculum: Human physiology, good health, and sound dietary habits
Content: Badminton, basketball, dance, floor hockey, soccer, softball, track & field, and volleyball
At least one semester required each year.
Arts Electives
- Art
- Band
- Choir
- Drama
At least one semester required each year.
Learn more about Middle School Arts.
Additional Electives
- Computer Programming 1 and 2
- Creation Lab 1 and 2
- Creative Writing Lab
- Digital Storytelling
- Robotics
- Strength Training
- Study Hall
Program Highlights
Gender-Separated Classrooms
To meet the unique needs of Middle School students, most core classes are separated by gender, producing an exceptionally strong learning dynamic. This allows freedom for safe classroom discussion and participation, fewer distractions, and a supportive classroom environment among peers of the same gender
Study Skills and Office Hours
Building strong study habits and receiving individualized support are critical during these years. Office hours are scheduled four times each week to provide students, under the guidance of a faculty advisor, the opportunity to seek extra tutoring help, make up missed work, or just get a jump start on homework. Teachers also use office hours to teach and reinforce critical study skills, organizational strategies, time management, and to evaluate specific learning needs.
JanTerm
JanTerm is a fun two-week mini-semester between fall and spring semesters. With approximately 75 unique courses to choose from, students are exposed to a broad range of topics.
Socials
Middle School socials and special events are energetic and fun. They provide an opportunity for students and faculty to enjoy each other outside of the classroom.
Learn more about Middle School Student Life.
Athletics
Participation in athletics with our nocut policy allows students to develop physical skills, learn game strategies, and most importantly, put into practice the concepts of commitment and teamwork. Approximately 80% of our Middle School students participate in athletics.
Learn more about Middle School Athletics.