Middle School Curriculum Links

The Middle School for Dialectic is designed for students in grades 5-8 and continues some of the curriculum paths begun in the Grammar School. As students change our pedagogy changes with them, helping them to take responsibilty for their own studies and encouraging their growing sense of independence.

The New Covenant curriculum is adjusted in several ways. First, English grammar is combined with, and taught through the Latin grammar. Since Latin grammar underlies the students' mother tongue, facility with both languages is best achieved by teaching them together. We like to say that Latin is not a foreign language; it is part of our own language that we have to learn. Transferring students will adjust, but they must participate in our summer Latin Camp before beginning the school year. This matter is addressed in the admissions process.

Second, certain subjects are taught in gender segregated contexts. Math instruction, for example, is given to boys and girls in separate sections.

Third, all middle school students are required to participate in intra-mural athletics. These activities provide instruction in several sports, such as soccer, flag football, floor hockey, badminton, ultimate frisbee, and running and conditioning. While the context is organized and competitive, students are are not placed in competition with other schools, but they are required to learn the sport and be physically active. These activities take place during the school day, and no extra travel is required by parents. (Of course, students in middle school may play competively on athletic teams in co-curricular programs. Click here for our sports program.)

Fourth, students in middle school meet three times each week in a small group advisory. The advising instructor is responsible to assist the student as a mentor and is the first point of contact between the school and parents.

Typical Course of Study