ACS Athens

American Community Schools

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Middle School Program of Studies

2011-12

Accredited by the
Middle States Association
A full IB Diploma School
of Colleges & Schools
ACS MIDDLE SCHOOL – GRADE 6, 7 AND 8
PROGRAMS & COURSES

PROGRAM OF STUDIES

PREFACE

The Middle School offers a variety of required courses in the eight subject areas, as well
as exploratory and elective courses in the arts, computer technology and modern
languages. What follows is a brief description of each of these courses.
Instruction is organized in both homogeneous and heterogeneous groupings. In the
Modern Language, Mathematics, English, Humanities and Science or ESL courses
students are grouped according to ability or proficiency levels. All other classes are
heterogeneously grouped. Students with special needs are supported by an Optimal
Match teacher. Students learning English as a Second Language are supported by a
variety of ESL courses and a teaching assistant in some classes.

I. REQUIRED COURSES

A. LANGUAGE ARTS
The Language Arts Program continues to focus on critical thinking skills and on making
connections in concepts and skills with the other disciplines. The goal is to make
students life-long readers and writers.

1. Sixth Grade Language Arts – A (MS 1000)

Students in the sixth grade language arts class will learn grammar, vocabulary, reading
writing skills, speaking, and listening skills. The reading program emphasizes
improvement of comprehension and vocabulary development through reading a variety of
literature and focusing on research-based “active reading” strategies. Students will
become skilled literary critics as they read, analyze, and interpret literature through
written and oral responses.
Additionally, students will become experienced writers, adept in various forms and styles
of writing for multiple purposes. They will engage in all the different stages of the
writing process to bring creatively written pieces to finished drafts.
Independent reading throughout the school year is a requirement of the course, and
students will give book reviews regularly.

Texts: The Language of Literature 6, McDougal Littel, 2006

Write Source 2000, Houghton - Mifflin 1999
Selected Novels such as Walk Two Moons, Hatchet, Tuck Everlasting, Holes, The
Golden Goblet, The Breadwinner and Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s
Dream.
2. Sixth Grade Language Arts – ESL (MS 1001)
Any students in the ESL program will be placed in LA 6 ESL based on their performance
on the admissions test, ESL entrance or exit examination and teacher recommendation.
Students enrolled in this course will have a developed knowledge of the English
language, but will still have difficulties with materials written for native speakers. The
books used for this course might vary from the 6th Grade Language Arts A course, but the
skill sets attained by the students are the same in both levels (MS 1000 and MS 1001).

Students in the sixth grade ESL language arts class will learn grammar, vocabulary,
reading writing, speaking, and listening skills. The reading program emphasizes
improvement of comprehension and vocabulary development through reading a variety of
literature and focusing on research-based “active reading” strategies. Students will
become skilled literary critics as they read, analyze, and interpret literature through
written and oral responses.
Additionally, students will become experienced writers, adept in various forms and styles
of writing for multiple purposes. They will engage in all the different stages of the
writing process to bring creatively written pieces to finished drafts.
Independent reading throughout the school year is a requirement of the course, and
students will give reviews regularly.

Texts: The Language of Literature 6, McDougal Little, 2006

Write Source 2000, Houghton- Mifflin, 1999
Selected Novels such as: Walk Two Moons, The Breadwinner, Holes, 20, 000
Leagues Under the Sea, Frankenstein, Call of the Wild, The Crown of Violet, and
Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream

3. Seventh Grade Language Arts – A (MS 1010)

The seventh grade language arts course is a literature-based program that encourages
students to develop their own voices as writers and to appreciate the work of others.
Through the study of novels, poetry, short stories and plays, students will learn to read
increasingly challenging texts and will explore what to do when reading breaks down in
reading. Students will also take their narrative and expository writing skills to a higher
level by crafting multiple drafts of poetry, literary essays and research papers. The study
of correct English usage and spelling will be taught through the writing process.
Vocabulary enhancement will focus on using vocabulary in contexts and on
understanding root words, prefixes, and suffixes. Independent reading throughout the
school year is a requirement of the course, and students will give book reviews regularly.
Texts: The Language of Literature 7, McDougal Littel, 2006
Write Source 2000, Houghton - Mifflin 1999
Selected Novels such as: Freak the Mighty,The Pigman, Anna of Byzantium, The
Kite Rider, The Boy in the Striped Pajamas, Habibi, The Storyteller’s Beads, and
Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing

4. Seventh Grade Language Arts – ESL (MS 1011)

Any students in the ESL program will be placed in LA 7 ESL based on their performance
on admissions test, the ESL entrance, and teacher recommendation.
Students enrolled in this course will have a developed knowledge of the English
language, but will still have difficulties with materials written for native speakers. The
books used for this course might vary from the 7th Grade Language Arts A course, but the
skill sets attained by the students are the same in both levels (MS 1010 and MS 1011)
The seventh grade language arts course is a literature – based program that encourages
students to develop their own voices as writers and to appreciate the work of others.
Through the study of novels, poetry, short stories, and plays, students will learn to read
increasingly challenging texts and will explore what to do when meaning breaks down in
reading. Students will also take their narrative and expository writing skills to a higher
level by crafting multiple drafts of poetry, literary essays, and research papers.
The study of correct English usage and spelling will be taught through the writing
process. Vocabulary enhancement will focus on using vocabulary in context and on
understanding root words, prefixes, and suffixes. Independent reading throughout the
school year is a requirement of the course, and students will give book reviews regularly.
1 The Language of Literature 7, McDougal Little, 2006
2 Write Source 2000, Houghton – Mifflin 1999
Selected Novels such as: The Boy in the Striped Pajamas, The Pigman, The
Adventures of Sherlock Holms, The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, The Storyteller’s
Beads and Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing.

5. Eighth Grade Language Arts – A (MS 1020)

Grade 8 Language Arts is a thematically organized course. Students will utilize content
and materials to answer the essential questions for each unit. The thematic units include:
Teenage Identity, Individualism –vs- Conformity, Personal Freedom and Choice, Future
World, Prejudice/Discrimination, Power/Control, Coping with Loss, Maturity.

Students will read novels, plays, short stories, poetry, and articles related to the studied
literature. These may include: The Outsiders, The Giver, Animal Farm, Flowers for
Algernon, Of Mice and Men, Julius Caesar, October Sky, The Bridge of San Luis Rey,
The Old Man and the Sea, The Hound of the Baskervilles, Dr Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.
Students will also read at least two books independently throughout the year. Vocabulary
will be studied through a variety of genres, and grammar study will be completed using
various workbooks.
The focus of writing instruction will be on understanding the process of writing as a
means of thinking that can be applied to any writing task.
Texts: The Language of Literature (Grade 8), McDougal Littel, 2006
Write Source 2000, Houghton-Mifflin, 1999
Vocabulary Workshop (Level C), Sadlier-Oxford, 2009
Grammar for Writing (grade 8), Sadlier-Oxford, 2009

6. Eighth Grade Language Arts – ESL (MS 1021)

Any students in the ESL program will be placed in LA 8 ESL based on their performance
on the admissions test, the ESL entrance exam, and teacher recommendation. Students
enrolled in this course will have a developed knowledge of the English language, English
reading and vocabulary, but will still have difficulties with materials written for native
speakers. The books used for this course might vary from the 8th Grade Language Arts
A course, but the skill sets attained by the students are the same in both levels (MS 1020
and MS 1021).

Similar to Grade 8 Language Arts, Grade 8 Language Arts ESL is a thematically

organized. Students will utilize content and materials to answer the essential questions
for each unit. The thematic units include: Teenage Identity, Individualism –vs-
Conformity, Personal Freedom and Choice, Future World, Prejudice/Discrimination,
Power/Control. Students will read novels, plays, short stories, poetry, and articles related
to the studied literature. These may include: The Outsiders, The Giver, Animal Farm,
Flowers for Algernon, Of Mice and Men, Julius Caesar, The Old Man and the Sea.
Vocabulary will be studied through a variety of genres, and grammar study will be
completed using various workbooks. The focus of writing instruction will be on
understanding the process of writing as a means of thinking that can be applied to any
writing task.
Texts: The Language of Literature (Grade 8), McDougal Littel, 2006
Write Source 2000, Houghton-Mifflin, 1999
Vocabulary Workshop (Level C), Sadlier-Oxford, 2009
Grammar for Writing (grade 8), Sadlier-Oxford, 2009

B. SOCIAL STUDIES
1. Sixth Grade, Social Studies – World Studies: History and Geography of the
Ancient World (MS 2001)
The sixth grade course explores the history, geography, economics and cultures of the
ancient world, focusing on the study of Prehistoric Humans and the foundations of the
ancient civilizations of Mesopotamia, China, Egypt, Greece and Rome. Students compare
life in the past with life today. They also study important achievements of the past and
their profound effects on the modern world. Students are taught to consider, as well as
appreciate, the differences in human expression, language, art, religion and beliefs of
people. Geography skill development is integrated into each unit of study, as well as skill
development in the evaluation of primary source materials. Maps, video, and other
materials will be integrated regularly in this course.
Textbook -World Studies: The Ancient World, Prentice Hall, 2005

2. Sixth Grade, Social Studies - ESL World Studies: History & Geography of the
Ancient World (MS 2002)
Students enrolled in this course will have a developing knowledge of English reading and
vocabulary, but will still have difficulties with social studies content written for native
speakers. Any students in the ESL program will be placed in this class based on the ESL
exit examination and the recommendation of core teachers.

Students will begin by exploring the history, geography, economics and cultures of the
ancient world, focusing on the study of Prehistoric Humans and the foundations of the
ancient civilizations of Mesopotamia, China, Egypt, Greece and Rome. Students compare
life in the past with life today. They also study important achievements of the past and
their profound effects on the modern world. Students are taught to consider, as well as
appreciate, the differences in human expression, language, art, religion and beliefs of
people. Geography skill development is integrated into each unit of study, as well as skill
development in the evaluation of primary source materials. Maps, video, and other
materials will be integrated regularly in this course. ESL World Studies 6 will emphasize
building language skills, such as vocabulary development, writing mechanics and public
speaking.
Textbook -World Studies: The Ancient World, Prentice Hall, 2005

3. Seventh Grade, Social Studies– World Studies: History & Geography of the
Eastern Hemisphere (MS 2011)
This course is designed as an interdisciplinary study of the Eastern Hemisphere. Students
will begin by learning the five themes of geography (location, place, human-environment
interaction, movement, and regions) and exploring how geography shapes the way people
live. Students will use the disciplines of geography, culture, history, government, and
economics to study the regions of Europe, Africa, and the Middle East and Asia. Specific
countries will also be visited as case studies to further the student’s understanding of each
region. Geography, current events and critical thinking opportunities enable students to
evaluate historical and world issues. Primary sources, maps, video, and other materials
will be integrated regularly into this course.
Textbook-World Studies: Eastern Hemisphere, Prentice Hall 2005

4. Seventh Grade, Social Studies - ESL World Studies: History & Geography of the
Eastern Hemisphere (MS 2012)
Students enrolled in this course will have a developing knowledge of English reading and
vocabulary, but will still have difficulties with social studies content written for native
speakers. Any students in the ESL program will be placed in this class based on the ESL
exit examination and the recommendation of core teachers.
Students will begin by learning the five themes of geography (location, place, human-
environment interaction, movement, and regions) and exploring how geography shapes
the way people live. Students will use the disciplines of geography, culture, history,
government and economics to study the regions of Europe, Africa, and the Middle East
and Asia. Specific countries will also be visited as case studies to further the student’s
understanding of each region. Geography, current events and critical thinking
opportunities enable students to evaluate historical and world issues. Primary sources,
maps, video, and other materials will be integrated regularly in this course. ESL World
Studies 7 will emphasize building language skills, such as vocabulary development,
writing mechanics and public speaking.

5. Eighth Grade, Social Studies -World Studies: History & Geography of the
Western Hemisphere (MS 2021)
The eighth grade Social Studies course examines early U.S. history in a larger cultural
context. Additionally, students study early history and geography of South and Central
America. The course follows both a thematic sequence, and familiarizes the student with
persons, places and events from pre-Columbian times to the Civil War. Major units of
study include the Themes of Comparative Government, Colonization, Revolutions and
Civil War. Students will interpret and analyze data in various formats, and will be able to
formulate generalizations that allow them to compare and contrast historical highlights
across time and cultures. Geography skills and current event topics will be incorporated
in each unit of study.
Textbook-World Studies: Western Hemisphere, Prentice Hall 2005

C. SCIENCE
1. Sixth Grade Science (MS 4000)
The goal of the sixth grade science course is to enable students to develop the skills to
carry out scientific investigations, research scientific questions and communicate their
findings through writing lab reports and research projects. Students work cooperatively in
groups to observe, hypothesize, identify variables, measure, collect and present data,
draw conclusions and evaluate results. Units of study include, the living world, bacteria,
protists, fungi, plants and animals, the composition and properties of matter, chemical
interactions, sound and light. The units taught are at an introductory level and the
scientific method is used throughout. Students also take part in the NESA Virtual
Science Fair, an open-ended project whereby students independently or in groups choose
a topic of interest and formulate questions that can be answered through experimentation.
This project uses the Moodle platform to connect students with scientists, mentors, judges
and other participant schools from all over the NESA School System.
Text: Science Explorer, Prentice Hall, 2009

2. Sixth Grade Science ESL (MS 4001)

The goal of the sixth grade ESL science class is to enable students to make use of
scientific vocabulary, comprehend science concepts and develop their science
communication skills while learning the scientific language. In the course of the sixth
grade ESL science class, students carry out scientific investigations, research scientific
questions for projects and write lab reports. Students also work cooperatively in groups to
observe, hypothesize, identify variables, measure, collect and present data, draw
conclusions and evaluate results. Units of study include the living world, bacteria,
protists, fungi, plants and animals, the composition and properties of matter, chemical
interactions, sound and light. The units taught are at an introductory level and the
scientific method is used throughout. Students also take part in the NESA Virtual
Science Fair, an open-ended project whereby students independently or in groups choose
a topic of interest and formulate questions that can be answered through experimentation.
This project uses the Moodle platform to connect students with scientists, mentors, judges
and other participant schools from all over the NESA School System.
Text: Science Explorer, Prentice Hall, 2009

3. Seventh Grade Science (MS 4010)

In the seventh grade science course, students further develop their science and
communication skills through cooperative laboratory activities, integrated projects and
problem solving. The units taught introduce students to the elements and the Periodic
Table, atoms and bonding, chemical reactions, cell structure and function, cell processes,
food and digestion, the circulatory and respiratory system and astronomy. The units of
study relate scientific knowledge to various health topics. Students also take part in the
NESA Virtual Science Fair, an open-ended project whereby students independently or in
groups choose a topic of interest and formulate questions that can be answered through
experimentation. This project uses the Moodle platform to connect students with
scientists , mentors, judges, and other participant schools form all over the NESA School
System.
Text: Science Explorer, Prentice Hall, 2009

4. Seventh Grade Science ESL (MS 4011)

In the seventh grade ESL science class, students build on scientific vocabulary and
concepts while also developing their communication skills through presentations and lab
report writing. Students will take part in cooperative laboratory activities, work on
integrated projects and develop their problem solving skills. The units taught introduce
students to the elements and the Periodic Table, atoms and bonding, chemical reactions,
cell structure and function, cell processes, food and digestion, the circulatory and
respiratory system and astronomy. The units of study relate scientific knowledge to
various health topics.
Students also take part in the NESA Virtual Science Fair, an open-ended project whereby
students independently or in groups choose a topic of interest and formulate questions
that can be answered through experimentation. This project uses the Moodle platform to
connect students with scientists, mentors, judges and other participant schools from all
over the NESA School System.
Text: Science Explorer, Prentice Hall, 2009
5. Eighth Grade Science (MS 4020)
The eighth grade science course further develops the skills necessary to carry out
scientific investigations, understand how the scientific principles and knowledge are
applied in the world today, recognize the uses and limitations of science and develop a
positive attitude towards conservation and the environment. This course continues the
sequence, with topics in cells and genetics, human biology and health, environmental
science, motion and forces, studied through integrated units. Students also take part in the
NESA Virtual Science Fair, an open-ended project whereby students independently or in
groups choose a topic of interest and formulate questions that can be answered through
experimentation. This project uses the Moodle platform to connect students with
scientists, mentors, judges and other participant schools from all over the NESA School
System.
Text: Science Explorer, Prentice Hall, 2009

D. MATHEMATICS
1. Sixth Grade Mathematics

a. Fundamental Math 6 (MS 3005)

This course is designed for students whose basic math skills need further practice. It also
services students who are below grade level in their basic math knowledge. The same
topics will be covered as in Math 6, but at a pace that will allow students the extra time
they need to understand the concepts and to reinforce their skills.
The skills of adding, subtracting, multiplying and dividing, decimals and fractions are
extended and strengthened. Also included are graphing, statistics, metric measurement,
number theory and geometry, ratio, proportion, percent and an introduction to algebra.
Students learn an variety of problem solving techniques. Reasoning, logic and mental
math techniques are emphasized throughout the course.
There are projects and activities throughout the year to enrich and enhance their
knowledge and appreciation of mathematics.
Text: Prentice Hall Mathematics, Course 1

b. Math 6 (MS 3010)

In this course the skills of adding, subtracting, multiplying and dividing, decimals and
fractions are extended and strengthened. Also included are graphing, statistics, metric
measurement, number theory, geometry, ratio, proportion, percent, and an introduction to
algebra. Students learn a variety of problem-solving techniques. Reasoning, logic and
mental math techniques are used throughout the course.
There are projects and activities throughout the year to enrich and enhance their
knowledge and appreciation of mathematics.
A student who successfully completes this course will go into Math 7 course in grade 7.
Text: Prentice Hall Mathematics, Course 1

c. Advanced Math 6 (MS 3015)

This course is intended for accelerated sixth graders and requires teacher
recommendation. A seventh grade curriculum is followed. All operations of decimals
and fractions are reviewed for mastery. Students evaluate and write algebraic
expressions, as well as write and solve algebraic equations with decimals and fractions.
The students study number theory, ratio, proportion, percent, measurement, geometry,
perimeter, area, and volume. Statistics and integers are introduced. This course has a
heavy emphasis on Problem-Solving and Problem-Solving techniques.
A student who successfully completes this course will go into the Advanced Math 7
course in grade 7.
Students participate in 2 contests: the American Mathematics Competition and the
Mathematical Olympiads Competitions.
Text: Prentice Hall Mathematics, Course 2

2. Seventh Grade Mathematics

a. Fundamental Math 7 (MS 3025)

This course is designed for students whose basic math skills need further practice. It also
services students who are below grade level in their basic math knowledge. The same
content will be covered as in the Math 7 course, but at a pace that will allow the students
the accommodations they need to understand the concepts and to reinforce their skills.
The topics include interpreting and making graphs, order of operations, properties,
decimals, metric measurement, number theory, fractions, integers, introduction to
algebra, ratio and proportion, geometry, percent, statistics, probability, and problem
solving techniques. Reasoning, mental math, and estimation skills are emphasized
throughout the course.
There are projects and activities throughout the year to enrich and enhance their
knowledge and appreciation of mathematics.
Text: Prentice Hall Mathematics, Course 2

b. Math 7 (MS 3030)

This course is designed to prepare seventh grade students for Pre- Algebra in the eighth
grade. The content of this course includes interpreting and making graphs, order of
operations, properties, decimals, metric measurement, number theory, fractions, integers,
introduction to algebra, ratio and proportion, geometry, percent, statistics, probability,
and problem- solving techniques. Reasoning, mental math, and estimation skills are
emphasized throughout the course.
There are projects and activities throughout the year to enrich and enhance their
knowledge and appreciation of mathematics
Text: Prentice Hall Mathematics, Course 2

c. Advanced Math 7 (Pre-Algebra) (MS 3035)

This course is designed for accelerated seventh graders and requires teacher
recommendation. It prepares the student for algebra in the eighth grade. Writing,
simplifying, and evaluating numerical and algebraic expressions; order of operations,
patterns; number theory; integers; rational numbers; irrational numbers; writing and
solving equations; writing, solving, and graphing inequalities; identifying and using
properties; ratios, proportions, and percent; geometry; square roots; and coordinate
graphing are some of the topics that are included.
A variety of problem-solving methods are explored, with an emphasis on using equations.
There are projects and activities throughout the year to enrich and enhance their
knowledge and appreciation of mathematics.
Students participate in 2 contests: the American Mathematics Competition and the
Mathematical Olympiads Competions.
Students are required to have a scientific calculator.
Text: Pre- Algebra, Prentice Hall Mathematics
3. Eighth Grade Mathematics

Eighth grade math students are required to have a scientific calculator.

a. Fundamental Math 8 (MS 3041)

This course is designed for students whose basic math skills need further practice. It also
services students who are below grade level in their basic math knowledge. The same
content will be covered as in the Pre-Algebra course, but at a pace that will allow the
students the extra time they need to understand the concepts and to reinforce their skills.
Topics include writing, simplifying, and evaluating numerical and algebraic expressions;
order of operations; patterns; number theory; integers; operations with rational numbers;
irrational numbers; exponents; writing and solving equations; writing and solving
inequalities; identifying and using properties; ratios; proportions, and percent; geometry;
probability; square roots; and coordinate graphing.
There are projects and activities throughout the year to enrich and enhance their
knowledge and appreciation of mathematics. Emphasis is also placed on improving math
vocabulary and communication skills.
Text: Prentice Hall Mathematics, Course 3

b. Pre-Algebra (MS 3055)

The content of this course includes writing, simplifying, and evaluating numerical and
algebraic expressions; order of operations; patterns; properties of exponents; number
theory; integers; operations with rational numbers; irrational numbers; writing and
solving equations; writing, solving and graphing inequalities; identifying and using
properties; ratios; proportions, and percent; geometry; square roots; the metric system;
and coordinate graphing.
A variety of problem-solving methods are explored, with an emphasis on using equations.
There are projects and activities throughout the year to enrich and enhance their
knowledge and appreciation of mathematics. Emphasis is also placed on improving math
vocabulary and communication skills. A student who successfully completes this course
will go into the Algebra I course in grade nine.
Students are required to have a scientific calculator
Text: Pre- Algebra, Prentice Hall Mathematics

c. Algebra I (MS 3060)

This course is designed for accelerated eighth graders and requires teacher
recommendation. The content includes integers; rational numbers; expressions and
equations; properties of exponents; polynomials; factoring; graphing linear equations and
inequalities(including simple and compound); systems of equations; quadratic equations;
radical expressions and equations, equations; real number axioms a properties; linear
functions, scattered data, and probability. Word problems are stressed throughout. A
student who successfully completes this course will go into the Geometry Honors course
in Grade nine.
There are projects and activities throughout the year to enrich and enhance their
knowledge and appreciation of mathematics. Emphasis is also placed on improving math
vocabulary and communication skills.

Students participate in 2 contests: the American Mathematics Competition and the

Mathematical Olympiads Competitions.

Eighth grade Algebra 1 students are required to have a graphics calculator.

Text: Forester Algebra 1, Prentice Hall
E. PHYSICAL EDUCATION (MS 6000, MS 6020, MS 6030)

Physical Education instruction is required for all 6th, 7th and 8th grade students. Through
regular fitness activities, individual and team games, direct instruction, group discussions
and team-building activities where students will meet the following program objectives:
Assessment and development of basic physiological variables such as muscular
strength and endurance, cardiovascular endurance, body composition and flexibility;
Understanding and practice of the basic principles of good hygiene;
Consideration of health issues such as nutrition, substance abuse, eating disorders,
with the goal of providing students the information they need to make healthy life
choices;
Development of the student’s interest in maintaining the best possible physical,
mental, social and emotional well-being (in conjunction with the Counseling
department);
Development of basic physical skills through various motor activities;
Development of initiative, alertness, self-control, sportsmanship values and
cooperation in group activities and individual games;
Development of knowledge of basic rules and skills required to play a range of
individual and team games, sports, and activities at a satisfying level of achievement;
Exploration of dance/movement as a means of creative and cultural expression.

F. VISUAL AND PREFORMING

ARTS/TECHNOLOGY/HEALTH/RESEARCH/GUIDANCE
The following sequence of courses is required of all students:

1. Sixth Grade Exploratory

a. Music 6 (MS 7120)

This semester course offers students the opportunity to learn fundamental concepts of
music through the study of vocal technique, performance, theory and history. Students
also develop musicianship skills by engaging in authentic music-making opportunities,
music reading and listening exercises.

*Students enrolled in this course are required to participate in all concert performances.

b. Foundations of Technology, Health, Research and Guidance 6 (MS 7400)

This semester course is required of all sixth graders. This class will enhance current
skills in keyboarding and computer operations. In addition, past and current trends in
technology will be discussed. Power Point and Microsoft Word will be used for various
assignments. The four focus topics in health will include caring for self, family, and
community; personal wellness; use and misuse of materials (including media literacy); as
well as physical growth and development. The middle school counselor will work jointly
with the teacher in Guidance Seminars. Some topics included in the Guidance Seminars
for sixth grade include time management, defining your learning style, and setting goals
for academic success. Concurrently, students will work with the instructor to strengthen
research skills both in the library and internet. Two research papers will be written
during the semester.
2. Seventh Grade Exploratory

a. Art/ Design 7 (MS 7020)

This semester course is an introduction to the principles of design and the elements of art
through drawing, painting and sculpture. Students will develop an appreciation of the
process of art through the creative studio experience in a variety of media.

b. Foundations of Technology, Health, Research and Guidance 7 (MS 7410)

This semester course is required of all seventh graders. This class will further enhance
current skills in keyboarding, computer operations, and past and current trends in
technology. Further examination of health topics (in four focus areas) will continue. The
middle school counselor will work jointly with the teacher in some topics included in the
Guidance Seminars. The focus of seventh grade Guidance Seminars will be to encourage
the students to strive for responsible citizenship on campus and the world outside the
classroom. Some activities will include the understanding of the social-self, values
clarification, and the Bully-Free Campus program. Students will continue to work with
the instructor to refine and strengthen their library and internet-based research skills.
Two research papers will be written during the semester.

3. Eighth Grade Exploratory

a. Drama 8 (MS 7111)

This semester course provides opportunities for students to get to know themselves, to
involve themselves with others, to take safe risks and to actively participate in activities
and projects all of which help them to respond to the world around them with increased
energy and sensitivity. Pantomime, improvisation, characterization, memorization, skits,
scenes and one act plays are the vehicles through which the concepts and the basic
elements and techniques of drama are taught and explored. In addition, students work in
groups to create and write original plays for production and performance.

b. Foundations of Technology, Health, Research and Guidance 8 (MS 7411)

This semester course is required of all eighth graders. The students will use
the Microsoft Windows environment as they work with more advanced word processing
and desktop publishing applications. They will further familiarize themselves with
Microsoft Microsoft Excel. Topics in health will include caring for yourself, community,
and family; personal wellness; uses and misuses of materials; as well as physical growth
and development. The middle school counselor will continue in teaching Guidance
Seminars. Some of the Guidance Seminars in eighth grade focus on interest
identification, understanding of the world of work, and character traits. The eighth grade
student will be encouraged through the guidance seminar activities to reflect on personal
interests, values and interests, and relate them to the world of work. Students will
continue to work on refining their research skills. Two research papers will be written
during the semester.
G. MODERN LANGUAGES

Entrance into modern language courses requires the recommendation of the teacher and
Department Chair.

A. GREEK

Students need a grade of C or better to move up to the next level in a language course.
Greek language in the Middle School is offered as a Foreign Language (Language B)
and as a Native Language (Language A).

1. Greek as a Foreign Language: Language B

Greek as a Language B in the Middle School is offered at three levels:

(a) Greek Beginning (b) Greek Intermediate (c) Greek Advanced
All these classes are open to students from the sixth, seventh or eighth grades.
The general objectives of the above courses are to provide the students with instruction
(varying according to the level) that will allow them to understand, speak, read and write
Greek correctly and to develop an understanding and an appreciation for Greece, its
culture, its history and its people.

a. Greek Beginning (MS 5000)

This course is for beginners who have very little or no knowledge of Greek. It provides a
very basic acquaintance with the language, enough to allow students to communicate on
an everyday basis. Although reading and writing are not stressed, the students do
become familiar with the Greek alphabet and are taught to read in order to be able to
recognize road signs, street names and any other written Greek they might come into
contact with on an everyday basis. Very basic grammatical structures are taught through
simple dialogues and phrases. Students are encouraged to create their own dialogues and
to use their Greek outside the classroom.

b. Greek Intermediate (MS 5005)

This course is a continuation of Beginning Greek. The students, having mastered
Beginning Greek, begin the year with a review of verbs in the present, past, and future
tenses and go on to a more in-depth study of the language. Great emphasis is placed on
the enrichment of vocabulary. Students are taught to write descriptive paragraphs as well
as to talk and write about themselves, their families, and their environment. They are
enabled to extend their abilities beyond routine daily communication. Importance is
placed on speaking, reading, and writing.

Note: On occasion, students of Greek background with very little Greek language
experience will be placed in the above two courses if they are unable to follow the
courses provided for students who already speak Greek.

c. Greek Advanced (Greek Language Arts Preliminary Course) (MS 5020)

The general objective of this course is to provide the students with instruction that aims
to develop better skills in the Greek language: oral, reading and writing.
This course is for students who speak, read and write Greek at some level. The course is
taught in Greek although some use of the English is not excluded. Emphasis is placed on
reading fluently and writing correctly.
2. Greek as a Native Language: Language A
Greek as a Native Language A course in the Middle School is offered at three levels:
Greek Language Arts A Courses are offered as:
1) Greek Language Arts A 6th grade
2) Greek Language Arts A 7th grade
3) Greek Language Arts A 8th grade

3. Greek Language Arts A

The general objectives of the Greek Language Arts A classes are to promote the learning
and understanding of the Greek Language, heritage and culture (including Greek
geography, history, Greek life etc.) In addition, the above courses provide students with
the opportunity to learn, understand, and appreciate Greek Literature at a more in-depth
level. All Greek Language Arts courses (6-8) are taught in Greek.

a. Sixth Grade Greek Language Arts A 6 (MS 5040)

The sixth Grade Language Arts A Program is for native speakers of the language who are
fluent readers and relatively proficient writers.
Emphasis is placed on writing, reviewing basic grammar, and studying selected topics of
Greek history, geography and culture. Students learn how to experiment with a variety of
writing activities such as poetry, personal narratives, short stories, essays and research
projects, incorporating all stages of the Writing Process.

b. Seventh Grade Greek Language Arts A 7 (MS 5045)

The seventh grade Greek Language Arts A program is for students who are fluent in
written and oral language. The program includes Greek literature, Greek history, Greek
grammar and structure. Emphasis is given to comprehension skills and vocabulary
development.
The written work covers a variety of writing modes such as stories, poems, essays and
personal responses to the various readings. Students work through all stages of the
Writing Process in completing writing assignments. At the same time students get
involved in group work and research projects related to the literature and history units
under study.
The course is a continuation of Greek Language Arts Α 6.

c. Eighth Grade Greek Language Arts A 8 (MS 5050)

The eighth grade Greek Language Arts A program is for students who have mastered the
language as native speakers. Taught entirely in Greek, it focuses on Greek literature,
Greek poetry and vocabulary development. Students read selected pieces from Greek
literature, which provide them with an opportunity to identify personally with Greek
culture and heritage.
At the same time, a humanities-based approach – which combines the study of Greek
history and culture with the literature readings – enables students to express their
personal thoughts orally and in writing.
 Β. FRENCH

French MS 1 (MS 5101)

This course is for students who have very little or no knowledge of French. The
objectives for this class include: acquiring competence in communication that enables the
student to conduct a simple conversation with native French speakers, understanding of
some types of authentic texts, writing paragraphs and small descriptive compositions on
subjects such as themselves, their families, their hobbies, etc.
Text: selected chapters from Junior Plus 1, Cle International, 2006

French MS 2 (MS 5102)

Students are expected to be able to understand, speak, and write with a reasonable degree
of fluency. The course covers all the basic French grammar required to do this. Students
are expected to be able to express themselves reasonably well in writing and to refine
their style during the course of the year. To do this, they are given a wide variety of
topics on which to write and discuss, as well as structural drills. The material is
presented in a contemporary cultural background, which is ideal for the Middle School
students. Students take a placement exam for this course. Simplified versions of
different works of French literature are introduced.
Text: selected chapters from Junior Plus 1 Cle International, 2006 and Junior Plus 2
Cle International, 2006

French MS 3 (MS 5103)

This course is the third level of French offered in the Middle School. Students are
accepted upon successful completion of French MS 2. The four skills: reading, writing,
listening, and speaking are expanded to a more advanced level. More complicated
grammatical structures are introduced. French culture is introduced with every
opportunity. After complete the course successfully, 8th graders will be placed in French
2 (Academy) or French III after teacher’s recommendation.
Text: selected chapters from Junior Plus 2, Cle International, 2007

C. MANDARIN CHINESE

Chinese MS 1 (MS 5500)

This course is designed for students who have very little or no knowledge of Chinese. In
this course students will learn 5 language skills- Alphabet spelling with tones for
pronunciation (Ping-Yin), oral speaking, listening, Chinese Character Reading and Chinese
Character Writing starting with a few strokes.Through the learning process, the students
will be expected to demonstrate the basic communicative skills in everyday situations.
Text: Easy Steps to Chinese 1
Basic Sentences of Spoken Chinese (Lower- Intermediate)

Chinese MS 2 (MS 5501)

This is the second year of Chinese language studies. Students are expected to understand
and speak more fluently. Students will begin reading Chinese text without using the
alphabet for pronunciation (only Chinese characters). Students will also write short
paragraphs with different topics using Chinese characters.
Along with learning the language students will also be exposed to the Chinese world,
learning about Chinese History, Culture, Literature and Art.
Text: Easy steps to Chinese 2
Basic Sentences of Spoken Chinese (Lower – Intermediate)

Chinese 2 Advanced (MS 5502)

This is the third year of Chinese language studies for students that have completed
Chinese 2. Students are expected to understand and speak the language fluently. Students
will read Chinese texts without using the alphabet for pronunciation (only Chinese
characters). Students will also write short essays in different topics using only Chinese
characters. Along with learning the language students will also be exposed to the Chinese
world, learning about Chinese History, Culture, Literature and Art.
Text: Easy Steps to Chinese 2 / 3
New Practical Chinese Reader 1
Basic Sentences of Spoken Chinese (Lower-Intermediate)

Chinese MS 3 (MS 5503)

This course is a continuation of the Chinese language program after Chinese 2 Advanced.
In this course students will learn five language skills- Alphabet spelling with tones for
pronunciation (Ping-Yin), oral speaking, listening, Chinese Character Reading and
Chinese Character Writing.
Through the learning process, the students will be expected to have clear pronunciation
and intonation; to listen with understanding, to use a range of vocabulary; to build
grammatical structures; and also to read and write the Chinese Characters. With the
language learning we will also lead students into the wonders of the Chinese world –
Chinese History, Culture, Literature and Art.
Easy Steps to Chinese 3
New Practical Chinese Reader 1

D. SPANISH

Spanish MS 1 (MS 5401)

This is a foreign language learning program designed to be studied by students who have
no previous experience in the language. Students will be expected to demonstrate the
communicative skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing in everyday situations,
as defined by the core syllabus and language syllabus. Basic skills are emphasized as
well as dialogues and drills.
The textbook used is Chicos Chicas.

Spanish MS 2 (MS 5402)

Students are expected to read, write and speak reasonably well. Students do projects and
write reports on the culture and history of the lands involved.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Spanish 1and teacher recommendation.

E. ARABIC

This MS Arabic Program concentrates on correct reading, comprehension and writing of

complete sentences to construct a short paragraph. Oral expression is taken into account
to help students express themselves as fluently as possible and encourage discussions.
Course expectations:
Reading and Comprehension
a. Read meaningfully
b. Understand what is being read (with guidance)
c. Acquire new vocabulary
d. Correct pronunciation
e. Understand main idea and sub-ideas
Grammar
a. Sentence structure
b. Verb tenses
c. Nouns, pronouns, associative pronouns, etc.
d. Apply grammatical skills acquired in writing and reading.

Writing Skills
a. Prepared dictation
b. Answer simple questions
c. Summarize a given text
d. Finish a story / start one if given the ending, etc.

Arabic 6 (MS 5300)

Beginning: Introduction to Arabic, Book
(Spelling and Basic Grammar Rules)

Advanced Reading: Al Kiraat Wal Al Taabeet

(Textbook No. 4 and Exercise Book)

Grammar: Written Expression, Spelling, Grammar

Arabic 7 (MS 5310)

Reading: Speak and Read (Textbook) 3
(Grammar and Spelling, Written Expression and Stories)

Arabic 8 (MS 5320)

Reading: Speak and Read (Textbook) 3
Grammar Textbook and Spelling, Written expression and Stories

F. GERMAN
1. German MS 1 – Beginner course (MS 5200)
In this course students are encouraged to get to know the life and the culture of the
German speaking countries. It enables the learners to enlarge their language abilities by
learning German as a second or third foreign language and to strengthen their social
competences.
Within an interactive class atmosphere and a creative learning environment the students
will have all possibilities to experience the German language most authentically.
During the first year students of this class are expected to achieve basic communicative
skills as to speak about themselves, their friends and family and to describe their
everyday life at school and their free time. At the end of this course the learners will also
be able to understand and to write simple and small texts (e-mail, letter) about familiar
and everyday-matters.
2. German MS 2 (MS 5204)

This intermediate course German MS 2 is designed for students with a 2-3 years
experience of learning German or for those having attended the course German MS 1.
Students of this class will be guided to enlarge their communicative horizon and to
intensify their language abilities, meeting a variety of communicative areas, like the
world of Media, the world of Sport or living environments. Through specific projects the
students will be encouraged to get in touch with students from other international schools,
also learning German as a foreign language, to extend their cultural understanding.
In this class students will experience the German language authentically. At the end of
the course the learners will be able to understand and to handle more complex texts about
the above mentioned various social topics.
Text books: Team Deutsch 1 and Team Deutsch 2, Klett Verlag

H. ELECTIVES
A. Beginning Instrumental Music (Year) (MS 7123)
This course offers students the opportunity to begin study on an instrument in the
woodwind, brass or percussion sections of the band. In addition to the core performance
curriculum, students study music theory, music history, sight- reading and ear -training.
* Students enrolled in this course are required to participate in all concert performances.

B. Intermediate Instrumental Music (Year) (MS 7124)

This course is designed for students who have completed Beginning Instrumental Music
or who have a least one year’s playing experience on a wind, brass or percussion
instrument of the band. The performance based curriculum further develops proficiency
on an instrument through the study and performance of technical exercises and
intermediate level instrumental repertoire. In addition to the performance curriculum,
musicianship is cultivated through the study of music theory, music history, sight-
reading and ear- training.
*Students enrolled in this course are required to participate in all concert performances.

C. Middle School Choir (MS 7101)

This course offers students the opportunity to learn basic concepts of vocal music
performance within a choir setting. Students also engage in authentic performance
experiences such as duets and solos in combination with music reading and listening
activities. In addition to examining the fundamentals of music theory, a brief overview of
music history is covered.
*Students enrolled in this course are required to participate in all concert performances.

D. Art Studio (Year) Grades 6,7, 8 (MS 7011)

Through drawing, painting, and design projects, students explore the question “Why and
how do artists make art?” Using media such as tempera paint, oil pastels, and three
dimensional materials students experiences various techniques for realizing their own
artistic potential.

E. Drama (Year) (MS 7110)

The focus of this elective course is to develop creative and expressive skills for drama
through practical workshops. The students will take part in group and individual drama
tasks and exercises which will involve theater play, improvising, creating scenes and
skits, developing a role, as well as reflecting and exploring a variety of stimuli. This
course will help students develop a set of life-transferrable skills: confidence, effective
communication, concentration of attention, team work, imagination, space, time and body
awareness, creativity and spontaneity to mention but a few.
This course is open to grades 6, 7, and 8, and there is no pre-requisite.

I. LEARNING SUPPORT

A. EFL ( English as a Foreign Language) (MS 1202)

EFL is a course that provides the foundation for English and content study by focusing on
developing conversational skills and basic vocabulary, grammar, reading writing skills.
This course is a precursor to the ESL Level I course. It is possible that students enrolled
in EFL many not be enrolled in all of the content classes such as Humanities, Science and
Language Arts. ( Available as a course given a certain number of 6th grade students
enroll)

B. ESL Level I (Grades 6, 7 and 8) (MS 1200)

ESL Level I is a course that focuses on language skills for the beginning-intermediate
student of English. Writing, reading, speaking, listening and grammar as a central focus
are the principal skills and curriculum areas covered in this class.

C. ESL Level II (Grades 6, 7 and 8) (MS 1203)

ESL Level II is a course for students approaching a higher level of English proficiency.
This course will have a strong emphasis on vocabulary building, reading and writing
skills. Students in this class will receive instruction in the specific strategies involved in
reading a text and will also be exposed to the application of writing process techniques in
composition.

D. ESL Content (Grade 8) (ESL 1260)

This support class is designed and custom made to meet the academic needs of emergent
student of English. In this class, the academic demands of content classes are reviewed
and sometimes modified so that ESL students may meet academic challenges with
success in mainstream subjects. Concepts and vocabulary that are encountered in content
subjects are used as enrichment and background building, so that the ESL student may
build a content– based as well as and knowledge–based foundation of English. In this
class students will engage with writing as a medium of thought.

A fee is charged for enrollment in any ESL or EFL class

E. OM-Optimal Match Program (OM 6: MS 1046, OM 7: MS 1047, OM 8: MS 1048)

The Optimal Match program provides students an equal opportunity at excelling in the
classroom by providing individualized and small group instruction that supplements
various learning styles. The process begins with the student being referred by the
classroom teacher or parent. The Child Study Team which consists of the Middle School
Principal, the K-12 counseling-psychologist, the Middle School counselor, and the OM
specialist and the OM Supervisor work together to determine which programs offered by
the school will most effectively meet the student’s needs.

A full battery of psycho-educational assessments, which are administered by non-school-

based psychologists, must be completed prior to enrollment in the OM program. Based
on their findings and subsequent report, standards are set according to the individual
needs of the referred student. Effective strategies are developed by the Optimal Match
Specialist and are then shared with all teachers working with each particular student.
Small group instruction and cooperative learning activities are incorporated within the
student’s curriculum in order to complement various learning abilities.

The Individual Learning Plan is a formal, comprehensive document that outlines each
student’s profile. It indicates the student’s learning difference, preferred learning style,
strengths and areas of difficulties . It also states the accommodations that students are
eligible for and lists the goals the Optimal Match Specialist works on in the classroom.
Lastly, there is a section on the ILP where the counselors are asked to develop goals for
students that are in need of counseling services, as stated in the psyco-educational
assessment.

Additionally, the Optimal Match Program may administer informal subtests to students
who are performing academically below expectation in order to determine reading,
writing and math levels. These subtest results may show a need for the students to enroll
in the Optimal Match Program only after a full battery of psycho-educational assessments
have been completed

The Optimal Match specialist provides support and guidance to the classroom teachers in
order to properly support student abilities. Collaboration is established amongst the entire
team and valuable tactics are adopted in order to enable students to maintain success
within the classroom. Monitor sheets are student assessments that are distributed monthly
to validate student strengths and to determine areas that need improving. The Monitor
Sheets are kept in the student’s confidential file. This information provides the program
with evidence of student strengths and areas where additional assistance is needed in
order for the student to excel in the classroom.

The Optimal Match program also uses the an inclusion type model as a support service
for students who need monitoring to help them succeed in the regular content classes
The OM teacher and/or OM aide enter the content classes with the students to provide on
the spot assistance. The OM specialist communicates and meets regularly with members
of the faculty which help to regulate the monitoring of the student.

F. OM-Optimal Match Consultation (MS 8067)

OM Consultation is a support service for students who need monitoring and/ or testing
accommodations to help them succeed in the regular class; it does not involve classroom
instruction.
The OM teacher meets with the student on a pull out basis during a scheduled convenient
time for both. This consultation may be up to 20 minutes long and takes place once a
week.

OM consultation students are entitled to accommodations which are specific to each

student’s needs. Accommodations are specific guidelines for teachers to follow so that
individual student needs are met. These guidelines are presented in the Individual
Learning Plan.

Formal communication with parents takes place once a month by the monitor sheet and
phone calls or emails as often as necessary.

The OM teacher communicates regularly with members of the faculty which helps to
regulate the monitoring of a consultation student.
Students who require more support and small group instruction are placed in an 80
minute block of time which meets every other day by grade level.

Placement of students in the OM program, either OM consultation or OM small group

instruction, will be determined by the Child Study Team (CST).

* There is a fee for enrollment in the Optimal Match Program.

* A full battery of Psycho Educational assessment is required prior to enrollment.

H. The High Performing Student Program (HPS) (MS 8068)

The High Performing Student Program (HPS) has been developed in order to cater for the
needs of students who have exceptional abilities. These students can be referred to the
program by their teachers and/or parents. Once they have been referred, the student needs
to undergo a battery of psycho educational tests in order to assess their areas of strength
and weakness. The purpose of the HPS program is to provide students with adequate
challenge and a ceiling high enough for them to achieve the utmost of their potential.
Once a child has been identified, the Optimal Match specialist works closely with the
student’s teacher in order to differentiate the student’s curriculum and adjust their
learning experience to suit their individual needs. Students will be offered a variety of
services such as mentor programs, individualized projects, consultations and advanced
placement programs.

There are fees for enrollment in the HPS Optimal Match Program

Placement of students in the OM program, either OM consultation or OM small

group instruction, or OM Inclusion Program will be determined by the Child Study
Team (CST).
* There is a fee for enrollment in the Optimal Match Program.
* A full battery of Psycho Educational assessment is required prior to enrollment.
 American Community Schools of Athens
129 Aghias Paraskevis St. & Kazantzaki, 152 34 Halandri, Athens, Greece
Tel.: +30 (210) 639 3200, Fax: +30 (210) 639 0051
www.acs.gr  acs@acs.gr