IWA Middle Level Curriculum

The Incarnate Word Academy Middle Level curriculum encompasses all the learning experiences that are planned, guided, and sponsored by the school. Students' needs, abilities, interests, and emerging self-image are the core around which the curriculum is built. Within this total curriculum is a course of studies, which includes study of Catholic doctrine, language arts, math, science, history, wellness education, and elective classes.

All students have home and school access to the Angel eBrary, a virtual library system which accesses the following:

Sixth Grade Curriculum

Language Arts 6

Language Arts, Grade 6: Provides instruction in reading from a wide selection of classic, contemporary, and informational texts; requires composition of a variety of written texts with a clear controlling idea, coherent organization, and sufficient detail; includes research to discover and utilize a variety of relevant sources from which to evaluate, synthesize, and present ideas and information; enhances the use of oral and written conventions of the English language in speaking and writing, including grammar, usage, mechanics, vocabulary, and spelling. Summer reading from the IWA-approved Accelerated Reader list is required in order to attain the grade-level-designated number of AR points.

Math, Grade 6: Continues to build a strong foundation in computational and problem solving skills; focuses on using ratios to describe direction proportional relationships involving number, geometry, measurement, probability, and addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of decimals and fractions; uses statistics, representations of data, reasoning, and concepts of probability to draw conclusions and make predictions; introduces number and operation of integers.

Advanced Math, Grade 6: Prepares students for Algebra I. Focuses on applyingaddition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of decimals and integers to solve problems and equations; explores, uses, and represents numbers in a variety of equivalent forms, and applies addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of fractions; requires solving problems involving direct proportional relationships involving numbers, geometry, and measurement; provides for use of statistical measures and probability to describe data; and requires the explores the use of geometric properties, relationships, and formulas to model and analyze.
Prerequisite: End-of-year average of 94 or higher in Grade 5 math and 92 or higher on Grade 5 Stanford Achievement Test (or TAKS Commended in Grade 5 Math).

Geography, Grade 6: Explores the geography of the world, its people, and their cultures; explores early civilizations, historical events, and influential societies; provides a broad overview of economic systems, governments, and the nature of citizenship; requires construction of maps and learning the relative locations of over one-hundred-and-fifty countries and countless physical features. Participation in the History Fair is mandatory.

Science, Grade 6: Provides a look at the underlying points of life science; requires students to learn basic concepts, such as the structure and function of the cell and its parts, the classification of all living things, and basic knowledge about the earth and its different components; integrates participation in lab activities in order to put into practice what has been learned. Participation in the Science Fair is mandatory.

Religion, Grade 6: Develops recognition of the value of the Bible in understanding God and the Catholic faith; focuses on the study of Old Testament Scripture; provides opportunities to develop an understanding and appreciation for the Word of God; teaches the doctrines of the Catholic Church, including its beliefs and practices.

Spanish, Grade 6: One-semester course. Provides students with a positive experience in learning Spanish; focuses on listening, speaking, reading, writing, and the culture of the various Spanish-speaking countries; introduces concepts through a variety of methods.

Wellness, Grade 6: One-semester course. Provides opportunities to increase movement-competence, useful physical skills, health and nutrition-related personal fitness, and social development; introduces basic skills, strategies, and concepts of team sports; develops positive self-concept and personal values; builds safety skills and attitudes.

Art, Grade 6: Nine-week (one quarter) course. Elective. Introduces basic techniques for drawing and painting, particularly through use of watercolors and drawing pencils; explores the relationships between colors, as demonstrated in the color wheel.

Band, Grade 6: One-semester course. Elective. Teaches the basics of playing a musical instrument; provides an opportunity to be introduced and acquainted with the study and performance of band literature from various historical periods and musical styles.

Choral Music, Grade 6: One-semester course. Elective. Introduces fundamental vocal and choral techniques in preparation for performance; includes exposure to music theory, ear training, and sight singing.

Computer Applications, Grade 6: Nine-week (one quarter) course. Elective. Develops knowledge and skills to correctly operate hardware components and software programs, and to adhere to copyright laws regarding the Internet; enables students with a higher level of computer literacy to work on class projects to expand the depth and complexity of knowledge and skills; prepares students with limited computer literacy to work on class projects that teach and develop basic skills.

Math Skills Applications, Grade 6: Elective. Reinforces math concepts in a small group setting. Enrollment is by math-teacher recommendation only. Placement is assigned quarterly and may be for as short a period as two weeks per quarter or as long as the entire quarter.

Seventh Grade Curriculum

Language Arts, Grade 7: Teaches the writing process, grammar, usage, and the mechanics of writing; develops study skills, vocabulary, and research skills; integrates w
riting of paragraphs and multi-paragraph compositions/essays with the study of short story, poetry, nonfiction, drama, and the novel. Summer reading from the IWA-approved Accelerated Reader list is required in order to attain the grade-level-designated number of AR points.

Pre-Algebra, Grade 7: Prepares the student for a more intense study in Algebra I and Algebra II: teaches algebraic reasoning, number sense, geometry, measurement, and data analysis and statistics; promotes study of the basic vocabulary of algebra, a variety of methods for solving problems, and the basics of algebra.

Algebra I, Grade 7: Develops proficiency with mathematical skills; expands understanding and application of mathematical concepts; integrates field properties of real numbers and properties of equality as a basis for developing algebraic concepts; promotes intuition and deductive reasoning combined with algebraic concepts to perform operations with variables, polynomials, linear equations, and inequalities in one and two variables, rational expressions, radicals, and quadratic equations.
One (1) high school credit is earned upon completion of the course.
Prerequisite: End-of-year average of 90.0 or higher in Grade 6 math and 93.0 or higher on the Total Math sub-score of the Stanford Achievement Test (or TAKS Commended in Math for Grade 6).

Pre Algebra Skills Applications, Grade 7: Elective. Reinforces math concepts in a small group setting. Enrollment is by math-teacher recommendation only. Placement is assigned quarterly and may be for as short a period as two weeks per quarter or as long as the entire quarter.

Science, Grade 7: Provides an integrated approach to science, building on topics introduced in 6th grade science; includes an in depth study of the scientific method; emphasizes study and practice of lab safety, scientific measurement and conversions, and the use of laboratory instruments and apparatus; presents topics through discussion, lab experiences, and computer simulations; includes study of the following: chemistry—elements, compounds and mixtures, the periodic table, and comparing chemical and physical changes; physics—force and motion, gravity and its effects, simple machines, and mechanics; life science—requirements for life, cell metabolic processes, chemical necessities of life, human body systems (in-depth study of the cardiovascular system), and comparative anatomy (dissection of starfish and bony fish); geology—earthquakes and tsunamis, erosion and deposition; astronomy—creation of the universe and our solar system, the nature of the moon and its phases, and a comparison of rocky planets with the gas giants; ecology—focuses on succession in habitats, the anatomical and behavioral adaptations of organisms to ensure success in their habitats, and a field studies trip to examine the organisms that live on sandy beaches, on rocky sea coasts, in salt marshes, and in protected bays. Participation in the Science Fair is mandatory.

Texas History, Grade 7: Surveys the history of Texas from the arrival of the first humans to the modern period; provides general historical information, with an emphasis on important periods of Texas history, including Mission Period, Empresario System, Texas Revolution, and
Texas Government. Participation in the History Fair is mandatory.

Religion, Grade 7: Focuses on the teachings of the Gospels in the New Testament; provides a basis for familiarity with the Gospel messages, Catholic Church teachings and traditions, and learning the responsibilities of living a spiritual and moral life; provides study of the life of Jesus and His examples of serving others.

Spanish, Grade 7: One-semester course. This course is a continuation of Spanish, Grade 6. Focuses on listening, speaking, reading, writing, and the culture of the various Spanish-speaking countries; introduces concepts through a variety of methods.

Wellness, Grade 7: One-semester course. Provides opportunities to increase and improve motor skills; enhances knowledge in strength, flexibility, muscular endurance, and aerobic fitness; teaches how to independently set physical activity goals; develops positive self-concept and personal values; builds safety skills and attitudes; promotes lifelong participation in wholesome recreational activities.

Advanced Computer Applications, Grade 7: Nine-week (one quarter) course. Elective. Desktop Publishing—promotes advanced knowledge and skills in the correct use of a variety of desktop publishing software, terms and concepts, text, graphics, and page format; Microsoft Office—develops problem-solving and decision-making skills and provides practice in file management, conducting business research, and managing communications skills; Microsoft PowerPoint—enhances delivery presentations; Microsoft Office Excel—incorporates advanced skills and statistical analysis tools to determine effective data display with charts, and applies logic in decision-making, including spreadsheet concepts, formulas and functions, and formatting worksheets and cells.

Art, Grade 7: One-semester course. Elective. Incorporates art and the elements of design; uses the mediums of painting and drawing as the most common methods for design; introduces art history and the significance of various artists and their styles.

Athletics, Grade 7: One-semester course. Elective. Promotes year-round fitness for athletes; focuses on cardiovascular and muscular endurance activities to maintain optimal physical condition for off-season and in-season sports.

Band, Grade 7: Yearlong course. Elective. Provides an opportunity to study and to perform band literature of various historical periods and musical styles. Additional rehearsals and performances are mandatory.
Prerequisite: Student must know how to play a musical instrument.

Cardio, Grade 7: One-semester course. Elective. Promotes cardiovascular fitness through the development of muscular endurance; introduces the cardiovascular system, the benefits of cardiovascular fitness, criteria for cardiovascular exercise, monitoring of heart rate, and endurance strength training.

Career Investigations, Grade 7: One-semester course. Elective. Focuses on exploring the basic skills, planning, and investigation required to prepare for a specific career path; includes self-evaluation of current skills, interests, and hobbies; incorporates investigation and research of basic job skills, college career preparation, college searches, degree plans, goal planning, and resume development; develops listening and questioning skills in response to guest speakers from various professions.

Choral Music, Grade 7: Yearlong course. Elective. Focuses on mastery of fundamental vocal and choral techniques in preparation for performance; continues the study of music theory, ear training, and sight singing. Additional rehearsals and performances are mandatory.

Creative Writing, Grade 7: Semester course. Elective. Introduces the basic skills of creative writing; provides opportunities for students to acquire and demonstrate knowledge in writing essays, short stories, poetry, and drama; develops skills in organizing, outlining, and developing expressive, informative, and persuasive works; provides practice in analyzing and discussing published and unpublished written works; teaches the student how to evaluate his/her writing.

Life Skills, Grade 7: One-semester course. Elective. Introduces various useful life skills, including balancing a checkbook, table manners, sewing buttons, and how to read the newspaper for specific information.

Theatre Arts, Grade 7: One-semester course. Elective. Introduces the basic skills of acting and theater production; provides opportunity to gain confidence through activities that emphasize voice, timing, blocking, articulation, and movement; presents information about history of the theatre, beginning with Ancient Greek Theatre and culminating with late American and European Theatre.

Language Arts, Grade 8: Builds on previously learned concepts, with emphasis on reading and writing; continues the study of the five basic concepts: reading—read and understand a wide variety of literary and informational texts; writing—compose a variety of written texts with a clear controlling idea, coherent organization, and sufficient detail; research—know how to locate a range of relevant sources and evaluate, synthesize, and present ideas and information; listening and speaking—listen and respond to the ideas of others while contributing ideas in conversations and in groups; oral and written conventions—learn how to use the oral and written conventions of the English language (grammar, usage, mechanics, vocabulary, spelling, and composition) in speaking and writing. Summer reading from the IWA-approved Accelerated Reader list is required in order to attain the grade-level-designated number of AR points.

Language Arts Honors, Grade 8: Builds on previously learned concepts, with emphasis on reading and writing; continues the study of the five basic concepts: reading—read and understand a wide variety of literary and informational texts; writing—compose a variety of written texts with a clear controlling idea, coherent organization, and sufficient detail; research—know how to locate a range of relevant sources and evaluate, synthesize, and present ideas and information; listening and speaking—listen and respond to the ideas of others while contributing ideas in conversations and in groups; oral and written conventions—learn how to use the oral and written conventions of the English language (grammar, usage, mechanics, vocabulary, spelling, and composition) in speaking and writing. Additionally: develop mastery in the context of challenging content that requires in-depth thought; exercise discipline in order to demonstrate understanding, raise questions, and present ideas, as recommended by the Texas College and Career Readiness Standards. Summer reading from the IWA-approved Accelerated Reader list is required in order to attain the grade-level-designated number of AR points.
Prerequisite: Language Arts Grade 7, with an end-of-year average of 95.0 or higher.

Communication Applications, Grade 8: One-semester. Introduces the basic skills of oral communication, emphasizing listening strategies, non-verbal communication, group discussion and conflict management, and elements of effective professional communication in organizations; provides methods by which students gain confidence and develop communication skills through a variety of interpersonal communication activities, research, and oral presentations.
One-half (½) high school credit is earned upon completion of the course, with a grade of 78 or higher for each quarter.

Math 8, Grade 8: Develops basic principles of algebra to analyze and represent both proportional and non-proportional linear relationships; uses probability to describe data and make predictions; uses concepts, algorithms and properties of rational numbers to explore mathematical relationships, geometric properties and relationships, and spatial reasoning to model and analyze situations and solve problems; uses statistics, representations of data, reasoning, and concepts of probability to draw conclusions, evaluate arguments, and make recommendations; promotes problem solving with graphing technology and other mathematical tools.

Algebra I, Grade 8: Develops proficiency with mathematical skills; expands understanding and application of mathematical concepts; uses field properties of real numbers and properties of equality as a basis for developing algebraic concepts; combines intuition and deductive reasoning with algebraic concepts to perform operations with variables, polynomials, linear equations, and inequalities in one and two variables, rational expressions, radicals, and quadratic equations.
One (1) high school credit is earned upon completion of the course, with a minimum average of 80 for each semester.
Prerequisite: Completion of Pre-Algebra 7, with a minimum end-of-year average of 78.

Geometry, Grade 8:     Geometry is required for all high school graduation plans.Enables students to develop a logical pattern of thinking with the use of geometric figures, such as triangles, parallelograms, circles, prisms, cones, and spheres; presents plane geometry as a structural system with formal geometric proofs; includes some spatial and coordinate geometry; emphasizes the connections between algebra and geometry.
One (1) high school credit is earned upon completion of the course.
Prerequisite: Completion of Algebra, Grade 7.

Geometry Pre-Advanced Placement, Grade 8: Provides opportunities to develop advanced skills in algebraic operations, including the study of plane and spatial relationships, synthetic and coordinate geometry, and the development of geometry as a structured mathematics system; uses formal geometric proofs that require considerable mathematical insight; emphasizes the connections between algebra and geometry.
One (1) high school credit is earned upon completion of the course.
Prerequisite: End-of-year average of 88 or higher in Algebra I, Grade 7.

Algebra I Skills Applications, Grade 8: Elective. Reinforces math concepts in a small group setting. Enrollment is by math-teacher recommendation only. Placement is assigned quarterly and may be for as short a period as two weeks per quarter or as long as the entire quarter.

American History to 1877, Grade 8: This course, whose study concludes in high school, is the first part of a two-year study of U.S History. Surveys the following: American history from its beginning through Reconstruction; the Constitution; geography; political science; basic economic principles; the effect of technological innovations on U. S. history; the impact of selected American leaders on U. S. history; and current events. Skills emphasized include creating outlines and note-taking. Participation in the History Fair is mandatory.

Science, Grade 8: Focuses on earth science, with an integration of chemistry, physics, and life science; provides instruction in safety rules, measurement techniques, graphing and recording analysis, and interpretation of data; topics of study include chemical interactions, the earth’s interior, motion, energy, waves and ecology; prepares the student for high school sciences, with an emphasis on integration of chemistry into the life sciences. Participation in the Science Fair is mandatory.

Integrated Physics and Chemistry (IPC), Grade 8: Integrates the disciplines of physics and chemistry in the following topics: motion, waves, energy transformations, properties of matter, changes in matter, and solution chemistry; addresses the following areas: chemistry—balance chemical reaction types; physics—calculate various motion and force problems, describe the relationship of waves and energy, and interpret how light and mirrors interact. Independent science research is a requirement and participation in the Science Fair is mandatory. One (1) high school credit is earned upon completion of the course.
Prerequisite: End-of- year average of 80 in Grade 7 science and an end-of-year average of 80 in Pre-Algebra.

Religion, Grade 8: Focuses on the teachings of the Gospels and the study of Catholic Church history; provides familiarity with the Bible and the teachings of the Catholic Church; encourages students to become active participants in the Liturgy and to grow in their commitment to share their spiritual gifts and to provide service to others.

Wellness, Grade 8: One-semester course. Promotes movement-competence, useful physical skills, health and nutrition-related personal fitness, and social development; introduces basic skills, strategies, and concepts of team sports; develops positive self-concept and personal values; builds safety skills and attitudes; promotes lifelong participation in wholesome recreational activities.

Art, Grade 8: Yearlong course. Elective. Explores the historical culture of specific art forms and introduces various mediums, including oil pastels, watercolors, drawing pencils, collage, and sculpture.

Band, Grade 8: Yearlong course. Elective. Provides an opportunity to continue to study and perform band literature of various historical periods and musical styles; additional rehearsals and performances are mandatory.
Prerequisite: Student must have played a musical instrument for at least one year.

Cardio, Grade 8: Yearlong course. Elective. Promotes cardiovascular fitness through the development of muscular endurance; introduces the cardiovascular system, the benefits of cardiovascular fitness, criteria for cardiovascular exercise, monitoring of heart rate, and endurance strength training.

Choral Music, Grade 8: Yearlong course. Elective. Continues the study and mastery of fundamental vocal and choral techniques in preparation for performances; enhances the study of music theory, ear training, and sight singing. Additional rehearsals and performances are mandatory.

Computer Skills/Yearbook, Grade 8: Yearlong course. Elective. Develops knowledge and skills in the correct use of operating hardware components and software programs; uses basic computer skills to create the Incarnate Word Academy Middle Level Yearbook; focuses on specific computer and/or yearbook skills, including the following: yearbook design, purpose and audience; journalism law and ethics; types of writing; photography; layouts; Microsoft Word; Microsoft Excel; and yearbook software.

Creative Writing, Grade 8: Semester course. Elective. Introduces the basic skills of creative writing; provides opportunities for students to acquire and demonstrate knowledge in writing essays, short stories, poetry, and drama; develops skills in organizing, outlining, and developing expressive, informative, and persuasive works; provides practice in analyzing and discussing published and unpublished written works; teaches the student how to evaluate his/her writing.

French (Introduction), Grade 8: Yearlong course. Elective. Provides the introductory experience of learning French; focuses on listening, speaking, reading, writing, and the culture of the various francophone countries; introduces concepts through a variety of methods.

Theatre Arts, Grade 8: Semester or Yearlong course. Elective. Introduces the basic skills of acting and theater production; provides opportunities to gain confidence through activities that emphasize voice, timing, blocking, articulation, and movement; presents information about history of the theatre, beginning with Ancient Greek Theatre and culminating with late American and European Theatre; provides opportunities to write scripts, edit scripts, and use the elements of production for a stage presentation.

Sixth Grade Curriculum

Choral Music, Grade 6: One-semester course. Elective. Introduces fundamental vocal and choral techniques in preparation for performance; includes exposure to music theory, ear training, and sight singing.

Seventh Grade Curriculum

Choral Music, Grade 6: ***One-semester course.* *Elective.*** Introduces fundamental vocal and choral techniques in preparation for performance; includes exposure to music theory, ear training, and sight singing.