the Grosse Pointe Academy
Language Arts - Grade 6 - Grade 7 - Grade 8
The Middle School language arts program, meeting eight periods a week, provides a language-rich environment with literature and writing at its core. Literature anthologies along with a rich variety of novels are used to emphasize the elements of, and to develop an appreciation for, literary forms and techniques. Literary discussions throughout the week challenge students to think critically about not only what an author is saying, but also how and why. A culminating experience in eighth grade is the in-depth study of a Shakespearian play accompanied by a trip to Stratford to experience the play first hand.
The continued use of the 6+1 Traits of Writing allows middle school students to focus specifically on well defined writing skills while simultaneously immersing themselves in writing’s exploratory and creative process. Journal entries, creative writing, formal essays and the classic five-paragraph essay provide students with a rich variety of writing experiences. One-on-one conferencing with teachers provides students the individualized feedback necessary to truly refine their writing.
Math - Grade 6 - Grade 7 - Grade 8 - Grade 6 Honors - Grade 7 Honors - Grade 8 Honors
The Middle School math program is designed to help students make the transition from arithmetic to algebra. In the sixth grade, general mathematical skills and concepts are reviewed and strengthened as the emphasis shifts to the development of algebraic thought and technique. A spiral approach is used that consistently extends a student’s ability and also reinforces and maintains all previously learned skills. Teaching problem solving strategies with an emphasis or real world applications allows students not only to see the value of mathematics in their lives, but also allows them to learn how to adapt acquired skills to a variety of situations.
Essentially by the end of eighth grade all students have received a rich exposure to algebra. More capable students are provided a rigorous Algebra 1 or Algebra 2 course that prepares them for advanced placement programs in high school.
Science - Grade 6 Biology - Grade 7 Physics - Grade 8 Chemistry
Middle School science is separated into three disciplines. Biology is presented in grade six, physics in grade seven, and chemistry in grade eight. At each level, a strong emphasis is placed on observation and laboratory experiments as well as critical and creative thinking. Students are involved in interpreting information, relating scientific concepts, and observing scientific phenomena on a daily basis. In addition, students are required to read for content, develop an extensive science vocabulary, and communicate their discoveries, interpretations, and observations in written, visual and oral presentations. A key characteristic of our program is its hands-on nature. Whether classifying the trees on campus, designing cars to protect an egg, or identifying chemical properties of a substance in the lab, students are engaged in the learning process and are actively applying and using the scientific method.
Social Studies - Grade 6 - Grade 7 History and Geography - Grade 8 American History
Geography, history, economics and civics form the core disciplines for Middle School Social Studies. Geography, history, economics and civics form the core disciplines for Middle School social studies. These concepts frame the knowledge base of the curriculum and are coordinated with specific skills. Reading, researching, organizing, and critical thinking skills are used to develop citizenship competencies in students and to equip them to interpret their world. The five themes of geography (location, place, human-environmental interactions, movement, and region) and key historical people, events, and ideas, all of which have influenced the present, are stressed in regional studies of the western and non-western worlds. Collaborative research projects provide students with opportunities to study areas of interest and to communicate their findings in a variety of media. The study of current events fosters student understanding and appreciation for diversity, global interdependence and the democratic process.
World Languages - French - Mandarin Chinese - Spanish
The Grosse Pointe Academy believes strongly that familiarity with other cultures and the ability to communicate in their native tongue is of paramount importance in the global community in which we now live and work. By grade six students have selected the language of their choice and intensive study on a daily basis begins. The Academy is one of the few middle schools in this area that begins this concentrated study in grade six. As a result our students are exceptionally well prepared for the study of a world language in high school.
SPECIALS
Visual Arts - Course Description
Christian Life - Course Description
Performing Arts/Music - Grade 6 - Grade 7-8
Physical Education - Grade 6 - Grade 7 - Grade 8
Technology
MAJOR FIELD TRIPS
Outdoor Education
Stratford
Holocaust Center
Outdoor Leadership
Science Expositions
SPECIAL RESOURCES
Two full-time learning resource specialists to meet individual needs and provide classroom enrichment
Licensed therapist on staff to help with social interaction l School nurse
TESTING
ERB Comprehensive Testing Program 4 l National French and Spanish Exams
Scott Tily
Grades 4-8 Principal
stily@gpacademy.org
313-886-1221 ext. 147
