PROGRAM OF STUDIES

2024/2025
FALMOUTH PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Falmouth, MA

Every Student, Every Day

Pride, Respect, Responsibility and Compassion

Program of Studies pdf file

Program of Studies Translated in Portuguese

The Lawrence School
508-548-0606

Principal:
Mr. Thomas Bushy

Assistant Principal:
Mr. Derrick Zarra

Special Ed Building Administrator:
Dr. Margaret Valdes

Principal’s Secretary:
Mrs. Laurel Robbins

Main Office Secretary:
Ms. Tammy Lomba

7-12 English Department Head
Ms. Sarah Cox

7-12 World Language Department Head
TBD

7-12 Math Department Head
Ms. Laurie Gatchell

7-12 Science Department Head
Ms. Christine Brothers

7-12 Social Studies Department Head
Mr. Mike Feeney

K-12 Fine Arts Department Head
Mr. Steven Edwards

K-12 Director of Physical Education, Health and
Wellness
Mr. Brett Gormley

K-12 ELD Department Head
Ms. Christine Nicholson

5-12 Director of Guidance:
Mr. Alan Kazarian

Guidance/Adjustment Counselors:
Mrs. Selby Bourne
Mrs. Nina Marczely

Adjustment Counselor:
Ms. Amanda Sample

Behavioral Support Counselor:

Ms. Stephanie Andrade

Guidance/Special Education Secretary:

Mrs. Lillian Lomba

School Psychologist:

Mr. Tyrone Gonsalves

Table of Contents Page
Course Descriptions
Course
Registration Time table

English Language Arts 5-6

Mathematics 6-7

Science 7

Social Studies 8

English Language Development 8-10

World Language 10-12

Physical Education & Health 12-13

Music, Band, Chorus & Chamber Strings 13-14

Digital Literacy and Innovation 14

Trimester Courses 14-15

Additional Programs 15-16

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

All courses at the Lawrence School are designed so as to be in alignment with the current Massachusetts Curriculum
Frameworks applicable to the respective subject matter, inclusive of the Common Core State Standards.

Note: Scheduling is always an ongoing process, and thus, subject to change. Please keep in mind that there is the possibility that courses listed here and/or on course registration forms may not run due to reasons beyond the school’s control, such as budgeting and/or enrollment limitations. We will do our best to keep families informed of any changes.

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ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS

Grade 7
English: This course focuses on the development of critical and close reading skills, as well as solid
communication skills, using a wide variety of both fiction and nonfiction works. The course is designed to
enhance each student’s writing, reading, analysis, and speaking skills, with an emphasis on a process-approach
to coherent writing. The goal of the course is to develop in students the habits of mind to become close readers,
structured and analytical writers, and clear and confident speakers and listeners.
Essentials English (ESS English): Students with certain identified disabilities who require specific and
specialized instruction in English, as set forth in their IEPs, are enrolled in ESS English. This course seeks to
cover the same curriculum and concepts as the grade 7 English class, but at a slower pace.
Using a wide variety of both fiction and nonfiction texts, ESS English creates and builds on opportunities for
success by presenting information in small, sequential steps, using a multi-sensory approach and structured
tasks. Students are taught active reading strategies, critical thinking skills, and writing skills based on a
process-approach to coherent writing. The course offers consistency in previewing, reviewing and repetition,
and the curriculum is taught using research-based language-based strategies, and appropriate leveled texts and
materials, while incorporating all necessary modifications and accommodations.
Specialized Reading: Students with certain identified disabilities who require specific and specialized
instruction in reading, as set forth in their IEPs, are enrolled in our grade level Specialized Reading classes.
Specialized Reading focuses on building reading stamina, reading comprehension, decoding, and fluency skills
by presenting information in small, sequential steps, using a multi-sensory approach, structured tasks, and
engaging in active reading skills before, during and after reading. The course offers consistency in previewing,
reviewing and repetition, and the curriculum is taught using research-based reading strategies, and appropriately
leveled texts and materials, while incorporating all necessary modifications and accommodations.

Grade 8
English: This course focuses on the development of critical and close reading skills, as well as solid
communication skills, using a wide variety of both fiction and nonfiction works. The course is designed to
enhance each student’s writing, reading, analysis, and speaking skills, with an emphasis on a process-approach
to coherent writing. The goal of the course is to continue to develop in students the habits of mind to become
close readers, structured and analytical writers, and clear and confident speakers and listeners, with an eye on
preparing students for the rigors and expectations of high school.
Essentials English: Students with certain identified disabilities who require specific and specialized instruction
in English, as set forth in their IEPs, are enrolled in ESS English. This course seeks to cover the same
curriculum and concepts as the grade 8 English class, but at a slower pace.
Using a wide variety of both fiction and nonfiction texts, ESS English creates and builds on opportunities for
success by presenting information in small, sequential steps, using a multi-sensory approach and structured
tasks. Students are taught active reading strategies, critical thinking skills, and writing skills based on a
process-approach to coherent writing. The course offers consistency in previewing, reviewing and repetition,
and the curriculum is taught using research-based language-based strategies, and appropriate leveled texts and
materials, while incorporating all necessary modifications and accommodations.

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Specialized Reading: Students with certain identified disabilities who require specific and specialized
instruction in reading, as set forth in their IEPs, are enrolled in our grade level Specialized Reading classes.
Specialized Reading focuses on building reading stamina, reading comprehension, decoding, and fluency skills
by presenting information in small, sequential steps, using a multi-sensory approach, structured tasks, and
engaging in active reading skills before, during and after reading. The course offers consistency in previewing,
reviewing and repetition, and the curriculum is taught using research-based reading strategies, and appropriately
leveled texts and materials, while incorporating all necessary modifications and accommodations.

MATHEMATICS

All Lawrence School mathematics teachers subscribe to the “Rule of Four,” a way of thinking about
mathematics through multiple representations – (1) verbal, (2) numerical, (3) graphical, and (4) analytical --
which helps students develop a strong and deep understanding of mathematics, allowing them to make
connections across concepts and topics in mathematics.

Grade 7 Math:
This course offers a strong foundation in algebra, strengthening students’ foundational math skills by
reinforcing the use of properties, integers, factoring and equation solving. Topics explored in this course
are ratio and proportional reasoning, percent’s, the number system, expressions and equations, geometry,
and statistics and probability. Concepts covered include the language of algebra, operations with integers,
operations with rational numbers, algebraic expressions, equations and inequalities, ratio, proportions and
similar figures, percent’s, statistics and probability, congruence and similarity, and volume and surface
area.

Accelerated Math:
This course is designed to prepare students for a five year sequence in mathematics culminating in AP
Calculus during their senior year of high school. Students will explore all of the 7th grade state standards
and some of the 8th grade standards. Topics explored in this course include the language of algebra,
operations with integers, operations with rational numbers, powers and roots, ratio, proportion, and similar
figures, percent’s, algebraic expressions, multi-step equations and inequalities, linear functions, statistics
and probability, congruence, similarity, volume, and surface area. The pace of this course is more rigorous
and students will be expected to persevere in solving problems, reason abstractly and quantitatively, and
model with mathematics.

Essentials Math:
Students with certain identified disabilities who require specific and specialized instruction in math, as set
forth in their IEPs, are enrolled in ESS Grade 7 Math. This course is designed to provide specialized, small
group instruction. The curriculum provides students with opportunities to learn the skills and concepts
necessary to meet the requirements of the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks for this grade level.

Grade 8 Math:
This course builds on students’ previous skills and expands their algebraic thinking and reasoning skills in
order to provide students with a solid foundation. Students will explore real numbers, equations, functions,

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triangles and the Pythagorean Theorem, transformations, congruence and similarity, volume and surface
area, and data analysis. Students will learn how to persevere in solving problems, reason abstractly and
quantitatively, and model with mathematics.

Algebra 1 CP:
This course is a high school-level first-year Algebra course designed to build upon the student’s
understanding of basic algebraic concepts. The course focuses on linear functions, equations, and
inequalities, a basic understanding of functions, and systems of linear equations. In addition, the course
includes an introduction to a variety of topics such as quadratic functions and statistics which are then
explored in more depth and detail in Geometry and Algebra II. This course covers applications of concepts
including some 8th-grade standards that were not covered in 7th-grade Accelerated Math.

Essentials Math:
Students with certain identified disabilities who require specific and specialized instruction in mathematics,
as set forth in their IEPs, are enrolled in ESS Grade 8 Math. This course is designed to provide specialized,
small group instruction. The curriculum provides students with opportunities to learn the skills and concepts
necessary to meet the requirements of the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks for this grade level.

SCIENCE

Grade 7
Students in grade 7 focus on systems and cycles using their understanding of structures and functions,
connections and relationships, and flow of matter and energy developed in earlier grades. Students apply
concepts and skills across disciplines, since most systems and cycles are complex and interactive. They gain
experience with changes in the Earth’s surface over time, the water and chemical cycles, Earth’s limited
resources, animal behaviors and plant structures, populations, ecosystems, motion of objects, and energy
systems and transfer. Students participate in numerous lab assignments which provide hands-on, inquiry-based
learning experiences. Students are required to carry out an independent controlled experimental project and are
encouraged to participate in the school district’s K-12 STEAM Fair in March.

Grade 8

Grade 8 students use more robust abstract thinking skills to explain causes of complex phenomena and systems,
many not immediately or physically visible to students. An understanding of cause and effect of key natural
processes allows students to explain patterns and make predictions about future events. These include causes of
seasons and tides, Earth’s interior, weather and climate, genetics and heredity, genes and proteins, natural and
artificial selection, molecular interactions, and chemical reactions. Students participate in numerous lab
assignments which provide hands-on, inquiry-based learning experiences. Students are required to carry out an
independent controlled experimental project and are encouraged to participate in the school district’s K-12
STEAM Fair in March.

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SOCIAL STUDIES

Grade 7
World Geography and Ancient Civilizations II
Grade 7 continues the sequence from grade 6, studying the development of ancient and classical civilizations and
the physical geography of Asia, Oceania, and Europe. Students study these topics by exploring guiding questions
such as, “How did the concept of self-government develop?” and “Why do empires rise and fall?” Additional
supporting questions appear under each topic. The questions are included to stimulate teachers’ and students’
own questions for discussion and research.
Grade 7 History and Social Studies Topics:
1. Central and South Asia
2. East Asia
3. Southeast Asia and Oceania
4. Europe

Grade 8
Grade 8 United States and Massachusetts Government and Civic Life Students study the roots and foundations of
U.S. democracy, how and why it has developed over time and the role of individuals in maintaining a healthy
democracy. They study these topics by exploring guiding questions such as, “How have concepts of liberty and
justice affected the United States democratic system of government?” and “How can power be balanced in
government?” Additional supporting questions appear under each topic. The questions are included to stimulate
teachers’ and students’ own questions for discussion and research.
*All grade 8 students are expected to complete a civics project according to Massachusetts state law S2631 an
Act to promote and enhance civic engagement. For the 2023-2024 school year, grade 8 students will be piloting
civics projects in the Unlocking Social Studies class.
Grade 8 History and Social Science Topics:
1. The philosophical foundations of the United States political system
2. The development of the United States government
3. The institutions of the United States government
4. Rights and responsibilities of citizens
5. The Constitution, Amendments, and Supreme Court decisions
6. The structure of Massachusetts state and local government
7. Freedom of the press and news/media literacy

ENGLISH LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT
Department Head: Ms. Christine Nicholson, cnicholson@falmouth.k12.ma.us
Instructional Staff: Melissa Crim

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General Information

English Language Development (ELD) classes are part of the district’s Sheltered English Immersion (SEI)
program. The SEI model promotes language development through classroom Sheltered Content Instruction (SCI)
and concurrent enrollment in ELD classes. Student’s cultural and linguistic backgrounds are respected and serve
as vital components of the SEI program. ELD course placement is based upon the student’s English language
proficiency level. The goal of ELD instruction is to promote social instructional language of Foundational
proficient students and academic language development of Transitional proficient students for academic
achievement.

Course Offerings

ELD Newcomer: This course is designed for English Learners (EL) who are new to our district and/or United
States educational system with an English proficiency level 1. Students will learn social English language skills
and basic academic English language skills to promote their acclimation to our school community. This course
will focus on both receptive and expressive communication skills.
ELD A Foundational: This course is designed for English Learners (EL) with academic English proficiency
levels of 1-3F (WIDA). Students develop communication skills for social and instructional purposes in school.
As a student’s language develops, this expands to include academic language development. Explicit instruction
in vocabulary, language structures and functions, reading comprehension and writing creates the foundation of
English literacy skills. Students develop their listening, speaking, reading and writing English skills. These four
domains of language learning are integrated throughout lessons and within a meaningful sociocultural context.
ELD B Developing: This course is designed for English Learners (EL) with academic English proficiency levels
3T-4 (WIDA). Students in this course expand their academic language skills and academic habits of thinking
common across content areas. ELs increase their academic English proficiency by engaging with more complex
language structures and functions within rich grade level content. All four domains of language are integrated
throughout lessons and within a meaningful sociocultural context.
ELD C Transitional: This course is designed for English Learners with academic English proficiency levels 4-5
(WIDA). Students will deepen and expand their use of complex academic language skills in all domains of
listening, speaking, reading and writing through grade level content material. Instructional focus is strengthening
an EL’s ability to engage with complex text and fully participate in the academic discourse of their content area
courses.

ACCESS INFORMATION

All students who are identified as an English Learner (EL) participate in the annual ACCESS assessment in
January & February. Federal and state laws require that school districts assess EL students’ English language
proficiency for each language domain of listening, speaking, reading, and writing.
Please refer to Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) website for further
information: https://www.doe.mass.edu/mcas/access/
Students receive a score in each domain of language, an “Overall Score”, and a “Composite Literacy Score” on a
scale of 1.0 - 6.0. ACCESS Student Score Reports are shared with families at the end of the school year. The
district uses the ACCESS scores to monitor a student’s progress in acquiring English language proficiency in
academic content areas.

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In September, families are notified of a student’s EL status and English proficiency level. Students are enrolled
in the English Language Development (ELD) class that aligns with their English proficiency levels: ELD
Newcomer, ELD1 Foundational, ELD2 Developing, or ELD3 Transitional.
The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education uses a student’s previous ACCESS data to determine a
proficiency benchmark score that a student should reach each year. If a student does not meet this benchmark
score, the district will develop an individual English Learning Success Plan (ELSP) for the student.
The ELSP identifies a specific domain of language (listening, speaking, reading, writing) in which the student
needs improvement, establishes a language goal, and implements instructional practices to promote the student’s
language acquisition. Families are notified if their child qualifies for an English Learning Success Plan (ELSP)
and are invited to meet with the school’s ELSP Team to review and approve the plan.
When a student reaches an Overall Score of 4.2 and Composite Score of 3.9 on the ACCESS assessment, they are
eligible to exit EL status and families are notified.

WORLD LANGUAGES

Students take courses following a vertical alignment but also may be placed at a higher level and advance based
on their proficiency testing score or by teacher recommendation. Where you see an option for students to advance
a level, it is based on the student exceeding the target benchmark for that level and enabling them to access
higher levels of World Language based on previous experience with the language. Many classes will have a mix
of levels but students are still aiming for the same proficiency benchmark by the end of the year. We believe that
all students can and should become proficient in more than one language. We also believe that these newly
repurposed course designations provide the excellence and equity that the World Language Department promotes.

Novice 1 Spanish:
This course introduces the Spanish language focusing on communication skills as students learn to integrate
authentic unrehearsed target language and understanding of the cultures of diverse peoples through the
interpersonal, interpretive and presentational modes of world language learning. Students develop critical
thinking and problem solving skills through the use of daily interactive participation, and practice. At the
conclusion of this course, students are expected to reach a novice high level of language proficiency through
differentiated instruction and assessment. Students will also gain an awareness of the global world with a focus

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on areas where Spanish is spoken. Grades will be based on a combined continuum of listening, speaking, reading
and writing proficiency with further emphasis on daily proficiency.

Novice 1 French:
This course introduces the French language focusing on communication skills as students learn to integrate
authentic unrehearsed target language and understanding of the cultures of diverse peoples through the
interpersonal, interpretive and presentational modes of world language learning. Students develop critical
thinking and problem solving skills through the use of daily interactive participation, and practice. At the
conclusion of this course, students are expected to reach a novice high level of language proficiency through
differentiated instruction and assessment. Students will also gain an awareness of the global world with a focus
on areas where French is spoken. Grades will be based on a combined continuum of listening, speaking, reading
and writing proficiency with further emphasis on daily proficiency.

Novice 2 Spanish: This course is a continuation of Novice 1 Spanish, and emphasizes further development of the

 interpersonal, interpretive and presentational modes of world language learning. By the end of the course, students
are expected to achieve an intermediate low level of proficiency. Students are encouraged to communicate in the
target language and to participate in a variety of interactive activities designed to promote Proficiency. Students
will continue to gain awareness of the global world with a focus on areas where Spanish is spoken. Grades will
be based on a combined continuum of listening, speaking, reading and writing proficiency with further emphasis
on daily proficiency.

Novice 2 French: This course is a continuation of Novice 1 French, and emphasizes further development of the
interpersonal, interpretive and presentational modes of world language learning. By the end of the course,students
are expected to achieve an ‘intermediate low’ level of proficiency. Students are encouraged to communicate in
the target language and to participate in a variety of interactive activities designed to promoteProficiency.
Students will continue to gain awareness of the global world with a focus on areas where French is spoken.
Grades will be based on a combined continuum of listening, speaking, reading and writing proficiency with
further emphasis on daily proficiency.

NOTE: For some students, schedule constraints may prevent them from being able to take Spanish or French. In
most cases, and because we believe exposure to world languages is a critical component of the junior highschool
experience, these students will still have the opportunity to take Novice 1 French 1⁄2 year or Novice 1 Spanish 1⁄2
Year.

Grade 7 Novice 1 French 1⁄2 year: This is a world language course which takes place on an every other day
basis, and which provides students with the elements of proficiency by introducing fundamental aspects of the
French language combined with a cultural lens to enhance world language learning. Students are introduced to all
three modes of communication, as well as to essential vocabulary and introductory conversation. Students also
gain an awareness of the global world with a focus on areas where French is spoken.

Grade 8 Novice 2 French 1⁄2 year: This is a world language course which takes place on an every other day
basis, and which continues to focus primarily on communication in world language learning. Students are

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encouraged to use the target language as much as possible, and to participate in a variety of interactive activities
designed to promote understanding of the global world through learning the language.

Grade 7

Novice 1 Spanish 1⁄2 year: This is a world language course which takes place on an every other day
basis, and which provides students with the elements of proficiency by introducing fundamental aspects of the
French language combined with a cultural lens to enhance world language learning. Students are introduced to all
three modes of communication, as well as to essential vocabulary and introductory conversation. Students also
gain an awareness of the global world with a focus on areas where French is spoken.

Grade 8

Novice 2 Spanish 1⁄2 year: This is a world language course which takes place on an every other day
basis, and which continues to focus primarily on communication in world language learning. Students are
encouraged to use the target language as much as possible, and to participate in a variety of interactive activities
designed to promote understanding of the global world through learning the language.

NOTE: Students who complete grade 7 and grade 8 Spanish or French at the Lawrence School receive
one full year of high school world language credit.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION & HEALTH

Grade 7
PE: The Physical Education Program will provide students the opportunity to experience a variety of sports and
activities. Students will learn the skills necessary for successful participation. During the Lifetime Activities
segment of the physical education program, students will experience a wide variety of activities focusing on
lifelong participation. During the Fitness component of the program, students will focus on safety information,
introduction to and use of equipment and muscles, and creating a fitness plan. Units are designed with an
emphasis on facilitating participation in age- appropriate exercises and activities along with teaching the proper
rules and safety guidelines to ensure well-being and success.
Health: The Health Education Program provides students with the knowledge and skills to make informed,
responsible decisions and assist them in leading healthy lifestyles. The health classroom instruction will consist
of drug education (including alcohol, tobacco and vaping), healthy eating, personal health and wellness
(including sexual health), mental and emotional health, physical activity, safety and injury prevention, and
violence prevention.

Grade 8
PE: The Grade 8 Physical Education Program is a continuation of the 7th grade program, providing students the
opportunity to experience a greater variety of sports and activities. Students will learn the skills necessary for
successful participation. During the Lifetime Activities segment of the physical education program, students will
experience a wide variety of activities focusing on lifelong participation. During the Fitness component of the
program, students will focus on safety information, introduction to and use of equipment and muscles, and
creating a fitness plan. Units are designed with an emphasis on facilitating participation in age- appropriate
exercises and activities along with teaching the proper rules and safety guidelines to ensure well-being and
success

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Health: This Health Education Program is a continuation of the 7th grade program, providing students with the
knowledge and skills to make informed, responsible decisions and assist them in leading healthy lifestyles. The
health classroom instruction will consist of drug education (including alcohol, tobacco and vaping), healthy
eating, personal health and wellness (including sexual health), mental and emotional health, physical activity,
safety and injury prevention, and violence prevention.

MUSIC, BAND, CHORUS, CHAMBER STRINGS

Grade 7
General Music (1st Semester): This course focuses on music composition using music technology, as well as
on the fundamentals of beginner Ukulele/Guitar with an emphasis on learning how to read and play music on
ukulele and guitar. No prior music, music composition, music technology, or guitar experience is necessary.

General Music (2nd Semester): This course focuses on music technology. No prior music or music technology
experience is necessary. In a hands-on, project-based environment, students discover and explore the
fundamental concepts used in modern computer music production including MIDI sequencing, recording and
editing sound, notation, and basic piano skills.

Band: This course focuses on developing instrumental playing skills with an emphasis on performance.
Students are required to participate in regularly scheduled practices and performances throughout the year. Prior
performance experience is NOT required. Rehearsals, Concerts, Parades and Music Festivals are scheduled
throughout the year. Attendance is required.

Choir: This course focuses on developing singing and vocal skills with an emphasis on performance. Students
are required to participate in regularly scheduled practices and performances throughout the year. Prior
performance experience is NOT required. Rehearsals, Concerts, Parades and Music Festivals are scheduled
throughout the year. Attendance is required.

Chamber Strings: This course focuses on developing instrumental playing skills with an emphasis on
performance. Students are required to participate in regularly scheduled practices and performances throughout
the year. Prior performance experience is NOT required however private instruction is strongly encouraged.
Rehearsals, Concerts and Music Festivals are scheduled throughout the year. Attendance is required.
*Students who take Band/Choir/Strings in 7th grade will be enrolled in the same course in 8th grade.
*Students who take General Music in 7th grade will go to Digital Literacy and Innovation (DLI) for 8th grade.

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Grade 8
Band: This course focuses on developing instrumental playing skills with an emphasis on performance.
Students are required to participate in regularly scheduled practices and performances throughout the year. Prior
performance experience is NOT required. Rehearsals, Concerts, Parades and Music Festivals are scheduled
throughout the year. Attendance is required.

Choir: This course focuses on developing singing and vocal skills with an emphasis on performance. Students
are required to participate in regularly scheduled practices and performances throughout the year. Prior
performance experience is NOT required. Rehearsals, Concerts, Parades and Music Festivals are scheduled
throughout the year. Attendance is required.

Chamber Strings: This course focuses on developing instrumental playing skills with an emphasis on
performance. Students are required to participate in regularly scheduled practices and performances throughout
the year. Prior performance experience is NOT required however private instruction is strongly encouraged.
Rehearsals, Concerts and Music Festivals are scheduled throughout the year. Attendance is required.

NOTE: All students auditioning for All-Cape Music Festival or Southeast District for both grades are to be “in
good standing” academically and an active participant in the school’s instrumental and/or vocal program as
determined by the director.

Digital Literacy and Innovation (DLI)

Grade 8
Digital Learning and Innovation (DLI) : Building on concepts from DLI 7, Grade 8 students expand on their
development of 21st Century skills. Students advance digital literacy knowledge and skills as they work toward
earning a micro-credential in digital citizenship, as part of the district’s newly revised Digital Driver’s License
program.

Continuing with the CS Discoveries program, students further develop their skills by designing and creating
websites, games, and animations, and apply the principal language involved in making web pages, Hypertext
Markup Language (HTML). Students broaden their experiences with programming through continued
application of Lego Mindstorms EV3 kits to construct, program, and solve robotics challenges. Opportunities to
apply their knowledge of coding to create Virtual and Augmented Reality experiences will also be provided.

TRIMESTER COURSES
Every student takes these courses with their team.

Grade 7
Engineering: This course focuses on the practical application of science and math to solve problems. With units
on the design process, transportation systems, and communication systems, students learn engineering concepts
through a series of hands-on challenges and building projects. Students also learn how to safely use basic
woodworking and shop tools. Teamwork and creative problem solving are emphasized throughout the course.
Students showcase their learning in at least one Team-wide event, such as a solar car race or a robotic creature
exhibition. All grade 7 students rotate with classmates from their Team through this course during one trimester.

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Art: This is a fundamental studio art course which uses the elements of art (line, shape, color, form, texture,
value, and space) to explore a variety of art materials that include units of study in drawing and painting. All
grade 7 students rotate with classmates from their Team through this course during one trimester.

Digital Literacy and Innovation (DLI): DLI 7 strives to create a learning environment for students to explore,
design, create, collaborate, and be challenged to master new technologies. Students develop digital literacy
skills, emphasizing the clear communication of ideas via digital media, while deepening their role as responsible
digital citizens as they consider technology’s impact in their everyday lives and society as a whole.
Using Code.org’s CS Discoveries and Scratch programming language, students engage with computer science as
a medium for creativity, communication, problem-solving, and fun, then build upon this computer programming
knowledge by exploring robotics using Lego Mindstorms EV3 kits. Using these kits, students apply
computational thinking strategies as they work in teams in building and programming robots. Students produce
3D animated creations and then code them to be experienced in Virtual and Augmented Reality.

Grade 8
Engineering: The grade 8 engineering course focuses on helping students, who have already been exposed to
fundamentals of engineering in grade 7, recognize the role engineering plays in their everyday lives, and seeks
to unleash each student’s inner creative forces through various hands-on projects. Topics covered include the
role of failure in successful engineering, bridge design and testing, craftsmanship through the construction of
wooden shelves, the role of physics in creating Rube Goldberg style machines, and a capstone project
integrating all skills developed over two years. Students continue to learn how to safely use woodworking and
shop tools. Teamwork and creative problem solving are emphasized throughout the course. All grade 8 students
rotate with classmates from their Team through this course during one trimester.

Art: This studio art course is an extension of the grade 7 studio art course, and is intended to expand upon the
knowledge and skills gained in grade 7 art. Students build upon their use of the elements of art (line, shape,
color, form, texture, value, and space), and begin to explore the principles of art (balance, contrast, emphasis,
movement, pattern, rhythm, and unity) using a variety of art materials. The course includes a unit on clay,
where students learn how to use a pottery wheel to create a functional piece of pottery. All grade 8 students
rotate with classmates from their Team through this course during one trimester.

Social Justice:
This introductory course allows students the opportunity to develop their ability to research, analyze historic
events and build both domestic and global awareness of the world around them through the lens of social
justice. Students will consider what is justice and injustice and explore relevant historical social movements
tied to the Civil Rights Movement from the 1960s to present day. This course will also explore the injustice of
the Holocaust and other contemporary genocides. This course also adhears to the Massachusetts general law
regarding mandatory Holocaust/genocide education signed into law in December of 2021.

ADDITIONAL PROGRAMS

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Strategies: This course is aimed at providing students with content area instruction and support in their various
subjects, as well as instruction in organizational and study skills. This class follows a pass/no pass grading
system.

The Connect Program: The Connect Program is a special education program designed primarily for students with
emotional disabilities. The program uses grade level curriculum for both grades 7 and 8 with modifications and
accommodations to meet the unique and diverse needs of the students in the program. English, mathematics, and
study skill strategies are taught in this program, with students typically attending general education classes for
other courses, including social studies, science, PE, health, music, band, chorus, and trimester enrichment
courses.

The Learning Center: The Learning Center program provides a highly structured setting with individually
designed instruction and a high staff to student ratio in a substantially separate classroom for students with any
one or combination of the following disabilities: physical, intellectual, autism, PDD-NOS. The program is
staffed with a special education teacher and teacher assistants who are assigned to support the enrolled students.
A behavior specialist is also available to consult with classroom teachers and when appropriate, teaching is
focused around Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) techniques. Using a modified curriculum, English, reading,
math, social studies, science, are taught and lessons shift towards functional academics, life-skills, pre-vocational
and vocational instruction. Students in this program also have the opportunity to participate in PE, health, music,
band, chorus, and trimester enrichment courses. Students take the alternate MCAS assessment.