MS Curriculum

In all humanities classes at the middle level, empathy is key: students practice listening and considering others’ points of view in discussions, role plays, and writing assignments. They are also encouraged to develop empathy through analysis of characters in the books they read. In addition, inquiry is used regularly as a teaching strategy: students investigate events and issues, find connections between past and present, and learn to evaluate sources and use those sources to form and defend an argument. Finally, listening and speaking skills are regularly practiced in both small group and large group settings.

The Humanities curriculum in the middle school uses an interdisciplinary approach toward learning social studies and English language arts. The social studies component uses the C3 standards and focuses on civics, geography and history. Students learn about the development of civilizations and world religions in 6th grade; explore the regions of Africa, India, and China in 7th grade; and examine U.S. history in 8th grade. 

The English language arts component uses US Common Core standards, and students read and write in multiple genres. The writing process is strongly emphasized as students learn how to produce precise, organized writing that conveys a memorable and original style. Additionally, students are exposed to grammar rules and work on developing a rich vocabulary.

Welcome to the Middle School Science at WBAIS. Students in grades 6-8 embark on an exciting journey of discovery and exploration. Our department is committed to providing a comprehensive and engaging science education that aligns with the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). In the 6th grade, students delve into Earth and Space Science, exploring topics such as the Earth's structure, weather and climate, the solar system, and the universe beyond. In the 7th grade, students shift their focus to Life Sciences, where they investigate the fascinating world of living organisms. Topics covered include biochemistry, cell structure and function, genetics, botany, and anatomy and physiology.  The 8th-grade curriculum revolves around Chemistry and Physical Science. Students explore the fundamental principles of matter, chemical reactions, forces, energy, and motion. 

The science curriculum emphasizes extensive lab experiences,  Problem-Based Learning (PBL), and Argument-Driven Inquiry (ADI) to foster a deep understanding of scientific concepts. Through these methods, students actively investigate and analyze real-world problems, encouraging independent thinking and collaboration. Students at WBAIS have the opportunity to commit to experiential learning, the MS  hosts an annual Science and Engineering Fair where students showcase their innovative research projects. These fairs provide a platform for students to apply their scientific knowledge and develop their presentation and communication skills. 

In connection with the science program, students can join GAIA jr which is a citizen science research team allowing students to support research projects in our nature reserve on campus, a Biological Pest Control project with Owls and Falcons, learn about maintaining a Hydroponic Greenhouse, and work with honey bees in our Apiary. Students have the opportunity to visit the European Space Camp in 8th grade as well.

The WBAIS Physical Education program for grades 6-8 is designed to align with SHAPE America standards, focusing on the development of motor skills, movement and fitness concepts, and personal and social skills through active participation. 

Students engage in a wide variety of activities, including racket sports, invasion games, and swimming activities, ensuring they are exposed to diverse sports and skills that empower them to discover activities they enjoy and can pursue in their free time. 

Fitness is seamlessly integrated into the program alongside activities that promote community building, teamwork, and leadership development. Learning through play is at the heart of our approach, fostering an environment where students build positive interpersonal relationships, embrace sportsmanship, and develop a lifelong appreciation for the benefits of physical activity to overall health and wellness.

At WBAIS, the middle school health program empowers students in grades 6-8 to take ownership of their well-being through a holistic approach centered on the six dimensions of the wellness wheel: social, mental & emotional, physical, environmental, intellectual, and spiritual wellness. Guided by the SHAPE America Health Standards, students take this quarter-long course in each middle school year, building on the information and skills learned in previous years. The program equips students with essential skills and functional health information to support their overall health and well-being, both now and in the future. Students set personal wellness goals, explore health literacy, and engage with critical topics such as boundaries and consent, combating misinformation, and communicating with others who hold different perspectives and values. Through this comprehensive program, students develop the tools to make informed decisions, foster healthy relationships, and understand the relationship between their health and wellness, and the world around them.

The modern language department at WBAIS offers courses in Hebrew, French or Spanish. These courses emphasize core skills (speaking, listening, reading, writing) designed to demonstrate language acquisition and growth. Our classes are leveled by the student's skills rather than by grade level. Students work both independently and with classmates to gain knowledge and demonstrate learning.

*All students are required to study a consecutive language while in middle school. However, students enrolled in our ELL/RC program are exempt from modern language classes. 

The Performing Arts department offers a rich vocal, instrumental and dramatic program beginning in Early Years and continuing through High School. All EY and ES students are engaged in general music. In 5th grade students begin a rotation of drama, band and chorus, which then allows them to choose their specialty in 6th grade. In Middle and High School students continue to build their skills in the performing arts through our course offerings (band, chorus and drama) and through productions (plays and musicals) each year. 

Middle School students enroll in Band, Chorus, and/or Drama. All students take at least a full year of performing arts during their time in Middle School. The musical ensembles perform throughout the year, and there is an opportunity for students to perform in a dramatic production either after school or as part of the theater course.

The WBAIS Visual Arts department offers a dynamic and diverse program designed to inspire creativity and self-expression in Middle School students. All students in grades 6, 7, and 8 are enrolled in a mandatory art course for one quarter each year, providing them with a foundation in visual arts. 

During their exploratory blocks, many students have the opportunity to select from a variety of classes, including a wide range of engaging art electives such as mosaics, wire art, ceramics and mural painting in collaboration with other departments, or explore other non-art options offered within the program. 

While enrolled in these courses, students explore a variety of mediums, including painting, drawing, ceramics, and 3D art, fostering both technical skills and artistic exploration. Through these experiences, students are encouraged to experiment, innovate, and develop their unique artistic voice.

Middle School students participate in an exploratory program. These courses cover a wide variety of topics and engage students in an activity-based program that is developmentally appropriate. In addition, we have required grade-level Health and Art classes which students rotate through by quarter throughout the year. 

Mondays through Thursdays Middle School students meet in their "Falcon Nest", or Homeroom, with an Advisory teacher for 20 minutes.  The Falcon Nest block supports student learning, cultivates the learner profile traits in students, and helps establish a supportive learning community.  Falcon Nest is a time for setting goals, team building, planning for conferences, developing and participating in service projects, and discussing school-wide issues and programs.  Specific lessons focused on the Learner Profile occur two times per week.