Middle School (Grades 6-8)

Middle School science classes at Minnehaha Academy are discovery-driven explorations of the world around us.

It’s in Middle School when students learn not only how to use the tools of professional scientists, but also how to think like a scientist. Middle School students have access to the tools of the trade and learn how to use microscopes and blood pressure cuffs – just as a few examples. Students participate in leading edge science studies that rely on observable data and current scientific knowledge. When students move to the Upper School, they are prepared to think and learn like a scientist!

We believe that students learn best when they get plenty of time for hands-on experimentation and observation. That’s why, if you visit our science classrooms, you’ll see students designing and conducting their own experiments in the classroom labs, building and testing models, or you might not see them in the lab at all! That’s because they’re outside investigating the habits of non-migratory birds, collecting samples from the natural world, or making other interesting observations related to life or earth science.

 

It’s in Middle School when students learn not only how to use the tools of professional scientists, but also how to think like a scientist.

Successful daily life requires number sense, problem solving, abstract thinking, logical thinking, and basic data interpretation.  In Middle School, your child will advance in their skills in these areas through classes such as math foundations, algebra, geometry and honors algebra.   Students will expand their skills, learn new concepts and prepare for higher level math like calculus and statistics at the Upper School. 

Whether solving equations, calculating surface area, or determining probabilities, your child will be guided at their pace and level by our expert teachers.

The solution to many of the problems that will arise in the future will require problem solving, mathematical thinking and technological solutions.   Minnehaha students will be prepared for the jobs in the future (that do not even exist yet!) because they have developed problem solving skills through their academic career.

"Reading has taught me a lot about the human condition. [Because of reading,] I realized that I want to learn more about the human mind [by studying neuroscience]." -Harper, Middle School Student 

Our English literature and writing courses are designed to develop a love of reading and grow confident and clear writers. This is done primarily through immersion in a student-centered learning environment that stimulates and nurtures students to practice and apply reading and writing skills and strategies through student-chosen projects.

Your child will develop a strong foundation of reading accuracy, comprehension, and vocabulary and will also practice a variety of writing styles. In addition, lively classroom discussions bring reading and writing to life, as students discuss topics and themes present in the books the read and the writing of their peers.

"Students are encouraged to explore, stretch, and try new things to find their place and voice through the arts."

-Rev. Dr. Donna Harris, President

Fine Arts

Fine Arts is crucial to an exceptional education, and we value the benefits Fine Arts offers each of our students. 

At Minnehaha, every student is an artist.  In Middle School, students choose from year-long programs in choir, band, and strings, along with classes in art, drama, and general music. These courses prepare students for the many high school arts opportunities available in choral groups, bands, orchestra, and theatre, as well as visual arts classes in drawing and painting, graphic design, photography, film, sculpture, and ceramics.

Fine Arts at Minnehaha is about more than fostering talent. Students build confidence under the guidance of a caring and talented Fine Arts faculty. These highly skilled teachers provide training in the creative process as they encourage students’ creative expression. The curriculum, while integrating Christian faith and learning, is designed to develop skills and techniques required for life-long artistic achievement.

The arts thrive at Minnehaha – and so do our artists.

Music

"I've been changed...I've been opened to a whole new world." -Luka, Middle School student, on his journey with playing cello in orchestra

Choir, orchestra, band, jazz band - opportunities expand in Middle School! Your child may participate in a musical group that fits with their interests or try out a new instrument. 

Theatre

"I love theatre. I can put my all into my character and express myself and others are doing the exact same thing...I feel like I can just be myself." - Kyle, Middle School Student

There is a place for everyone in our Middle School theatre program. Students have the opportunity to participate in the multiple roles available in the theatre department. From lighting to sound, set design to performing on stage, your child can discover new skills and expand their interests.

Visual Arts

Drawing, painting, sculpture, interactive arts - there is so much for your growing artist to dive into at Minnehaha Academy. We believe that given the right tools, each child has the ability to discover new ways to express themselves in art.

During art class, your child will participate in skill building lessons where they will learn new techniques and explore a variety of materials and styles of art. They will discover the importance of experimentation, see how mistakes are part of the art-making process, and they will uncover how artists make decisions.

Your child will be empowered to create art based on their ideas and interests. They will choose the materials and the art styles that resonate with them. They will learn how to think, act, and create like artists.

In social studies, your child will be challenged to interpret diverse sources of information and develop complex arguments with evidence.  As a result, your child will build curiosity about the world and understand how human institutions function, so that they can build healthier relationships with God and others. 

In Middle School, your child will learn how to interpret a map, analyze the Industrial Age, use evidence from texts to support their arguments and address state or local policy issues.  Your child will begin to understand how history, government, the economy, power and institutions have an impact on our world; through this understanding, your child will be more prepared for making an impact!  

The learnings in social studies are critical for developing a view of the world, and deepening students' openness and curiosity about people and the world.  Through research, hands-on activities, group projects and guided discussion, your child will grow in wisdom and knowledge and in the relationships with others. 

Our faculty strive to provide an open space for thoughtful discussion and questions as they arise while students participate in our sacred studies courses.

In Middle School, students interact deeply with the Bible as they become more familiar with the stories and the book of the Bible. Students obtain a general knowledge of the Bible as literature and as the Word of God. More importantly, they are taught to see the biblical narrative as a framework for understanding themselves and for finding eternal purpose in their study, play, and work. We believe that the Bible teaches what is true about God and about who we are in relation to God, others, and creation.

Grade-Level Areas of Biblical Focus:

• 6th Grade: Old Testament
• 7th Grade: Life of Christ (Matthew, Mark, Luke, John) 
• 8th Grade: Acts - Revelation

Students journey into the world of digital creativity in Explorations of Technology (grade 6) through a range of captivating projects. They craft digital images, design a digital book from concept to completion, and design film and edit a PSA. In Digital Literacy and Research Skills (grade 7), students develop high level research skills, sharpening their critical thinking skills as they evaluate the quality of sources in the digital realm. By the course's end, participants emerge as digitally savvy researchers, creators, and responsible digital citizens.

Studying World Languages gives your child an opportunity to learn about and connect with other cultures.  The curiosity that studying world languages fosters spills over into all disciplines of study.

In Middle School, your child will study Latin, French or Spanish.  In addition to learning vocabulary words and grammar, your child will learn to evaluate information and diverse perspectives that are available through the language and its cultures.  Through classroom activities and interaction with peers, your child will develop the ability to  negotiate meaning in spoken or written conversations to share information, reactions, feelings, and opinions.

Your child will begin to have a greater understanding and appreciation of other cultures, as well as a deeper sense of empathy as they study World Languages at Minnehaha Academy.

Middle School phy ed is a time for students to explore a wide range of sports and athletics. Students play field hockey in the field house, soccer out on the sports fields, and volleyball in the gym. Our phy ed teachers keep students moving their bodies in fun, upbeat activities that promote health and wellness. In health class, students learn how to stay healthy and care for their bodies.