Middle School Curriculum overview

Where Knowledge Deepens, Confidence Grows, and Voices Emerge

At Laurel Hill School, middle school is more than preparation for high school—it’s a vibrant, formative journey of academic discovery and personal growth. Spanning grades 6 through 8, our program is rooted in strong academics, creative expression, and purposeful challenge. Students are guided by expert faculty, supported by a close-knit community, and inspired to find their voice as thinkers, collaborators, and leaders.

Grade 6: A Launch into Independence

Exploration, structure, and the joy of learning

In sixth grade, students begin their middle school years with a focus on foundational skills and intellectual curiosity.

• English Language Arts: Students explore novels such as The Giver and Percy Jackson, develop literary analysis skills, and strengthen their writing through personal narratives, poetry, and essays. Grammar, vocabulary, and spelling are taught through an integrated approach.

• Mathematics: Key concepts include fractions, ratios, geometry, and data analysis. Math Lab sessions and hands-on projects emphasize problem-solving and real-world application.

• Science: A dynamic introduction to Life and Earth Sciences through labs and interactive learning. Students study ecosystems, oceans, weather, and planetary systems while practicing core scientific methods.

• Social Studies: Students explore Ancient Civilizations—Egypt, Greece, Rome, China—through simulations, mapping, and interdisciplinary projects like Greek Olympics and Roman fairs.

• Signature Experience: Students perform in the Shakespeare Festival, presenting an original piece inspired by the life and language of Shakespeare.

Grade 7: A Year of Expansion and Expression

Thinking critically, writing clearly, and collaborating deeply

Seventh grade builds on sixth grade foundations, inviting students to engage with more complex ideas and collaborative inquiry.

• English Language Arts: Students read powerful texts like Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry and Macbeth, write structured five-paragraph essays, and explore genres from short stories to research reports. Response logs and peer editing strengthen voice and revision skills.

• Mathematics: Students build algebraic thinking, solve equations, and study probability and geometry. Math Lab encourages innovation through real-world math challenges.

• Science: First semester focuses on Regents-level Chemistry; second semester launches Earth Science. Students conduct experiments, analyze the periodic table, and begin long-term Regents prep.

• Social Studies: Students transition from Global History to the American Revolution, early republic, and Constitution through document-based questions, research projects, and reenactments.

• Signature Experiences:

  • Lewis & Clark Expedition Simulation

  • Civil War reenactment

  • Romeo & Juliet performance for the Shakespeare Festival

Grade 8: Mastery and Momentum

Refinement, readiness, and leadership in action

Eighth grade marks the culmination of the middle school experience. Students think independently, write persuasively, and take full ownership of their learning.

• English Language Arts: Literature deepens with works like To Kill a Mockingbird, A Raisin in the Sun, and Hamlet. Students hone five-paragraph essays, complete research projects, and master citation and argumentation. Listening and speaking benchmarks prepare them for high school dialogue and debate.

• Mathematics: Students may complete Algebra Regents coursework, exploring functions, graphing, and systems of equations. Project-based learning and benchmarks ensure confidence and high school readiness.

• Science: Students complete a rigorous Earth Science Regents course, including 1,200 minutes of lab work, field observations, and research. Topics include geologic history, plate tectonics, meteorology, and astronomy.

• Social Studies: Focus shifts to the Modern World—Industrialization, World Wars, Civil Rights, and Global Interdependence. Simulations and critical thinking tie history to current events and ethical analysis.

• Signature Experiences:

  • D-Day strategic planning simulation

  • Vietnam War project with cross-disciplinary arts and writing

  • A culminating performance of Hamlet at the Shakespeare Festival

Academic Hallmarks Across All Grades

• Honors Courses: Eligible students may accelerate in Math, Science, and ELA and prepare for early Regents exams.

• Student Advisory: Each student is paired with a faculty advisor for personalized mentorship and support.

• Thematic Studies: School-wide academic themes—like Earth Day, Poetry Month, or The Great Debates—unify grade levels in collaborative exploration.

• Project-Based Learning: From science experiments to historical reenactments, students learn through hands-on experience, not worksheets.

• Community and Leadership: Through student government, peer mentoring, and service, students grow into confident, ethical leaders.