Grades 6-8

Our Language Arts program implements the Into Reading curriculum based on the latest literacy research with proven student success outcomes. This program is used from Kindergarten through 6th grade to foster strong foundational skills in reading comprehension, vocabulary, spelling, and grammar.

Students in 7th and 8th grade make the transition to Into Literature which introduces multi-genre selections with embedded grammar and language conventions instruction, preparing students for high school level rigor.

The workshop model in writing allows teachers to differentiate instruction to meet students where they are as they move through the process of becoming fluent, independent writers. Novel studies are an essential part of both the reading and writing program.

Literacy skills in reading, writing, speaking, and listening are implemented across all subject areas so students learn to be effective communicators.

The goal of the math program is to lead students to proficiency in use and understanding of academic vocabulary, the ability to think strategically, and to use complex reasoning to solve problems. As students grow in math proficiency in the elementary years, CKS provides additional opportunities for rigor in the middle school program.

The 6th grade advanced math program includes a second semester selection process for accelerated math courses in 7th and 8th grade. In 7th grade, students are placed in pre-Algebra or Algebra, and 8th grade students are enrolled in either Algebra I Honors or Geometry.  Students placed in these accelerated tracks have demonstrated maturity in mathematical reasoning and the ability and aptitude to benefit from and be comfortable with the deeper and challenging assignments. Students may have the opportunity to take Geometry or Algebra II at the 9th grade level and earn HS Algebra /Geometry credit while in middle school.

Mathematical application is also emphasized through our STEM program, where students use concepts learned in math class and transfer those skills to hands-on activities. Middle school students can participate a variety of regional math competitions.

Students at CKS experience an academically rigorous and inquiry-based Science curriculum which encompasses the scientific concepts and skills of Earth (6th grade), Life (7th grade), and Physical (8th grade) Science. Students are introduced to academic vocabulary and the scientific method through hands-on exploration and digital tools. The 8th grade Honors Physical Science class is for high school credit.

Students engage in scientific discovery through labs which challenge them to extend their reasoning and apply what they have learned. Lab activities allow for practice in working cooperatively, reading and writing technically, and drawing conclusions based on practice. 

At the middle school level, students move to an interactive dashboard for the exploration of World History, Ancient Civilizations, Civics, and Citizenship. Projects, digital presentations, and non-fiction writing are infused throughout instruction. Our student historians learn to read primary sources and complete research. The common theme throughout the social studies progression is to understand how history has impacted present day. Students are exposed to a variety of informational texts and are challenged to look at multiple perspectives to draw conclusions. 

Our faith is at the core of our curriculum and Catholic values are infused into every subject. Our middle school religion curriculum, Christ in Us, provides dynamic, reflective lessons structured for the faith life of adolescents. There are several supplemental resources introduced from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Salesian resources, and the You Cat – Catholic Faith and Catechism for youth in preparation for Confirmation. Our pastor also teaches a unit on the history of the church the first nine weeks of 8th grade, in addition to a unit on the saints in collaboration with our 7th grade language arts class.   

Spanish is offered as a foreign language to CKS students in 5th-8th grade. Incorporating high school level standards in 6th grade, the program introduces formal grammar and conversation. These skills are built upon in 7th and 8th grade so all students graduate with fluency in conversation and writing.

Middle school students begin to have more choice in their co-curricular classes in order to continue to provide a well-rounded experience and help them hone their skills in areas of greatest interest including:

• Creative Technology
• Studio Art 
• Study Hall
• Vex Robotics
• Teacher Assistant
• Performing Arts
• Music
• Physical Education
• STEM

The CKS learning progression is designed for flexibility to help our students achieve a high level of academic rigor as they prepare for high school. Students have the following high school level class opportunities:

Physical Science Honors – 8th grade

Spanish  – the middle school Spanish program uses the high school level Spanish 1 book and a curriculum that supports a Spanish 1 high school credit

Algebra 1 Honors – 7th or 8th grade based on proficiency and maturity in mathematical reasoning

Geometry 1 – 8th graders who have successfully completed the accelerated Algebra 1 course in 7th grade