Middle school is pivotal time in every child's life. This is when students begin to stretch their wings and enjoy increased independence, and it is important to provide balance with an environment that is both structured and nurturing. Our small class sizes and invested teachers make middle school at WCS a great place to develop study skills, create a strong foundation in all the core academic areas, navigate social situations with peers, and reinforce to each and every child how valuable he or she is in the eyes of God.
Students in grades 5 through 8 are part of the middle school program at WCS. These students rotate between four core teachers and several specials. A robust curriculum is rounded out with Bible instruction, Spanish foreign language, many unique elective opportunities throughout the year.
In Isaiah 55, God says that our ways are not like His. He goes on to clarify that His ways, and thoughts, are higher than ours. With that in mind, we take the study of God’s Word very seriously since it is God’s special revelation of His ways and His thoughts. As the passage progresses, it promises that the Word of God does not return void, or empty, but it will accomplish its purpose. We trust that if we are faithful in sowing the Word of God into student’s lives that there will be a harvest.
The truths of the Bible are the foundation of everything done at Wooster Christian School from math to physical education to our method of discipline. God’s Word is an integral part of every component of our school. We also see, however, the value of devoting instructional time specifically to the teaching of the Scriptures.
In fifth and sixth grade, we use Positive Action curriculum. Fifth graders have an overview of the Old Testament in their study entitled “Possessing the Land.” Sixth grade students have a topical study that parallels our Christian walk with athletic training in “Winning the Race.”
Seventh graders use an intensive study of Proverbs titled “Wise Up,” which takes a look at the Biblical definition of wisdom and how to make good decisions. Although the study is based in Proverbs, the entire Bible is used to gain examples of Godly people, character, and actions.
Our Eighth graders are currently using “Lightbearers,” a curriculum published by Summit Ministries, which helps them to take a look at the development of their worldviews. The fact is that everyone has a worldview and it is our desire to see our students building their worldview on God’s truth. An emphasis in this class is not just on what to think but how to think.
In all areas of our Bible program, we place an emphasis on application to our lives. In so doing, we hope to help our students be doers of the Word and not hearers only (James 1:22).
At WCS, Language Arts covers a broad range of language skills, including phonics, grammar, spelling, composition, vocabulary, reading, and speech. A wide variety of texts, novels, and curricula are used to create a deep understanding and appreciation for all applications of the English language.
In addition, student writings are submitted for publication throughout the year, as well as in the Anthology of Poetry and Creative Communication. A study of poetry in each grade helps enable students to be more effective at reading and writing the genre.
Students are able to share their skills in several competitions throughout the year, namely the ACSI Spelling Bee, the Wayne County Spelling Bee, the ACSI Speech meet, and other state and local essay contests.
Our middle school math program uses curriculum published by Sadlier Oxford. Progress in Mathematics provides rigorous content focused on building deep conceptual understanding of key math skills and concepts at each grade level. As students progress through middle school, they may also have opportunities to take Algebra I and Geometry courses for high school credit. Because it so important to practice math skills regularly and repeatedly, the curriculum is supplemented with a daily math review program called Simple Solutions. Students who need extra help are often offered small group tutoring before school, after school, or during lunch.
Students who excel at math will have the opportunity to compete in the Math Olympics through ACSI. STEAM Club is another great way our students can engage in math activities from a fun, hands-on perspective.
We use a science curriculum called Purposeful Design, which is published by ACSI. The title of this series comes from the idea that God's design of creation was on purpose; that theme is reflected throughout the lessons as each chapter brings together the wonders of God's world and a Biblical worldview. This series was developed to guide students through investigating, observing and thinking about the world around them. Every level provides an overview of life science, physical science, earth and space, and the human body.
In addition to studying the texts, students conduct many science labs and experiments throughout the year. Dissection projects help students further understand the systems of the body. Demonstrations and other hands-on activities bring science concepts out of the book and into real life.
In middle school social studies, our students study the history and geography of many different regions and civilizations. Atlas studies in each grade cover geographical terms, land features, countries, and capitals. Special hands-on projects are woven into the curriculum to help each student develop a richer appreciation for the subject matter. In addition, a biennial field trip to Washington, DC allows our seventh and eighth-grade students to experience our nation's capital first-hand.
Fifth grade - New World History and Geography: Students in fifth grade learn about the far north, Canada, the United States of America, Mexico, Central America, the West Indies, and South America.
Sixth grade - Old World History and Geography: Students in sixth grade investigate everything from ancient civilizations to the modern countries as they exist today.
Seventh grade - History of the World: Our seventh-grade students take a comprehensive look at the continents of Asia, Africa, Europe, Australia, and Antarctica.
Eighth grade - American History: Eighth-graders commence on an in-depth study of American history which includes the study of our system of government.