Literature & Composition
Students will read classic and contemporary works of fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and drama, and engage in weekly in-class discussions in order to make connections and think deeply about the work. Throughout the year students will grow in their understanding of the craft of writing, expand critical thinking and reflection skills, and collaborate with other readers to understand story and author intent. Students will continue to learn to organize written narration into well written thoughts and grow in academic essay writing, creative writing, poetry, and reportage. Some grammar and vocabulary will be explored but parents are encouraged to choose an at-home grammar course to complete alongside this course at home.

Homework for this class involves 50-100 pages of reading per week (audio books may be used), some journaling and note-taking, and weekly writing assignments.

Human Anatomy Science & Nature Study
Through hands-on projects and an introduction to note-taking and study skills, students will learn about the wonder of the human body. Beginning with a brief history of medicine, cells, and DNA, students will enjoy engaging activities and experiments as they explore the intricacies of the human body and how to keep it working well. Subjects include skeletal, muscular, respiratory, digestive, cardiovascular, and nervous systems, nutrition and health, immune systems, organs, and more. Class time is hands-on and project based, and homework includes some reading and beginner note taking skills.

In unity with all other Esprit students, 7th grade students will engage in a focused nature study of invertebrates (Fall), rocks, minerals, and soil (Winter), and fish (Spring). Home assignments include some light outside reading and one or two nature walks and studies each week.

Elements & Principles of Art 1
Students will focus on creative expression, art history, and art appreciation. They will use techniques and media to create art pieces through drawing, painting, mixed media, textiles, sculpture, and printmaking. Students will be introduced or build upon any experience and understanding of the Elements of Art and Principles of Design while studying various artists (modern, contemporary, and a few from other art periods) while also learning how to critique their own works of art.

General Info:

Middle School students are required to register for the 9-2:15 block of Thursday classes from September to May – Literature & Composition, Science & Nature Study, and Art.

Duration: 28 weeks, Thursdays

Course & Classroom Supply Fees: $1350

Course fees (around $48 per week for the required course) include in-class instruction, all supplies used in class, printing costs for the 7th Grade Short Works & Poetry Notebook, and weekly home lesson plans posted to The Dispatch, our communication hub.

We also offer several à la carte options for Middle School students: 7th Grade Math, Life Skills, Theater Club, and P.E. These courses are not required but are additional options.

Optional À La Carte Courses:

• Life Skills (Tuesdays, 12:30-2:15) Middle & Upper Elementary students: $600

• P.E. (Thursdays, 2:15-3:15) for Middle & Upper Elementary students: $275

• 7th Grade Math (Mondays, online; 1-2) for 7th grade students: $500 (includes textbook)

• Theater Club (Tuesdays 3:15-5) for 7th-12th grade students: $600