6-8 Core Classes
Gateway’s small class size, experienced faculty, and enriched curriculum provide an engaging environment for young adolescents to reach their personal best. The Core curriculum of the middle school integrates elements of history, social studies, literature, writing skills, and communication skills.
History and Social Studies
In history and social studies, sixth grade students focus on ancient civilizations, studying Egypt, Greece, Rome, India, China, and Israel. Exploring world geography and current world issues, the students write and present research reports on selected countries of the world. Seventh graders focus on the study of ancient and classical history, participating in hands-on projects like researching and building models of the seven wonders of the ancient world. American history is the focus in the eighth grade Core class, where the American Revolution, Constitution, Bill of Rights, and Civil War come alive through class debates, small group discussions, oral presentations, field trips, guest speakers, and mock trials. The curriculum culminates with the eighth grade trip to Washington D.C. in the spring.
Literature, Writing, and Communication
In Gateway middle school, the focus of literature work shifts to in-depth analysis, with a continued emphasis on oral communication skills in the students’ group discussions and oral presentations. Literature connects with social studies, and selected novels, short stories, poetry, and essays are linked to the history curriculum. Students study Greek and Latin roots, practice outlining techniques, and participate in literature circles and vocabulary studies.
Gateway’s strong middle school writing program gives students the ability to clearly articulate ideas, beliefs, opinions, knowledge, and emotions, which is crucial for students as they are preparing to step into high school. Gateway middle school teachers focus on teaching a balance of structural writing skills, critical analysis, personal voice, and creative expression. Nearly all Gateway graduates enter intensive English in the ninth grade, and they are recognized in local high schools as skilled and accomplished writers.
