Grade 7 - 8
Our Academics
The Curriculum
Our Grade 7 and Grade 8 programs represent an exciting time of transition and development. Students gain independence and see their responsibilities increase in preparation for high school. Our program is consolidated to reinforce skills introduced in previous grades.
Overview
Language Arts
In Language Arts, students develop oral communication, vocabulary, reading comprehension, writing, and grammar skills. They study fiction and nonfiction in small groups, learning to analyze literature and support interpretations with evidence. Key literary concepts like character, plot, and theme are explored. Writing includes opinion pieces, short stories, essays, and expository forms.
Mathematics
The Mathematics program is organized into specific topics to ensure the incremental development of each skill. The program emphasizes the importance of process, proper format, analytical thinking, and sequencing in daily work. Along with fractions, decimals, ratios, percent, integers, geometry, and measurement, students study probability and statistics. Algebra is introduced. Students are challenged to participate at an advanced level, but additional help including remedial classes is available to those who need it.
Science
Students build scientific literacy and technological skills through problem-solving and experimentation. Grade 7 covers ecosystems, mixtures, heat, structures, and Earth’s crust. Grade 8 explores fluids, mechanics, optics, water systems, biology, and chemistry. Through investigations, research projects, and science fair participation, students develop key skills for scientific inquiry and technological design.
Social Studies
Students explore History and Geography, focusing on Canada’s development and role in the world. They examine historical evidence, diverse perspectives, and democratic values to become informed, responsible citizens. Topics include Ancient Rome, Ancient Greece, and U.S. development. Lessons connect past and present to support critical thinking and decision-making on relevant issues.
Overview continued
Geography
The Geography curriculum builds core knowledge and skills in geographic inquiry. In Grade 7, students study physical patterns, natural resources, and their impact on human activity. Grade 8 focuses on human geography, economic systems, and migration. Students explore population distribution, global economic ties, and mobility. Learning is assessed through tests, presentations, and both individual and group projects.
French
MGA students become h3 French communicators. Parisian French is used throughout the school and a high level of oral communication, reading, grammar, and writing is developed. Students are encouraged to read short stories and novels in French.
Arts
Education in the Arts is essential to a student’s intellectual, social, physical, and emotional growth. The visual arts program includes the traditional fine art of drawing, painting, and sculpting. Students learn to analyze and appreciate art work from various historical periods and styles. They are afforded the opportunity to display their own art work at the ACSI Art Competition.
Music
Music provides the students with an opportunity to express themselves in another medium while aspiring to become part of the Meadow Green Academy Jazz Ensemble. Students progress from strumming and chording on the guitar to the individual finger movements of the classical guitar. Musical theory and the appreciation of many musical styles are augmented with historical knowledge. The enjoyment of performing is a major part of the program.
Computer Technology
In Computer Technology a variety of programs are used to combine education and technology that assist students in becoming better prepared for a technologically advanced society. The students utilize several Techno programs including Techno Web, Internet Explorer, Techno Investor, and Techno CEO, as well as Microsoft Office. Continued emphasis is placed on typing speed using All the Right Type. Students are encouraged to use lap tops at school as the South Campus is fully wireless.
Overview continued
Physical Education
Involvement in sports and MGA’s Physical Education programs provide the students with an outlet for their energy and physical capabilities. Team sports such as soccer, basketball, volleyball, floor hockey, badminton, and baseball are developed. Individual activities such as track and field, dance, and exercise fitness are also encouraged. Participation in intramural and extra-curricular sporting events provides the students with a lot of fun and broadens their school experiences.
Drama
Drama skills are encouraged as each class prepares presentations for school assemblies. Two high-level drama productions are performed each year, one at Christmas and one in the Spring. Highly qualified professionals work with the students to help them understand staging, production, and set design and to develop their acting, singing, and dancing skills. These skills provide the students with the ability to go on to the performing arts.
Guidance
Guidance is a prominent feature of the Intermediate Program because formal examinations occur and students need to be prepared for high school. A considerable degree of emphasis on study skill techniques is provided to assist students. A layered and cyclical curriculum allows opportunities for students to seek one-on-one help when they need it.
