Dacula Middle School


6th Grade
Language Arts	The sixth grade language arts curriculum will involve two major components: Grammar/Composition and Literature. We concentrate on grammar concepts and application through the writing process. The literature book, novels, and student selected library books will provide students with instruction in the different genres of literature, along with the many elements of reading and reading comprehension.
Mathematics	The main focus of our sixth grade math program is to develop individuals who will have the foundation to think logically and work to solve problems dealing with daily life. We concentrate on basic math skills with fractions, decimals, integers, and percent, and extend these into pre algebra, geometry, statistics, and probability.
Science	The sixth grade curriculum for science involves students working individually, in small groups, teams, or as a class unit. The curriculum is centered on a variety of interesting topics as we study the earth. Some topics included in our study are Meteorology, Oceanography, Geology, and Astronomy. Students participate in a variety of hands-on activities that relate to curriculum topics. Environmental and social concerns are studied throughout the units.
Social Studies	Sixth grade social studies is the first of a two-part course of study in international perspectives. The areas of concentration are the countries in North America, South America, Australia, Oceania, and Europe, with a focus on Germany and Russia. The focus of this course is to develop an understanding of the culture, political structure, history, economy, and geographical significance of the regions studied.


7th Grade
Language Arts	The following communication skills are significant components of this course: reading, listening, writing, and speaking. These skills, along with the basic grammar skills, are integrated with the writing process. Students are exposed to all major forms of literature, enabling them to improve vocabulary, reading, and study skills. Textbooks, novels, newspapers, magazines, library books, and computers are utilized in achieving these goals.
Mathematics	Math is a useful, exciting, and creative area of study that can be appreciated and enjoyed by all seventh grade students. It helps them develop their ability to solve problems and reason logically. It offers these curious, energetic students a way to explore and make sense of their world. The 7th grade math curriculum will expand students' knowledge of numbers, computation, estimation, measurement, geometry, statistics, probability, discrete mathematics, patterns, functions, and the fundamental concepts of algebra.
Science	Seventh grade life science encompasses six major units including scientific method, cell theory, plant, animal, body systems, and ecosystems of the earth. Frequent lab activities offer the students the opportunity to explore these life science concepts. Science education enhances a student's ability to think, create, and analyze in a logical manner. It also promotes opportunities to apply learning to situations that would develop marketable skills and provides a basis for further study of science.
Social Studies	To meet challenges in a global society, 7th graders will concentrate on Asia, Africa, and Middle East and will focus on an understanding of geographic significance of each region including its culture, history, political, and economic systems.


8th Grade
Language Arts	This course emphasizes the development of knowledge and skills in reading and writing. Students are exposed to a variety of literary genres which are found in novels, short stories, poetry, and nonfiction. Through these literary selections, vocabulary, elements of literature, literary devices, and insights into the literature are studied. Writing techniques and style are also developed as students write pieces which include essays, persuasive research papers, character sketches, and short stories. Finally, vocabulary, spelling, and grammar are addressed through students' writing, reading, and focused mini lessons.
Mathematics	Eighth grade students will take either Introduction to Algebra and Geometry or Algebra and Integrated Topics (with teacher recommendation). These courses provide an integrated approach in four main areas of study: algebra, geometry, statistics and probability, and discrete mathematics. The underlying themes of problem solving, reasoning, communication (bridging everyday life to mathematical language, and connections to real life situations) are woven throughout the curriculum.
Science	Eighth grade science deals with the application of scientific process skills to the study of the physical sciences. Topics included for study are atomic structure, chemical and physical characteristics of matter, transfer of energy, simple machines, properties of waves, lights, electricity, and forces and motion. Students will experience hands-on laboratory learning.
Social Studies	Students are acquainted with major periods, events and key figures of Georgia history from colonization to the twentieth century. Special emphasis is given to Georgia's global connection. In Georgia government, the relationship between the local, state, and national government is stressed. An emphasis is also placed on the geography of Georgia.