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Junior High
Art | English/Literature | Mathematics | Music | Physical Education |
Religious Studies | Science | Social Studies | World Language
Benilde-St. Margaret’s is a Catholic coeducational junior and senior high school with a college preparatory emphasis. We are happy to have this opportunity to introduce you to the junior high program (grades 7-8).
We are a traditional school with a strong academic commitment to our students. We provide a caring yet structured environment. To meet the diverse needs of junior high students, we have a comprehensive curriculum and offer a wide variety of extracurricular activities.
The focus of the junior high program is the intellectual, emotional, spiritual, social, and physical development of the young adolescent. Our program includes a solid Catholic base of academic religion classes, liturgies, and prayer services. Homerooms meet every day for prayer, announcements and Channel One, a TV news program designed specifically for adolescents. Relevant issues such as peer pressure, decision making, self-esteem, diversity, and healthy social relationships are also addressed in the junior high.
Our curriculum includes three levels of English, literature, and mathematics: (1) basic (for students working and/or testing below grade level or having difficulty learning in that area), (2) standard (grade level), and (3) accelerated (for students working and testing significantly above grade level).
The junior high curriculum emphasizes the development of language arts skills. In addition to separate English and literature classes for all students, seventh grade students learn about the origin of words and the history of language in the Introduction to Language class. Eighth grade students have the opportunity to study a world language.
Our math curriculum includes pre-algebra, algebra and geometry. Basic skills are strengthened in preparation for higher math.
In the junior high technology is regarded as an important tool for learning. Each student (beginning in 2006-2007) is provided with a personal laptop for daily academic use. Technology is integrated into all areas of the curriculum.
Each year our curriculum includes an area of enrichment selected for in-depth, cross-curriculum study. Seventh graders develop an understanding of community, while eighth graders focus on the earth and its environment.
At Benilde-St. Margaret's the seventh and eighth graders are on a quarter system. Some courses are offered for one or two quarters, while other courses such as mathematics, science, and world language are year-long studies. Quarter grade reports, as well as other teacher updates, are posted online for students and parents. In addition, parent-teacher conferences are held twice a year.
Our program is designed to prepare the student for continuing education in high school and college as well as for life-long learning. We are deeply committed to Catholic education and to our students.
Art
Art 7
Seventh grade art is a course designed to introduce and increase the knowledge of the elements and principals of art. Students develop their ability to make critical judgments about art and to understand and appreciate the influences of art from other times and cultures. Students will further develop their art skills with various media and techniques.
One semester course, meets every other day, required of 7th graders.
Art 8
Eighth grade art is a course designed to build upon and increase the student’s knowledge of various aesthetic theories, including Formalism. In this class students will learn to analyze, compare, interpret, and evaluate works of art. Students will analyze their work and the work of other artists using the principles and elements of design. Students will further develop their art skills with various media and techniques.
One semester course, meets every other day, required of 8th graders.
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English/Literature
English
In English students study grammar, usage, mechanics, speaking, writing, and spelling. Areas of emphasis are determined by student strengths and needs. Students are encouraged to improve their understanding and communication by relating the different areas of language study. Students also apply their writing skills across the curriculum.
Year-long course required of 7th and 8th graders.
Literature
In literature a student develops his/her vocabulary, comprehension skills, and ability to interpret and evaluate written material. Students are introduced to both classical and modern literature of every genre. The seventh grade course emphasizes American literature, the eighth grade course, mythology and legends. Students are encouraged to read independently.
Year-long course required of 7th and 8th graders.
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Mathematics
Pre-Algebra
In this course students will investigate the multiple representations of numbers and work towards mastery of the computation of those numbers. Students will also learn how to solve many forms of linear equations and inequalities, including proportions and problems that require the application of percent. Connections between algebra, geometry, and data analysis will be examined throughout the year. In order to improve students’ abilities to communicate about mathematics, students will apply these pre-algebra topics to real-life problems as they learn problem-solving techniques. Students will also connect mathematics to technology through the introduction to graphing on computers and the use of spreadsheets.
Year-long course.
Algebra I
This is an algebra course that will also cover aspects of geometry, trigonometry, probability, and statistics. Students will learn a variety of methods to solve basic and complex equations and inequalities, graph relations and functions, and use proportions. Students will apply these topics to real-life situations as they learn problem solving techniques. Students in Accelerated Algebra I will cover additional concepts including use of the Quadratic Formula. Students will also connect mathematics to technology through the introduction to graphing on computers and the use of spreadsheets.
Year-long course.
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Music
Band
This course teaches intermediate and advanced musical concepts. It is a building program and a continuation from elementary school. Suggested proficiency is one to two years playing experience. The band concentrates on larger performance skills and works to improve overall ensemble sound. Students will work on improving their rhythm, technique, and style. Two major concerts are performed each year and are required.
Year-long course, meets every other day, available to 7th and 8th graders as an option to choir.
Choir
This course is intended to develop beginning to intermediate music competencies. Fundamentals are stressed with emphasis on performances. Music includes sacred, classical, and pop tunes. Attendance is required at two performances, the Christmas concert in December and the spring concert in May. There is an opportunity to participate in junior high pop choir, which meets Wednesdays after school.
Year-long course, meets every other day, available to 7th and 8th graders as an option to band.
String Orchestra
This course is designed for players of orchestral stringed instruments who have had one to two years of playing experience. Intermediate level techniques, along with the study of orchestral music from various styles and periods, are employed to broaden and refine fundamental skills and prepare for the transition to more advanced level playing. Performances in a variety of venues including school Masses, community and school events, and seasonal concerts with band and choir will require some after-school, before-school, and weekend participation. The students will at times combine with high school players in order to perform larger works, as well as portions of oratorios to be performed with the choir.
Meets every other day. Available to 7th and 8th graders as an option to choir or band.
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Physical Education
Physical Education
The physical education program offers a wide variety of activities to assist students in developing interests and skills. The goal is to provide enjoyable activities in which the students can meet with success. Individual, team, lifetime, and fitness units are offered. The lessons focus on participation, fundamentals, sportsmanship, motor skills, and student interaction.
Year-long course, meets every other day, required of 7th and 8th graders.
Life Skills
The seventh grade life skills curriculum is intended to help students strengthen their communication and decision-making skills. Emphasis is on refusal skills, peer pressure, goal setting, and building self-confidence.
One semester course, meets every other day, required of 7th graders.
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Religious Studies
Religious Studies 7
This course introduces all major aspects of Christ’s life including the prophets' foretelling of Jesus’s birth, the infancy narratives, the beginning of His ministry, His parables and lessons as well as Christ’s death and resurrection. The course also includes a survey of Scripture, which focuses on the development and creation of the Bible and the historical background of the gospel writers. Much of the course includes the study the gospels and the context in which they were written. Students also examine the use of Jesus’s ministry in literature through reading The Bronze Bow by Elizabeth George Speare.
Year-long course, meets every other day, required of 7th graders.
Religious Studies 8
This course provides students with themes of Christian leadership and morality to help them explore their spirituality and a sense of self-identity. A survey of historical figures deepens students' understanding of the Catholic faith tradition and challenges them to relate Christian values to their lives. Through researching the lives of Christian role models and significant events in the Church's history, students gain an appreciation for a contributing community. Students also explore themes such as community-building, forgiveness, decision-making, sexuality, and justice, as they develop skills in Christian leadership.
Year-long course, meets every other day, required of 8th graders.
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Science
A background in science provides students with skills which may be used in many areas of life. Science teaches students how to make observations, formulate questions, solve problems, think critically, be creative, work cooperatively with others, and use technology.
Life Science 7
In science seventh grade students examine living systems, their interactions and interdependence. Areas of study include the scientific method and inquiry-based investigation, plants, animals, microorganisms, genetics, the human body, ecology, and the effects of humans interacting with the environment. Special emphasis during the year is placed on current events in science-related technology.
Year-long course required of 7th graders.
Earth Science 8
In eighth grade science students will explore the natural processes at work in the atmosphere, lithosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere of the Earth, as well as Earth's place in the universe. This class includes an introduction to geology, meteorology, and astronomy. Special emphasis during the year is placed on Minnesota geology, global warming and climate change, and the use of technology as a tool for teaching as well as learning.
Year-long course required of 8th graders.
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Social Studies
United States History 7
Seventh grade American history concentrates on the period between human migration to the North American continent and expansion west. Included are the following units: American Indians, West African History and Culture, European Exploration and Colonization, Revolutionary War, U.S. Constitution, Age of Jefferson, and War of 1812.
Year-long course required of 7th graders.
United States History 8
Eighth grade United States history focuses on the following topics: Jacksonian Democracy, immigration, reform movements, western migration, internal conflicts, slavery, the Civil War, Reconstruction, the transition to the 20th century, World War I, the Great Depression, World War II & the Holocaust, the Korean Conflict, Vietnam, the Civil Rights Movement, the Cold War and modern day issues.
Year-long course required of 8th graders.
Both courses are designed to help the student foster critical thinking skills, as well as acquire basic knowledge of the history of the American nation.
Incorporated into both history courses are other related disciplines such as civics, economics, current events, and geography.
American Experience
The American Experience, an 8th grade class, is a uniquely formatted interdisciplinary class facilitated by two teachers over an eighty minute block. In the American Experience, students are presented with and consider multiple perspectives of American history while reading, interpreting, and evaluating interrelated literature to enhance their understanding and comprehension of key terms, concepts, and themes. In addition, the class offers learning opportunities beyond the classroom during which students connect their experiences to their studies.
Year-long course for selected 8th graders.
Genocide & Social Justice
Genocide & Social Justice (GSJ) is an 8th grade interdisciplinary class taught by two teachers covering issues relating to social justice and both current and past genocides. While studying the occurrences of genocide worldwide, students discuss the impact genocide has on our global community. Students reflect on why genocide happens, how it is carried out and what can be done to prevent it. Through studying the components of social justice and Catholic Social Teaching, students define, learn, and discuss the responsibilities we have to care for each other worldwide.
One semester course, meets every other day, required of 8th graders.
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World Language
Introduction to Language
Through the study of Latin, students increase their English vocabulary, develop verbal abilities and learn skills that can be applied to future world language study. Students study Roman history and culture, and learn about the importance of Latin in English and in the Romance languages. Students are introduced to French and Spanish by native speakers during second semester.
Year-long course required of 7th graders.
French I
First-year French course offers students a balanced approach to language learning giving careful attention to the basic skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Students will gain cross-cultural awareness and compare and contrast the cultures of French-speaking countries and their contributions to the global society. Students will learn to talk about themselves, family relationships and interests as well as learn about units on schools, cuisine and shopping. Teaching and learning methods actively engage students in a variety of activities incorporating authentic materials, interactive technology, music, and films.
Year-long course open to 8th graders
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Latin
This beginning course introduces students to the Latin language and to Roman culture. Through written and spoken activities, students develop their ability to read and understand Latin. The connection of the Latin language to English is emphasized. This course is a continuation of Introduction to Language.
Year-long course open to 8th graders.
Spanish I
Junior High Spanish I seeks to develop each of the following skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Students will engage in conversations, provide and obtain information, express feelings, and exchange opinions on topics such as school, hobbies, places in the community, sports, foods and beverages, dates, time, weather, clothing, and family. Students will build an awareness of culture, including attitudes and lifestyles, in Spanish-speaking countries. Teaching and learning methods actively engage students in a variety of activities, which incorporating authentic materials, interactive technology, music, and films.
Year-long course open to 8th graders.
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