School Life
The Middle School Program
The Ramalynn Middle School Program has been specifically
designed to meet the emotional and educational needs unique to adolescents.
Our program helps students to extend their intellectual boundaries and
push themselves to achieve their personal best while following the school’s
mission statement of compassion, tolerance and respect toward all others.
The curriculum and instructional design are developed so that each student
is exposed to and well-versed in knowledge and skills common to pre-collegiate
curricula at the country’s best prep schools. Here is a brief overview
of our program.
Mathematics
Year 1: Basic Principles? Operations with fractions,
decimals and percents. Ratios, rates and proportions. Geometry and measurement.
Integers and introduction to patterns of algebra and order of operations.
Year 2: Pre-Algebra Patterns in mathematics Translation
between numerical symbols
and words. Equations and inequalities. Two and three-dimensional geometry.
Number theory. Set theory.
Year 3: Algebra Introduction to development of real number
system Focus on basic principles of real number systems, expression of
these principles in precise algebraic language, and their use in algebraic
proof. Solving equations.
Sciences
Year 1: Life Science Development of scientific curiosity,
interest and skills. Topics include the scientific method, classification
of organisms, digestive system, nutrition, reproductive system, the natural
environment, and an introduction to physical science.
Year 2: Physical Science Exploration of non-living world
through laboratory experiences. Properties of pure substances, separating
mixtures, synthesis and decomposition of compounds and patterns and organization
of the periodic table.
Year 3: Biology. The study of ecology and cells through
experiments and lab work help tie in lessons learned at younger levels
of science. Genetics, microorganisms, plants, invertebrates, chordates
and the human body are also covered through text work and lab activities.
Modern languages
During the three years of middle school, students complete modern language
in Spanish and/or Chinese. Strong emphasis is placed on building confidence
in the target language with a focus on speaking, listening and reading.
A heavy emphasis is placed on cultural awareness.
Fine arts
Band/Orchestra: Ramalynn offers instrumental instruction
for both strings and brass with emphasis placed on basic techniques. Individual
lessons are also available. The year ends with a performance at the Spring
Commencement Ceremony.
Choir: Students participate in choir where an emphasis
is placed on ensemble skills. As with the band, the year ends with the
group performing at the Spring Commencement Ceremony.
Art: Exploration of varied media and techniques. Study
of two-dimensional art, exploring drawing, painting, and printmaking,
and three-dimensional art, exploring visual elements through clay. Art
exhibitions are held through out the year for students to showcase their
work.
Drama: Introduction to performing techniques through
the school’s annual holiday production of The Nutcracker. Every
student participates as cast or crew.
History and social studies
Year 1: Studies of cultural interaction and conflicts
in American history with a focus on Minnesota.
Year 2: Introduction to physical and cultural geography
of the world Strong emphasis on reading comprehension skills, study strategies
and research skills. Independent research projects on countries of the
world.
Year 3: Study of ancient civilizations and how they continue
to affect the world today The third year will also synthesize lessons
from Year 1 and Year 2 of the curriculum.
Language arts
Year 1 Emphasis on strengthening skills in reading comprehension,
paragraph writing, discussion, and basic organization. Review basic grammar.
Year 2 Continued study of vocabulary and grammar.
Emphasis on developing fluency in personal and expository writing.
Year 3 Exploration of storytelling, mystery genre, author
analysis, and the novel form. Continued study of vocabulary and grammar,
with increased emphasis on demonstrating skills in writing. Focus on developing
organizational strategies and expository writing skills.
Physical education
Focus on developing understanding and skills in team sports including
baseball, basketball, football and hockey, as well as individual health
and fitness. First-year Middle School students will study the psychological
and physical rigors demanded of the high-level athlete. All students regardless
of age, gender or skill level are invited to participate in after-school
Sports Camp, a recreational and skill-building opportunity focused on
team-building and mentorship.
