Sample 3-Year Middle Grades Pathway

This pathway provides a balanced approach to earning 19 credits over three years, incorporating applied learning experiences across core subjects while allowing flexibility through projects, book studies, community learning, and creative exploration.

Year 1: Building Foundations (6th Grade)

✅ Focus Areas: Fundamental skills in math, science, ELA, and global perspectives, with introductory exposure to creative and wellness activities.

✅ Total Credits Earned in Year 1: 6.0

Year 2: Exploration & Skill Development (7th Grade)

✅ Focus Areas: Deeper application of skills in academic areas while fostering independence and creative expression.

✅ Total Credits Earned in Year 2: 6.0
✅ Cumulative Credits After Year 2: 12.0

Year 3: Mastery & Capstone (8th Grade)

✅ Focus Areas: Application of learning in real-world settings, student-driven projects, and capstone preparation.

✅ Total Credits Earned in Year 3: 7.0
✅ Final Cumulative Credits: 19.0 (Middle School Graduation Requirements Met 🎓)

Why This Pathway Works for Students

1. Balanced Approach – Strong academic foundation with opportunities for hands-on projects and self-directed learning.
2. Real-World Applications – Community learning, public speaking, and engineering challenges make learning meaningful.
3. Student Choice & Creativity – Opportunities for music, dance, theater, digital media, and leadership.
4. Personalized Learning Path – Students choose projects and experiences based on interests.

Middle Grades Content Detail

Applications of Mathematics

Students build a strong foundation in math through structured coursework, supplemented by applied math projects to demonstrate real-world connections.

Example Applied Math Projects

• Real-World Data Analysis: Collect and analyze data on local weather patterns or school demographics.
• Budget Planning: Create a financial plan for a school event.
• Engineering Challenge: Build a scale model of a bridge using geometric principles.

Communication and Composition (ELA)

Students develop literacy skills through structured coursework and multiple applied learning activities each year.

Example Applied Learning Projects

• Book Study & Analysis: Read and analyze a novel or nonfiction book.
• Research Paper: Investigate a topic of interest and write a structured report.
• Public Speaking: Prepare and deliver a speech on a current event or social issue.
• Creative Writing: Develop a short story, poem collection, or script.

Scientific Applications & Engineering

Students engage in structured science coursework with hands-on applications to reinforce learning.

Example Science Applications

• Experiment: Conduct a simple at-home or school lab experiment.
• Field Observation: Document and analyze local ecosystems.
• Engineering Challenge: Design a simple machine using physics principles.

Global Perspectives and Society

Students explore history, geography, civics, and economics with applied learning projects.

Example Social Studies Applications

• Community Service Reflection: Research and participate in a local service project.
• Historical Reenactment or Debate: Present a historical event from different perspectives.
• Budget & Economics Challenge: Create a plan for a small business or household budget.

Creative Expression

Students engage in artistic and creative activities through flexible options.

Example Applied Arts Applications

• Art Showcase: Display work in a community or school event.
• Theater Performance: Participate in a school or community play.
• Dance Performance: Participate in a recital or competition.
• Music Composition or Performance: Create an original song or instrumental piece.

Personal Growth & Well-Being

Students develop physical health, fitness habits, and overall wellness.

Example Physical Well-Being Applications

• Personal Fitness Plan: Track physical activity and set fitness goals.
• Team Sports Participation: Join a local or school sports team.
• Outdoor Adventure Challenge: Participate in hiking, biking, or other outdoor activities.

Target Competencies Rationale

• Target Competencies serve as a foundation for each project while also incorporating additional competencies throughout the year.
• Target Competencies help guide students in demonstrating key skills, such as Embracing Global Perspectives, but also allow them to showcase other abilities like Social Awareness, Planning and Development, or Public Speaking Skills.
• Along with the Target Competency, students have the flexibility to identify other competencies they wish to be measured on a project.