Middle School Instructional Program
The Newton County middle schools provide an educational program and environment that is responsive to the intellectual, physical, social and emotional development of students in grades six through eight. Middle schools provide a bridge between elementary school and high school. Teaching how subjects interrelate and how those bonds affect everyday life is just one of the goals of the middle school concept. This education philosophy focuses attention on the whole child by using team teaching, common planning time, and coordination of subject matter to heighten learning. The middle school curriculum offers a wide range of courses from essential basics to advanced studies.
The mathematics program carries over from the elementary schools. Students are expected to master basic arithmetic, including fractions, decimals and percentages, and begin tasks requiring more abstract reasoning such as logic, geometry and algebra. Seventh grade students with mathematics proficiencies are involved in a special pre-algebra program. Eighth grade students who have completed the pre-algebra program and meet the admission requirements may enroll in algebra, while other students are enrolled in the pre-algebra or general math curriculum.
Grammar and literature are taught together in the language arts class. Instruction emphasizes total language development including grammar, composition, writing, spelling, reading, listening, and speaking.
The science curriculum builds on skills of observation and experimentation while increasing knowledge in specific areas such as biology, chemistry, physics, geology, and astronomy. Critical thinking skills as well as information processing skills are emphasized. Students receive health instruction through the Physical Education department including fitness, personal hygiene, nutrition, human growth and development, and the harmful effects of smoking, drug abuse and alcohol.
In social studies, students learn about the different continents and countries, including their geography, natural resources, political and economic systems, language, and cultures. Eighth graders study the State of Georgia in detail. This study includes its geography and history, local and state governments, industry, business, and education, as well as the proud heritage of Newton County. The social studies curriculum provides a basic understanding of the nature of man and society.
Academically gifted students who meet state eligibility requirements may enroll in the Quest program. Quest classes are taught on an advanced level in science and language arts. Middle schools ensure that students receive five hours of academics daily while also developing individual skills through exposure to band, chorus, art, foreign languages, physical education, and technology in connections classes. Instructional computer labs are used to reinforce and enrich students in the areas of language arts and math. Computers are also utilized in the classrooms to augment course content. Curriculum fairs and contests allow students to compete with other schools and districts in such areas as science, social studies, composition, and oratorical competitions. The middle schools also offer extra-curricular clubs as well as interscholastic and intramural sports.
Progress reports are sent out by each school after the first nine weeks of each semester; report cards are sent home at the end of each semester. Teachers schedule two conferences during the school year on early release days to discuss each student's progress with his/her parents. Other conferences are scheduled as necessary.
Beginning with the 2005 - 2006 class of 8th graders, the Georgia Department of Education requires that all 8th graders meet the minimum standards of competency on the reading and math portions of the Georgia CRCT before being promoted to 9th grade.
Contact:
Dr. Adria Griffin
Director of Middle School Curriculum
770-787-1330 Ext. 1122
Helpful Links
Parents Still Make the Difference
Middle School Parent Pointers
Middle School Handbooks
System Secondary Handbook
