Middle Years
MYP Teaching Team
Welcome to Middle Years at SPS
PROGRAM OF INQUIRY
Overview of POI
The Middle Years Program (MYP) is for ages 11 to 16. The program is designed to create learners who apply their knowledge to real-world situations. Our program is organized around six global contexts. The teachers also ensure that state and national standards are also worked into the curriculum through the lens of the global contexts. The curriculum is made up of 8 subject groups listed below, providing a balanced education.
• Language & Literature
• Design
• Language Acquisition
• Science
• Physical health & Education
• Math
• Individuals & Societies
• Arts
The MYP framework provides structures for students to learn in an inquiry based environment. Inquiry-based learning emphasizes teaching methods that incorporate students’ individual knowledge and interests. It gives each student a seat at the table to construct their own meaning that is relevant to themselves and take ownership of their learning.
View the 6th grade curriculum matrix here.
View the 7th grade curriculum matrix here.
View the 8th grade curriculum matrix here.
Throughout the MYP program (grades 6th-8th) students will look at each global context in all 8 subject areas.
Our IB Middle Years
Unlocking Potential: Extraordinary Opportunities for 6th–8th Grade IB Students at Seven Peaks School
At Seven Peaks School in Bend, Oregon, our middle school program for grades 6–8 goes beyond traditional learning, empowering students with unparalleled opportunities that prepare them to thrive in an interconnected world. As an International Baccalaureate (IB) school, we offer a transformative educational experience through our Middle Years Programme (MYP), designed to develop lifelong learners, critical thinkers, and compassionate leaders.
Dynamic, Real-World Learning and Exploration
From hands-on projects to interdisciplinary Units of Inquiry, our middle school students dive deep into real-world challenges, cultivating skills that drive success in both school and life. Through experiences like community service projects, student-led research, and our popular Explorations program—offering unique activities such as cooking, animal welfare, outdoor adventure, and more—students have the chance to discover new interests, build resilience, and make a positive impact on their community.
A Standout Experience: The 8th Grade Oregon Shakespeare Festival Trip
One of the highlights of our middle school program is the 8th grade trip to the Oregon Shakespeare Festival in Ashland. This annual fall tradition brings students face-to-face with classic literature, live performance, and creative expression, inspiring a deep appreciation for the arts and fostering a sense of independence and growth as they prepare for high school.
A Foundation for the Future
By balancing academic rigor with a supportive, student-centered approach, Seven Peaks provides an enriching experience for 6th–8th graders that helps them excel academically, socially, and emotionally. Our MYP approach emphasizes global-mindedness, inquiry-based learning, and personal responsibility, ensuring students leave ready to navigate a world of possibilities with confidence and compassion.
- Identities and Relationships
- Orientation in Space and Time
- Personal and Cultural Expression
- Scientific and Technical Innovation
- Globalization and Sustainability
- Fairness and Development
- Advisory & Social-Emotional Learning
- EXPLORATIONS
- 8th Grade Community Projects
Identities and Relationships
Orientation in Space and Time
What is the meaning of “where” and “when”? Students will explore personal histories; homes and journeys; turning points in humankind; discoveries; explorations and migrations of humankind; the relationships between, and the interconnectedness of, individuals and civilizations, from personal, local and global perspectives.
Personal and Cultural Expression
Scientific and Technical Innovation
How do we understand the world in which we live? Students will explore the natural world and its laws; the interaction between people and the natural world; how humans use their understanding of scientific principles; the impact of scientific and technological advances on communities and environments; the impact of environments on human activity; how humans adapt environments to their needs
Globalization and Sustainability
How is everything connected? Students will explore the interconnectedness of human-made systems and communities; the relationship between local and global processes; how local experiences mediate the global; the opportunities and tensions provided by world interconnectedness; the impact of decision-making on humankind and the environment.
Fairness and Development
Advisory & Social-Emotional Learning
What is Advisory? Based on the incredible work by writer/educator, Chris Balme (who recently visited Bend to present to our community), who published, "Finding Magic in Middle School" and has himself implemented refreshing ways to approach middle school years, we began our own Seven Peaks Program for 6-8th grade using the following as guidelines to better support our students:
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Tailored Middle School Support: Balme's Advisory program is specifically designed for middle school students, providing tailored guidance during these crucial developmental years.
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Proven Success: Chris Balme's work at Millennium School in San Francisco has a track record of success in nurturing and empowering middle school students, ensuring they thrive academically and emotionally.
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Navigating Complexity: The program equips our students with the tools and strategies they need to navigate the complexities of middle school life, from academic challenges to social dynamics.
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Holistic Approach: "Magic in Middle School" promotes a holistic approach to education, emphasizing not just academic growth but also character development and emotional well-being.
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Enhanced Support System: By implementing this program, we are enhancing our support system for 6th through 8th graders, ensuring that they have a strong foundation for their academic journey at Seven Peaks School.
Counselor information for Seven Peaks School here.
EXPLORATIONS
Our middle school students all participate in a program that we call “Explorations.” This program utilizes a block of time every Friday to bring together students, teachers, and community volunteers and engage our students in the exploration of any number of experiences outside the normal school curriculum. These include service-oriented, educational, artistic, or recreational explorations. Our primary educational goal is to increase our students’ exposure to needs in our community (service) and latent talents or skills they might have, and do so in a way that engages their interests. Equally important is the social connections this program nurtures, bringing together students across three grades and connecting them with adults who share their interests or can introduce them to subjects they are passionate about. During the third quarter, most middle school students participate in our Wintermeister exploration, spending Friday afternoon skiing or riding at Mt. Bachelor.
Each exploration is volunteer run. If you have a hobby or and interest you would like to share with our students, please contact Anna Harris aharris@sevenpeaksschool.org.
WINTERMEISTER
Wintermeister General Information
- Details To Know
- Season Pass/Ticket Information
- What Parents need to do each week
- Departure and Return Times
- Poor weather conditions on Mt Bachelor
Details To Know
What is Wintermeister?
Wintermeister is one of the highlights within the elective program at Seven Peaks, providing our middle school students the opportunity to ski or snowboard on Friday afternoons. Our goal is to foster mature behavior, safety, accountability, and community while enjoying an exciting sport in the outdoors at our local mountain.
When and where does Wintermeister take place?
Wintermeister takes place on Fridays at Mt. Bachelor beginning January, 2024.
Student Gear
Students will bring all their snow gear (ski/snowboard clothing, helmet, skis, boots, snowboard, goggles, gloves, season pass, etc) to school each Friday for Wintermeister. There will be racks outside the commons for poles, skis, & snowboards. Students can store their boots & clothing in the commons. When students are released for lunch at 11:45, they will eat lunch & dress for the mountain. Students will line up outside by the buses, ready to load around noon. Staff will check students in as they load the buses. No ski boots allowed on the bus.
When we arrive at the mountain, students can change into ski boots outside the bus, grab their gear and head to the slopes with their riding partners. Students in group ski/snowboard will gather together before leaving the bus area and walk to the chairlift as a group.
Ski Bibs
Students will be wearing our new SPS Wintermeister bibs this year. We will make arrangements for students to receive bibs before January 13th. Students are borrowing bibs and will need to return them at the end of Wintermeister. There will be a $30 fee for lost bibs. Students are required to wear bibs at all times on the mountain, even in the lodge, over their top layer of clothing. If a student does not wear a school bib they will be excluded from the next week of Wintermeister.
Option to get to the mountain: Bus
Students must ride the bus to the mountain. Students are expected to have eaten lunch & be dressed in snow gear to load the bus around noon.
Options to return to SPS: Bus or parent driver
Students have the option to ride home from the mountain with a parent driver. Parents need to let us know this information on the weekly google doc. Parents must check out with Sam between 3:45-4:00 pm. Bus riders should head to the bus by 3:45pm for a 4:00 pm departure. Students will return to SPS parking lot by approximately 4:30pm.
What is the cost?
We will not know the exact cost until we have a final participant count. We anticipate the cost to be around $350 per student. No refunds for weather cancellation or if your student misses a day.
Season Pass/Ticket Information
Your student will need to have a season pass. Price for a youth pass is $368 (age 6-12) and teen season pass is $548 (age 13-18). Please visit www.mtbachelor.com to purchase a season pass or get more information.
What Parents need to do each week
Parents please complete the google survey sent out each week to let us know:
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If your student will be attending Wintermeister that week
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How your student will get down the mountain, options: bus or parent driver
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Student name & grade
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If your student will free-ride or group ski
Group Ski Options (Chaperoned ski/ride)
You will be receiving a google form each week to let us know if your student will be participating in Wintermeister that day. On the form, you will also let us know if your student will be in GroupSki/Ride or Free Ski/Ride. Group ski/ride is a great option for your student if they are not familiar with the mountain. Your student will stay with a chaperone & peers throughout the day and gain familiarity with the mountain. Group ski/snowboard is not a lesson. If your student signs up to be in free ski/ride, they will be free to ski/ride the mountain with a buddy. Students are never allowed to ski/ride alone.
Cell Phone Policy
Students are allowed to use their cell phones on the mountain to stay in touch with each other, to call for help in an emergency or to take photos & videos. Phones are not to be used on the bus or in the lodge for gaming & entertainment purposes.
Lodge Access
We discourage students from taking extended breaks in the lodge. Please make sure your student is dressed appropriately for inclement weather. If your student will not be able to ski/snowboard for the majority of the 3 hours, please reconsider signing your student up for Wintermeister. Students must leave all bags and items they do not need on the bus.
Ski Snowboard Boundary
Students are not allowed to ski the backside, hike to the summit, or hike the cone regardless of their experience. Students in free ski/snowboard are expected to be familiar with the mountain and stay on runs within their ability.
Parent & Staff Involvement
We will have approximately 85 students participating in Wintermeister. We rely on both teachers and parents to be present and available on the trails, slopes, and in the lodges. Chaperones are expected to both model ideal behavior and help hold students accountable to our SPS Code of Conduct through active supervision at the ski area.
Departure and Return Times
Poor weather conditions on Mt Bachelor
On occasion it may be necessary to cancel skiing/snowboarding due to safety or extreme weather conditions on Mt. Bachelor. We monitor the weather closely every Friday and do our best to make a final decision by 10:00am. We will use the SPS app and email to inform you in the event we cancel Wintermeister. Please plan for and anticipate skiing in less than ideal skiing conditions as we will only cancel under quite severe circumstances. Please make sure your student is dressed appropriately.
Parent Expectations:
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Follow all safety guidelines. E.g., do not consume alcohol during the event, obey all traffic laws, practice good driving habits in adverse conditions, provide active supervision, and hold students accountable to SPS behavior standards.
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If your student is a beginning skier/snowboarder or needs a skills tune-up, plan to support him/her with lessons before Wintermeister starts. Go to Mt. Bachelor’s website for more info https://www.mtbachelor.com.
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Help keep student time in the lodge to a minimum.
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Model expectations and active supervision while in the lodge or on the mountain.
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Communicate with SPS Administration regarding any behavior issues.
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Remind students to meet the bus & drivers by 3:45pm to depart the mountain by 4:00pm.
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If driving a student down, check out with Sam Adams at 3:45.
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Review and understand Expectations and Safety Procedures as stated in this document.
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Parents are required to sign in their student every week on the Wintermeister Google Sign Up form. Failure to sign up will result in your student not being a part of Wintermeister that day.
Student Expectations:
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Students pick a group of similar level skiers and always stick together.
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Model good SPS behavior and represent the school and your family in a positive way at all times.
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Provide your own money/snacks/drinks.
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Wear the SPS issued ski bib and a helmet at all times on the mountain.
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Meet the bus/parent by 3:45pm.
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Review and understand Expectations and Safety Procedures as stated in this document.
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Observe any and all additional rules implemented during Wintermeister by SPS in response to safety or behavioral concerns.
Observe Mt. Bachelor’s 7 Point Responsibility Code:
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Always stay in control, and be able to stop or avoid other people or objects.
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People ahead of you have the right of way. It is your responsibility to avoid them.
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You must not stop where you obstruct a trail, or are not visible from above.
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Whenever starting downhill or merging into a trail, look uphill and yield to others.
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Always use devices to help prevent runaway equipment.
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Observe all posted signs and warnings. Keep off closed trails and out of closed areas.
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Prior to using any lift, you must have the knowledge and ability to load, ride and unload safely.
Please contact Emily Fridae with any questions. efridae@sevenpeaksschool.org Thank you!
8th Grade Community Projects
What is the IB 8th Grade Community Project?
The 8th Grade Community Project is a culminating experience in the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (MYP). It empowers students to take meaningful action in response to an issue or challenge they are passionate about. This independent project requires students to identify a need within their community, plan and execute a solution, and reflect on the process.
What is the Purpose of the Community Project?
The Community Project is designed to help students:
- Develop agency and responsibility: Students take the lead in their learning, managing all aspects of their project from start to finish.
- Foster personal growth: It encourages self-reflection, problem-solving, and critical thinking while nurturing empathy and compassion for others.
- Build real-world skills: Research, collaboration, organization, and communication are essential components of the process.
- Understand global citizenship: The project aligns with the IB’s mission to create internationally minded individuals who seek to make a positive impact in their world.
What Will Students Gain from the Experience?
- Confidence: By tackling challenges and presenting their work, students gain valuable self-assurance.
- Perspective: They learn about local and global issues and how small actions can create meaningful change. Empower students to turn their passions into action and change.
- Academic Growth: The project connects the IB Approaches to Learning (ATL) skills—critical thinking, research, time management, and more—with real-world application.
How Can Parents Support Their Child?
Parents play an essential role by encouraging students and offering guidance while allowing them to take ownership of their project. You can:
- Ask open-ended questions about their ideas and progress.
- Help them brainstorm resources or contacts if needed.
- Celebrate their efforts and accomplishments, regardless of the outcome.
At Seven Peaks School, the Community Project is more than just a requirement—it’s a chance for students to discover their passions, step outside their comfort zones, and truly make a difference in their community. We can’t wait to see the creative and inspiring projects our 8th graders will produce this year!
APPROACHES TO LEARNING (ATLS)
- Thinking skills
- Communication skills
- Research skills
- Self-management skills
- Social skills
The approaches to learning and associated sub-skills support students of all ages in being agentic and self-regulated learners. Through a variety of strategies, PYP teachers collaboratively plan for implicit and explicit opportunities to develop ATL both inside and outside the programme of inquiry.
Unlocking Worlds:
The Journey of Language Acquisition
Language is deeply tied to culture. Learning a language helps students appreciate the diversity of human expression and fosters respect for other cultures, which is central to the IB philosophy. ¿Por qué no?
6th Grade
Curriculum
Language & Literature: Students will work on improving vocabulary and reading comprehension skills in fiction and non fiction texts and explore literary analysis of fictional themes, character traits/character development, and author’s point of view utilizing text evidence. Selected literature will make many connections to the I & S subject matter. They write for different purposes that include research reports, persuasive letters and speeches, personal narratives, poetry, fantasy narratives, and literary analysis essays. Many media options beside traditional writing are used to communicate ideas, including google slides, podcasts, imovies, and art.
Spanish: The Spanish course emphasizes cultural awareness and intercultural understanding. Students explore the customs, traditions, literature, and history of Spanish-speaking communities around the world, fostering a deeper appreciation for diverse perspectives.
Science: During 6th grade science, the students will explore what it means to be a scientist throughout the Middle Years Program. We focus on hands-on science, developing testable questions, collecting data, and evaluating the validity of sources and quality of data. Students are encouraged to follow their curiosity and find their own answers. Outdoor Learning is an essential ingredient for connecting science concepts to real-world experiences.
Individuals & Societies: We start the year in a unit that focuses on developing map skills and connecting how they relate to our orientation in space and time. Students also learn about ancient civilizations in the eastern hemisphere; Mesopotamia, Egypt, China, Greece and Rome. Special attention is given to scientific and technological innovations developed in those civilizations and how they impact us today. The year ends with a cross curricular unit taught simultaneously in science and L & L that addresses globalization and sustainability issues; the goal is to understand what it means to be a global citizen.
Math: In sixth grade, students move beyond math facts to discover a greater variety in the number system. Students learn to convert fractions, decimals, and percentages. They multiply and divide portions and include negative numbers into their computations. Students begin to write expressions to represent unknown quantities and learn to solve simple equations. Students explore geometry by calculating area, perimeter, and volume. We connect visual representations of data to our science concepts, creating a variety of graphs. Students will also discover that statistics can help them communicate a message with their data.
Visual & Performing Arts: The program will often align the Language Arts and Individual & Societies units. 6th Grade students will have an introduction to Shakespeare and adapt his plays. They will also create and give performances that explore Greek literature and conflict in history.
Design Lab: In our MYP Design Lab is a space where 6th graders engage in hands-on, inquiry-based learning that integrates design thinking principles. 6th graders are encouraged to tackle authentic, real-world problems through design thinking. This approach helps them understand the relevance of their education and the impact they can have on the world around them
Physical Education: In 6th Grade PE, students are introduced to a diverse range of physical activities that promote overall fitness and well-being. The curriculum includes foundational skills in team sports, individual sports, and fitness exercises, with an emphasis on developing coordination, cooperation, and a positive attitude towards physical health. Through engaging in global sports and learning about different cultural approaches to exercise, students begin to understand the importance of maintaining an active lifestyle. This course sets the stage for lifelong physical fitness and fosters a sense of international-mindedness through sports and physical activities.
7th Grade
Curriculum
Science: Through a broad range of in-class and student-centered activities, Seventh Grade Science covers the basics of Chemistry, Scientific Method, and Cellular Biology/Genetics with a focus on critical thinking and problem solving and connecting scientific knowledge to everyday real-world applications. The overarching theme for the year is “Identity: what makes something unique”
Individuals & Societies: Concept-based inquiry empowers students to prompt their own learning and gives them the flexibility to make connections to their local, regional, global experiences. I strive to have a student-centered approach that allows for an inviting and warm atmosphere that promotes communication, open-mindedness, critical thinking, reflection, and global understandings across various subject matters. I encourage my students to be self-driven inquirers and empower them to express themselves as individuals and to collaborate with their peers. Through this approach, students are more engaged and gain more depth in their understandings by inviting each student to make connections and gain multiple perspectives in their surrounding global community.
Language & Literature: In 7th-grade L&L, students study how perspective shapes meaning across a range of genres and styles of writing. We also consider the many elements that produce a perspective (context, history, culture, identity).
Spanish: Students are encouraged to reflect on their language learning journey and to think critically about language use in various contexts. Reflective practices enhance metacognition and help students become more effective communicators.
Visual & Performing Arts: Students develop their artistic skills and techniques through a variety of mediums, such as drawing, painting, sculpture, and digital media. The curriculum emphasizes both traditional and contemporary approaches to art-making. The program will often align the Language Arts and Individual & Societies units. 6th Grade students will have an introduction to Shakespeare and adapt one of his plays. They will also create and give performances that explore Greek literature and conflict in history.
Design Lab: The first quarter of 7th grade design will be spent learning and refreshing the students’ skills with the tools found in the design lab, and going deeper within the digital programs used for the Laser Cutter and 3D printer. During the second through fourth quarters, they will be using these skills to go through the design thinking process while integrating knowledge from other subject areas, such as integrated units around National History Day, performing arts stage needs, and creating solutions to needs found within their day to day life.
Physical Education: Our 7th Grade PE program emphasizes holistic fitness and the development of lifelong healthy habits. Students engage in a variety of activities, including strength training, team sports, and individual sports, to build physical endurance, teamwork, and personal discipline. The curriculum also integrates global perspectives on physical activity, encouraging students to appreciate diverse sports and exercise practices from around the world. Through a blend of physical challenges and reflective learning, students develop the skills and mindset necessary for a balanced and active lifestyle.
Math: Students progress into pre- algebra building their skills of operations, solving equations, probability, proportions, lines, and graphs.
Class Experiences
These are a few examples of the class experiences done in 7th grade:
Science: Students also participate in supporting experiences such as presenting their own experimental data in a grade level Science Fair where students must demonstrate their thought process and defend their conclusions based on the evidence presented.
Individuals & Societies: One of our highlighted experiences is participating in the Oregon Historical Society. This trip/experience is a student-directed, project-based, interdisciplinary learning program that invites students to interpret a historical event that connects to the annual theme by creating a website, paper, performance, exhibit, or documentary.
Another highlighted experience is the Model United Nations Program. This is a widely practiced program across the globe in IB schools that is “student-led” learning by informing our students about the world and developing the skills such as research, position papers, public speaking and problem-solving.
Language & Literature: Students whose National History Day projects are selected to compete at the state-level competition will travel to Portland, Oregon to showcase their projects for consideration for the national competition.
In an interdisciplinary unit with Science, students will read Andy Weir’s The Martian, exploring narrative structures in L&L and the science behind Weir’s fiction in Science. Students will have the option of creating their own research based work of fiction or nonfiction, conducting research to support their creation.
World Leadership School: Spring trips that offer travel, learning, collaboration, and community service.
Action
These are two examples of the types of action projects done in 7th grade:
Science: Students will participate in projects such as Stop-motion animation creation and constructing a mobile to represent their individual identity.
Math: Students will use their math knowledge in 7th grade to make blueprints, create a carnival game, research a UN sustainability goal and predict a world trend, and enjoy pi day!
8th Grade
Curriculum
Science: Using a variety of student-driven, design-thinking activities, Eighth Grade Science students explore the basics of Newtonian Physics, Wave properties, Human Sensory Systems, and Planetary Geology. Using science based novels they delve deeper into the Periodic Table of the Elements and Scientific Ethics with a focus on critical thinking and connecting scientific knowledge to everyday real-world events both past and present. The overarching theme for the year is “Change: how do changes to a system affect its performance?”
Individuals & Societies: Concept-based inquiry empowers students to prompt their own learning and gives them the flexibility to make connections to their local, regional, global experiences. I strive to have a student-centred approach that allows for an inviting and warm atmosphere that promotes communication, open-mindedness, critical thinking, reflection, and global understandings across various subject matters. I encourage my students to be self-driven inquirers and empower them to express themselves as individuals and to collaborate with their peers. Through this approach, students are more engaged and gain more depth in their understandings by inviting each student to make connections and gain multiple perspectives in their surrounding global community.
Language & Literature: In 8th-grade L&L, students take up difficult debatable questions that shape the world: we begin by exploring the limits of ambition through our reading of Shakespeare’s Macbeth; consider the limits of communication through our reading of Anne Frank’s diary and other Jewish holocaust writing; take up global conflict and resolution through Model UN position papers; and conclude by reflecting on the ethics of continuing to consume works of art by controversial artists.
Math: Students begin learning algebra, including lines, solving for variables, exponential functions, through quadratic functions.
Spanish:
In our IB Spanish program, students immerse themselves in the Spanish language and culture, developing proficiency in speaking, listening, reading, and writing. The course emphasizes communicative competence and intercultural understanding, enabling students to engage meaningfully with Spanish-speaking communities. Through interactive activities, cultural explorations, and real-world language applications, students gain the skills to become confident global communicators. At the end of their 8th grade year, students travel to Costa Rica to immerse themselves in culture and language.
Visual and Performing Arts
Our Visual and Performing Arts program nurtures creativity and self-expression through a broad range of artistic disciplines, including drawing, painting, sculpture, music, and drama. Students explore their artistic talents while developing critical thinking and aesthetic appreciation. The highlight of the year is the Spring Art Show, where students showcase their work, reflecting their growth and artistic journey. This program encourages students to view the world through an artistic lens and appreciate the cultural significance of the arts.
Design Lab
The Design Lab offers students a dynamic environment to explore advanced design concepts and bring their ideas to life. With access to 3D printers and cutting-edge design tools, students engage in projects that challenge their creativity, problem-solving skills, and technical abilities. From initial planning stages to the final product, students learn to navigate the design process, developing innovative solutions and refining their craft. This course prepares students to think critically and work collaboratively in the ever-evolving field of design.
Class Experiences
These are a few examples of the class experiences done in 8th grade:
Spanish: In 8th Grade Spanish, students can expect to deepen their language skills and cultural understanding as they prepare for a unique and immersive experience. The curriculum focuses on advanced conversational Spanish, reading, and writing, with an emphasis on real-world application. A highlight of the year is the class trip to Costa Rica before graduation, where students will have the opportunity to practice their language skills in an authentic setting, explore the rich culture and biodiversity of the country, and create lasting memories with their classmates. This experience not only enhances their Spanish proficiency but also fosters a deeper appreciation for global cultures.
Science: Students participate in supporting experiences such as presenting a mini-lesson on a scientific concept of their choosing to another grade level as a final demonstration of their knowledge.
Individuals & Societies: One of our highlighted experiences is participating in the Oregon Historical Society. This trip/experience is a student-directed, project-based, interdisciplinary learning program that invites students to interpret a historical event that connects to the annual theme by creating a website, paper, performance, exhibit, or documentary. We are hoping to all physically attend this event in April 2022
Another highlighted experience is the Model United Nations Program. This is a widely practised program across the globe in IB schools that is “student-led” learning by informing our students about the world and developing the skills such as research, position papers, public speaking and problem-solving.
Language & Literature: As theater is a communal art, students will bring Macbeth to life through in-class theatrical readings, as well as a live performance of a modernized interpretation of the play by the 8th-grade Performing Arts students late fall.
Action
These are a few examples of the types of action projects done in 8th grade:
Science: Students will participate in projects such as building water bottle rockets and Newton-Scooters in demonstration of Newton’s 3 laws of motion.
Individuals & Societies: Students in Individuals & Societies will participate in many action projects that are driven by their own inquires while navigating The Middle Year’s Program. Such exemplars of this framework will include the opportunity to explore Debate & Diplomacy in History: Successes, Failures, Consequences during our National History Day exploration in the New Year!
Physical Education
Strength and Conditioning II: Fitness for Life
This course focuses on the holistic development of physical fitness through a variety of activities, including advanced weight lifting, circuit training, aerobics, yoga, power walking, jogging, and cross-country running. Students engage in personalized fitness plans that promote lifelong health, strength, and endurance, fostering a balanced approach to physical and mental well-being.
Team Sports II
In this course, students deepen their understanding of team dynamics and sportsmanship through advanced participation in sports such as volleyball, softball, baseball, football, basketball, soccer, hockey, lacrosse, and ultimate frisbee. The curriculum emphasizes strategic thinking, collaboration, and the development of leadership skills within a competitive, yet inclusive, environment.
Indoor Games II
This course provides students with opportunities to refine their skills in various indoor sports, including team handball, indoor soccer, indoor football, international kickball, and wiffleball. The focus is on enhancing agility, coordination, and teamwork, while also exploring the cultural significance and global variations of these sports.
Individual Sports II
Students in this course will advance their abilities in individual sports, such as pickleball, badminton, golf, tennis, archery, racquetball, croquet, bocce, project adventure, and horseshoes. The curriculum encourages self-discipline, goal-setting, and personal achievement, while also fostering an appreciation for the diverse range of physical activities that can be pursued throughout life.
These courses are designed to align with the IB philosophy, emphasizing the development of both physical and intellectual capacities, promoting international-mindedness, and encouraging students to adopt a balanced and active lifestyle.
One-of-a-Kind Field Trips: Learning Beyond the Classroom at Seven Peaks
At Seven Peaks School, field trips are crafted to be transformative experiences that connect with our curriculum, encourage personal growth, and inspire curiosity. Each adventure takes learning beyond the classroom, bringing students face-to-face with new perspectives and real-world applications.
2025 Ashland
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A highlight of 8th grade at Seven Peaks is the annual trip to the renowned Oregon Shakespeare Festival in Ashland. Students experience live performances, engage in actor-led workshops, and explore connections between literature, history, and the arts. This beloved tradition deepens their appreciation for storytelling and often sparks a lifelong passion for the arts.