Overview
Middle school bridges childhood wonder and adolescent inquiry. Students develop critical thinking, deeper subject mastery, and personal identity. The curriculum honors this transition with more rigorous academics while maintaining connection to nature, creativity, and UU Pagan values. Students begin taking ownership of their learning journey.
Subjects Covered
Language Arts
- Literature analysis & book studies
- Essay writing (persuasive, expository, narrative)
- Grammar, vocabulary, spelling
- Research skills & citations
- Public speaking & presentations
Mathematics
- Pre-algebra & algebra foundations
- Ratios, proportions, percentages
- Geometry & measurement
- Data analysis & statistics intro
- Problem-solving & logic
Science
- Life science: biology, anatomy, ecology
- Physical science: physics, chemistry basics
- Earth science: geology, astronomy, weather
- Scientific method & lab skills
- Nature observation & field studies
History & Social Studies
- World history: ancient through modern
- U.S. history & civics
- Geography & cultures
- Current events & media literacy
- Social justice & UU Principles in action
Arts & Electives
- Visual arts: drawing, painting, sculpture
- Music: instrument, theory, appreciation
- Drama & creative expression
- Foreign language introduction
- Technology & digital literacy
UU Pagan Studies
- Deeper Wheel of the Year study
- Comparative world religions
- Ethics & philosophy discussions
- Community service & activism
- Personal spiritual practice development
Life Skills
- Financial literacy basics
- Time management & organization
- Health, nutrition, & wellness
- Interpersonal skills & conflict resolution
- Career exploration
Public School Comparison
✓ Covers equivalent content: ELA, math through pre-algebra/algebra, life/physical/earth science, world & U.S. history, arts, PE
⟳ Approaches differently: Project-based over test-driven; integrated subjects; nature connection maintained; emphasis on discussion over memorization
✗ Does not emphasize: Standardized test prep, competitive ranking, rigid scheduling
★ Goes beyond: Ethics & philosophy, spiritual development, practical life skills, social justice education, personal identity exploration
Grade-by-Grade Focus
Assessment Options
- Portfolio: Projects, essays, research papers, creative work
- Narrative: Detailed descriptions of mastery and growth
- Traditional: Tests, quizzes, grades
- Unschooling: Self-directed learning documentation, interest-based projects
Note: The Rataj family requires 80% mastery before advancing to the next level. Whether other families use the same requirement is entirely up to them.
Begin keeping records for high school transcript preparation.