Curriculum
A literature-based curriculum is the foundation for the rigorous program of studies offered to Powhatan School’s Upper School students. Consisting of grades six to eight, with each grade divided into two sections of up to sixteen students, the Upper School seeks to prepare students to be academically successful at the high school level as well as socially skilled, community minded, and civically and environmentally responsible.
Reading, writing, and higher-level thinking skills are emphasized in all subject areas. The core curriculum consists of English, science, social studies, math, and foreign languages. These subjects are complemented by studies in art, music, drama, public speaking, computer technology, as well as team and individual sports. A Nature-Enhanced Approach to Learning (NEAL) is also an important component of the Powhatan learning experience and is embedded in all areas of our curriculum. NEAL gives students hands-on experiences in ecology and develops a love of nature and a desire to protect the environment.
The academic day is divided into six instructional periods and one sports period. Technology is used extensively in the teaching and learning processes.
English studies emphasize reading, writing, thinking, and creativity. Students are exposed to a wide range of literature genres and are required to complete a significant amount of independent reading during the regular school year and in the summer months when school is not in session. We believe that writing extensively is at the heart of teaching thinking skills and developing creativity and confidence.
Social studies is taught thematically. Areas studied include ancient civilizations, medieval history, major religions, economics, civics, and geography. Students study American, European, Asian, African, and Middle Eastern history as well.
Upper School students study Spanish as a world language requirement. Upon graduation, our students are prepared to enter high school in the second or third year of the language they studied.
The math classes are developmentally grouped, and students may complete high school Algebra I and Geometry at Powhatan.
Science students study physical science, earth science, life science, and ecology in a sequentially based curriculum.
Advisement is an opportunity for students to meet in small groups and address issues that would not come up in a normal academic setting. This may include topics, such as peer relationships, time or emotional management, or communication problems with other faculty members.
Advisors serve as the first line of communication for parents and teachers. Advisors communicate with parents and teachers about student grades and progress throughout the school year.
Mentored by an excellent faculty in a student-centered environment where cultural diversity is valued and intellectual curiosity is central, Powhatan offers students the opportunity to excel in an environment that nurtures them as individuals and prepares them for success as they continue their education.
Sixth Grade
Program of Study
English
Sixth-grade English offers students an engaging curriculum that features enriching learning opportunities in reading, writing, and vocabulary. English 6 emphasizes the development of critical and creative thinking, communication, and collaboration skills based on best practices. Students will participate in cooperative learning through consensus-building, teamwork, and working toward common goals while enhancing their reading and writing skills. The curriculum includes activities that enhance critical thinking skills, such as problem-solving, analysis, and synthesis. Students will respond to a variety of literature through writing and discussion, with a strong emphasis on the writing process. Writing instruction will focus on crafting well-developed essays, covering sentence fluency, word choice, voice, and tone. Students will explore vocabulary through the study of affixes, as well as in the context of various literary pieces, improve their comprehension and communication skills. In partnership with classroom instructional reading, students are expected to read a variety of genres independently and with a deep understanding of comprehension.
Math: Foundations of Algebra
Sixth grade Math class continues to use a problem-solving and conceptual approach. Students focus on solidifying their computational math skills while developing problem-solving strategies. Students learn to organize a math binder, including classwork, homework, and teacher-created materials. Students will be able to reflect on their learning, identify the types of errors they are making, and problem-solve how to reduce these errors.
Foundations of Algebra will focus on rational numbers, which include computation skills for addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of whole numbers, negative numbers, fractions, decimals, and percents. Pre-algebra and geometry concepts will also be covered through concrete and semi-abstract experiences. Making math relevant to the world outside a classroom is very important, so we work to make connections through various activities and projects.
Science
The sixth graders study Life Science, which consists of three units: an introduction to science and Life Science, a unit on the Human Body, and a Wildlife unit to conclude the year. We often begin class with a discussion and then proceed to an activity or experiment that illustrates those concepts. The goal is to excite students about the possibilities of science and life science, whether it involves human needs and survival skills during our Survival Trip, cell parts during our microscopy, or ecology as we explore our beautiful campus in the spring.
History
Sixth grade History begins with an in-depth exploration of religion. We will study the origin and traditions of major world religions, including Judaism, Christianity, Islam, and Hinduism. With this knowledge intact, the students are prepared to learn about influential movements in history. Units include The Age of Exploration, The Renaissance, The Reformation, Henry VIII, and The Reign of Elizabeth I. Students will hone their note-taking skills, their essay-writing skills, and their study skills. All this while learning about the most exciting stories ever told!
Spanish
Students in sixth grade will be starting the Spanish I curriculum. Spanish 1A students will develop Spanish language comprehension through reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Topics covered will build upon the units of study students explored in 5th grade. Topics include, but are not limited to, greetings, numbers, weather, personal feelings, likes and dislikes, school and after-school activities, describing oneself and others, and describing school, classes, and locations. Students will learn subject pronouns, definite and indefinite articles, noun-adjective agreement, and all present-tense verbs in grammar. Students will also learn about different cultural aspects of the Spanish-speaking world. Students will learn through a variety of materials, including videos, books, games, stories, songs, and hands-on activities.
Music
In Upper School sixth grade Music we continue to focus on performing musical concepts. In addition to basic theory teachings, students are introduced to aural skills and beginning compositional writings using Kodaly techniques. With this knowledge, mini-compositions are initiated. Students are also introduced to musical forms, including Ternary and Rondo, throughout composition writings. Not only do we perform our understanding of these concepts in class, but our technology programs of SoundTrap and Flat allow the student to explore so much more.
Art
Art in the sixth grade centers around the three C’s; Creativity, Composition, and Content. Chronologically, we try to have a cross-curricular program. In our art class, we begin each project by discussing it with the students, using their feedback and questions to guide the lesson. Students brainstorm a list of things about themselves and discuss how to illustrate these attributes. They begin with sketches to practice their illustrations and explore various ways to utilize common color materials, including demonstrations of mixed media techniques.
We cover the various elements of art and how they contribute to the creation of artwork. Research and inspiration are incorporated for each element, and students engage in reading, writing, and coloring activities to reinforce their understanding. Students create a booklet featuring all the elements and explore the concept of positive and negative space.
The class progresses from discussing and demonstrating shapes to exploring forms, and then to objects, incorporating concepts of symmetry and asymmetry. Observational drawings help students add value to forms through repeated demonstrations and modeling. Composition and proportions are discussed and demonstrated, and students plan and practice the layout of their designs.
Technology: Computer Science for Innovators & Makers
Powhatan’s sixth grade course, Computer Science for Innovators and Makers, will allow students to discover computer science concepts and skills by creating personally relevant, tangible, and shareable projects. Students will learn about programming (block coding) for the physical world by blending hardware design and software development. Students are introduced to the business world using the computer as a problem-solving tool. Emphasis is placed on developing basic keyboarding skills to complete various projects that incorporate word processing, database, presentation, and spreadsheet software. Basic Internet safety and computer maintenance issues are important components of this course. Course offerings and descriptions are subject to change based on student and school needs.
Sports
The sixth grade sports program provides the first opportunity for students to choose their sport and play interscholastic games in our PAC-5 Conference. Students will participate at the JV level with an age-appropriate number of games during each season.
Seventh Grade
Program of Study
English
Seventh grade English offers students an engaging curriculum that features enriching learning opportunities in reading, writing, and vocabulary. English 7 further emphasizes the development of critical and creative thinking, communication, and collaboration skills based on best practices. Students will participate in consensus-building, teamwork, and collaborative efforts to achieve common goals, while also enhancing their reading and writing skills. The curriculum includes activities that enhance critical reading, writing, and thinking skills, such as problem-solving, analysis, and synthesis. Students will respond to literature through writing and discussion, with a strong emphasis on the writing process. Writing instruction will focus on crafting well-developed essays, covering sentence fluency, word choice, voice, and tone. Students will explore vocabulary by studying affixes, as well as in the context of various literary pieces, to improve their comprehension and communication skills. In partnership with classroom instructional reading, students are expected to read a variety of genres independently and with a deep understanding of comprehension.
Math (Algebra I / Pre-Algebra)
Honors Algebra 7 follows a high school-level curriculum and offers credit upon successful completion. The course covers a range of foundational topics, including algebraic properties, solving equations and inequalities, absolute value, and the study of linear, quadratic, and rational functions. This is a fast-paced class, and students are expected to engage with the material both in and outside of class. Emphasis is placed on applying mathematical concepts to real-world problems, with a balance of theoretical and application-based questions. As the year progresses, students will be introduced to advanced algebraic concepts to support their transition into higher-level math courses. Assessment will include regular homework assignments, quizzes, tests, and occasional projects. A final exam is administered at the end of the year.
Pre-Algebra 7 serves as a foundational course designed to prepare students for Honors Algebra I in eighth grade. The curriculum emphasizes the development of essential skills needed for success in algebra, including working with algebraic expressions, integer operations, rational numbers, proportions, percents, and geometric formulas. As the year progresses, students will be introduced to introductory algebraic concepts to ensure a smooth transition into more advanced coursework. Assessments will include regular homework assignments, quizzes, tests, and projects to reinforce understanding and encourage application of learned skills. A cumulative final exam is administered at the end of the year.
History
Seventh grade History is a study of early U.S. history beginning with an overview of European exploration of the Americas from 1400-1625, followed by units on Colonial America, The American Revolution, The Constitution, The Federalist, Jefferson, and Jackson Eras, and Manifest Destiny. The final trimester covers the Civil War and an overview of Reconstruction. Primary sources and videos are used to supplement learning. Students will have several writing opportunities in different genres, including picture books, plays, and essays. Students will read several historical fiction books, including but not limited to Chains, Fever 1763, Lyddie, Slave Dancer, Night Riders of Harpers Ferry, The Bravest Girl in Sharpsburg, and Rifles for Watie. In the Spring, there is a field trip to Harpers Ferry and Antietam.
Science
Seventh grade Science encompasses several branches of earth science. The major units of study include Earth’s geological history and processes, astronomy, and environmental studies. Geological history and processes are studied through the examination of weathering and erosion, rocks and minerals, plate tectonics, earthquakes, and volcanoes. Astronomy encompasses a history of space exploration, the solar system (with a focus on Mars exploration), and the study of stars and galaxies. Our environmental study includes units on alternative energy, man’s environmental impact, and weather and climate.
Students learn to discuss science intelligently and pose thoughtful questions. We write about science and test it. Demonstrations, hands-on activities, and technology projects are used throughout the year to reinforce concepts learned in class. After acquiring a solid understanding of a particular science topic or issue, students apply their newfound knowledge by creating, debating, or writing.
Spanish
Seventh grade Spanish students will develop Spanish language comprehension through reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Students in seventh grade will be finishing the Spanish I curriculum which focuses on learning the present tense in the regular form. Students learn through videos, books, games, stories, songs, and hands-on materials. Topics covered include but are not limited to family vocabulary, clothing, shopping, places, and events, getting around town, describing a house and furniture, planning a party, household chores, daily routine, parts of the body, and health. In grammar, they will learn all forms of irregular present-tense verbs. Students also learn about the cultural aspects of the Spanish-speaking world.
Music
Upper School seventh grade Music, the focus is on the many components of a musical. We explore much of the school year with vocal, acting, and choreography techniques. While the middle school curriculum is performance-based, the seventh graders also spend a great deal of time understanding set design, leading them into the brainstorming stages of set building as supported by the art department. In addition to all of this, there is dialect coaching as needed from each show. In the latter part of the year, students review general music concepts, including music theory.
Art
Art in the seventh grade centers around the three C’s; Creativity, Composition, and Content. Chronologically we do try to have a cross-curricular program. The Elements and Principles of art continue to be explored and pushed and are given relevance within our content area. Students will spend several weeks in the Pottery Studio throwing and beginning to learn techniques to make them proficient potters. On the canvas, students will work in watercolors, acrylics, and other mixed media throughout the year.
Technology: Design & Robotics
In seventh grade, students will enter a new Design and Robotics course. Throughout the year, students learn the design process and develop an understanding of the influence of creativity and innovation in their lives. Students are introduced to precision measuring tools, sketching, and dimensioning, which teach them to identify and create a variety of design perspectives and sketches. Students will also study the reasons behind the use of robots and how they function. Students use mechanical parts and VEX components to design and create mechanical systems, determining their purpose and real-world applications. During an automated systems unit,students will use VEX components and the V5 programming language (Python) to build, model, program, and test solutions to automated problems. Course offerings and descriptions are subject to change based on student and school needs.
Sports
The seventh grade sports program is a continuation of the sports program where students may play at the JV and Varsity levels. This is determined by the team’s needs for each sport and by the head coach. Generally, these students will play a few more games than sixth graders, depending on the season.
Eighth Grade
English
Eighth grade English activities promote engaged reading, informed discussion, and clear, creative, and convincing writing. William Shakespeare takes center stage in the fall; reading, speaking, and writing supports the annual Shakespeare production. Research, writing, technology, collaboration, communication, and presentation are the foundations of the Chapel Talk unit. The Holocaust/WWII unit’s novel study and visit to the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum correlate with the History 8 curriculum, and the Human Rights unit caps off the year. Core novels are Ian Doescher’s William Shakespeare, The Boy in the Striped Pajamas, and To Kill a Mockingbird; additionally, students choose a variety of books to read in small groups or individually. Vocabulary and grammar studies focus on strengthening reading comprehension and writing well-crafted sentences, paragraphs, and complete, polished pieces.
One of the long-standing traditions of the Powhatan community is the eighth grade Chapel Talk. Each eighth grader delivers an 8-10 minute TED Talk-style presentation to the school community about a topic for which they are not only knowledgeable and passionate, but also one that the mostly younger audience, from Pre-K through seventh grade, will be interested in and able to understand. A question-and-answer session follows the presentation. This provides eighth graders the opportunity to share something unique about themselves, teach others about it in the process, and stand up as leaders for the younger students.
Math (Honors Algebra I / Geometry)
Honors Geometry offers a rigorous high school-level curriculum that builds students’ spatial reasoning and logical thinking skills. Key topics include geometric vocabulary and notation, reasoning and proofs, properties of parallel and perpendicular lines, triangle congruence, quadrilaterals, polygons, similarity, right triangle trigonometry, and the surface area and volume of three-dimensional figures. This is a fast-paced class, and students are expected to engage with the material both in and outside of class. Students will engage in regular homework assignments, quizzes, tests, and projects designed to reinforce both theoretical understanding and practical application. A cumulative final exam will be administered at the end of the year.
Honors Algebra 8 follows a high school-level curriculum and offers credit upon successful completion. The course covers a range of foundational topics, including algebraic properties, solving equations and inequalities, absolute value, and the study of linear, quadratic, and rational functions. Students are expected to engage with the material both in and outside of class. Emphasis is placed on applying mathematical concepts to real-world problems, with a balance of theoretical and application-based questions. As the year progresses, students will be introduced to advanced algebraic concepts to support their transition into higher-level math courses. Assessment will include regular homework assignments, quizzes, tests, and occasional projects. A cumulative final exam may be administered at the end of the year.
Science
The eighth graders study Physical Science, which consists of three units: an introductory unit on science and Physical Science, a unit on Physics, and a final unit on Chemistry. Class usually starts with a discussion and moves to something that gets kids up and moving and learning. The goal is to excite students with the possibilities of science and physical science- with our study of Chesapeake Bay water quality during our trip to Tangier Island in the fall, the student-made cars we use in our velocity tests, or our study of natural indicators as part of our acid-base exploration.
History
Our eighth grade American History class begins with the aftermath of the Civil War in 1865 and ends as close to the present as possible. Students pose questions and seek answers while working to understand this fascinating period’s key events, people, and issues, striving to master vitall important facts. Grasping the deeper and larger significance of these facts helps students further build their critical and analytical thinking, discussing, and writing skills. Students study primary and secondary sources and actively use historical thinking skills to “develop a unique capacity to comprehend human situations, challenges, and interactions. Thinking historically introduces students to the wonders of the past, fosters the ability to make judgments about the present,” and promotes consideration of the future.
Spanish
Students will develop Spanish language comprehension through reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Students learn through videos, books, games, stories, songs, textbook activities, and hands-on materials. The Spanish II curriculum focuses on learning the past (preterite) tense in all its forms. Students also will learn how to discuss daily routines using reflexive verbs and work on using direct and indirect object pronouns to advance their level of Spanish. To expand their vocabulary, students will learn to talk about being on vacation, going on a trip; sports and health; clothes and shopping; and legends and stories. Students also learn about cultural aspects of the Spanish-speaking world. Students receive high school credit for this course.
Music
Upper School, eighth grade Music students become more comfortable with performing methods. Also, this year, students can perform as soloists in school-wide concerts, whether as a vocalist or instrumentalists. Their general studies include basic theory, aural skills, solfege, movement, composition, form & analysis, variations, music history, musical influences, notation, and much more. The understanding of these concepts is performed or presented daily. Later in the eighth grade year, there is an emphasis on bridging the comparisons of classical music and contemporary music. Due to the high demand for technology use, students are able to use various programs to support and enhance some areas of study. Programs such as SoundTrap and Flat allow the student to explore so much more.
Art
Art in the eighth grade centers around the three C’s; Creativity, Composition, and Content. Chronologically we do try to have a cross-curricular program. The Elements and Principles of art continue to be explored and pushed and are given relevance within our content area. Students will spend several weeks in the Pottery Studio throwing and beginning to learn techniques to make them proficient potters. On the canvas, students will work in watercolors, acrylics, and other mixed media throughout the year.
Technology: Exploring Computer Science
Students will be introduced to the breadth of computer science by exploring engaging and accessible topics. The goal of the Exploring Computer Science course is to develop in students the computational practice of algorithm development, problem-solving, and programming within the context of problems that are relevant to the lives of today’s students. Emphasis will be placed on designing solutions to various problems and keeping an engineering notebook to document their work. Students will engage in several in-depth projects to demonstrate the real-world applications of computer science. Course units may include Human-Computer Interaction, Problem Solving, Web Design, Intro to Programming, Computing & Data Analysis, and Robotics. Course offerings and descriptions are subject to change based on student and school needs.
Sports
The eighth grade sports program is the culmination of the middle school interscholastic experience. Students will participate in more games at the Varsity level with the possibility of Saturday tournaments or meets depending on the season.
