| 5th Grade LA | 6th Grade LA | 7th Grade LA | 8th Grade LA |
| In 5th grade Language Arts, we focus on the 7 Keys of Comprehension as scholars study the connection between community and stories. Scholars examine methods of communication in different times and cultures. We read stories, mythology, folktales, and legends from the Americas. In addition, scholars read novels, short stories, informational text, plays and poems and participate in discussions building a deeper understanding of literature and its value. Scholars learn that writing is a process and they learn to critique, edit, and publish their writing. We meet local writers and storytellers from a variety of backgrounds and professions and discover the importance of storytelling and writing in our society. All scholars write and publish a memoir. We also explore film, advertising, music and radio. CCSG Story Slam? (3rd Tri) | In sixth grade, we review the 7 Keys of Comprehension as scholars examine Western literature, beginning with Greek mythology. Scholars analyze how stories reflect societies and how stories offer opportunities to critically assess societies. We read historical fiction about medieval times and the Renaissance, focusing discussions on plot, setting, characterization, and theme. Research projects introduce and reinforce research and writing skills. Scholars learn to create strong paragraphs with topic sentences and supporting details. We meet with more local writers as scholars begin to find their own writing voice by composing a piece of historical fiction. Renaissance Fair (2nd Tri) | Seventh grade Language Arts seeks to foster a love for longer literature. Reading primarily novels and autobiographies, seventh graders continue to explore the elements of literature. As writers, seventh grade scholars continue to develop their own voice; we explore bias and opinion in writing. As we examine the power of speech, classes stress poise, self-confidence, articulation, organization of thought, and the ability to communicate with an audience. We talk to lawyers, politicians, and motivational speakers as we explore the power of speech in our society today. Scholars deliver a speech at our speaker's forum. Speakers Forum (3rd Tri) | Starting with World War I and continuing through the present day, eight grade readings include fiction, non-fiction, poetry, essays, drama, and journalism. Girls analyze diaries, memoirs, short stories, poetry, nonfiction and fiction while focusing on the question of how an individual can change society. We participate in group discussions and write individual reflections to gain a better understanding of how literature inspires, provokes, and enlightens individuals and communities. By grappling with the elements of literature, girls develop skills as writers, readers, critical thinkers, and speakers. We watch plays and movies and meet with script writers to gain a better understanding of the power of a writer in today’s society. All scholars write a short play or movie. CCSG Playwrights (3rd Tri) |
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| 5th Grade Math | 6th Grade Math | 7th Grade Math | 8th Grade Math |
| We divide fifth grade math into two main areas of focus. First, we emphasize organization and study skills pertinent to math. Second, we emphasize the development of the scholar’s appreciation for mathematics. In addition to using Singapore Math and Hands On Equations, which provides a balance between drill and creative problem solving, we create opportunities to see math in the world. The Singapore approach encourages greater problem solving skills and creative thinking. The increase of the student's knowledge and skills includes being able to communicate more effectively using mathematical terminology as it relates geometry, numeration, operations, decimals and number theory. Family Math Night (1st Tri) | We continue to use Singapore and Hands On Equations as we review and expand upon a basic math understanding of: whole numbers, decimals, fractions, data presentations and geometry. In addition, we introduce: scientific notation, percents, metrics, surface area, volume, ratios, proportions, probability and integers. Computers are used throughout the year. In addition, scholars examine number systems, measurement and economics. Math is taught by presenting the subject within a historical and social context of how the field of mathematics has developed throughout history. We pay particular attention to the role of women in this field. Family Math Night (1st Tri) | This course in pre-algebra serves as a bridge between arithmetic and the study of algebra. Using Singapore and Hands on Equations, we review the basic arithmetic operations and introduce the concepts and language of algebra. Topics include positive and negative integers, order of operations, evaluating algebraic expressions, formulas, equation solving, inequalities, number theory, fractions, decimals, geometric figures, ratios and proportions. We emphasize practical problem solving as applied in construction, sewing, and other tasks. We end the year studying percents and their applications, probability, coordinate geometry, square roots, right triangles, and geometry. Family Math Night (1st Tri) | This course focuses on the transition from thinking in specifics to thinking abstractly. The concepts of Algebra ( including equations with one and two variables), inequalities, the Cartesian coordinate system, the laws of exponents, working with polynomials, algebraic fractions, quadratic equations, and radical expressions each help the student toward thinking that leads to being able to make generalizations. Application of these skills in solving word problems is the culminating activity of the course. Family Math Night (1st Tri) |
| 5th Grade Science | 6th Grade Science | 7th Grade Science | 8th Grade Science |
| Fifth grade science focuses on scientific method as we investigate three areas of general science: Simple Machines, Electricity and Magnetism, and Forces and Motion. Each of the areas consists of labs, tests and projects. Hands-on projects are an essential part of fifth grade science. For example, we work with lights, motors and buzzers as we learn about circuits and we work with rockets as we study Newton’s laws of motion. Invention Convention ( 2nd Tri) | Sixth grade science includes the study of the earth and its position in the solar system, cycles of matter, rocks/minerals and the rock cycle, parts of a dynamic ecosystem, life cycles, and seasons. Scholars examine the actual composition of the planet, learning about rocks, minerals, soil and water. Scholars review the basics of scientific method as they conduct explorations about some of earth's living inhabitants and focus on the scientific answers to the question of what is sustainable. Sustainable Science (2nd Tri) | Seventh grade studies focus on the animal kingdom and the human body and include units on cellular structure, reproduction, genetics, evolution, and vertebrate anatomy. As scholars learn and experiment, we focus on the use of the scientific method. Scholars use appropriate graphing software to analyze data gathered in class experiments. We build model cells, learn about our DNA and our African ancestors, and we dissect a pig. All About Anatomy (3rd Tri) | Eighth grade focuses on physical oceanography, properties of fresh and salt water, coastal geology and ecology, and the relationship between oceans and climate. Eighth grade is a critical time to refine independent thinking, research and project skills in preparation for high school. Each student devises an independent study project that continues to develop the practices of scientific methods presented in earlier grades. Science Fair (3rd Tri) |
| 5th Grade His/Culture | 6th Grade Hist/Culture | 7th Grade History/Cult | 8th Grade Hist/Culture |
| This course begins with a unit on geography using maps of all varieties, including GPS systems. We review the 50 states and significant geographical sites of our nation. Then, we examine American history beginning with the first peoples of North America & Native American cultural regions. We study explorers of the New World, settlement and colonization of the east coast, the Revolutionary War, the Declaration of Independence, government, expansion into the west, the Civil War, and some events of the 20th century. Throughout the year, scholars revisit the question of what is community. They are introduced to the question of sustainability as they are exposed to ongoing geography and culture in America. Skills emphasized include note taking, creative and analytical writing, reading comprehension, following directions, and critical thinking. Histories Mysteries (Day - 2nd Tri) | Beginning with the Roman Empire and culminating with Europe’s Age of Exploration, this course examines world cultures over the course of a thousand years. We examine types of governments as they developed through European history. We study how citizens fit within a society as we learn about Europe, the Middle East, West Africa, Medieval Japan, Southeast Asia and South America. These studies focus especially on expansion and destruction of empires over time. We discuss the basics of the world’s major religions, trade, military codes of conduct and each region’s culture. We use in-class and at-home readings, skits, computer-based projects, writing assignments, movies, games and group work, scholars are assessed based on their knowledge and progress. Exploring Exploration (2nd Tri) | This course focuses on revolution, conflict, and social change in China, Japan, India and Africa. The first trimester focuses on ancient and contemporary Chinese history and culture. The second trimester examines ancient and contemporary Japanese and Indian history, and the third trimester focuses on ancient and contemporary African history and culture. Scholars are responsible for reading, writing assignments, various research projects, making films, creating displays, and completing classroom activities. All About Africa (3rd Tri) | Eighth graders explore: pre-WW I America, WWI - its causes and America's involvement, the Depression, WWII-causes, America's involvement, results of the war, the Cold War, the 60's, Vietnam, civil rights, the impact of the fall of Communism, and the rise of technology and terrorism in today's world. Scholars get a sense of many of the events, ideas and individuals from the 20th century that have influenced and impacted today's America. Through reading, writing, role plays and projects, scholars’ ability to think and write critically will be developed. Each scholar will graduate with a better understanding of how America has evolved. 1960s Museum (3rd Tri) |
| 5th Grade Spanish | 6th Grade Spanish | 7th Grade Spanish | 8th Grade Spanish |
| Spanish 5 seeks to introduce scholars to Spanish and Spanish cultures. Speaking Spanish Day – (2nd Tri) | Spanish 6 focuses on building on what was taught and learned in Spanish 5. Scholars study famous Spanish speakers from around the globe. They also explore Spanish art and music, Spanish geography, important cities and regions of Spain, Puerto Rico, and Puerto Rican music and history. Scholars acquire vocabulary about sports, clothing, hobbies and leisure activities, and weather. Speaking Spanish (2nd Tri) | Spanish 7 picks up where the previous year ends. Scholars learn concepts that will allow them to increase their ability to communicate in Spanish. Scholars learn how to follow directions, catch transportation, visit the doctor, order food, discuss daily routines/chores, explain what others are doing, and talk about professions. In addition, scholars will study cultural aspects of Mexico and Ecuador. Speaking Spanish (2nd Tri) | Spanish 8 is a course for scholars at the intermediate level of Spanish. By this year, scholars' vocabulary is well established and scholars should be able to speak about personal topics such as family, activities and interests. During their studies, scholars are introduced to many new tenses and concepts as they acquire a broader vocabulary. Scholars are assessed through projects, skits, internet quests and presentations, as well as traditional daily homework, compositions, tests and quizzes. Our cultural focus is Hispanic music. Speaking Spanish (2nd Tri) |
| 5th Grade Art | 6th Grade Art | 7th Grade Art | 8th Grade Art |
| Our arts focus at CCSG is on providing rich exploratory arts experiences for our scholars. These experiences are offered in partnership with artists and arts organization where possible. In addition, Art 5 provides an introduction to visual art and art history. Scholars create both two-dimensional and three-dimensional artwork using the principles and elements of design. There is emphasis on line, pattern, color, value and balance within thematic works. Each assignment is created to draw from scholars' personal interests and interdisciplinary units for their particular grade. As we learn about technique, we meet with many artists with different interests. We also connect art projects to core studies where possible. Gallery Night (1st Tri) | Art 6 is a continuation of Art 5. Art history lessons focus on Roman art, Byzantine art, and early European Art. We meet with Art History experts and discuss ancient art. We continue to emphasize line, pattern, color, value and balance within thematic works. Scholars produce artwork that will be shown in the Medieval Festival. Medieval Festival (1st Tri) | Art 7 is a course that builds upon the coursework in Art 5 and Art 6. The course emphasizes one-point perspective, figure drawing and multiple assignments using mixed-media. We meet with local and regional artists as we explore new techniques. Again, art exploration corresponds to core studies where possible. Gallery Night (1st Tri) | Art 8 builds upon the coursework in Art 7. Scholars continue to study the principles and elements of design as they create both two-dimensional and three-dimensional artwork. The course emphasizes two-point perspective and self-portraits (a process of several assignments of mixed-media). Scholars explore and experiment with media and concepts. We meet with local and regional artists as we explore new techniques. Gallery Night (1st Tri) |
| 5th Grade World Topics | 6th Grade World Topics | 7th Grade World Topics | 8th Grade World Topics |
| This course encourages scholars to think critically about issues of identity and community. This approach is an effective way to engage scholars in the study of history and world cultures and it provides a way to build a strong culture of learning at CCSG. Activities encourage scholars to share ideas, take risks, and support each other in and out of the classroom. Through discussing various examples of inclusion and exclusion, speaking with community leaders, and reading and discussing literary works, scholars begin to value all communities. We hope that dialogue and thoughtful engagement will give girls a sense of democratic systems. | Sixth graders explore the question of what is sustainable. Scholars build environmental vocabulary and learn different ways to define sustainability. We study the various academic areas that address sustainability: science, architecture, marketing, history, politics, math, and philosophy. Our study of sustainability addresses the power to provide without compromising the capability of future generations to do the same. To this end, we investigate wise and inventive uses of resources to conserve energy and reduce waste while meeting needs. We hope that our students will come to understand issues of sustainability present in our Charlotte community. | In seventh grade, we explore community responsibility by examining local, national, and international issues. Today’s student hears a lot about human rights, but does she understand them? The news tells stories of displaced people, suffering people, homelessness, violence, disabled persons, corrupt leaders and governments. We teach our girls to ask questions and seek answers to these international issues. So, this course introduces scholars to world-wide struggles for freedoms and the accompanying questions revolving around human rights and responsibilities. Human Rights Fair (1st Tri) | To become a leader you must know what a leader is. This course focuses on studying women and other leaders who have changed history. We will learn about women from around the world who have been visionaries in their respective fields. We talk to leaders in Charlotte and around the world about the important question of what individuals can do to change the world. Wise Wonderful Women (1st Tri) |
| 5th Grade Music | 6th Grade Music | 7th Grade Music | 8th Grade Music |
| Our arts focus at CCSG is on providing rich exploratory arts experiences for our scholars. These experiences are offered in partnership with artists and arts organization where possible. The primary focus in fifth grade music is to learn about music history. We focus in particular on the music of the Americas and its development over time and in different cultures. We explore American music forms such as Jazz, Blues, Country, Rock and Roll, and Hip-hop. This year, scholars build their own instruments and perform with them. America’s Music ( 3rd Tri) | This year we study contemporary music of the world. We explore music from different cultures, lyrics, instruments and the use of music to advocate for a cause. We begin to explore melody, harmony, rhythm, tone, and color. This year, scholars adapt a piece of contemporary music and perform it. Contemporary Creations (3rd Tri) | This year we continue to focus on the basic elements of music (Melody, Harmony, Rhythm, Tone, Color) as we study the music of war. We also use music as a means to study history, science, languages and poetry. Scholars create their own lyrics and perform music that tells the stories of human rights. Music of War (3rd Tri) | The eighth grade studies music in America, expanding on what they learned in the 5th grade. The class sings various styles of music such as classical, Broadway, pop, spirituals, jazz, blues, and multi-cultural music. The final project for 8th grade is a group retelling of America’s music history. America’s Music (3rd Tri) |
| 5th Grade Tech | 6th Grade Technology | 7th Grade Technology | 8th Grade |
| Today’s world requires that children be comfortable with and competent in the use of technology. In all classes, we embrace technology and work to utilize it to enhance our instruction and the girls’ explorations. We use technology to accommodate different learning styles and keep learning fresh and fun. Scholars learn to research, present, problem-solve, build, compose, explore, and test as they delve into technology. Our technology specific curriculum is multi-media, exciting, relevant, and student-centered. In addition to using technology in their core courses, fifth grade scholars in this course will review basic word processing, chart making, graph making, spreadsheets, internet searching, and common craft videos. | Once again, technology education is a part of every class. This separate course builds on the technologies used in Technology 5, as scholars begin to create projects using other open source programs such as glogster.com and voicethread.com. Our projects are student designed and teacher supervised as scholars learn to use a variety of technologies to demonstrate understanding of integrated materials. | In addition to reinforcing technology skills in core classes, scholars in this class learn how to podcast. In addition to creating audio recordings in language arts, scholars produce several pod-casts corresponding to their world topic focus of what it means to be human. Scholars also begin to use film editing software as they prepare for the Special Topics class in film-making. | In addition to continuing to use technology in core classes, eighth graders take their understanding to a new level, learning how to create their own web page. Each student produces a web page around the theme of how individuals can change the world. |
| 5th Grade Drama | 6th Grade Drama | 7th Grade Drama | 8th Grade Drama |
| Our arts focus at CCSG is on providing rich exploratory arts experiences for our scholars. These experiences are offered in partnership with artists and arts organization where possible. The performance process encourages the development of problem solving skills, group interaction, observation, communication and memory skills, self-awareness, and self-confidence. Fifth grade drama includes a study of African-American dance and drama, providing historical perspective. African American dance (night - 2nd Tri) | Sixth grade drama includes a study of Roman theatre, providing historical perspective and giving background for our culmination production. Roman Theater (2nd Tri) | This class combines the elements of drama and movement. Scholars learn preparation skills, build on problem solving skills, develop logical and intuitive thinking, and build self-awareness and self-confidence at a fragile time in their development. Seventh grade drama focuses on the production of a short musical theater piece. Musical Theater (2nd Tri) | This class is structured in the same way as the 7th grade class, building on the techniques and skills learned in 7th grade and introducing new scholars to these techniques and skills. The 8th grade performs a series of short plays that they have written as their final performance. CCSG Playwrights and Performances (2nd Tri) |
| 5th Grade Special Top | 6th Grade Special Topics | 7th Grade Special Topics | 8th Grade Special Top |
| Our special topics classes are intended to supplement our world topics classes by wrapping up the study of a particular question in a unique way. Fifth graders explore photography as a tool to study community and storytelling. They watch documentaries about great photographers and learn photography techniques. Then, they head outside and photograph their community. We expect to partner with The Light Factory for this program. Community in Charlotte (Day - 3rd Tri) | Sixth graders explore gardening and cooking while investigating questions of sustainability. As part of this course, they plant and cultivate a garden and they design and prepare a well-balanced meal for all scholars and teachers. Cooking for Life (3rd Tri) | In conjunction with their studies of what it means to be human, scholars explore digital film-making. They compile storyboards before producing films that explore human rights and issues of social justice. Human Rights on Film (3rd Tri) | Eighth graders complete an independent project that corresponds to the role of the individual’s ability to change the world. Scholars may study an individual who changed the world and present a paper, movie, or dramatic performance to demonstrate what they have learned. They may volunteer with a community organization. Alternatively, scholars may design their own project topic and submit it for approval before beginning the project. We want to see our scholars demonstrating community leadership and expect all independent projects to have this focus. |
| 5th Grade Service | 6th Grade Service | 7th Grade Service | 8th Grade Service |
| We believe service learning plays a significant role in developing young women into tomorrow’s community leaders. Several times a month, each grade enters the community to serve; this service is supported across the curriculum. 5th graders explore community, focusing especially feeding the homebound by serving at Friendship Trays. We examine stereotypes and discuss how to discover and enjoy our entire community. | Sixth grade service focuses on stewardship of the earth. We work with local environmental organizations to identify needs in the Charlotte area, including storm drain labeling, trash clean-up, etc. Scholars complete a project on recycling, going into the community and educating groups about the importance of recycling. We also care for a community garden. | The seventh grade explores community responsibility by exploring a range of human rights issues, including poverty. Scholars discuss poverty and examine the related issues of hunger, homelessness, addiction, lack of education, and health. Scholars serve at places like the Charlotte Rescue Mission and participate in other projects that promote awareness of human rights. | Eighth grade focuses on what individuals can do to make a difference. Service learning activities will be scholar driven, providing an opportunity for building planning, organization, and collaboration skills. Scholars may combine studies of oral history, photography and film-making with their 8th grade service learning. Students will also be expected to complete an independent project demonstrating their leadership. |
| 5th Grade PE/Health | 6th Grade PE/Health | 7th Grade PE/Hlth | 8th Grade PE/Hlth |
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| All physical education cases include discussions of healthy habits. The physical education program develops athletic skills while promoting self-confidence and sportsmanship. All physical education classes focus on physical activity, health, fitness, injury prevention, specific game skills, sportsmanship, and self-confidence. In order to expand our appreciation of cultures, we study a variety of games from around the world such as chigora danda, down, down, down, escargot, double dutch, stick pull, knee jump, seal hop, square dancing, handball, yoga, fencing, bocce ball and roman ball. We explore more traditional games and we prepare for participation in a Girls on the Run 5K. We also practice yoga daily. | All grades are combined for physical education. Older scholars have the opportunity to be leaders and the younger scholars enjoy the opportunity to learn from their older peers. We promote community by exploring a variety of cooperative games. See: http://www.mrgym.com/CooperativeGames.htm We participate in Girls on Track. | All physical education is school wide. Older scholars have the opportunity to be leaders and the younger scholars enjoy the opportunity to learn from their older peers. We continue our participation in Girls on Track. | All physical education is school wide. Older scholars have the opportunity to be leaders and the younger scholars enjoy the opportunity to learn from their older peers. Seventh and eighth graders are expected to help younger scholars get the most out of physical education. We continue our participation in Girls on Track. |
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