Middle School
Oakridge's Middle School curriculum seeks to prepare students for the challenges of high school. In English, Language Arts, students develop not only an appreciation for literature, but also the ability to think critically about literature. Through analytical compositions and creative-writing projects, students develop an advanced understanding of abstract concepts such as symbolism, metaphor and irony.
Oakridge's mathematics program introduces students to algebra, providing honors-track classes for advanced students. In eighth grade, honors students have the opportunity to begin studying geometry. Upon completion of the honors math track, most students are able to transition to algebra II or honors geometry at the high-school level.
In social studies, students explore global and American history from a variety of perspectives. Students engage in service learning through school-wide service projects and develop academic autonomy and critical-thinking skills through activities such as debates that entertain multiple perspectives.
Science classes emphasize the scientific method and provide students with countless investigative opportunities, from designing and conducting their own science experiments to participating in dissection labs. Students begin with a broad overview of science topics, developing a basic understanding of biology, ecology, chemistry, and physics. As they progress through middle school, students focus more closely on Earth Science, exploring the dynamic features of the Earth's surface, water cycle, and atmosphere, and Life Science, which includes the study of the six kingdoms of life as well as genetics and heredity. In eighth grade, students revisit chemistry and physics in greater depth, studying atomic theory, chemical reactions, and the theories of Newton and Einstein. Learning is reinforced through hands-on experiments.
Middle School students also study Spanish, developing proficiency through total immersion in the language. Interactive projects, such as skits, teach students conversational skills in fun and exciting ways. Students are also exposed to Hispanic history, civilization, and current events in order to develop an understanding of the cultures that inform the language.