Middle School

Sixth graders make the transition from lower to middle school with a focus on taking responsibility for their studies and personal decisions. Academic classes integrate fundamental learning skills - organization, time management, note taking, study strategies, and setting goals - introduced through our Life Skills modules. In addition, digital literacy is reinforced as our 1:1 Chromebook configuration begins at this level. Students are encouraged to think critically and to reflect thoughtfully as they build foundations for success in and out of the classroom.

The sixth grade English curriculum is designed to encourage reading and reflects our interdisciplinary approach. The year starts off with The Giver, but much of the literature selected is representative of the civilizations studied in History, including The Egypt Game and the play Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare. With an emphasis on “reading to learn,” students identify cultural literacy elements, as well as inference, foreshadowing, and cause & effect through various genres. Several forms of writing and poetry are introduced, but the focus is on writing strong paragraphs incorporating evidence. Grammar, vocabulary, and Greek and Latin roots are integrated into each quarter’s units.

Using the methods of historians & archaeologists, sixth grade History students uncover the wonders of Ancient Civilizations and recognize their influence on today’s world. Beginning with prehistoric human evolution & migration, students develop cultural literacy & critical thinking through explorations in ancient Mesopotamia, the Indus River Valley, China, Egypt, Greece, and Rome. Reading to learn, effective note taking, and research, writing, and presentation skills are introduced and reinforced throughout the course. Engaging projects and literary connections, including an archaeological dig, in-class reading of Black Ships Before Troy (a version of The Iliad), paper mache Greek pottery, and a cross-curricular look at Shakespeare's Julius Caesar, inspire a deeper understanding of the past.

Sixth grade Math is a concept-based study that aims to increase literacy in mathematics beyond procedural methods. Using Math in Focus (Course I), we work at mastering the following mathematical concepts in greater detail by going from concrete to abstract: numbers on number line, prime factorization, squares and cubes, absolute value, operations with decimals, and statistics. Students also study ratio, rates, and percents before beginning a Pre-Algebra study of expressions and equations. Integrating geometry units, such as areas of polygons, 2D quadrilaterals, area and volume of solids, and circumference of a circle complete Course I.

Building on our FOSS Science Program at the Lower School, sixth grade Science students cement core ideas from the Physical, Earth, and Life Sciences through introductory investigations and deeper exploration. The practice of authentic science and engineering methods is reinforced in units on weather & water, the diversity of life, and human systems interactions. Groups participate in engineering design challenges, The Penguin Project and Building an Aqueduct, applying what is being learned.

Sixth grade Spanish begins a deeper dive into the language and culture of the Spanish-speaking world.  This class is designed with an emphasis on the transition to using Spanish exclusively in class. The curriculum focuses on learning relevant vocabulary, correct pronunciation, and conjugating verbs in the present tense. Communication and writing skills are learned through e-resources, songs and language-focused games.  A photo collage project, Español en San Diego, helps students recognize the importance of learning Spanish and the impact of Hispanic culture within our community. 

Developmentally, seventh graders are primed to recognize the importance of connections academically and socially. During this stretch year, our students hone techniques introduced in sixth grade as they are applied in higher-order ways. Academic classes are designed with an interdisciplinary approach to ensure that learning is rigorous and relevant.  Socially, they practice the tools of problem solving and healthy conflict resolution as they build positive relationships with their peers.

Seventh grade English highlights coming-of-age literature through a variety of voices and experiences. Novels are selected because of classical appeal, relation to history, or connection to another genre being studied.  Students read short stories and write an original narrative. The Samurai’s Tale is read in conjunction with History.  An introduction to playwriting and the Holocaust is experienced as they read the play Anne Frank. Students continue the study of Shakespeare reading A Midsummer’s Night Dream, and an in-depth study of Lord of the Flies ends the school year.  The writing program includes the study of grammar, sentence structure, creative writing, expository paragraphs, and a poetry unit. 

The seventh grade History curriculum begins with the Fall of the Roman Empire and delves into different empires and cultures around the world during Medieval Times.  The first semester focuses on African Kingdoms and Islamic Empires, while readings of A Long Walk to Water and Shooting Kabul invite a modern perspective. An in-depth dive into Feudal Japan includes a research project on Japanese culture and an interdisciplinary unit with English. Later, MesoAmerican cultures of the Olmecs, Maya, Aztec and Inca are discussed and learned.  The course ends with a return to European history and a study of the Middle Ages and the Renaissance.  The course incorporates writing short answers, expository research reports, note taking, art projects and lively discussion.

Using Math in Focus (Course II), seventh grade Pre-Algebra students build on the work from Math in Focus (Course I), taught in sixth grade, to prepare for Algebra in eighth grade. Course II focuses on the following areas of study: rational number operations, algebraic expression, equations, and inequalities, direct and inverse proportions, statistics, and probability. Geometry is integrated into the second half of the year with a study of angles, scaled drawing, and geometric construction.

The year’s theme of “Building Connections” may be best represented in the seventh grade Science course. Students complete an integrated study of chemical interactions, earth history, and populations & ecosystems. They continue to acquire and apply the fundamental concepts of science in an inquiry-based environment and complete various labs and engineering projects. The Invertebrate Odyssey Project (IOP) is a highlight - a cross-curricular undertaking, including research in Science, scale drawings in Math, metal work in Industrial Arts, and a multimedia presentation. Classes also consider the causes and implications of climate change, creating infographics and writing their own pieces of science fiction!

Seventh grade Spanish students continue to practice speaking, listening, reading and writing in Spanish, building on vocabulary and mechanics learned in sixth grade Spanish.  Units are designed around practical vocabulary and build basic grammar foundations. A mix of resources are utilized to engage all learners, including lectures, e-resources, songs, and language-focused games.  Various cultures of the Spanish-speaking world are explored through field trips, an art project featuring alebrijes, and in-class activities.

Eighth graders are challenged to fine tune their academic and social skills in preparation for high school.  Academic classes call for independent thinking and teach social responsibility with a focus on civics. Literature selections and projects invite learners to consider their role in the community, country, world, and universe. In the last year of middle school, students are provided leadership opportunities and are expected to be role models on campus. Our graduates matriculate to advanced programs at San Diego’s finest public, private, and parochial high schools.  

In eighth grade English, students express themselves through spirited class discussion, expository essays, creative pieces, narratives, and original poetry. Novels focus on the voice of the narrator and point-of-view experience; students read and analyze The True Diary of a Part-time Indian, To Kill a Mockingbird and Two Who Survived. Continuing their study of Shakespeare, students delve into the tragedy of Romeo and Juliet. The year culminates in a “Book Club” project with novels addressing events of the World War II era. Throughout the year, students sharpen various tools of the writing process including grammar, sentence structure, and editing. 

Eighth grade American History students begin with the Age of Exploration and culminate their school year with the Civil Rights Movement.  Students are challenged to experience history from others’ point of view and to explore themes of democracy, capitalism, manifest destiny, industrialization and cultural diversity.  Projects are designed to mix modern thought with historical content. Working in groups, students become Founding Mothers and Fathers by creating a new country and writing an original Constitution. This culminating research project centers on the 1960’s Civil Rights Movement; students research and write an MLA report, create a presentation and build an original monument. In the spring, a class trip to Boston and New York City brings the year’s learning to life.

Our eighth grade Math curriculum is a first-year Algebra course.  Students learn the fundamental algebraic concepts of variables and functions.  In particular, linear and quadratic functions are addressed. Examples of  real-life situations are presented, and students learn to solve these problems using the methods and techniques of algebra.  Emphasis is placed on justifying steps in the solution process, writing proper equations, drawing graphs, and applying computational skills and reasoning to evaluate numerical quantities.

Beginning with active investigation, our eighth grade Science students apply core ideas to an integrated study of the discipline. Utilizing sound science and engineering practices, classes explore Physical, Earth, and Life Science themes. In-depth study includes units on heredity & adaptation, electromagnetic force, gravity & kinetic energy, waves, and planetary science. The skills of respectful discourse are co-taught with English, as teams ask and debate relevant ethical issues.  Developing questions and finding answers is a core theme of this course.

Eighth grade Spanish focuses on preparing students for placement in high school Spanish.  Present tense conjugations are reviewed before beginning the study of past tense, reflexive verbs, direct and indirect object pronouns, and irregular verbs.  To aid students in achieving communicative goals, skits and group work are mixed into the year's curriculum.  Original Amate bark art is created to connect students with Mexican folk art and culture.  The year culminates with reading and discussing a novel written in Spanish.

The Middle School Physical Education program is designed to offer all students the opportunity to participate in physical education or to be a part of an interscholastic sport. Our interscholastic sports help transition students from recreational athletics to high school programs.  More than eighty percent of the students participate in at least one sport, with most competing all three seasons.  During the last four weeks of the school year we offer Electives. These are designed and led by the teachers to introduce students to some of their favorite physical activities, and have included golf, surfing, yoga, hiking, indoor soccer, and beach games in the past.

CURRENT ATHLETIC & PHYSICAL EDUCATION OFFERINGS
Fall (Flag Football, Cross Country, Cheer, Yoga & Fitness)
Winter (Soccer, Boys Basketball, Intramural Beach Volleyball)
Spring (Track & Field, Girls Basketball, Tennis, Intramural Sports)
Electives (For example: golf, surfing, yoga, hiking, indoor/beach soccer, beach games)

The exploration of the arts is an integral part of the Middle School curriculum.  As Warren-Walker School is committed to developing well-rounded scholars and citizens our students are required to participate in each of the following artistic disciplines on a rotating basis.

At Middle School, our Life Skills & Enrichment program is facilitated by a weekly grade-level meeting to provide a venue for class discussions on a variety of topics which are particularly applicable to adolescents. Most modules are also integrated with and reinforced through our regular classes. A number of service-learning opportunities round out this robust element of our program.

6th Grade - Taking Responsibility

Life Skills

• Fostering Friendships and Creating an Inclusive Environment
• Goal Setting
• Organization, Time Management, and Study Strategies
• Nutrition & Exercise, Sexual Health Education, and Substance Abuse Resilience

Enrichment

• Information Technology
• WW School of Young Entrepreneurs (add link to Young E)
• Ludology (Game Studies)

7th Grade - Building Connections

Life Skills

• Conflict Resolution
• Anxiety & Stress Management
• Sexual Health Education and Substance Abuse Resilience
• Introduction to CPR

Enrichment

• Robotics
• Geography

8th Grade - Acting with Integrity

Life Skills

• Mental Health & Wellness
• What to Expect in High School
• Sexual Health Education and Substance Abuse Resilience
• Portrait of a Graduate Reflections

Enrichment

• Public Speaking
• Financial Literacy
• Photography & Media Arts
• Yearbook

Warren-Walker School is committed to positive citizenship which leads to academic success and strong leadership.  As part of our Schoolwide Learner Outcomes, commitment to community service is valued as we foster the growth of respectful and responsible citizens.

• Writing letters to military service members & veterans
• Pillow making & Brenda’s Blankets for the unhoused
• An Adopt-a-Family holiday program
• Creating We Care bags for Meals on Wheels
• DIY dog toys for the San Diego Humane Society
• GotSneakers recycling program

Each Middle School student is required to earn a minimum of eight hours of Community Service each year.  While students earn hours through on-campus projects, other approved activities can include service out in the larger community, races or walks for charitable causes, and volunteer work that benefits the environment. On average, Middle School students give over 1,500 hours each year, demonstrating that making a positive difference is part of our culture!

All Middle School students attend a 3-day/2-night week of outdoor education camp the second week of the school year, each with a specific focus. 

6th Grade Camp -- SeaCamp

SEACAMP San Diego is a marine science camp whose goal is "to supplement traditional marine biology classroom study by providing hands-on education programs for students of all ages". Our students will participate in hands-on labs and workshops with interactive field activities, such as snorkeling, boat trip, kayaking and boogie boarding. SEACAMP's marine science program covers a wide variety of subjects including marine ecology, physical oceanography and marine biology, ranging from the largest marine mammals to the smallest plankton!

7th/8th Grade Camp -- Pali Institute 

Located in the San Bernardino mountains, the Pali Institute introduces students to outdoor education through activities such as cooking with solar power, exploring trails, and weightlessly flying through the air. Through these experiences (separate curricula for 7th & 8th grades), students will gain a greater understanding of the natural world around them. Activities include: Hiking, ornithology, outdoor skills, forest ecology, orienteering and archery. 

The aim of Warren-Walker's GullsTreks program is to provide our middle school students with the opportunity to practice independence & to experience different cultures through travel here in the United States and abroad. We believe that challenging adolescents to look beyond themselves helps them to prepare for successful futures in an ever-expanding world. Lessons learned through travel with fellow students and teachers are invaluable and authentically implement our character education, foreign language, social studies & science curricula.

Our teacher-led tours take are open to current WWMS 6th, 7th & 8th graders via application and interview. 

Current Trips:

Past Trips: 

As providers of an outstanding education from prekindergarten through eighth grade, we are dedicated to assisting our graduating students with admissions counseling and applications for our local independent, parochial, and public high schools.  Parents and students begin thinking about high school as early as sixth grade, but it is after a parent/student meeting at the end of  seventh grade, that they really begin to focus on the process. Eighth grade students and parents prepare in the Fall of that year with a kick-off  gathering at which the options of schools that students might attend are presented.  

As each independent school offers varied opportunities, this dissemination of this information is vital. At that meeting in the Fall, the Middle School Head distributes a spreadsheet with dates, deadlines, and contact information for the schools most frequently attended by our graduates as well as a list of people in the area who offer High School Placement Test tutoring.  Warren-Walker has a tutor who has provided coaching for both the ISEE/Independent School Entrance Exam (for independent schools) and the HSPT/High School Placement Test (for parochial schools) for almost twenty years, eighteen years as a Warren-Walker Middle School English teacher. Later in the fall, students are prepared for their admissions interview through one-on-one coaching, and partake in individual family meetings with the Middle School Head to discuss best application choices.

Independent and parochial high school testing occurs in late December and January for all those schools in this area. Results are shared with each student and parents within several weeks.  Public high schools do not require entrance exams, but some do require placement tests for English, Math, and Spanish.  Most all Warren-Walker graduates are placed in advanced and/or honors classes going in to their freshman year of high school.

March is the big month when students are notified of acceptance. Our graduates frequently are  accepted to their first choice school, and many students are accepted at multiple schools.  We are proud of our commitment to making sure that students not only attain success while attending Warren-Walker, but also their continued success in high school and beyond!