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The transition from the warmth and intimacy of Junior School into
the wider, more demanding world of Middle School is facilitated
by a structure that has been designed to provide for both stability
and for personal growth. In Middle 1 and 2, each child's homeroom
teacher is also his/her teacher for two major (core) subjects. In
the subsequent two years of Middle School, each student's homeroom
teacher is also a major-subject teacher. This structure provides
for consistency and support, while fostering each child's evolving
sense of academic responsibility and independence. In addition,
a skilled team of counselors is available to help students deal
with developmental as well as academic issues.
Since the middle years are such an important time for exploration
and adventure, Middle School students attend annual camps, during
which they engage in new outdoor activities, nature studies and
social experiences. Middle School students also go on many different
field trips, exploring New York City's many cultural resources.
The Middle School curriculum builds upon the basics learned in
previous years, adding new subjects and additional language options.
The Humanities curriculum encompasses both geography and history,
enabling students to perceive themselves, their community and their
world in an ever-widening perspective. In English, Middle School
students read world poetry and explore works of literature from
many other countries and cultures.
Health education is an important component of the Middle School
curriculum, offering students opportunities to understand their
bodies, to learn about nutrition and about such global health issues
as pollution, and to learn how to cope with new and challenging
social situations. And because social relations are paramount for
this age group, the Middle School lounge gives students a place
of their own to meet and to congregate. Special Middle School activities,
such as the annual car wash and a talent show, reinforce students'
sense of belonging.
UNIS places high value on the teaching of foreign languages. At
the Middle 3 level, students are encouraged to begin learning a
third language, in addition to French or Spanish. Students may choose from
among eight different modern language options.
The third-floor library provides Middle School students with a
broad and exciting range of reading materials, as well as an opportunity
to explore the state-of-the-art research facilities, including a
sophisticated CD-ROM information retrieval system. Middle School
students are encouraged to work in pairs and in small groups, as
well as on individual projects, in all subject areas.
Art, music, physical education are intrinsic to the Middle School
program, offering students a wide range of opportunities for physical
and esthetic growth. There are ample choices for learning to play
musical instruments, for participating in choirs and ensembles,
and for becoming involved in sports activities.
Technology instruction and integration are important facets of
the Middle School curriculum. Computing takes on more active role.
While building upon previous skills, the curriculum adds new features.
A newspaper is created in Middle One. Middle Two explores the Irish
Experience using databases as research tools. Programming becomes
more specific using Lego robotics to continue Logo instruction in
Middle Three and Four Enrichment classes, while Middle Four computing
classes add a more complex programming language to the mix. Emphasis
is also given to transferring computing skills to interdisciplinary
learning via the internet. Successful Middle School students develop
a high degree of self-discipline, preparing them both socially and
academically for the rigorous demands of high school.
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