The Bodine School

The Middle School Program (grades 6-8) is departmentalized with students attending the following classes: science, math, social studies, and a language block. With the exception of the language block, classes are 50-55 minutes in length and vary in size from 4 to 13 students per class. Language block integrates the remediation of basic language skills with grade level literature and writing instruction in order to prepare students to mainstream into more traditional school settings by the end of 8th grade. Students are assessed regularly and instruction is differentiated for individuals using a combination of one-on-one instruction and technological tools. Language block is taught by trained Orton-Gillingham instructors, and the skills learned in language structure are practiced and reinforced in all other academic classes. Saxon Math is used for math instruction at the middle school level. The social studies curriculum is taught on a three year rotation that introduces elements of geography, world history, American history, civics and economics. In social studies, students work both individually and in cooperative groups using technology to research and create projects for presentation to the large group. Science, also taught as a three-year rotation, includes physical science, earth and environmental science, and life science. During science class, students take part in regular laboratory experimentation and invention to enhance the textbook instruction.

The middle school concept is employed beyond core academics in order to enable students to address learning issues while acquiring the skills to succeed in more traditional academic environments. Students begin each day with a centers program in which they are assigned individual academic activities according to their needs. Working at their own pace, students complete activities as the teaching staff circulate to observe, offer assistance, and provide feedback. A daily skills block involves large group instruction followed by small group discussion of and practice applying academic strategies, recognizing learning differences, self-advocating, and engaging in character education. At the end of each day, students are offered art, library, physical education and computer classes on a weekly rotation. Small group or individual tutorials occur as needed during the morning and afternoon. For the purpose of providing assistance as well as a quiet place for students to complete homework, a proctored after school study hall takes place four days per week. During this time students have access to their teachers as well as the library and laptop computers. A weekly advisory period allows students to meet individually with their advisors to discuss goals, progress, and concerns, and enables them to address organization of materials and assignments. Music, drama, service projects, inspirational speakers and other exploratory activities are introduced through beyond-the-classroom Flex Day experiences as well as community outreach programs.