Brookewood middle School
Middle school students (grades 6-8) build on skills acquired in the lower grades. Starting in sixth grade, the English curriculum focuses heavily on critical reading, writing, and rhetoric. Math courses introduce algebra and other advanced math concepts. Science classes include life science, earth science, and physical science. Students take courses in history, geography, and world cultures. The religion curriculum in middle school focuses on the study of Scripture, both Old and New Testament. Students continue to study art, music, and Italian several times a week.
“Everyone becomes a scientist when they walk in my classroom.”
Middle School Curriculum
Mathematics
Brookewood’s Middle School math program is built on the solid foundation of the Saxon Mathematics series, known for its rigor, clarity, and emphasis on incremental learning with continual review. Students engage daily in brief, focused lectures followed by active problem-solving, reinforcing both new concepts and previously learned material. Frequent cumulative assessments and correction of mistakes help develop accuracy and confidence.
From Math 7/6 to Algebra 1, students explore a wide range of topics including geometry, exponents, and functions. Enrichment through mental math, puzzles, and the history of math adds depth and enjoyment. The Saxon approach also allows advanced students to progress beyond their grade level.
Science
At Brookewood School, Middle School science is rooted in curiosity, observation, and hands-on discovery. Building on the experiential approach of the Lower School, students in grades 6–8 explore Earth, Life, and Physical Sciences through active investigation, experimentation, and journaling.
Sixth grade focuses on Earth Science, encouraging students to think like scientists as they ask questions, test hypotheses, and observe the natural world using the scientific method.
In seventh grade, students delve into Life Science, studying cells, the human body, ecology, and the diversity of living organisms.
Eighth grade introduces Physical Science, covering foundational concepts in physics and chemistry such as motion, energy, electricity, and matter. Through a combination of textbook study, laboratory work, and inquiry-based learning, Brookewood students gain not only scientific knowledge but also confidence in thinking critically and exploring the world around them.
English
Brookewood’s Middle School English program guides students through a deepening exploration of literature, writing, and public speaking as they grow in maturity and intellectual independence.
In sixth grade, students encounter characters who move from childhood to adulthood, learning to write cohesive paragraphs and identify foundational poetic devices.
Seventh grade emphasizes storytelling and essay writing, as students craft original narratives and analyze myths and epics.
By eighth grade, students engage with themes of justice and freedom through classic American literature and speeches, learning to write well-structured essays, lead discussions, and deliver thoughtful presentations. Across all grades, students read widely and write regularly, sharpening their thinking and cultivating a love for language.
Religion
Brookewood’s Middle School Religion program invites students into a deeper understanding of their faith as they explore what it means to live as a follower of Christ.
Each grade level is centered on a distinct theme: sixth grade focuses on Living and Following Christ, with lessons on the nature of God, the Ten Commandments, the Eucharist, and the liturgical year.
In seventh grade, students examine how God reveals Himself through Revelation, the Incarnation, and the Sacraments in the context of Living a Life of Grace.
Eighth grade centers on Life in the Church, where students reflect on the role of the Church, the lives of the saints, moral virtue, and Christian vocation.
Through these years, students grow in theological understanding, spiritual maturity, and a desire to live their faith with joy and integrity.
History
Brookewood’s Middle School History curriculum offers students a broad and engaging foundation in American, global, and ancient history, with a strong emphasis on critical thinking and primary source analysis.
In sixth grade, students explore key moments in U.S. history through the study of fifty significant events, learning to examine historical narratives and documents with curiosity and care.
Seventh grade shifts focus to world geography, as students master the locations, capitals, and key facts of every country, culminating in a study of Maryland’s geography and topography.
Eighth grade returns to the ancient world for an in-depth study of European and Mediterranean civilizations, including Classical Greece, Rome, and the rise of Islam.
Each year fosters historical thinking, research, and writing skills, preparing students for high school-level inquiry and analysis.
Electives
Brookewood’s Middle School elective program supports the development of well-rounded students by offering enriching courses in physical education, visual art, and music.
In Physical Education, students engage in a variety of sports and movement activities while learning about health, nutrition, and overall wellness, with an emphasis on teamwork and active participation.
Art classes continue to develop students’ classical drawing and painting skills through focused practice in design principles and technique, laying the groundwork for success in upper school art.
In Music, all students participate in a non-selective choral class, preparing a wide range of repertoire—from ancient polyphonic chant and sacred music to lively show tunes featured in the school’s annual musical gala.
Italian
Brookewood’s Middle School foreign language program offers students the opportunity to study both Italian and Latin, building skills in communication, cultural understanding, and grammar.
Italian is taught in grades 6–8, with a strong emphasis on listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Students engage with Italian culture, geography, and Catholic traditions while gaining vocabulary and grammar skills that reinforce their understanding of English as well. By eighth grade, students deepen their reading comprehension and review language structures through more advanced texts.
In Latin I, students are introduced to the classical world through a study of Latin grammar, vocabulary, and Roman culture, gaining insight into the roots of Western civilization and the foundations of the English language.
