"There are, in the end, only two main ways human beings learn: by observing others (directly or vicariously) and by trying things out for themselves."
Deborah Meier, The Power of Their Ideas

During the Middle School years (5th-8th grades), inquiry, research, integrated studies, hands-on experience, meaningful work, respect for ideas and differences, and a strong focus on the value of the arts and community are all employed in an historical context.

The social studies curriculum now focuses on in-depth studies of civilizations in other times and places. Particular attention is paid to the natural environment—how the geography and climate of a region shape a community's economy and cultural expression. The 5th graders study Ancient Egypt, while the 6th graders explore Medieval Europe and Japan, during that same time. The 7th grade begins its studies with Ancient China, and then during the second half of the year, the concepts of democracy are first introduced when Ancient Greece is the focus. The 8th graders engage in the traditional examination of American History and government, examining the ideals and realities of democracy.

The regular study of domestic and international current events begins in the 5th grade and continues throughout the Middle School. Weekly discussions or debates on current local and world issues encourage critical newspaper and magazine reading. In 7th & 8th grade, practice in formulating and presenting informed personal opinions based on research from multiple sources results in a variety of oral and written reports and debates.

In keeping with the Principles and Standards of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM), math at Stevens "stretches the middle grades program beyond a preoccupation with number," emphasizing algebra and geometry. Throughout the program, attention is given to accuracy, study habits, organization, clear and complete written expression of mathematical ideas, and test taking skills. Concepts are investigated via individual assignments, small group problem solving and class discussions. Students are introduced to graphing calculators, to reinforce their understanding and to allow them to progress faster with mathematical operations. The goal is to lay a solid foundation for high school mathematics, to prepare the students to enter Algebra II courses as freshmen, and to foster the joy and creative expression that students bring to math and that mathematicians experience in their work.

The goal of the language arts program at Stevens is to nurture confident and competent readers and writers. The four core areas established in the earlier grades—writing, literature study, independent reading and language-arts skills—continue to be addressed in the Middle School. Along with the reinforcement of skills, teachers provide a language and literature rich environment at all ages. Much attention is paid to expository writing, essay construction and research reports. Literature circles stimulate discussion of plot, setting, and character development in varied genres. Students receive practice in listening and oral presentation skills in the context of language arts lessons and throughout other subject areas.

At Stevens, the paramount objective for science in all grades is to help students use natural curiosity to formulate questions about the environment—locally and globally, and within the context of their social studies—and to find answers. In the middle school years, science becomes more formalized and a series of texts, coupled with kits and basic lab equipment, ensure that the inquiries include hands-on experiments and other explorations utilizing the scientific method. In the 5th through 8th grades, scientific exploration includes soil structure, irrigation in the Nile valley, alchemy in the Middle Ages, climate and weather, chemistry and life science. Issues of substance abuse are also addressed, sometimes with the assistance of visiting professionals.

Testing
Although independent schools are not required to administer standardized tests, Stevens recognizes the need for students to be exposed to this form of assessment and to practice specific test-taking skills. The Head of School administers the Iowa Test of Basic Skills to the 3rd & 5th grades , and the CTPIII to the 7th grade. Both 7th and 8th graders practice testing skills within the context of their class work, and the 8th graders take the ISEE (Independent School Entrance Examination) as part of their high school application process. Test scores are usually confirmation of what teachers already know about students' learning styles and are shared only with parents and never discussed in school.

Stevens Cooperative School
301 Garden Street, Hoboken • 201.792.3688
80 Pavonia Avenue at Newport, Jersey City, • 201.626.4020