Math

Sixth grade Mathematics focuses on introducing and developing algebra skills and ratios and proportions. The students build upon previous knowledge and grow in their algebraic understanding to better describe algebraic relationships. The curriculum prepares students for the NYS Mathematics Exam in the spring.

Science

Trinity Regional’s Middle School Science curriculum follows the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and New York learning performance standards which encompasses three core content areas: life science, physical science, and Earth and space sciences. 

In sixth grade, our focus is on Earth and Space Science.  Our studies promote phenomena-based learning as we explore topics including Earth’s Systems (air, energy, and water), the Dynamic Earth, and the Geological History of our Earth.  In addition, we study Earth’s natural resources and conclude with Life Science topics that explore the human impact on Earth’s systems and ecosystem dynamics.  

English Language Arts

Students take the final step across the bridge from learning to read to reading to learn. Students will read many different genres.  Comprehension skills such as cause and effect, inferencing, chronological order, and author’s purpose are reviewed through a variety of literary and informational texts.  Reading strategies are practiced, such as monitoring, visualizing, connecting, and predicting.  New concepts such as conflict, plot diagrams, and figurative language are introduced.  Students generate numerous pieces of writing, including narratives, arguments, and expository responses to texts.  There is an emphasis on vocabulary acquisition, spelling, and grammar. Students are also well-prepared for the New York State English Language Arts Assessment.

Social Studies

Students will study World History. Ancient civilizations such as Mesopotamia, Greece, Egypt, Rome, and China will be explored. Students will also study the Renaissance and European Industrial Revolution.

Math

All 8th grade students take Regents level Algebra 1. This course culminates in a Regents examination in June. Algebra 1 is critical element in secondary mathematics education. Topics introduced in Algebra 1 provides the foundation students require for future success in high school mathematics, critical thinking, and problem solving. The primary goal in Algebra 1 is to help students transfer their concrete mathematical knowledge to more abstract algebraic generalizations. Algebra 1 topics focus on linear, quadratic, and exponential functions and also introduce students to high school level statistics.

Science

The living environment is a New York state regents course. The eighth grade students will prepare to take the regents in June as they study topics such as ecology, evolution, cell structure, biochemistry and the human body.

English Language Arts

Students read challenging texts across genres, as well as informational texts, in preparation for high school. Comprehension skills such as cause and effect, inferencing, chronological order, and author’s purpose are reviewed. Reading strategies are practiced, such as monitoring, visualizing, connecting, and predicting. Students deeply analyze texts, focusing on plot, characterization, conflict, and figurative language. Students generate numerous pieces of writing, including narratives, arguments, and expository responses to texts. There is an emphasis on vocabulary acquisition, and grammar, as well as revising and editing. Students are well-prepared for the Catholic High School Entrance Exam.

Social Studies

American History continues in 8th grade, where students will examine Reconstruction, Westward Expansion, The Progressive Era, Imperialism and World War I, The Great Depression, World War II, and Postwar America.