Middle School

Fifth graders are learners. As writers, they are constantly generating and revising new work. As readers, they tackle more complex, longer works of literature and non-fiction.

As scientists, they use their observational powers, deductive reasoning, and knowledge of scientific principles to explore the impact of weather-related environmental issues during their global climate change unit. The student investigations culminate in a formal debate to determine which environmental issue should be addressed immediately by lawmakers and citizens.

As mathematicians, they advance beyond whole-number calculations to perform operations with fractions and decimals, and to convert seamlessly between the two. They devise research projects and conduct statistical analysis to connect math with real life applications.

Sixth grade at Moses Brown is a dynamic and exciting year. Beginning with a four-day trip with classmates and teachers, students quickly learn that they are capable of far more than they ever dreamed.

In dynamic and interdisciplinary classes, books come alive as they stage their own criminal trial (complete with rules of evidence) and living-history exhibits. Math and science push them to explore, experiment, and analyze data to understand soil erosion and cell biology. They probe the technical and societal opportunities and challenges posed by the internet, and how to be safe, responsible citizens online.

In clubs and after-school activities, they can extend their learning by creating music, acting in a play, tinkering with robotics, or discovering a new sport or activity. 

Through it all, they’ll have daily coaching in a morning advisory that builds powerful, lasting relationships with caring adults and classmates, engendering a sense of community that lasts a lifetime. Advisors partner with students and parents to support and develop the unique talents of each learner.

"I wish I could do that." That's what many parents say about seventh grade at Moses Brown. Beginning with a four-day trip to the woods with classmates and teachers, students quickly develop lasting friendships with peers and adults that sustain them throughout the year.

Their classes are frequently bound together in interdisciplinary bundles that blend literature, mathematics, science, and social studies in nuanced and multi-faceted explorations of complex issues. Whether reading To Kill A Mockingbird while learning about economics and the Great Depression  or exploring the tundra of Journey: The Amazing Story of OR-7 while studying ecological and political issues (complete with a zoom visit from a real live rancher), they are getting a taste of immersive scholarship and the deep learning that occurs when subjects are connected and address real world issues.

Of course, they're just beginning their teen years, so their social and emotional development is of paramount importance. In daily advisory, they learn from (and lean on) trusted grownups and peers to build a lasting sense of community, and a sense of belonging that helps them grow through the social challenges of early adolescence. 

Eight graders are on the cusp of high school, and they grapple with more complicated ideas and challenges in preparation for that big step. They are honing their self-advocacy skills and self-awareness. Their personal identities emerge as they find their voice and their confidence in themselves builds.  Every day, they begin by refreshing their relationships with other students and trusted adults in advisory, as they navigate the challenges of growing up.

Whether working with the nationally-syndicated program StoryCorps or applying mathematical principles to real-world questions of physics and entrepreneurship, they are frequently reminded that their studies are not just academic exercises, but rather a growing empowerment to affect and improve the world around them. 

Our eighth grade student-leaders set the example for our middle school community as ambassadors, gracious hosts, and mentors to our younger community members.