Middle School
Middle School Philosophy
Middle School children are moving developmentally from an adult-centered perspective to a wider view of the world where their own ideas and interactions with peers are crucial. These young people must be educated in a way that taps into their growing understanding while supporting their questioning and exploration of their world. Curiosity, learning, and caring are all highly valued. The Middle School faculty work to develop a curriculum, a personalized approach, and a supportive relationship that will meet the specific needs of these students.
Our Middle School teachers share a love of curiosity and imagination that models innovative learning behavior for our students and builds a strong sense of identity. This identity helps to create an environment where children want to belong, collaborate, and contribute. The growth mindset also allows for innovative and creative curriculum development. Community gatherings, lunch, and clubs contribute to the sense of community, collegiality, and interdependence of teachers and students.
The Middle School schedule emphasizes the rigor of core academic classes, including math, science, English, history, and world language, as well as physical education, health and wellness, art, and music, including chorus, band, and orchestra, and we have ample time for daily recess and communal lunch. Character development, physical development, and social-emotional development concerns are addressed in Advisory, Community Gatherings, and special presentations. Key to the ethos of Middle School and an integral signpost for daily instruction is the sense of joy and wonder that comes from a nourishing learning environment.
Technology is integrated into our curriculum as a tool for learning through the rollout of 1:1 Chromebooks. Integral to a successful and robust 1:1 program is instruction in digital citizenship, acceptable use, and exceptional use (see Chromebooks section below). We also continue to look for ways to incorporate design thinking into the curriculum, where project-based learning, public speaking skills, and critical thinking are emphasized.
Curriculum Overview
The faculty develop a robust curriculum with a personalized approach and a supportive relationship that will meet the needs of our students. Our teachers model innovative learning, teach through differentiated instruction, and coach students to build a strong sense of identity, which helps to create an environment where children want to belong, collaborate, and contribute.
Key features of our program include hands-on experiential learning, public speaking skills through projects and presentations, and leadership skills. We develop these skills progressively through their Middle School experience, starting small and building to signature keynote presentations, such as the 8th-grade speech, the History Nexus project, and the Sludge Lab in Science (more on these in the curriculum tiles). In addition to achieving excellence in our academic program, all students study visual arts, performance arts, health and wellness, and physical education, and engage in social-emotional learning through our Advisory program and community-building initiatives.
6th Grade English
In sixth-grade English, students are prompted to ask questions and develop ideas, which they support with facts and details from their research and reading. Writing instruction focuses on mastering skills from word-level (parts of speech) to sentence-level (subject/object/verb) to paragraph-level (topic sentence, body sentences, closing sentence) structure. Students will focus on supportive sentences and details to capture the reader’s attention. Students also participate in a grammar program to further develop their writing skills.
Students generate argumentative writing in response to shared texts, and they explore the writing process by planning, drafting, revising, and editing their written work. They explore various cultures through a variety of genres, such as novels, short stories, and poems, with the overarching goal of developing strong readers, writers, speakers, and listeners.
Signature Experiences in 6th Grade
- Sixth-Grade Speech: This three- to five-minute book presentation is designed to teach students confidence and public speaking, but it also focuses on research, structure, and writing in preparation for the seventh-grade speech.
- New York City Trip: Every fall, the sixth grade visits New York City, tours a museum, and watches a Broadway show. This is a class bonding experience that ties to our curriculum and the sixth-grade play.
- Sixth-Grade Play: Each year, the sixth-grade students have the opportunity to showcase their acting skills in a performance for their families and fellow classmates. The sixth-grade play allows the students’ creativity to flourish through collaboration, develops their public speaking skills, and brings literature to life on stage.
7th Grade English
In seventh-grade English, students read and respond to both fiction and nonfiction novels, short stories, plays, and poetry. The focus for comprehension is on the higher-order thinking skills of comparison and contrast, analysis, synthesis, and prediction. Students continue learning to support their thinking with specific details and quotes from the shared texts. They demonstrate understanding through projects, class activities, discussions, writing performance, and other assessments.
Students continue their development by writing in a variety of genres for a variety of audiences. In expository writing, students focus on developing arguments and supporting those arguments. In creative writing, they craft stories that follow a plot line and incorporate a variety of literary and stylistic devices. Students continue to explore the writing process by planning, drafting, revising, and editing their written work. In seventh grade, students begin writing in long form. They write expository essays that include introductions, organized body paragraphs, and conclusions. Students write narratives that have a clear beginning, middle, and end.
Signature Experiences in 7th Grade
- PALS Program: Monthly visits to the Early Childhood to read and play with their PAL. The culminating activity for students is to publish a children’s book to present to their PAL.
- Seventh-Grade Speech: This three-minute persuasive speech is designed to teach students confidence and public speaking, but it also focuses on research, structure, and writing in preparation for the eighth-grade speech.
8th English 8 English
In eighth-grade English, students read and respond to both fiction and nonfiction novels, short stories, poetry, and plays. The focus for comprehension remains on higher-order thinking skills of comparison and contrast, analysis, synthesis, and prediction. Students support their thinking with specific details and quotes from shared texts as well as literary research. They demonstrate understanding through projects, class activities, discussions, writing performances, and other assessments.
Eighth-grade students write in a variety of genres for a range of audiences. In expository writing, students develop reasoned arguments. In creative writing, they craft text that incorporates a variety of literary and stylistic devices. Students work toward mastery of the writing process (planning, drafting, revising, and editing. Eighth graders continue studying the essay.
During the year, students work on several projects in conjunction with history classes to enable them to make connections between novels/memoirs and their historical contexts.
Signature Experiences in 8th Grade
- Lower School Editing Buddies: eighth-grade students pair with first and second-graders to help edit and celebrate writing and reading. Buddies meet 5-6 times throughout the year.
- 8th Grade Speech: This five-minute persuasive speech is designed to teach students confidence and public speaking, but it also focuses on research, structure, persuasion, and writing. Students present their speeches to the Middle School student body.
6th Grade History
This course is designed to be an introduction to the study of history at the middle school level and will focus on multiple areas. The introductory unit “The World And You” examines concepts of identity, cultural awareness, anti-racism, and media bias. The focus then shifts to different regions of the world and concepts of geography, culture, religion, and government across the globe and throughout history during the second and third terms. The course concludes with a comprehensive unit on Delaware, with an eye to eventual success in US History later in MS. Skills we will focus on include reading comprehension, critical thinking, presentation, creative analysis, writing, research, and primary source analysis.
7th Grade History
Content coverage of the 7th Grade United States History course begins with an analysis of three different cultures combining in North America in the 16th and 17th centuries through the colonial and revolutionary eras, continues with an examination of the Constitution and the growth of the early Republic, then moves through the sectionalism of the mid 19th century to the Civil War, and ultimately concludes with a consideration of Reconstruction and the Gilded Age as the end of the 19th century you approached. Particular emphasis is placed on evaluating the human impact of themes and events in the development of the United States. Students are encouraged to connect past events to the present and future state of the nation.
Skill development places increased emphasis on forming, developing, and supporting opinions regarding important historical issues, past and present. The role of factual details in support of opinions expressed is also highlighted. Public speaking opportunities in the spring augment a year-long focus on developing writing skills in the expression of individual points of view. Fundamentals of research process and product in both individual and group settings are introduced.
8th Grade History
Content coverage of the 8th Grade United States History course begins with an analysis of the United States’ emergence as an international power from the end of the 19th century through World War I, addresses the changes and challenges of the Interwar Era, examines the impact of World War II in elevating America to superpower status as a lead-in to the Cold War, which leads ultimately to a final analysis of the role of the US in the 21st century. The emphasis on evaluating the human impact of themes and events in the development of the United States begun in 7th grade continues throughout the 8th grade year. Past-present connections take on even greater significance in the study of the more recent issues of American history.
Research and public speaking skills take on greater prominence in the 8th grade experience. The written expression and defense of opinions on important historical issues, past and present, is refined as further emphasis on individual and collaborative presentation work takes on greater prominence. The use of primary sources in research, introduced in 7th grade, is a regular component of historical investigation in 8th grade. Field trips to Washington, DC, include a February day trip and an overnight stay in May.
The Tatnall School Math Department understands that students learn best when they are actively engaged in mathematics. The Tatnall curriculum is coherent and connected at each level, offers openings to engage students at many levels, and corresponds to each student’s unique gifts and skills.
6th Grade Math
This course serves to bridge computational skills with problem-solving and algebraic structure. Course topics include, but are not limited to: operations with fractions and decimals, introduction to integers and radical numbers, writing and evaluating expressions, writing and solving equations, 2-dimensional geometry, and data and probability.
Pre-Algebra
This course provides the pre-requisite skills necessary for Algebra and Geometry. Course topics may include, but are not limited to: writing and solving simple equations and inequalities, ratios and proportions, properties of numbers, 2-dimensional and 3-dimensional geometry, right triangles, trigonometry, and statistics. There is a focus on problem-solving strategies and fluency in communicating mathematical ideas.
Algebra
This course provides the basics of real number properties, solving equations and inequalities (linear and quadratic) in one and two variables, systems of equations, exponents, polynomials, proportions, rational equations, functions, and radical expressions. Since a solid foundation in Algebra 1 is key to success in continuing math classes, this course may be required for students whose algebra background is incomplete or who require additional reinforcement.
Geometry
This course emphasizes an understanding and appreciation of basic geometric structure. It combines an integrated approach (with algebra) and an investigative approach (with hands-on and computer activities), develops logical reasoning and connects with meaningful applications to the real world. Specific areas of study include angles, triangle congruence, similarity, right triangles, circles, and areas and volumes. Appropriate emphasis is placed on formal proof and depth of study of individual topics.
Chorus
Students develop vocal skills, including breath control, pitch matching, and tone production, while learning to sing in unison and simple harmonies. They explore a variety of musical styles and work on ear training, music reading, and performance techniques. Rehearsals focus on teamwork, expression, and confidence-building through singing. Students perform at least three concerts per year, which is a required part of their grade.
Band
Students learn the fundamentals of playing a woodwind, brass, or percussion (7th and 8th- Grade) instrument in a supportive ensemble setting. They develop tone production, fingerings, articulation, and basic music reading while playing simple melodies and ensemble pieces. Rehearsals focus on teamwork, listening skills, and building confidence as musicians. School instruments may be available for use. Students perform at least two concerts per year, which is a required part of their grade.
Strings
Students learn the basics of playing violin, viola, cello, or bass while developing fundamental skills such as bowing, fingering, posture, and note reading. Through simple exercises and songs, they explore melody, rhythm, and ensemble playing. Rehearsals emphasize listening, coordination, and teamwork as students prepare for performances. School instruments may be available for use. Students perform at least two concerts per year, which is a required part of their grade.
Contact our Department Chair, Mrs. Jackie Higgins
The science department faculty believes that the study of science is essential for every Tatnall Middle School student. At Tatnall, science students are actively engaged inside labs and outside on our natural lands in explorations and investigations that inspire them to become life-long scientists. As the impact of scientific innovations, applications, and information increasingly permeates our daily lives, it is imperative that our students have a solid base of understanding and the skills to be critical thinkers to function as knowledgeable citizens, consumers, and decision-makers in our technology-dependent world.
6th Grade Science
6th grade science is an introductory course focusing on life science and physics. This course provides students with a base foundation in the scientific method, classification and taxonomy, cells, genetics, and physics. This is a project and lab-based course that emphasizes microscope skills, grade-level science writing, measurement, and presentation skills.
7th Grade Science
7th grade science is a survey course of introductory biology concepts. This course provides a base foundation in ecology, environmental science, body systems, and plant biology. This is a project-based course that emphasizes research skills, lab skills, presentation skills, measurement, and grade-appropriate science writing.
7th Grade STEM
7th grade STEM is a project-based course that helps students explore different topics of STEM. Students explore physics, mechanics, climate change, technology, and other STEM concepts by working together to develop creative solutions and ideas to help solve real-world problems.
8th Grade Science
8th grade science is a lab-based course in introductory physical science and introductory chemistry concepts. This course explores the composition of matter and the changes that it undergoes. This lab-based course emphasizes measurement, lab skills, analytical and critical thinking, and grade-appropriate science writing. These skills will allow students to be successful in high school science classes.
Middle School visual arts is a time for exploration and understanding thoughtful and practical skills. Students are welcomed into an inviting atmosphere where they are exposed to various intermediate and advanced art mediums and techniques. It is important for each student to understand that art enhances their ability to see, comprehend, analyze, create, and evaluate. Our curriculum focuses on studio art, art history, and aesthetics.
6th Grade Art
In sixth-grade Art, students are encouraged to take risks and fully embrace their creative journey. As they explore studio habits of mind and the elements of art, students will build essential skills in drawing, painting, sculpture, and ceramics, pushing the limits of their artistic expression. Additionally, students will develop an appreciation for art's cultural and historical importance, which will further enhance their creative pursuits.
7th Grade Art
In seventh-grade art, students develop their artistic skills and creativity through various techniques like painting, printmaking, and digital art. A key focus is on connecting their art to the world around them, including other disciplines. Collaboration helps students understand art's role in society while enhancing their skills and creativity. They will explore graphic design in science and illustrate children's books in English, integrating core subjects to enrich their art experience. As they refine their techniques and expand their thinking, students learn the importance of teamwork and diverse perspectives through collaborative projects.
8th Grade Art
In eighth-grade art, students concentrate on developing a personal sense of aesthetics, accountability, and a deeper appreciation for the arts. They engage with advanced mediums and techniques across various processes, including painting, sculpting, photography, ceramics, three-dimensional art, and graphic design. Throughout the year, students explore composition, technique, and the essential elements of art, delving into the principles of design. They are encouraged to take risks, experiment, and listen to their inner creative voices, which prepares them for future success in the fine arts. Students are encouraged to take risks, experiment, and explore their inner creative voices to help prepare them for future success in the fine arts. Students spend all year working towards producing a variety of culminating pieces to be showcased at the end of the year 8th-grade art show.
Students have the opportunity to choose between French, Latin, and Spanish to study in Middle School.
French
6th Grade
This course offers a lively introduction to the academic study of French. Students develop a strong communicative base through interactive activities such as conversations, games, songs, and storytelling. Written and spoken French are learned side by side, with particular attention to the unique relationship between spelling and pronunciation. Along the way, students explore the rich variety of cultures within the French-speaking world, discovering traditions, music, art, cuisine, and celebrations from different regions. By the end of the year, they are able to read and write short narratives, share favorite song lyrics, and engage in conversations about daily routines and personal interests.
7th Grade
This course invites students into the world of French through lively, hands-on learning. Conversations, games, and creative projects form the backbone of instruction, helping learners strengthen their speaking, listening, reading, and writing abilities in meaningful contexts. Alongside language skills, students explore the diversity of the French-speaking world—discovering customs, art, music, food, and celebrations from Europe, Africa, the Caribbean, and beyond. The program encourages curiosity and cultural awareness, empowering students to communicate with growing fluency and to appreciate the language’s global reach.
8th Grade
This course strengthens students’ command of French by integrating speaking, listening, reading, and writing into a cohesive learning experience. Drawing on skills developed in previous years, students tackle more complex grammar and sentence structures, building accuracy alongside fluency. A communicative approach encourages authentic interaction, from everyday exchanges to discussions of current events. Cultural exploration spans the French-speaking world, using songs, films, literature, and other authentic materials to reveal diverse perspectives and traditions. By the end of the year, students are able to express themselves with greater confidence and precision in a variety of contexts.
Latin
6th Grade
This introductory course builds an appreciation for Latin through language study and cultural exploration. Using the Suburani online textbook, students develop reading skills while connecting Latin to Roman civilization, history, and mythology. Emphasis is placed on vocabulary enrichment through Latin roots and derivatives, as well as comparisons between Latin and English grammar. Classroom activities focus on conversational exercises, oral readings, recitations, presentations, and interactive games, while the archaeology unit and Latin Day signature experiences further immerse students in Roman history and culture.
7th Grade
Building on the foundation of sixth-grade Latin, this course deepens students' understanding of the language and culture of ancient Rome. Using the Latin for the New Millennium textbook, students engage with a blend of grammar-translation and reading-based approaches, strengthening their ability to read and interpret Latin while exploring Roman civilization, history, and mythology. Students continue to compare and contrast Latin and English grammar, enhancing their linguistic skills. Classroom activities include conversational exercises, recitations, oral readings, games, and presentations. During the spring term, students engage more deeply with Roman history and culture through the archaeology unit and Latin Day signature experiences.
8th Grade
8th Grade Latin continues our study of the Latin language as well as Roman history and culture. Throughout the year students expand their knowledge of Latin morphology and syntax. Additionally, this course stresses reading and comprehending passages of Latin, and focuses on strategies for doing so. Students read and translate passages adapted from famous Roman authors as well as inscriptions and graffiti. In the spring, students learn about the material culture of the Romans through an on-campus archaeological excavation.
Spanish
6th Grade
This course is an introduction to the regular academic study of Spanish. Students build a strong communicative foundation through conversations, games, songs, and stories. Written and spoken language are introduced together to reinforce comprehension and retention. The course explores the vibrant cultures of the Spanish-speaking world, offering opportunities to learn about diverse traditions, music, art, food, and celebrations. By the end of the year, students can read and write simple stories, recite lyrics from a favorite song, and participate in conversations about their preferences and daily lives.
7th Grade
Through dynamic, interactive lessons, this course immerses students in Spanish for practical, everyday use. Class activities include dialogue practice, collaborative games, storytelling, and creative projects designed to reinforce core language skills—speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Cultural study is woven throughout, highlighting the traditions, music, art, cuisine, and festivities of countries across Latin America and Spain. By connecting language to real-life experiences, students build both proficiency and confidence, gaining the ability to express themselves naturally in Spanish across a variety of settings.
8th Grade
Designed to expand students’ abilities in Spanish, this course uses active, hands-on learning to strengthen language skills. Role-plays, collaborative projects, and guided conversations help learners develop confidence and spontaneity in speaking, while listening activities sharpen comprehension. Grammar and vocabulary are reinforced through meaningful use rather than isolated drills. Students engage with the rich cultures of the Spanish-speaking world, discovering traditions, music, art, and celebrations from different regions through authentic media. By year’s end, learners can communicate effectively in everyday situations and engage thoughtfully with cultural content.
Our versatile and experienced teachers plan personalized instruction and provide opportunities for students to take their language out of the classroom by engaging with students from other divisions within the school. Additionally, the department sponsors a trip to Europe every other year. All 7th and 8th-grade students are welcome to hone their language skills and immerse themselves in new cultures on this trip.
All grades participate in dialogues with guest speakers from the Caron Foundation and the Adolescent Resource Center (ARC), who provide additional guidance on topics such as substance abuse prevention and sexual health education.
6th Grade
The 6th grade program introduces students to the fundamentals of physical fitness, health awareness, and personal well-being. In physical education, students work on building cardiovascular endurance, improving muscular strength and flexibility, and developing coordination, teamwork, and sportsmanship. Activities encourage cooperation, goal setting, and a positive attitude toward lifelong fitness.
In health class, students explore the introduction to health, physical health, emotions, social health, and defining core values. They learn how to access resources, make informed decisions, and communicate effectively about their needs. The aim is to build a strong foundation for healthy habits and responsible choices.
7th Grade
In 7th grade, students deepen their physical education experience by further improving endurance, strength, flexibility, and sport-specific skills, while continuing to develop teamwork, leadership, and sportsmanship. They also take greater responsibility for self-assessment and personal goal setting, building the mindset of a lifelong athlete and health-conscious individual.
The health curriculum focuses on health basics, boosting physical health, nurturing mental health, building healthy relationships, and understanding values. Students strengthen their ability to analyze influences, advocate for themselves and others, and apply functional health knowledge to everyday life.
8th Grade
The 8th grade program prepares students to transition into high school with the skills, confidence, and motivation to lead active, healthy lives. Physical education emphasizes personal fitness planning, advanced skill development, and lifelong activity choices. Students are encouraged to take ownership of their wellness goals and demonstrate leadership in cooperative and competitive settings.
Health studies focus on setting health goals, understanding nutrition, managing mental health, building communication and social skills, and living with passion and purpose. Students learn how to manage personal well-being, make enriching decisions, and prepare for the challenges of adolescence.