Art
In Middle School art, students express their individuality as they explore a wide variety of artistic processes. Through experimentation and play, they are encouraged to discover the potential of various mediums to develop imaginative solutions to structured creative challenges. Planning, revising, and craftsmanship are integral parts of these artistic standards. To inspire students and illustrate how materials work, visual examples and artist videos are regularly used to introduce diverse styles by both living and historical artists from around the world.
Through critique and discussion, art appreciation is seamlessly integrated into studio activities, helping students develop a rich artistic vocabulary. Collaboration is also a vital component of the art experience, fostering social bonds and promoting a strong sense of community within the classroom. Additionally, lessons are occasionally integrated with other academic disciplines to make meaningful cross-curricular connections. Ultimately, while assignments are structured to build foundational skills, they are purposefully designed to cultivate a student's autonomy, decision-making, and creative problem-solving abilities.
The curriculum includes the following:
- Drawing
- Painting
- Collage
- Printmaking
- Digital Photography
- Sculpture
- Ceramic
- Architecture and Environmental Design
- Art Design Thinking
- Stop Motion Animation
Art
Through experimentation and play, students are encouraged to discover the possibilities of materials in order to develop imaginative and creative solutions to structured artistic challenges.
Language Arts
Students build respect for the use of language and an appreciation for good literature. These help students hone their writing, reading, listening, and effective speaking skills
Library
The library brings in professional authors on a regular basis who share their personal stories with our students and encourage students to try writing on their own.
Mathematics
Potomac uses Math in Focus (MIF), a program based on Singapore Math model. The program focuses on an in-depth understanding of mathematical concepts and problem solving.
Music and Movement
The Middle School General Music program is based on the Orff-Schulwerk approach to teaching and learning, which strives to build musicianship in every learner through the integration of singing, instrumental music, movement, speech, and drama.
Physical Education
The purpose of the physical education program in Middle School is to provide an environment in which each student can develop confidence in his or her physical self.
Science
The Middle School science program is designed to expose students to basic concepts and to foster an appreciation of science in their lives through hands-on activities.
SEL/Guidance
The Middle School SEL//Counseling program is designed to heighten the awareness and understanding of children’s social-emotional development.
Social Studies
Students explore early humans, first and ancient civilizations, and the origins and basic beliefs of major world religions.
Technology
In the Middle School, the integration of technology and curriculum is highly valued; technology instruction is embedded into every subject area.
World Languages
The Middle School Spanish Language program, while working to develop language proficiency in Spanish, is primarily designed to capture the unique cognitive benefits of second language acquisition for children of this age.