Middle School

Academics

We have designed every aspect of our Middle School program to empower students to grow into their best selves, identify their academic strengths and goals, and make a positive impact in their classes, their communities, and beyond.

Intentional. Responsive. Transformational.

When students understand that learning is not separate from their own interests, needs, and identities—or from the world outside of school—their motivation and independence grow. Our Middle School teachers tailor classroom experiences so that students are challenged and supported in applying their learning in creative and practical ways. We set high expectations for students in all academic endeavors, encouraging them to investigate multiple viewpoints, fully engage in both individual and collaborative projects, and reflect on concepts and lessons learned in ways that fuel even more learning.
 
Lowell students experience true academic rigor and graduate well-equipped to succeed at the next level of their education. Furthermore, they leave with a toolbox of good study skills and habits, and the confidence, creativity, and empathy they need to tackle new challenges throughout their lives.
Lowell’s graduates find a range of high school experiences that are the best match for their academic strengths and interests. As we like to say, “Our students go everywhere because they are prepared to go anywhere.” 
 

INTENTIONAL CURRICULUM

While at Lowell, students gain a strong foundation of academic skills and content-area knowledge. In addition, they learn how to communicate, collaborate, and lead with respect and empathy for others. Throughout a child’s Middle School experience at Lowell, students and families alike will notice how our constructivist approach through project-, inquiry-, and performance-based learning appears in all aspects of education. It’s how we measure our success, ensure students get the most out of the Middle School program, and know they are prepared for high school, college, and beyond.

List of 6 items.

  • Electives and Choices

    Electives are non-graded, cross-grade courses that students select each trimester. Designed to root their learning in interest-based endeavors, tangible goals—such as the creation of Lowell’s yearbook—drive student creativity.

    Exploratories, or academic concentrations, meet twice each week and rotate once midyear. Students commit to a pursuit alongside peers from grades 6–8 and use dedicated classroom time to hone their affinity for a subject. Exploratories are designed to practice skills through engaging, meaningful projects that incorporate an exhibition of the process. 

    Every student participates in a seminar weekly, in rotation with physical education. In 6th grade, Foundations of Middle School and Research and Presentation Skills introduce the executive functions skills that will set students up to be successful learners in a more independent school environment. 7th and 8th graders focus on health and wellness topics and seminars in digital citizenship and public speaking. Additionally, 8th graders are supported in their next steps with a high school preparation course that includes best practices for applications, interviews, self-reflection, and advocacy.

    Study hall is built into the schedule and students are encouraged to make use of our drop-in centers, reinforcing best practices of an effective learner. AM and PM breaks allow students to eat, socialize, move and play, join a club, or seek out extra help from our learning specialists and counselors.

  • Humanities—Language Arts + Social Studies

    The goal of the humanities program is to foster a deeper understanding of the world and an appreciation for diverse perspectives while cultivating students’ roles as active citizens and agents of change. Through an interconnected approach to literature and history, students hone their analytical thinking, organizational, research, writing, oral communication, and technology skills, so they are equipped to evaluate information from a wide range of sources.
     
    In 6th grade, language arts students practice inquiry-based research, literary analysis, and narrative and persuasive writing. These skills are applied, among other outlets, to the social studies curriculum, focused on the milestone events of world history that have shaped human progress. Related to climate change studies, students consider the definition of progress and its costs and benefits.

    In 7th grade, language arts students choose their topics for writing within the framework of three units: realistic fiction, writing about reading, and research-based arguments. They explore the interplay between characters and setting, advanced character traits such as hubris and self-sacrifice, and themes of human rights alongside social studies units on the challenging and complex topics of the Jewish Holocaust, African American Civil Rights, and Modern China. An emphasis on the "Why?" over "What?" and student-led activism inspires agency among our learners.

    In 8th grade, language arts students engage with fantasy/sci-fi and literary essays to explore topics of juxtaposition, irony, archetypes, and aptonyms. In social studies, in-depth and evolving knowledge of world events inspires students as global citizens equipped with a fact-based worldview. Through a Model-UN structure, students will practice strategies in fact-finding and critical thinking, gaining an awareness and understanding of population, international relations, and climate change issues.
     

  • Mathematics

    The math program provides appropriate and challenging math classes for all students. Courses promote strong foundations in procedural skills, conceptual understanding, critical thinking, problem-solving, reasoning, and written and oral communication. Teachers use a standards-based, student-centered framework to apply mathematical concepts to real-life problems, strengthened through discussion and activities. 


    Flexible groupings in the first trimester of 6th grade ensure students receive appropriate challenges and supports. Teachers focus on strengthening understanding of basic math concepts and skills in the context of real-life situations. Students are then placed in groups where they will be most appropriately challenged.
     
    There’s a pathway for every type of math learner that allows them to feel confident and ready for future math courses at Lowell and beyond:
     
    Students in Intro to Pre-Algebra solidify foundations such as place value, number theory, computation of whole numbers, fractions and decimals, ratio, proportion, percent, and basic geometry. Students are also introduced to pre-algebra concepts such as variables, expressions, equations, integers, and the coordinate plane.
     
    Students in Pre-Algebra use variables and expressions to solve equations and inequalities; use factors, fractions, and exponents to simplify and evaluate expressions; use ratios, proportions, and percents; analyze data; begin to analyze geometry with algebra; study right triangles and angle relationships; and explore linear functions and related graphs.
     
    Students in Intro to Algebra I solidify their skills using variables, simplifying expressions, and solving equations. They are also introduced to Algebra I concepts, including linear functions and graphing, exponents and powers, and polynomial expressions. These skills help students build a stronger foundation in anticipation of high school math.
     
    In Algebra I, students solve multi-step equations and inequalities, represent real-life situations with linear functions, graph functions, perform operations with polynomials, solve quadratic equations, and model exponential functions. The class will also be introduced to rational and radical expressions and equations.
     
    Advanced Algebra I is a two-year course in 7th and 8th grades. Students solve multi-step equations and inequalities, represent real-life situations with linear functions, graph functions, perform operations with polynomials, solve quadratic equations, and model exponential functions. They also analyze radical and rational expressions and solve radical and rational equations, with a thorough look at the related functions. Students are introduced to geometry concepts toward the end of the course.

  • Science

    Students explore real-world issues through research, experimentation, and problem solving as they master concepts from the disciplines of physics, chemistry, biology, space science, geosciences, and engineering. Students engage in inquiry-based units of study that build key skills and a deep understanding of the scientific method and the engineering design process. Topics connect to grade-level themes, and projects emphasize humanities and STEAM integration.
    Heredity and evolution, weather and climate, and sustainability and biodiversity form the core areas of study for 6th graders. Students learn to identify cause-and-effect relationships and engage in labs that demonstrate scientific principles and theories. Students are introduced to and practice using different types of models—mathematical, conceptual, and graphic. Observation and research skills are a focus throughout the year. Communication skills, including creating arguments based on evidence, writing lab reports, and showing accurate data, are also emphasized. Labs and design projects are selected to help students develop fundamental skills in scientific investigation and engineering design.
    7th-grade students continue to develop scientific skills learned in 6th grade as they explore properties and uses of waves, the solar system and universe, and anatomy and physiology. Lab work becomes more experimental and, by the end of the year, students are selecting their procedures to find answers and solve problems. Dissections are also a significant part of the laboratory experience, and students compare and contrast the structures and systems of their bodies with those of other organisms. Lab report writing is increasingly essential, as students develop their communication skills and their ability to analyze data and draw conclusions.

    Growing independence marks the 8th-grade year in science. As students study the physics of force and motion, chemistry, robotics, and engineering, they improve their ability to define problems, design their procedures and experiments, apply their skills, iterate solutions, and give and receive feedback. Analysis and interpretation of data using mathematical computation and measurement are emphasized, and students are expected to draw data-based conclusions.
     

  • Spanish

    The Middle School Spanish program fosters students’ confidence and enjoyment of learning a second language. Students are encouraged to use Spanish as often as possible in classroom activities and conversation. As their skills develop, increasing emphasis is placed on grammar, reading, and writing skills. Students develop their knowledge of Spanish-speaking cultures and become equipped to participate in a society characterized by linguistic and cultural diversity.
    In 6th grade, students build on language skills developed previously with more emphasis on writing and reading. Dialogues, skits, songs, pairing and sharing, and group activities are used to develop mastery of grammar and syntax in thematic-based units. Students also create short narratives, web pages, videos, and brochures. While oral communication is emphasized in the classroom, reading comprehension, written pieces, and cultural studies round out the coursework.

    Spanish class in 7th grade emphasizes the four language skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Students communicate with one another in Spanish from the beginning of the year and write in their journals every day. Students practice using more advanced grammatical structures and learn how to listen and comprehend without focusing on word-for-word translation. Literature studies begin.

    8th-grade Spanish covers complex grammatical structures such as commands, the preterite tense, and reflexive verbs. Students continue to build their vocabularies, write longer essays, and explore Spanish literature. The course prepares students to participate in the Spanish language and service trip to Costa Rica by building conversational skills needed for travel and emphasizing correct intonation and expression.

  • Arts Programming

    Arts programming is key to a Lowell education. Students in Middle School engage daily in Art and Design, Digital and Media Arts, or Instrumental Music. After trying out each option in 6th grade, older students may select an arts course based on their burgeoning interests. 
    In instrumental music, we aim to develop musicianship through a variety of mediums, historical perspectives, and cultural lenses. Students explore both the artistic and technical sides of music by learning to sing and play instruments in ensembles. Our after-school music program offers further opportunities for students to pursue their passions through individual lessons and pop bands.

    Creative problem-solving, mastery of visual media, and effective communication skills are the cornerstones of the visual arts program. Students are challenged to work with a wide variety of materials and processes and are encouraged to create work that is personally, historically, and culturally relevant. Both individual expression and collaboration skills are emphasized. Rubrics are provided to clarify expectations, and students are invited to participate in the assessment of their work.

DELTA COACHING

Delta groups are Lowell’s advisory homerooms. Inspired by Sir Isaac Newton, the term Delta symbolizes the potential for energy to change. Part of students’ daily schedule, the program fosters academic, social, and emotional growth, strengthens community, and teaches everyday leadership skills. Coaches create a safe environment for students to become self-advocates and active participants in their education.

List of 2 items.

  • Social-Emotional Curriculum

    Our social-emotional (SEL) curriculum specifically addresses:
    • the development of inter/intrapersonal and leadership skills
    • communication skills
    • setting goals and creating action plans
    • decision-making with integrity
    • growing through life experiences
    • responsibility, self-advocacy, and resilience

  • Student-Led Conferences

    In the Middle School we have adapted the traditional parent-teacher conference format to directly involve students, putting their voices at the center of the conversation. Two times a year, students lead a discussion with their parents and Delta coach, sharing their successes and discussing future goals and strategies to achieve them. Students reflect on the three areas of assessment for each class—practices of an effective learner, engagement in the subject, and application of skill. Parents and Delta coaches welcome the opportunity to support students by listening actively, sharing perspectives, and asking clarifying questions.

    Parent/guardian-teacher conferences are held in October and March; progress reports are shared in December, March, and June

FIELD STUDIES

Field trips are carefully designed to complement the curriculum. Students gain not only valuable information and skills, but also confidence and independence as they navigate new settings and see the world from different perspectives.

Students go on day trips connected to the curriculum, participate in community-building and service-learning experiences off-campus, and take three extended overnight trips outside the DC metro area.

List of 3 items.

  • 6th Grade

    Chesapeake Bay
    This overnight trip enriches the 6th graders’ study of culture and climate. Students travel to the Virginia Neck of the Chesapeake Bay, where they camp, hike, and sail the Bay. They meet with Chesapeake Bay Foundation scientists to learn how climate change affects the Bay’s ecology, hear from fishermen and oystermen about the changing natural resources and economy, and meet with local elected officials to learn about erosion mitigation and climate migration.

  • 7th Grade

    The Road to Justice
    As an extension of their study of the fight for civil and human rights around the globe, students travel to Atlanta and Montgomery to immerse themselves in museums, places, and people who have made the expansion of justice and equality their life mission. Highlights of the trip include a tour of the Center for Civil and Human Rights in Atlanta, seeing the birthplace of MLK, Jr., experiencing the Equal Justice Initiative’s Monument to Peace and Justice in Montgomery, and walking through that city to visit key sites—including the corner where Rosa Parks boarded the Cleveland Avenue bus, which was also the site of a market for enslaved people in the days before the Civil War.

  • 8th Grade

    Costa Rica
    On this week-long trip, students live with host families, are immersed in the Spanish language, and undertake a service-learning project. Students live with families in Copey, work in the organic garden on the grounds of the town’s learning center, tour an organic coffee farm, and build biochar stoves with the community.
1640 Kalmia Road NW
Washington, DC 20012
202-577-2000