Middle School

During the middle school or logic years of reading, the students are further exposed to the Great Books of Western Civilization. As in the elementary school, these readings are intentionally aligned with the history program so that students are rooted more deeply in their course of study. During the middle school years, students learn to appreciate great works of literature such as the plays of Shakespeare, the epic poem Beowulf, and the writings of Charles Dickens and Mark Twain.

Learning to write well is one of the greatest benefits of a classical Christian education. The middle school students continue to use Shurley Grammar to learn how to organize their thoughts well. By the middle school years, the students become acquainted with writing quality research papers, poetry, and essays.

During the logic stage of math, students are prepared for advanced studies in mathematics. By the end of 8th grade, all students are well-prepared for Algebra. There are also advanced courses that permit students to complete a first year of Algebra or Geometry.

Middle school continues to teach a chronological approach to history. Students complete the Veritas curriculum by covering American History in 6th grade. During 7th and 8th grade, students have courses in Western Civilization and American Government.

The middle school science curriculum covers Earth Science, Biology, and Physical Science. During these courses, students practice the scientific method and learn to communicate their acquired knowledge through research papers and projects. The science program is intentionally integrated with the grammar classes in order to emphasize the importance of clear communication in science.

The Bible is foundational to all subjects at Midway and every class is expected to relate its subject matter to biblical instruction. In addition to this instruction, the Bible is taught as its own class to middle school students. Through daily classroom instruction and weekly chapel, the students engage in a Scripture memorization program, learn the basics of biblical literacy, are introduced to the classics of personal devotion, and apply biblical lessons to daily life. During the course of the middle school years, students will cover all 66 books of the Bible. They will learn the unique literary style of each book, an outline, and how Christ is taught in each book.

In Latin, middle school students learn the basic components of studying a foreign language, but students are also immersed in the culture of classical education. Latin is an important part of the classical curriculum because it teaches students to think creatively and logically. It also allows students to participate in the dialogue of Western Civilization. The study of Latin opens doors that allow students to be better learners in history, grammar, logic, and even the sciences.

The goal of education is not only to train the mind, but the whole body as well. Good education requires habits that instill discipline, courage, teamwork, and wisdom. Physical Education plays a significant role in developing all of these skills. Students learn the basic components of various sports, but they must also learn to practice good decision making, learn healthy habits, and utilize clear communication.

Classical education seeks to create an environment that encourages creativity, expression, and appreciation of cultural achievements. In order to develop the character traits, instruction in Fine Arts is crucial to the Midway curriculum. All students are taught the fundamentals of music and art. During the middle school years, all Midway students are taught to express themselves more creatively and to recognize the achievements of the great artists and composers in history.