General Outline of the 5th through 8th Grade Sequence
The Fifth Grade Program: Building Blocks for Success
Summer: Mondays through Fridays
One week of creative writing camp with Writopia Lab. Four weeks intensive pre-Algebra, math problem solving and spontaneous writing. Friday field trips. (25 days).
The Sixth Grade Program: Transitions to Middle School
Fall: Saturdays
Math problem-solving and pre-Algebra. Reading and writing to find a personal voice. Specific preparation for the Hunter College High School admissions test. Afternoon dedicated to electives. Students also attend recruitment events by Bridge to Enter Advanced Mathematics, the TEAK Fellowship and Center for Talented Youth. (14-16 sessions)
Spring: Saturdays
Morning classes continuing problem centered pre-Algebra, critical thinking as readers and writing in response to texts and experience. Field trips mid-week during school breaks. (15 sessions).
The Seventh Grade Program: Learning for Its Own Sake
Summer: Monday through Fridays
Four-week half-day courses on incorporating evidence-based expression in writing as well as continuing pre-Algebra. Some students may opt to participate in alternative summer programs. Friday field trips. (20 sessions).
Fall and Spring: Saturdays
Full year half-day courses in Math and English literature taught by experienced classroom teachers. Completion of the pre-Algebra curriculum from the Art of Problem Solving. Reading and writing beyond the YA genre. Afternoon electives in the Spring. (30 sessions).
The Eighth Grade Program: Applications, Admissions Tests and Head Starts on High School
Summer through Fall:
Five-week half-day intensive preparation for the Specialized High School Admissions Test (SHSAT) taught by expert test prep instructors with regular practice tests and diagnostics, followed by half day Saturday test prep in the fall until the SHSAT is given. Guidance and counseling on the high school application process across the variety of high performing NYC high schools. (28 sessions).
