RELIGION
Following the Roman Catholic tradition, our religion courses are rooted in Christology and faithful to the Magisterium of the Church. Middle school courses include the life of Jesus Christ and the history of the Church. Religion is a required course for all students. For students who are Catholic, the courses enrich their understanding and experience of their own faith. For non-Catholic students, the religion courses provide an opportunity to broaden their knowledge of a faith tradition. We focus on what we have in common and strive to embrace all.
ENGLISH
The middle school English curriculum integrates literature, grammar, vocabulary, and public speaking while maintaining a strong emphasis on developing and strengthening each student’s writing skills. Students study novels, short stories, plays, poems, biographies, and nonfiction works connected through a wide variety of engaging themes. They hone their composition skills through regular grammar and vocabulary instruction, as well as numerous varied writing assignments. This 6th – 8th grade curriculum is designed to successfully prepare students for the rigors of high school English.
SOCIAL SCIENCES
Middle school courses include the study of ancient civilizations, early American History, and geography of the world. Students are taught about United States History from the earliest Americans to the Civil War. Students analyze geographical and historical materials to explore why our country became independent. Students also relate present-day activities with decisions that were made in the past and present and their effects on our laws and government today. Finally, students learn about the many events that made our country the democratic society that it is today. Students explore World Geography, starting with North America and ending with Australia. Students learn about capitals, cities, political systems, resources, economic values, customs, traditions, religions and each country’s effect on the world’s economy. Students also study geography and location of all of the countries on each continent.
MATH
All students are placed in a math course dependent upon test scores, grades, and teacher recommendation. Middle school students study Pre-algebra, Advanced Pre-algebra, Algebra I, and Advanced Algebra I.
SCIENCE
The middle school students experience a very integrated, hands-on approach to science. They study engineering, life science, and physical science. VVA’s science program is aligned with the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS).
WORLD LANGUAGE
Villa Victoria Academy holds the classics in high regard and emphasizes vocabulary as the foundation for strong comprehension skills. Sixth and seventh-grade students study Latin and an intro to both French and Spanish. Eighth grade students have the choice to study the first year of either French or Spanish with the high school students. There are four years offered in a world language.
HEALTH & PHYSICAL EDUCATION
By the completion of middle school, students will have had experience in bicycling, soccer, basketball, net games, softball, tennis, circle rules football, handball, and floor hockey.
Health units include nutrition, healthy body, healthy weight, body systems, understanding alcohol, tobacco, and common drugs.
MUSIC & ART
All students participate in chorus throughout the year and perform in the Christmas and Spring concerts. All students in grades 6, 7, and 8 take a general music class once a week to learn music reading skills, music history, and musical genres and song forms.
In addition to a weekly general music class, middle school students have the opportunity to apply their knowledge in an instrumental learning class once a week.
Art is a required yearlong class for grades 6, 7 and 8. During this time, students learn art terminology, are introduced to the works of a number of artists, and build increasing skills in the use of a variety of art media and tools. Emphasis is placed on creatively solving the visual problems that are presented to them.
