Middle School Curriculum
At the heart of our mission is a deep commitment to partnering with families to create meaningful and enriching experiences. We believe that strong relationships and a vibrant sense of community are essential for nurturing growth and connection. We host events such as Generations’ Day, Community Challah Bakes, and various parent-organized activities.
English
Our middle school English program is designed to foster students’ development as thinkers, readers, writers, and contributors to the world around them. Through the exploration of a wide range of novels, short stories, poetry, and informational texts, students learn to read actively and gain skills in critical analysis. During their middle school journey, our students move from strengthening their reading skills on a literal level to using strategies to uncover deeper meaning and sharpen their written and verbal language skills to share their insights. Our English teachers foster an appreciation of literature and expose students to diverse perspectives, helping them to articulate their own viewpoints while respecting those of others.
Representative Texts
6th grade:
Awkward by Svetlana Chmakova
Bound by Donna Jo Napoli
Holes by Louis Sachar
The Giver by Lois Lowry
Out of My Mind by Sharon Draper
7th grade:
The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton
The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon
Animal Farm by George Orwell
Short stories such as “Lamb to the Slaughter” by Langston Hughes, “The Wife’s Story” by Ursula K. Le Guin, “Rules of the Game” by Amy Tan, “One Friday Morning” by Langston Hughes
8th grade:
Scythe by Neal Shusterman
Lord of the Flies by William Golding
The Crucible by Arther Miller
Long Way Down by Jason Reynolds
Me (Moth) by Amber McBride
Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare
Short stories such as: “The Pedestrian” by Ray Bradbury, “The Lottery” by Shirley Jackson, “Just Do It” by Heather Lindsley, “2BRO2B” by Kurt Vonnegut, “Marigolds” by Eugenia Collier, “The Ones Who Walk Away from Omelas” by Ursula K. Le Guin, “Fish Cheeks” by Amy Tan, “The Stolen Party” by Lilana Heker, “Amigo Brothers” Piri Thomas, “The White Umbrella” by Gish Jen
Science
Through research, individualized labs, experiments, demonstrations, and observations, middle school students study Earth Science, Life Science, and Physical Science. By engaging students’ hands and minds, the science curriculum generates curiosity, enthusiasm, and a framework for making sense of our world. At all times, concepts and skill development are emphasized over memorization of facts.
Math
The math curriculum at Heschel is a rigorous, comprehensive program tailored to meet the advancing needs of each of our students. In middle school, we make the transition from a more concrete approach to a stronger emphasis on abstract thinking as students work to solve increasingly complex problems. In each leveled class, teachers develop challenges that allow the students to take risks, notice and test patterns, brainstorm and collaborate strategies, make mistakes, analyze their responses for reasonableness, and develop solid arithmetic, algebraic, and geometric problem-solving skills. At all levels of our program, students gain independence, mathematical creativity, flexibility, and self-confidence.
Judaic Studies
Jewish learning comes alive at Heschel, nurturing our students’ minds, hearts, and souls. Together, we process the Jewish experience of today by engaging with texts (both ancient and modern), collaborating with each other, and making connections to members of the larger community. Our coursework includes biblical and rabbinic literature, Holocaust studies, and cultivating our flourishing connection to the State of Israel. Through our curriculum, students learn to view the world through a Jewish lens, transforming ideas into holy action as they embody our values, and further strengthen their Jewish identity and love for the people, land, and state of Israel.
Social Studies
A rich synthesis of anthropology, economics, geography, history, humanities, philosophy, psychology, and sociology makes up each of our social studies classes. At each grade level, students hone their ability to read critically, write concisely, research responsibly, and engage in civil academic discourse. Through historical simulations, Harkness discussions, Shark Tank presentations, historical fairs, research papers, art projects, and role-play, history is brought to life, and students learn that it is through engagement with the past that we chart our course for the future.
Hebrew
We believe that Hebrew is central to the identity of the Jewish people. Our students deepen their language skills in classes tailored to meet and then stretch each student--whatever their language proficiency upon entering middle school. Using literature, journals, newspapers, videos, music, cooking, and dance, our students gain a well-rounded proficiency in modern Hebrew and learn to appreciate how language draws us closer to our brothers and sisters in Israel.
Electives
Elective A- Full Year (7th and 8th graders)
Accelerate
Increase your proficiency in the areas of reading comprehension, reading fluency, and written expression. By engaging in skill-building activities and by applying learned strategies to homework from other courses, students develop tools to deepen their comprehension of texts in all subject areas. (7th grade only)
Music MakerSpace
Music lovers take note! Music MakerSpace is a hands-on class that explores music using instruments, found objects, technology, and the human voice. In this class, you will experiment with making music together, improvisation,, and composition. We may have the chance to make music with the pros---real composers and professional musicians working in the LA music scene, and to visit a recording studio to see where the magic happens. Bring your enthusiasm and let's see what we create together.
Financial Literacy
Are you a budding investor, businessperson, entrepreneur, lawyer, doctor, scientist? No matter what your profession, personal finance is guaranteed to be an important part of your life.
Students will learn about currency, opportunity cost, credit, loans, insurance, interest, stocks, bonds, 401Ks, IRAs, HSAs, and much more. The capstone project in this class is a simulation of your financial future. Students will choose career paths, make resumes, look for real jobs online, experience mock interviews, do their taxes, make budgets, simulate a lifetime of investment returns, learn to overcome unexpected financial setbacks, and contemplate how they can give back to the charitable causes they care about.
*Students who have already taken the class will see a repeat of material; however, they will also have the opportunity for more advanced assignments and will play a leadership role in discussions and activities.
Spanish I
This rigorous course can be taken in 7th or 8th grade. Spanish I requires homework twice a week and daily review plus a final exam; it is recommended for students who are highly motivated to take on the extra work of learning a third language.
Spanish II
Students who have successfully completed Spanish 1 in 7th grade and would like to continue the rigorous curriculum at the next level should enroll in Spanish II. (8th grade only)
STEAM:
The STEAM class is an interdisciplinary journey that integrates concepts from Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics. This hands-on course encourages students to explore, experiment, and collaborate to solve real-world problems using the Engineering Design Process. Students will engage in various projects and activities that foster critical thinking, creativity, and innovation.
*Students who have already taken the class will see a repeat of material; however, they will also have the opportunity for more advanced assignments and will play a leadership role in discussions and activities.
Strength and Conditioning
This course is for students who want to challenge themselves beyond the physical education curriculum by learning fitness concepts for optimal health. The skills and conditioning gained in this class will help students on Heschel athletic teams and in club sports.
*Students who have already taken the class will see a repeat of material; but will be able to complete exercises at a more advanced level of fitness.
Yearbook
Interested in learning about the elements of design while contributing to the school in a meaningful way? Consider joining Yearbook! If you're someone who likes to think about design, photography, and typography, this is the class for you. Work with your classmates to come up with a theme to make the book unique as you create a lasting memory of the school year!
*Students who have already taken the class will see a repeat of material; however, they will also have the opportunity for more advanced assignments and will play a leadership role the creation of this year's yearbook!
My Israel
Together, we will explore the beauty of Israel and the Jewish people, discovering ways to make a real difference. If you care about standing up for what's right, making your voice heard, and being part of something bigger, come join us!
We will learn, create projects, listen to speakers, and turn passion into action. We will build a class filled with pride, strength, Jewish unity, and a sense of belonging through Israel's history, heroes, innovations, and culture.
Elective B- Semester 1 (6th, 7th, and 8th graders)
3-D Art Through the Ages
From prehistoric cave art and pottery to Egyptian masks to larger-than-life pop-art sculpture, spend the semester creating three-dimensional masterpieces and learn a little bit about instrumental artists working within various mediums. Our primary area of focus will be on Pop Art. and fake desserts. We will create pieces in clay, fabric, wood, and other non-traditional art materials.
American Sign Language
ASL is a course in which students learn a wide array of signs, including the alphabet, numbers, emotions, animals, and dialogue. Games such as ASL Uno and Bingo help students become comfortable using ASL. Students are also introduced to deaf culture.
Freestyle Sports
This elective is an opportunity for students to learn and participate in less traditional team sports such as Ultimate Frisbee, Disc Golf, Team Handball, and Hybrid Basketball games.
Quantum Physics 2
This is a continuation of Quantum Physics 1 that is open to new and returning students alike. We will continue to delve into the deepest, most fundamental limits of scientific knowledge. What are space and time? What is inside a proton? How do the laws of physics actually work? What does it mean for something to be real?
*Students who have not already taken Quantum Physics 1 or the Quantum Quandaries Exploratory (2024) must read the book Astrophysics for Young People in a Hurry in order to take this class. The book will be provided to you.
Engineering and Experimentation
Students' interests will guide the projects they pursue in this interdisciplinary course. Have you always wanted to build something from wood? Are you interested in sewing? How about creating a playground for class pets? Or....(insert your project here!)....your imagination is the limit in this exciting class. It combines short-term science challenge competitions with long-term projects with just a bit of engineering!
Mock Trial *(travel fee)
This course is designed to help you develop the skills you will need to participate in the Mock Trial competition. Classes will concentrate on the development of the skills necessary to compete effectively in the Los Angeles Mock Trial Program, which culminates in competing against other teams at the Los Angeles County Courthouse. In this course, you will learn to research, engage in trial preparation, to be adept with trial procedures, including objections, examinations and cross-examination, and opening and closing statements.
Musical Theater *(materials and licensing fee)
Want to have a blast performing on stage with your friends? Join our school musical and show off your singing, dancing, or acting skills! No experience needed---just your energy and enthusiasm! In addition to rehearsing during the school day, we'll practice on Thursdays after school and on some Sundays. We know you have other outside-of-school commitments, so we strive to work around your other activities--but performance week rehearsals are mandatory! Join us and help create an EPIC show in true Heschel style that will WOW the crowd!
Robotics *(materials and travel fee)
Join the robust Robotics Team, representing Heschel at FIRST LEGO League competitions. Students collaborate to build their LEGO Mindstorms robots to run various challenges. Students on the team will attend a local practice tournament and qualifying tournament. If the team advances, there may be up to two additional competitions in Southern California. Competitions may be held on Saturdays or Sundays. After-school practices will be held on a need basis before competitions to ensure students are prepared.
School Service
In this elective, each student is assigned to and then rotated through a different venue at our school, ranging from elementary classrooms to the admissions office to the marketing department. Students assist in various roles, contributing to the school's daily life.
Service Learning
Students in this elective have the opportunity to participate in service to our community. Whether preparing lunches for formerly homeless senior citizens, making toys for animals at shelters, or participating in a beach cleanup, students in this elective will see the positive difference they can make in their community.
Set Design
Bring your creative construction and artistic skills to build the sets for this year's Musical Theater performance.
History: Crusades to Renaissance
Go on a journey from the chaotic age of the Crusades to the growth of culture and learning in the European Renaissance. This class presents an opportunity to expand the breadth of your knowledge and understand the ways in which the past impacts our present.
Tefillah Band:
*Note: This elective can be chosen in addition to most of the other electives. If we think there may be a conflict, we'll let you know!
Do you love making music with your friends? Do you want to be part of a band that plays during our Shabbat Services? Sign up and let us know what instrument(s) you play (including singing).
Elective B- Semester 2 (6th, 7th, and 8th graders)
3-D Art Through the Ages
From prehistoric cave art and pottery to Egyptian masks to larger-than-life pop-art sculpture, spend the semester creating three-dimensional masterpieces and learn a little bit about instrumental artists working within various mediums. Whether it is delving into Pop Art and Claus Oldenberg's gigantic food sculptures or the intricate details of Elizabethan hats and clothing, fun will be had by all. We will create pieces in clay, fabric, wood and other non-traditional art materials.
American Sign Language
ASL is a course in which students learn a wide array of signs, including the alphabet, numbers, emotions, animals, and dialogue. Games such as ASL Uno and Bingo help students become comfortable using ASL. Students are also introduced to deaf culture.
Beginning Piano
No experience necessary! Students who love music will learn the foundations of playing the piano.
Freestyle Sports
This elective is an opportunity for students to learn and participate in less traditional team sports such as Ultimate Frisbee, Disc Golf, Team Handball, and Hybrid Basketball games.
Engineering and Experimentation
Students' interests will guide the projects they pursue in this interdisciplinary course. Have you always wanted to build something from wood? Are you interested in sewing? How about creating a playground for class pets? Or....(insert your project here!)....your imagination is the limit in this exciting class. It combines short-term science challenge competitions with long-term projects with just a bit of engineering!
Craft-Making from Around the World
Work in a variety of art mediums to make crafts that are found all over the world. From sand painting, to talking dolls, to copper art, to weaving, we'll do it all and have a wonderful time!
Astronomy
The primary objective of this course is to fundamentally change the way in which students view the world around them. Students will learn about the four fundamental forces that govern the universe, attempt to visualize the insurmountable scale of space and time, contemplate the mysteries of dark matter and energy, learn about the life cycles of stars (from dust into black holes), and discover how the elements of the periodic table are created from Supernova. Students will walk away from this course with a new perspective of their place within the cosmos.
School Service
In this elective, each student is assigned to and then rotated through a different venue at our school, ranging from elementary classrooms to the admissions office to the marketing department. Students assist in various roles, contributing to the school's daily life.
Service Learning
Students in this elective have the opportunity to participate in service to our community. Whether preparing lunches for formerly homeless senior citizens, making toys for animals at shelters, or participating in a beach cleanup, students in this elective will see the positive difference they can make in their community.
Improv
Do you like theater, but always think, "How am I going to learn all my lines? I just won't audition!" Well, how about performing IMPROVISATION! We will learn skills so that we can make up scenes ON THE SPOT! And yes!..... many of them will be funny. But the beauty is you don't have to be funny to join... improvisational scenes just come out that way!
So join for improv skills, games, and scenes. Our team will only be supportive, and we will learn the added skill of being our own best audience!
History: Roman Around
Learn about the growth and development of the power and growth of Rome from foundation to Empire, and the ways in which the Romans made such a significant impact on the present. We'll look into the highs and lows, including Caesar, the Colosseum, and the emperor who made his horse a senator.
Homegrown Skills *(materials fee)
Welcome to Homegrown! This is a fun, hands-on class where students learn essential life skills through creative, practical activities! This course introduces students to the basics of cooking, gardening, and home care, all while encouraging independence, responsibility, and creativity. We will grow our own herbs, learn to arrange flowers, set a table, prepare simple foods, end enjoy the beauty of maintaining an organized home!