Middle 6th -8th Grades

Innovative Since 1984

Riverfield Country 6th-8th grade students develop initia- tive and independence as they explore, learn, and grow in Riverfield’s positive and supportive environ- ment. The small classes and close relationships students develop with faculty make Riverfield a safe place to mature through the challenging adolescent years.

High academic standards stimulate students to develop abstract, logical, inquisitive, and reflective thinking.

Academic excellence is apparent at state and national levels. We enjoy success yearly in regional and state Academic Bowl tournaments. Despite our philosophy to not “teach to the test”. Riverfield students perform well on standardized tests. The RCDS High School median score on the ACT is 25. Riverfield Country Day School is home to the Raven Chapter of the National Junior , open to second semester 7th graders and all 8th grade students.

The builds upon each student’s strengths and experiences with ability groupings in some sub- ject areas. Students benefit from a low student/ ratio and multi-age groupings as they learn from their peers and are challenged to move ahead academically.

Taking the time to recognize, respect, and appreciate each student is a high priority with all Riverfield fac- ulty. Active involvement in the learning process and an integrated, interdisciplinary program make learning come alive. As one student stated, “Riverfield has given me a passion to learn.”

Riverfield Country Day School 2433 West 61st Street Tulsa, Oklahoma 74132 918.446.3553 riverfield.org Course Descriptions Social Studies 6th Grade English Social Studies is a project-based course that teaches the skills of an historian. 6th grade stu- 6th Grade dents explore the birth and growth of human . English covers a broad range of societies into complex cultures through An- language skills. Students learn literary cient/Medieval . Critical thinking and elements and then apply this knowledge analytical skills are emphasized, as well as an to different kinds of including introduction into higher order research skills. short stories, poems, and novels. Students also learn correct grammar usage, which 7th Grade General Information they apply to many kinds of writing styles In 7th grade, students take a look at U.S. His- including descriptive, narrative, exposi- tory and Civics, evaluating ‘what every citizen Established in 1984, Riverfield has been tory, and persuasive. Students write a should know.’ Significant events, documents, enriching students through innovation, documented research paper in conjunc- speeches, individuals, and anthems are cov- small class sizes, and positive collabora- tion with coursework. The writing ered as well as the structure and function of tive relationships. Serving children from process is practiced extensively along with the U.S. government and political process. 8 weeks through , Riverfield attention to the Six-Trait model of writing. Current events are an integral part of this helps students reach their full potential in class, and students will be required to read the a family-oriented atmosphere. The 120- 7th Grade newspaper and watch a variety of news agen- acre campus with its barnyard animals, Students employ the Six-Trait model to cies. Critical thinking and analytical skills are hiking trails, woods, ponds, and outdoor expand their abilities in narrative, exposi- further developed with students examining , is an inviting introduction to tory, persuasive, research, and creative issues from a variety of perspectives. the array of learning opportunities the writing. This is supplemented with both school offers its students. The challeng- review and new information in the areas 8th Grade ing, personalized curriculum is presented of spelling, vocabulary, and grammar. The - Introduction to Social . This as an integrated process, blending many students participate in all steps of the course isn’t organized as much by topic area subjects and activities. writing process, from brainstorming to as it is around the acquisition of certain skills editing a final draft. Reading units aim to that will help make students better thinkers develop a critical eye and deeper reading and historians. Some of the skills focused on Faculty skills to analyze information. Major units include careful reading, writing (especially With an average of 20 years of teaching, thesis construction and argument support), include novels, legends or folklore, and research, critical thinking (a broad topic with our experienced faculty encourages stu- poetry that often integrate with the Social dents to achieve their potential in all as- many facets), map making, model construc- Studies curriculum. tion, game design and . The topics covered, pects of development: intellectual, social, subject to some student input will include: emotional, physical, and moral. They pro- Climate Change, Water, the Urban Environ- mote the development of mutual goals 8th Grade English serves as a bridge ment and Place, and Food. A fair amount of and responsibilities. A trusting, respect- time will be spent learning how to work effec- ful, positive school environment leads to to Upper School language and literature tively in groups, investigating historical empa- genuine dialogue between faculty and studies. Correct grammar usage is prac- thy, and assessing how each individual learns students. ticed and applied to multiple types of best. Overall, a design-centered approach to writing assignments including narrative, learning will be taken - looking for solutions descriptive, expository, and persuasive. to social and environmental challenges the Literary elements and an extensive study world will face in the coming years. Curriculum of poetry and poetic devices enable stu- Core courses are offered on a grade level dents to have a deeper understanding basis, while electives benefit from multi- of literature and the craft of literary writ- age classes. Small class sizes allow Riv- ing. The writing process is emphasized erfield the opportunity to personalize and practiced throughout the year with 6th Grade Math curriculum for each student. In 6th & 7th an emphasis on improving the quality of Students hone the skills of adding, subtracting, grades, core classes are often integrated, writing. multiplying, and dividing integers, fractions, facilitating a depth of study unavailable in and decimals. Additional topics include statis- rigidly defined content areas. 8th grade tics, measurement, and constructions. Enrich- brings the opportunity for high school ment or advanced concept development is avail- level credits, through courses such as WORLD LANGUAGES able for students who excel. 1, Physical Science and the 2nd *After 6th grade, students will follow a path that will year of either Spanish or German. Students choose either German or Span- complete either Pre-Algebra or Algebra I by the end of ish and take only that language for two 8th grade. Past results, standardized tests, and teacher years. The combination of the 7th and 8th feedback contribute to this decision. Homework grade years equate to taking Spanish I or Class assignments are posted to RenWeb German I at the high school level and can Pre-Algebra to assist students with access to home- result in a high school Concepts include working with decimals, nega- work requirements. credit. tive numbers, unit conversions, introductory , introductory algebra, probability, and equation solving. Real life applications are em- Organizational Skills Social Studies phasized throughout the course. The learning and consistent application of research, study, and organizational Algebra I skills are integral parts of the Middle Concepts include solving equations with one School program. Students are given an ‘What I love most about Riverfield is the variable, working with polynomials and frac- assignment planner and binder at the family-atmosphere that encourages and tions, factoring, solving equations with two variables, graphing, working with inequalities, start of the year. encourage welcomes parents to be involved with students to use this system and expect rational and irrational numbers, and quadratic their kids’ education. This is done with equations. Word problems related to real life students to take responsibility for their great communication on a mass level own organization. applications are emphasized throughout the and personal level.’ course. Students who earn a B or better in this class, earn one high school math credit. Middle School Parent SCIENCE Elective non-core courses 6th Grade Life Science Topics include the importance of diversity and adaptations of organisms, structure and func- tion in living systems (plant and animal cells). Students set up and experiment with aquatic and land ecosystems and populations, in addi- tion to study of the human body’s circulatory and respiratory systems. Students continue to observe, measure, record, and interpret data. 7th Grade Earth & Space Science Electives are selected each semester based on student interests. Students study the major structures of the earth Home Economics Roots and Shoots Other and earth’s history through an introduction to In this class, students plant, Provides opportunities for environ- AES/Study Hall gives time to geology and the earth’s minerals. Plate tecton- harvest and cook produce ics, earthquakes, and volcanoes are studied mental and community service. Re- work on homework, conduct re- grown on the RCDS campus. cycling, care of school animals and within the context of the earth system. Students Students will learn sustain- search, or work on team collabo- examine the weather cycle, oceanography, and able gardening techniques and barnyard, and outreach efforts beyond rations. Teachers serve as moni- astronomy. Each Science unit is accompanied follow organic practices. They the RCDS campus are all possibilities tors and resources for one-on-one by major research projects and weekly lab ex- will explore various culinary for this class. Students will determine assistance during Academic En- periences. traditions, learn basic cook- the focus of their efforts. richment and Support (AES). ing skills and enjoy healthy 8th Grade Physical Science and delicious recipes from the Speech & Debate Yoga is a popular class because A comprehensive overview of properties, clas- food they follow from “seed it is benefits mind, body and soul. sification, and structure of matter, periodic Competitive Speech & Debate to table”. May include field Students can begin preparing in The class suits all skill levels. It is law and elements, atoms and bonding, basic trips to local farms, commu- , motion, force, and energy, electric- Middle School to be a part of the Pass/Fail and students must also nity and farmers’ markets. A take one graded elective. ity and magnetism, and sound and light. New $40.00 fee is required to cover award-winning RCDS Speech/ concepts are studied through student investi- the expenses incurred during Debate squad. The class will cover gation of real world problems within physical the semester. the full range of competitive speech science. Concept understanding and mastery is events--hilarious comedy routines, evaluated through student projects, labs, tests, Journalism inspiring dramatic interpretations, quizzes, and participation in discussion. Labo- making poetry and prose stories ratory safety and skills are assessed through Newspaper students learn in- periodic laboratory practical exams. Students come alive with energy/excitement/ terviewing, writing, and edit- humor. In addition, students will who earn a B or better in this class, earn one ing skills, as well as layout, high school science credit. learn how to speak persuasively on photography, and design to national and global current events produce editions throughout and review the different methods of REQUIRED NON-CORE the year. argumentation and debate. Students Yearbook A yearbook is a per- interested in competing will repre- manent way to remember the sent RCDS in novice tournament COURSES year and to place your stamp completion. on the school. Join us as we learn photography graphic de- Technology IXL sign, writing, and journalism Intro to Computer Program- Students in K - Algebra II have a subscription ming/Coding Students practice to IXL.com, a web-based supplement aligned skills - and have a lot of fun! *both semesters preferred thinking creatively and logically with student textbooks that gives an individu- while learning to create games alized snapshot of all relative concepts. At any time students may access IXL from via the in- and other computer applications ternet at home or school and progress is moni- Performing Arts using Scratch programing. tored and assessed by math teachers Drama inspires students to Awareness learn theater elements such Students meet once a week in a grade level Art This class will explore a as movement, voice, memo- wide variety of media and tech- class with the to create a rization, blocking, scene de- sense of community. Topics include team niques in helping the art student building, relevant teen issues, and career inter- velopment, and partner work grow their skills and their pas- ests. Students set academic goals, plan course in preparation for the first sion for the art-making process. selections, and investigate their post-second- semester production. Second Assignments/projects that have ary options. semester includes student- been executed in this class range driven interests and will in- from small-scale sculptural clude improvisational studies. PE classes teach sports skills and teamsman- pieces using cardboard and mat- board (architectural models) and ship while encouraging students to become Rock Band students play a va- “fit for life.” boxes (in the manner of Joseph riety of instruments and perform Cornell) as well as many 2-d Service/Leadership at several large concerts on cam- drawing/painting exercises. Students have one period each week for ser- pus and at such off-campus loca- vice to the Riverfield and Tulsa communities. tions as Cain’s Ballroom. Come Industrial arts: design and fab- Possible choices for volunteering include as- be a part of Oklahoma’s first rication Welcome to the 21st comprehensive in-school Rock century shop class. Students will sisting in a Pre-School or class, program. being an aide to a teacher or staff member, explore theory and application or caring for the school’s many animals. 8th of designing and fabricating a grade students utilize this class to plan a vari- variety of projects. Skills such ety of activities including the Fall Retreat and as but not limited to carpentry, Legacy. electronics, and technology will be introduced and applied. Speech Required for all 8th graders. Students are taught to be persuasive, informa- Photoshop Students learn to use tive, extemporaneous, and even humorous as Photoshop CS6, the industry they learn to write and give a speech in prepa- standard software, to enhance ration for 8th grade Closing Exercises. Classes photos, create special effects, meet once a week for the 8th grade year. and make compositions and photo art. MISSION STATEMENT The mission of Riverfield Country Day School is to provide an excellent education in a family-oriented atmosphere. Students are motivated and encouraged to learn, develop, and mature in a respectful, secure, and diverse environment. A caring, creative faculty and a challenging, integrated, and personalized curriculum promote the development of the whole student as a confident and responsible learner prepared for success today and tomorrow.

Enrichment OPPORTUNITIES Riverfield Admissions Athletics Admissions Criteria Financial Aid Students are strongly encouraged, though not re- Admission is based on a combi- Admission decisions are made quired, to participate in sports that include: nation of criteria including the prior to and separate from deci- student’s educational history, sions about financial aid. A stu- Fall: girls volleyball, cheerleading, and cross country personal interview, visit during dent must be accepted before a school day, and our intuition the financial aid decision can be Winter: basketball and cheerleading that the individual is genuinely made. No family should refrain Spring: golf, tennis, and soccer. motivated to succeed and will from making application for benefit from the Riverfield- ex admission because of limited perience. No one factor is more finances. Social Opportunities important than another. Our main concern is success for the Parents obtain the School and Each year the Middle School Student Government or- student. Student Service for Financial Aid (SSS) packet from the Riv- ganizes several social activities for their peers. These After an initial tour and inter- erfield Admissions or Business include, but are not limited to, game nights, lock-ins, view, students spend a day Office and submit completed visiting Riverfield in the regular forms to SSS by March 1 of each sporting events, and dances. environment. The year. parents sign a Transcript Release Form to request transcripts and Financial aid will not be award- records from the candidate’s ed until information is received Clubs and Activities current school. Once students from SSS and the Riverfield Fi- are accepted, Riverfield may ask nancial Aid Committee makes Time is allotted weekly for clubs and activities, in- that a placement test be taken its recommendation. cluding Academic Bowl, Chess Club, Drum Line, Four for certain courses. Square, Spanish Club, Diversity Committee and Stu- dent Government. Student interests may lead to the Contacts development of other clubs. Kacey Davenport Fall Retreat Director of Admissions [email protected] Each fall, the Middle School students and faculty go on a three-day campout that combines teamwork, leadership training, and some time to relax and have Toby Clark fun. It is the essential community building experi- Upper & Middle School Division Head ence of the year. [email protected]

COLLEGE PREPARATION Riverfield 11th and 12th grade students meet weekly with Counselor Melissa Bogle to explore and prepare for college and career choices. Students research their college and career choices, scholarship opportunities, and summer internships and programs. Financial aid and money management in college are also covered. recruiters from like Vander- bilt, NYU, Drury, and TU come to campus and meet directly with our students and any interested parents. College Connection, a vital component of the college preparation process, is offered the summer before senior year. During the program’s first year, every senior was accepted by at least one of his/her college choices by January. College Connection students attend eight on-campus workshops that include topics like career exploration, college inquiries, and interview skills. They also create essays to be used in the college application process. Admissions counselors from area participate in the program giving students real-world feedback. Critical in the success of the College Connection program are the two individual conferences held with students, parents, and Mrs. Bogle. While not required, given the competitive nature of admissions and scholarship process, it is strongly encouraged for all incoming 12th graders to take part in this program. Through the support and guidance provided through the College Preparation program, our students are well-prepared for the college application process. They are, in turn, successful in their acceptances from desired and universities but also in obtaining generous scholarship offers. Riverfield students have been admitted to the following colleges and universities: AMC at U. of Central Oklahoma DePaul University Kansas State University Oklahoma City University Spelman College University of New Arizona State University Drury University La Salle University Oklahoma State University Stanford University University of North Carolina Austin College Duke University Louisiana State University Oklahoma Wesleyan SUNY-ESF University of North Texas Baylor University Emory University Loyola University Chicago Olin College of Engineering Syracuse University University of Oklahoma Belmont University Evergreen College Lynchburg College Oral Roberts University Temple University University of the Pacific Berklee College of Music Florida Southern College Lynn College Pennsylvania State University Texas Christian University University of Redlands Boston University Fordham University Manhattan College Rhodes College Trinity University University of Texas Brigham Young University Fort Lewis College Marymount Manhattan College Richmond, The American Tulane University University of Tulsa CA State University, Northridge George Mason University MA College of Art & Design University in London Tulsa University of Washington Calvin College Grand Canyon University Missouri Southern State University Rockhurst University University of Arizona University of Wisconsin City University of New York Hampshire College Montana State University Rogers State University University of Arkansas University of West Virginia Cleveland Institute of Music Hendrix College MO U. of Science & Technology Rowan University University of Central Oklahoma University of Vermont Colorado College Highpoint University New York University Royal Holloway University London University of Colorado Virginia Tech Colorado School of Mines Houston Baptist University New Haven College San Diego State University University of Denver Westminster College Updated 01/26/16 Cornell University Howard University North Carolina State University Salve Regina College University of Fine Arts London Cornish College of the Arts Northeastern State University San Diego State University University of Illinois Denison University Indiana University Ohio State University SCAD University of Illinois,Chicago Denver University Johnson and University Oklahoma Baptist University Southern Methodist University University of Kansas Depauw University Kansas City Art Institute Oklahoma Christian University Southwestern University University of Missouri

NON-DISCRIMINATORY STATEMENT Riverfield Country Day School is a non-profit, with no religious affiliation. Riverfield is a welcoming community that strives to treat everyone fairly. All decisions regarding admissions, employ-

ment, administration, and student and faculty life are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, age, disability, gender, sexual orientation, marital or family status, or any other

criteria prohibited by law. All rights, privileges, educational, athletic, school-administrated programs, and activities made available by the school are extended to all students, families, faculty, and staff.

Riverfield Country Day School 2433 West 61st Street Tulsa, Oklahoma 74132 918.446.3553 riverfield.org