Academics: Grades 7-9

List of 10 items.

• English

  English classes in the Upper School inspire boys to think creatively, read analytically, and communicate effectively in writing and speaking. Boys read novels, poetry, short stories, plays, or nonfiction; write personal narratives; and conduct research on topics related to literature or culture. In all of these tasks, boys embrace collaboration and multi-model expression as part of their learning experience.

• Math

  Within the math classroom, teachers pose purposeful questions to extend students’ reasoning to a higher level of understanding. They incorporate problems that reflect reality to help students learn through real-world applications. Boys are placed into discrete courses and levels of math beginning with Pre-Algebra and ending with Algebra II. A student’s ability, rather than grade level, determines course placement.

• History

  Making historical events relevant is the key to the study of American and world history. We explore themes and important moments in history from various perspectives through student-centered projects, the study of primary sources, and forms of expression, such as literature and art. Teachers encourage students to be more than onlookers of major historical events and people; instead, they help them become well-informed students and active global citizens. Students learn to understand and appreciate these roles as global citizens, and to develop the 21st century skills to support their effort to challenge moral, societal, and political assumptions.

• Science

  The mission of science at Fessenden is “science by doing.” As emerging scientists, students develop scientific research and laboratory skills and engage in project-based learning, citizen science, and design investigations that allow them to solve complex real-world problems. Students make use of advanced technology and software, such as Vernier probes and interfaces, models and simulations, and laboratory kits to understand their scientific findings and their natural, physical, and biological world.

• Foreign Language

  Upper School boys may study Spanish or Latin. The goal of the foreign language program is to develop students’ abilities to effortlessly write and speak in the target language, and learn about the cultural and history of native speaking peoples. Mastery of grammar, speaking skills, and written expression is the objective for each student, from the introductory class to the third-year honors section.

• Health and Wellness

  This part of the curriculum focuses on health, human development, social and familial dynamics, character development, safety, and decision-making. In addition to the classes offered at each grade level (Introduction to Health in Grade 7, Making Healthy Decisions in Grade 8, and Contemporary Issues in Grade 9), health and wellness themes are embedded into students’ classes, assemblies, and community time.

• Academic Support

  The Lappin Skills Center
  
  Skills Center Remediation: Provides remedial instruction in language arts and math skills. Each student’s program is designed to meet his individual objectives based on classroom performance assessments and standardized test scores. On-site assistance allows frequent communication between a student’s tutor and teachers. 
  
  Academic Tutoring: Provides individualized support in study and organizational skills or a specific academic subject area, such as English, math, science, or language.
  
  Help and Work: Help and Work is available to all students in Grades 5-9. Help and Work provides a daily opportunity for boys to acquire help with lessons or make-up work. Students may schedule time with faculty using a daily sign-up or teachers may schedule time with individual students if they think students need extra help. Help and Work is held during the last period of the day for all students. Boys who are not involved in Help and Work attend study hall or early sports during this time.

• Advisor Meetings

  Boys meet with their advisor weekly for support in navigating any academic, social/emotional, or life challenges he might be facing. The advisor serves as the primary communications conduit for the family, and a great deal of time is spent matching students with the appropriate advisory group. The advisor/advisee relationship is structured to ensure that every boy has a trusted adult who is there to celebrate his successes and help him get back on track when needed.

• Electives

  Upper School boys have a list of nearly 20 visual and performing arts and technology electives from which to choose. This breadth of offerings gives boys the opportunity to develop new passions and build upon existing talents.

• Clubs

  The Upper School Club program offers students more than 20 options a year, ranging from debate club, to treehouse design, to Model United Nations. The diverse offerings of the program allow boys to further pursue academic, athletic, or social interests. We also encourage students to develop their own ideas for clubs and to pursue faculty mentorship.