Engaging Curriculum
Our Middle School classrooms are filled with energy and warmth, with students developing organizational and study skills necessary for high school and beyond. The school day includes language arts, social studies, mathematics, science, Bible, physical education, and various exploratory courses (including technology and required performing arts). CHA utilizes a hybrid block schedule structured to build “non-routine cognitive” skills proven helpful in today’s world in addition to traditional educational methodology.
For a look at the overarching curricular scope and sequence at CHA, please download our Abridged Curriculum Guide.
We utilize a leveling approach for success, with students assessed and placed in Strengthening Foundations, Pre-Algebra, Algebra, or Geometry.
Our literature-based curriculum, with a focus on writing skills, includes: Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry, by Mildred D. Taylor; The Giver, by Lois Lowry; and Night, by Elie Wiesel.
Using Holt curriculum, World History is presented in 6th grade and U.S. History is covered in 7th and 8th grades.
Using Harcourt Science (grade 6) and Glencoe, McGraw Hill Science (grades 7 and 8), Middle School students explore, discover, and research a variety of topics with a STEM focus. Units include, but are not limited to, the scientific method, weather and ecosystems, cell theory, human body systems, lab safety, matter, the periodic table, and electricity.
Students focus on developing a biblical worldview and learning to defend their faith. They study Christianity’s answers to the questions of God, the universe, and human beings. Students compare and contrast the beliefs of Christianity with those of Islam, naturalism, and new spirituality. Students also focus on apologetics, comparing the revelation found in scripture with many current views in society.
Leadership and Service
We seek to challenge students to develop the gifts the Lord has given them, so they might serve Him and be role models to others. There are many opportunities for middle schoolers to learn and grow in this way, including:
- Participation in the weekly Middle School chapel service, whether joining the worship team, sharing a testimony, or presenting a topic as a group
- Involvement in CHA’s dedicated week of service learning, called GO! Week, where students explore issues facing people in Chicagoland, such as homelessness, disabilities, and refugee resettlement, and then partner with local ministries who are helping to address these issues
- Serving students in younger grades at CHA, through classroom assistance
Field Learning Opportunities
Field trips and overnight trips enrich studies in science, history, and social studies. These trips are not only excellent educational opportunities, they also help students grow in independence, responsibility, and interpersonal relationships! Signature field trips include:
- Trees for Tomorrow in Eagle River, Wisconsin (6th Grade)
- Springfield, Illinois (7th Grade)
- Washington, DC (8th Grade)
Exploratories and Co-curricular Activities
To enhance the Middle School academic experience, students take required exploratory and performing arts courses, including:
Optional co-curricular activities are available outside of school-day hours, including:
- Athletics - Basketball, Soccer, Track and Volleyball
- Middle School Theater production
