Grades 6-8

A strong foundation in mathematics is essential. This subject plays an important role in developing the ability to organize and analyze information, to think critically, and to communicate reasoning.

Chapin’s program is rigorous and demanding, while still emphasizing curiosity and the joy of self-discovery. We build computational and conceptual understanding while also emphasizing application in problem-solving situations, both independently and as part of a team.

Within Grades 6–8, mathematics is organized as a progressive course sequence rather than strictly by grade level. Students move through courses based on their mathematical development and readiness, with the sequence progressing from the following:

Pre-Algebra, to Algebra Part 1A, Algebra Part 1B

Or

Advanced Pre-Algebra, Algebra, and Geometry.

This structure provides a coherent progression of mathematical concepts and skills while allowing students to advance at an appropriate pace. At Chapin, we lay the foundation for ambitious, enthusiastic and confident lifelong learning.

We place inquiry at the center of learning. Our students ask questions, test ideas, and draw their own conclusions.  Our students carry the skills they learn beyond the classroom, as they apply scientific thinking to everyday decisions and questions.

Learning Through Inquiry- Critical thinking and analysis are the backbone of the Chapin experience. In science, students learn to form hypotheses, design investigations, gather and interpret evidence, and explain their reasoning.

Hands-On, Experiential Learning- Our program emphasizes scientific inquiry and learning by doing. Students step into the role of scientist, working with materials, running experiments, and solving real problems. Active, experiential lessons help complex ideas make sense and stay with students long after the unit ends.

Sparking Curiosity and Wonder- Great science classrooms generate intrigue. Our teachers design experiences that invite students to marvel at how the world works, from the smallest living cells to the largest forces shaping our planet and beyond. Curiosity drives deeper understanding, and understanding fuels more curiosity.

A Broad Scientific Foundation- Students are exposed to the many branches of science. This breadth expands their scientific foundation and helps them discover where their interests lie.

Pathways to STEAM- Many Chapin students go on to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, the arts, and mathematics, carrying with them the confidence, creativity, and curiosity they developed here.

Language Arts at Chapin builds confident readers, clear writers, and thoughtful communicators. Students study the stories and ideas that shape our shared and individual humanity, and they learn to express their own ideas with precision and care.

Reading with Purpose- Students read a wide range of texts, including novels, stories, poems, and journalism. Close reading and annotation help them look carefully at language, understand an author's choices, and support their interpretations with evidence.

Writing and Language Skills- Instruction in grammar, vocabulary, and writing helps students communicate clearly and persuasively. They learn to build arguments, organize their thinking, and revise their work.

Discussion-Based Learning- Through class discussion, students listen to one another, ask questions, and defend their ideas with evidence from the text.

Social Studies at Chapin helps students understand the events, people, and ideas that have shaped our world. They learn to connect the past to the present and to see their own place in a larger human story.

Learning from History, Current Events, Civics, and Culture- Students explore history, current events, civics, and culture to understand how societies form, change, and interact.

Working with Sources- Students analyze historical accounts, primary sources, videos, and journalism. They learn to evaluate evidence, consider multiple perspectives, and draw their own conclusions.

Discussion-Based Learning-Students discuss and debate historical and social questions, building arguments that connect facts to bigger ideas.

Every trimester, we offer a new slate of classes where students can discover a new passion or develop an interest. Current offerings include:

News Journalism, where students will work together to create a Chapin school newspaper

Painting, where students explore various subjects using a range of painting materials, including watercolor, gouache, acrylic, and water-soluble oil paint.

Film Appreciation, offers cinephiles a chance to study the history of motion pictures. 

Build, allows students to practice engineering design, reflection, and problem-solving.

Dungeons & Dragons, where students enjoy roleplaying a character with friends on an adventurous journey.

Yearbook, gives students the opportunity to design page layout, edit and proofread pages, and take pictures (2 trimester commitment).

Mandarin Enrichment, supports native speakers maintaining reading proficiency, and new speakers looking for extension work.

Spanish for Newcomers, recommended for anyone new to Spanish or looking for reinforcement of the basics. 

Co-curricular activities, scheduled throughout the school week, offer students a chance to develop skills in Art, Choral and Instrumental Music, Drama, Technology, and Leadership.