Academics and Instruction
MATH
JHS 226 currently utilizes the Envision Math Curriculum, in which all of our students have access to both the digital and paper versions of the curriculum. In addition, the math department utilizes additional resources like IXL and Deltamath in order to increase student proficiency. Our Math teachers collaborate on lessons in order to highlight collaborative group tasks and conceptual understanding. JHS 226 also implements additional programs during and after the school day in order to support our students in mathematics. Some of these programs include Accelerated Learning, push-in Math Tutors, and after school Math support on Wednesdays and Thursdays. In addition, our 8th Grade students are provided with the opportunity to take the Algebra 1 Regents for High School credit.
ELA
Our school uses HMH Into Literature as its curriculum, which is a comprehensive ELA program covering reading, writing, speaking, and listening for middle-school students. The curriculum invites students to engage with a rich and varied selection of texts that are both classic and contemporary, that build intellectual stamina and promote independent, skilled readers, writers, thinkers, and communicators. The curriculum contains embedded close-reading routines and annotation strategies (such as the “Notice & Note” signposts) that help students actively engage with texts and think critically. This year, our focus is on evidence-based reading and writing: questions and tasks are designed to require students to cite textual evidence, analyze author’s craft and meaning. The curriculum is aligned with middle school standards, allowing for coherence across grade levels and promoting gradual deepening of literacy skills. In addition to HMH, we also incorporate the use of i-Ready, an online assessment and personalized instruction program that identifies students’ strengths and areas for growth in reading, then provides individualized lessons to support their progress.
SCIENCE
Our school utilizes Amplify Science which is a phenomena-based, blended curriculum designed to empower students to think, read, and write like scientists and engineers. Each unit of study includes scientific simulations, modeling tools, and hands-on learning experiences that helps students to problem-solve real-world scenarios.
8th Grade students are provided the opportunity to take the Biology Regents for High School Credit.
SOCIAL STUDIES
We utilize Passport NYC, Hidden Voices, and Civics For All curriculum resources. We encourage students to think critically like historians, analyze multiple perspectives, and use evidence from texts to understand their role in a global community.
All students will participate in Project Soapbox this year, preparing speeches on a topic that calls young people to speak out on issues that affect them and their communities.
THE ARTS
All of our students participate annually in arts elective programming. We offer a variety of arts disciplines– including graphic arts, visual arts, dance and theatre. The hope is that students will identify which arts disciplines speak most to their interests and skills, and continue along these learning and creative outlet pathways in high school and beyond.
FOREIGN LANGUAGE
Our Foreign Language curriculum and content is based on the New York State Learning Standards for World Languages. It includes a focus on skills such as developing listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills through communicative and interactive activities. It provides an emphasis on grammar and vocabulary where students learn grammar rules and expand their vocabulary through conscious study and practice. Students are also exposed to various cultures for fostering empathy, openness, and appreciation. Instruction includes cultural components, such as learning about Spanish-speaking countries and the Latinx population in the U.S. Students are assessed through a combination of performance-based assessments, which can include thematic exams, portfolios, oral presentations, and written compositions. At the end of the year, students take the proficiency exams for World Languages, such as the Checkpoint A exam, which tests listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills.