Students in grades 7 and 8 take classes in Theater, Art, Music, and Maker Space/Health and Wellness for a full quarter at each grade level.
7th and 8th graders will be engaged in a general music curriculum where appreciation and understanding of music throughout our daily lives are encouraged through listening to a variety of styles from classical to jazz and pop. Music literacy is a priority, reviewing concepts of rhythm notation and practicing reading, decoding, composing, and performing rhythm examples. Tonal music theory is also covered through a review of notes on the treble and bass staff, as well as solfege. Musical texture is the final unit of study, where students explore the "layers" of sound and instrumentation in a variety of musical styles.
In addition to the music classroom curriculum, vocal and instrumental ensembles are offered for students seeking opportunities for the development and performance of their musical skills.
Middle School Art
Middle School Art provides an introduction to a variety of materials, techniques, and approaches of importance to the visual artist. Students explore problems in two- and three-dimensional areas and develop key issues such as color, composition, balance, structure, and design. In 7th grade, students' projects include drawing, watercolors, collage, and charcoal sketches while making connections to the importance of understanding and applying the elements of art. In 8th grade, their lessons primarily involve constructing with cardboard, painting, and drawing with a focus on visual communication. The young artist deals with the individual characteristics of each medium and explores numerous connections with the professional arts and the principles of design. The course emphasizes class assignments, group critiques, and personal creativity.
Independent Studies Theater
Independent Studies represent a rigorous curricular opportunity for self-motivated students to explore subject areas of their choice. Along with a faculty supervisor, they build their own curriculum and decide on benchmark projects to exhibit their growth. These projects vary widely, from performances to critical essays, playwriting to design.
Theater
The Middle School Theater curriculum is an introduction to performance techniques. Students get a taste of physical storytelling and text analysis, stage combat and choreography, and introductory vocal work. The focus is on freeing students to participate and finding the fun in collaboration.Maker Space
This course is an essential part of the middle school Hamden Hall experience. The goal is to design projects that the students can build and manufacture using life skills such as sewing, woodworking, and graphic design. Through Maker Space, students are exposed to a variety of projects in which the S.T.E.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) elements are included. They learn to calculate, measure, and execute using various tools and methods in which to achieve the final product. Design Space and Onshape are the tech tools used throughout the course. Each student is encouraged to participate, create, and be proud of their works.
Health and Wellness
The goal of the Health and Wellness curriculum is to contribute positively to the physical, social, and emotional health of students by providing them with opportunities to gain knowledge, clarify values, and practice skills that lead to better health.
