6th, 7th and 8th Grades
Introduction:
The Foundations Course is a course that is new to the Middle School, and was created with the goal of providing our students with a solid foundation in life skills. Foundations is a fusion of three crucial components: Ethics, Health, and Wellness, taught by three different instructors who will rotate in teaching the class so that students see each instructor approximately once every three weeks.
Major themes throughout the year include Adolescent Social Development, Mental Health, Nutrition and Fitness, Sex Education, and Substance Abuse. The Ethics portion is an extension of the Lower School Ethics and Cultures course, and will include a variety of topics centering around moral decision-making, becoming a responsible citizen, and increasing knowledge about different cultures. Students will be expected to demonstrate their understanding of this component through school-wide Ethics in Action activities. The Health portion focuses on teaching responsible health habits, behaviors, and decision-making. The Wellness component centers on social and emotional wellness and includes topics such as stress management, social dynamics, emotions, body image, and healthy relationships. Together, the three major strands provide a foundational course for our Middle School Students.
Teacher Contact Information
Any of the three teachers may be contacted with questions.
Melanie Battistone
mbattistone@mcgillisschool.org
801.583.0094 ext. 108
Josh Goldberg
jgoldberg@mcgillisschool.org
801.583.0094 ext. 511
Teresa Totorica
ttorica@mcgillisschool.org
801.583.0094 ext. 520
Website:
http://mcgillisfoundations.weebly.com/index.htmlweeblylink_new_window
Materials
Students will be expected to write in journals that are provided.
Behavior
Students at the McGills School have the responsibility to:
· Respect all
· Respect learning
· Respect school property and the property of others
Students are expected to participate through discussion and active listening. In a class where meaningful conversations happen daily, it is important to have a climate of respect, courtesy, and compassion. Behavior that is disruptive in class will result in lower citizenship grades and parental involvement.
Homework
Most of the work we do is in class however there may be occasional homework assignments. Late homework may be accepted for partial credit depending on the circumstances such as the type of assignment, date received, and quality of work. Students excused from school for illness or similar reasons will have flexibility with regard to homework.
Grades
A cumulative grade will be given based on the grade reports from the individual teachers.
25% Citizenship (respectful of peers, teacher, guests, and classroom; positive attitude)
25% Preparedness (supplies, punctuality, organization)
50% Participation (engaged in class discussions, journaling, and activities)
