Middle School Curriculum
Academic
The Cottage School, Middle School follows the Fulton County Curriculum. Our small class size of 10 students or less, allows the teacher much personal hands-on time during a particular class period, making that class time very conducive to learning. As a result, there is little need for the traditional hours of homework many of our students have been used to in the past. Since homework should ideally be the independent practice of newly acquired educational skills, drill and kill is definitely not part of the curriculum.
Most students learn best by doing. In most larger classroom settings, lecture is the most efficient way to teach. Our smaller class sizes allow the teachers to facilitate experiential, or hands-on learning. Whether its using manipulatives in math to solve algebraic equations, taking care of the habitat of bearded dragons, or building a waterfall to connect two outdoor ponds, our students are actively involved in their own learning. Since most of our students struggle with issues due to ADD or ADHD, the mental as well as physical strain of staying focused can make for a tiring day. As a result our academic subjects are primarily taught in the morning.
Electives/Exploratories
Students choose from a wide variety of electives and exploratories, giving them the opportunity to pursue personal interests and explore new opportunities. These courses include Co-op work expeiences, Promotional Art, Drama, Culinary Arts, Yearbook, Forensics, Computer Exploration, Carpentry, Multicultural Art, Photography, Ethics/Debate, Driver’s Education, Aviation/Space, Cheerleading, Mountain Biking, Jewelry-Making, Fencing, Bowling, Basketball, Baseball, Soccer, Cross Country, Swimming, Personal Fitness, and Volleyball.
Arts
We are very fortunate at the middle school to have an art teacher who is not only knowledgeable and passionate about his subject matter, but also one who is committed to integrating art into the entire middle school curriculum. Field trips to the area galleries and museums are a common occurrence, as are the frequent displays of student work on the walls of the school. Many times students discover previously unknown artistic talent and are surprised by the talent they display. Through their study of various artists and their works, students gain an appreciation of the work involved in the creative process and can apply that to their own process of creating a work of art.
Technology
We have many generous parents who freely give of their time, talent and treasure, and one result has been the middle school computer lab. Wireless technology has allowed us to furnish our students with up-to-date machines with super fast internet connectivity. Several of our students struggle with reading issues and Premier Software makes it possible to convert any written text to either a CD or to a computer screen. The computer is then able to orally read the displayed text to the student via headphones in a wide variety of speeds and voices, allowing the student to visually follow along as the words being read are highlighted on the screen. Voice recognition software is also available for those students who struggle with written expressive language, allowing them to concentrate on the creative end of the writing process.
Additionally, most classrooms are equipped with Mimeo which allows the teacher to print instant copies of all notes written on the board for those students with either dysgraphia or other issues which impede their ability to take careful and accurate notes. We strive to structure the learning environment to enable the students to attain success. As we all know, nothing leads to success more quickly than a history of success. That is the aim of our teachers: to enable our students to experience success. Success that is not freely given, but genuinely earned in a supportive, nurturing environment where students are not only supported and encouraged, but also, above all, given the tools needed for the successful completion of their middle school education.