Computer Science

Middle school students are learning how to use various programs, such as MS Excel and MS PowerPoint, and using Computing Today. The goal of Computing Today is to provide students with the basis for understanding the concepts necessary for success in the Information Age. Computing Today also endeavors to instill in students an appreciation for the effect information technology has on people and our environment and to give students a basis for building the necessary skills needed to succeed in the 21^st century.

Students learn how to code using the HTML language to allow them to build their own websites. By gaining an understanding of the computer language, students will develop the skills to design sophisticated websites that can be used by others.

Fine Arts

The Art course is a comprehensive introduction to the general subject of “The Arts,” with a specific focus on drawing as a vehicle to awaken students’ creativity. Students also explore Islamic Art from a traditional, historical, and contemporary perspective.

The course includes hands-on studio work designed with an understanding of art concepts and expression of those concepts as its goals. But it will be the expression of a student’s understanding of the materials, techniques, and perception, not just their emotions or impulses. Once students understand the basic form and function of art and drawing, then they can start to create in their own expressive forms. While engaging in a study of the expressive potential of the drawing experience, students will express their individual perceptions and understanding of the drawing process, and not just a catharsis of emotion or a display of idiosyncratic personality.

The course will focus on both conceptual and figurative drawing, and students will work from both life and imagination as they develop the perceptual, conceptual and mechanical skills to translate 3D space into 2-D representations – i.e., drawing and/or any other future form of representational art they desire. Students will also leave the confines of the classroom to explore the rich visual world around them and try to capture reality where it lives. Students will work almost exclusively with dry, black media on paper for this class.

Physical Education/Health

The Physical Education program is designed to enhance students’ physical development and coordination skills.  The physical education and health program are correlated with the new Florida Standards. Health program provides the knowledge about the human body system, emotional, intellectual, social health, family life, growth and development, and community and environmental health.

Students learn basic knowledge about their bodies and abilities. They also develop life management skills and practice ethical behaviors, cooperation, and social interaction. Physical activity also provides the opportunity for enjoyment, challenge, self-expression and communication.

Students participate in the variety of the sports activities with emphasis on sportsmanship. Students are advised of the benefits of being physically active and to appreciate and respect the difference in individual ability and cultural diversity of people.

Team sports that are taught include flag football, baseball, volleyball, basketball, soccer and track and field.

Life skills provide opportunities for students to learn and practice real life situations like decision-making, managing stress, setting goals, resolving conflicts, communicating, and avoiding risky behaviors.

Language Arts

This program focuses on the effective use of the reading and writing processes. Reading instruction includes literary, informational, and technical texts for literal, interpretive, and inferential meaning. Through projects and presentations students develop their visual and oral communication skills. Students also participate in listening, viewing, and speaking strategies; understanding the common features of a variety of literary forms; and responding critically to visual, oral, and written texts. Emphasis is placed on grammar, vocabulary, and critical thinking skills. This allows for the development of the conventions within standardized written English, as well as writing for a variety of purposes and audiences. Along with language skills, students are instructed on proper note-taking to enhance their study skills and comprehension. Writing instruction includes all stages of the writing process from prewriting, drafting and editing to publishing. Students learn to write in a variety of forms, including basic paragraphs, formal/informal essays, short stories, and poetry of various genres. Students are assigned independent reading projects throughout the school year and during the summer. Students also receive instruction in test-taking skills and strategies for the standardized tests of the Stanford 10, PSAT/SAT, and ACT.

The core materials include Holt Rhinehart Winston’s Elements of Literature series; Prentice Hall’s Writing and Grammar series; Sadlier Vocabulary Workshop and selected novels.

NUIA offers the following sequence in the English program from grades 6 through 8:

English                             Grade 6

English                             Grade 7

English                             Grade 8

To facilitate differentiated instruction, English classes at the Middle School level are allocated based on students’ needs and skill sets. This allows for more conducive teacher-student ratios, ensuring maximized interaction during the instructional hour for students so that all may master grade-level skills.

The AR reading program, which can be accessed in the library and computer lab at school or from students’ home via the internet, hones students reading and comprehension skills by evaluating students’ understanding of books they have read and encouraging students to revise and review portions of the book that were not fully understood. All of the classes visit the library each week, with the librarian guiding them to select books appropriate to each student’s reading level and interests. Students are tested each term using the STAR reading diagnostic. The results from these tests are used to develop individual lesson plans, which address the student’s needs.  Students are also encouraged to develop their creativity and to express themselves through the Annual Broward County Literary Fair. Through this external competition students are able to express their creativity and understanding of a variety of writing formats and genres and submitting their original works for external validation. Writing is integrated across the curriculum.

A monthly reading night was implemented in our school to boost the literacy program and parental involvement within our school community. Our plan is to create a passion and love to instill a lifelong dedication to reading. Various themes are incorporated each month to make reading more alluring to our students. Students become excited and animated as they experience literature in an interactive manner.

Language Arts

This program focuses on the effective use of the reading and writing processes. Reading instruction includes literary, informational, and technical texts for literal, interpretive, and inferential meaning. Through projects and presentations students develop their visual and oral communication skills. Students also participate in listening, viewing, and speaking strategies; understanding the common features of a variety of literary forms; and responding critically to visual, oral, and written texts. Emphasis is placed on grammar, vocabulary, and critical thinking skills. This allows for the development of the conventions within standardized written English, as well as writing for a variety of purposes and audiences. Along with language skills, students are instructed on proper note-taking to enhance their study skills and comprehension. Writing instruction includes all stages of the writing process from prewriting, drafting and editing to publishing. Students learn to write in a variety of forms, including basic paragraphs, formal/informal essays, short stories, and poetry of various genres. Students are assigned independent reading projects throughout the school year and during the summer. Students also receive instruction in test-taking skills and strategies for the standardized tests of the Stanford 10, PSAT/SAT, and ACT.

The core materials include Holt Rhinehart Winston’s Elements of Literature series; Prentice Hall’s Writing and Grammar series; Sadlier Vocabulary Workshop and selected novels.

NUIA offers the following sequence in the English program from grades 6 through 8:

English                             Grade 6

English                             Grade 7

English                             Grade 8

To facilitate differentiated instruction, English classes at the Middle School level are allocated based on students’ needs and skill sets. This allows for more conducive teacher-student ratios, ensuring maximized interaction during the instructional hour for students so that all may master grade-level skills.

The AR reading program, which can be accessed in the library and computer lab at school or from students’ home via the internet, hones students reading and comprehension skills by evaluating students’ understanding of books they have read and encouraging students to revise and review portions of the book that were not fully understood. All of the classes visit the library each week, with the librarian guiding them to select books appropriate to each student’s reading level and interests. Students are tested each term using the STAR reading diagnostic. The results from these tests are used to develop individual lesson plans, which address the student’s needs.  Students are also encouraged to develop their creativity and to express themselves through the Annual Broward County Literary Fair. Through this external competition students are able to express their creativity and understanding of a variety of writing formats and genres and submitting their original works for external validation. Writing is integrated across the curriculum.

A monthly reading night was implemented in our school to boost the literacy program and parental involvement within our school community. Our plan is to create a passion and love to instill a lifelong dedication to reading. Various themes are incorporated each month to make reading more alluring to our students. Students become excited and animated as they experience literature in an interactive manner.

Mathematics

The Middle School math courses are designed to meet the individual student’s needs in computation, numerical reasoning, concept application, and problem-solving, as well as building the student’s confidence in this subject area. Grade level skills and concepts are constantly reinforced while also giving students time to explore other facets of math as needed. Reinforcement objectives are combined with challenging concepts, number sense, and thinking skills using grade level textbooks. Varied thinking processes and approaches are addressed. The core content of the program includes the five mathematics new Florida standards: number sense, measurement, geometry and spatial sense, algebraic thinking, and data analysis and probability.

Students use grade-level math textbooks, supplemental handouts, and online resources such as Khan Academy to master the required math skills. Teachers demonstrate each concept by modeling them through real-life applications; the students then refer to the model for guided practice and independent work. Integration of technology is part of the instructional hour. Students also undergo intensive test prep for Stanford-10 and PSAT 8/9.

The Middle School program uses the Glencoe Level 1, Prentice Hall Course 2, and Prentice Hall Algebra I textbooks.

Integrated Math I                                Grade 6

Integrated Math II                               Grade 7

Algebra I                                             Grade 8

Integrated Math I consolidate the concepts and skills that students learned in the elementary program. It includes computational abilities of varied numbers, ratios, proportions, percentages, integers, and algebraic concepts.

Integrated Math II reviews the skills covered in grade 6 and focuses on the core concepts of pre-algebra. At this level of instruction students explore formulas, expressions, and equations in more detail. In addition, proportion, scale, and similarity are covered more in-depth as well as number sense and operations. Exploration of integers is also an integral part of 7^th grade curriculum with equation and graphs. Geometry with all of its aspects is also included.

Students are offered Algebra I, which lays the foundation for High School. The course includes expression, equations, and inequalities. Linear, quadratic, rational, exponential, and radical functions are developed in depth. Systems of equations and inequalities, graphing and algebraic solutions are also mastered. Real world application is a main focus. Integration of technology -TI 30X2 Calculators – is a vital part of this course.  The introduction of geometrical concepts will also prepare the students for the Stanford 10, PSAT, SAT, and ACT.

Science

The goal of the Academy’s Science program is to achieve scientific literacy, which can be defined as the knowledge and understanding of scientific concepts and processes required for scientific decision making, participation in civic and cultural affairs, and economic productivity.

The tenets of scientific literacy include the following: the ability to find or determine answers to questions derived from everyday experiences; describe, explain, and predict natural phenomena; understand articles about science; engage in non-technical conversation about the validity of conclusions; identify scientific issues underlying national and local decisions; and pose explanations based on evidence derived from one’s own work.

Students can achieve scientific literacy through an instructional program based on the science component of the new Florida standards. The middle school science program includes goals and objectives from Life and Physical Sciences.

6^th and 7^th grade focus on integrated science, exposing students to introductory concepts pertaining to the disciplines of chemistry, biology, physical science, and earth science. Through hands-on experiments students learn about the real-life application of the scientific method and how to conduct research.

In the 8^th grade students take physical science, a high school level course. Students are introduced to higher order thinking as it pertains to the hard sciences. Instruction integrates technology, such as presentations on a SMART Board and viewing Khan Academy in class, in order to enhance the learning experience and facilitate instruction for all students’ learning styles. Experiments conducted in the school laboratory allow for further exploration of various scientific concepts.

All students are required to participate in multi-level science fairs by researching a scientific topic. Teachers are aware of and must incorporate Florida Standards in their instructions

Social Studies

Realizing that people have struggled through time over similar issues is essential to an efficient and dynamic social studies program. Understanding that disputes over money, power, and beliefs are at the root of human struggles and that these struggles when recorded become history, allows students to study the past while making strides toward the future.  The Social Studies department offers students a challenging program, incorporating the sub-disciplines of history, geography, economics and civics, while examining contemporary issues through informed discussions and analytical writings, thus providing students with the tools necessary to succeed in an ever-changing world that requires thoughtful understanding.

NUIA recognizes the role played by social studies in furthering achievement across the entire curriculum.  To this end, the strategies and components for academic growth in reading, writing, and mathematics are integrated throughout the Social Studies program wherever possible.  Students are encouraged to participate in both inter- and intra-school academic competitions to heighten their sense of academic ability and readiness.

Ancient World History/World Geography                  Grade 6

American History: up to the Civil War                                    Grade 7

American History: post-Civil War                               Grade 8

The sixth grade curriculum focuses upon the commonalities of the human struggle through ancient civilizations as well as a solid understanding of basic geographic concepts, which will allow for students to better succeed as they progress through the advancing curricula.  Man’s basic struggle to both tame and cope with his natural environment are examined in the world’s first civilizations and related to similar circumstances today. Students also explore the world in terms of how geographical phenomena interact with their daily lives.

The seventh grade curriculum covers the American experience from the beginnings of European exploration through the post-Civil War Reconstruction Era.  It is here that the introduction to the “American Experience” begins.  As a nation of immigrants, the contributions of diverse world cultures and ethnicities are not taught as isolated occurrences; they are infused throughout the instruction as they happen, a natural part of the American mosaic.  In seventh grade, the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution are introduced, culminating with the Civil War and Lincoln’s redefinition of what it means to be an American.

The eighth grade curriculum covers the American experience following Reconstruction and the United States’ emergence as an active participant in the world today.  The importance of cultural diversity and its contribution to the United States is continued, again not in isolation but as an integral part of our nation’s growth. These events are examined critically in their own right as well as how they have impacted the world as we now know it.

World Languages

Arabic

Students in the Middle School program take Arabic as a foreign language daily. Students at this level are offered an opportunity to study and develop basic language skills and to communicate in a second language. Within the Middle School, there are six levels: Level I (Low Intermediate), Level II (Mid-Intermediate), Level III (High Intermediate), Level IV (Low Advanced), Level V (Mid-Advanced), and Level VI (High Advanced). Students are placed in one of six levels of instruction based on their past exposure to the language. The Middle School program uses the Al-Madina Arabic Reader Levels I through VI textbooks.

Arabic I

The program introduces the students to basic written and oral knowledge of Arabic. The sound system of Arabic is taught with emphasis on vocabulary and structural patterns. An exploration of the Arabic cultural environment provides insight into the background of the Arabic and Islamic worlds. Students are to follow and give simple instructions and understand and interpret spoken and written language on a variety of topics. Students with no prior exposure to the Arabic language are placed in this level.

Arabic II

The program introduces more vocabulary and structural patterns of the Arabic language. Arabic culture continues to be investigated. Oral and written skills are reviewed, enhanced, and refined. Students are to present information, concepts, and ideas to an audience of listeners or readers on a variety of subjects, thereby recognizing the multiple ways an idea can be expressed in Arabic and use them appropriately.

Arabic III

This program emphasizes the vocabulary and structural patterns of the Arabic language in greater depth. Arabic culture continues to be investigated. Oral and written skills are reviewed, enhanced, and refined. Students are to present information, concepts, and ideas to an audience of listeners or readers on a variety of subjects, understanding the relationship between the perspectives and products of Arabic culture and use this knowledge to recognize cultural practices.

Arabic IV

This program allows the student to extend and perfect oral and written Arabic language skills. Vocabulary is increased, and more difficult structural patterns are explored. Literary works are read and studied in the Arabic tongue. Students are to reinforce and further their knowledge of other disciplines through Arabic and acquire information and perspectives that are available only through Arabic and within Arabic and Islamic cultures.

Arabic V

This program refines composition ability and reviews grammar. Various types and forms of literature are explored. Current event articles are read and studied. Book reports, oral presentations, a research paper, and participation in a writing competition are required. Students are to use speaking strategies effectively and respond critically to fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and drama.

Arabic VI

This program includes the study of literature from the jahiliyya (pre-Islamic) period to the 21st Century with special emphasis on the Quran, Hadith, and Islamic poetry. Listening to sermons delivered in Arabic as well as oral and written presentations enhances practical use of the language. Students are to use Arabic within and beyond the school setting and use the language to gain information and perspectives that are only available through Arabic.

Spanish

This program is offered as an elective at the Middle School level. It introduces students to basic written and oral knowledge of the Spanish language. Emphasis is placed on vocabulary acquisition and basic language patterns. Students explore the Spanish culture and linguistic roots.

Repetition and comprehensible input are important components of this course. Focus is on all four language skills: listening, speaking, reading and writing. Culture is an integral part of the course and is introduced through the use of media, games, adapted readings and class discussions. In addition to written tests and quizzes, students may also be assessed by means of oral activities. Homework assignments and class participation are integral parts of this course; they reinforce concepts/skills introduced and explored in class, which enable students to participate in a meaningful way.

Religious Studies

Students in the Middle School program take Islamic Studies three times a week. Students at this level are offered an opportunity to study and develop a basic understanding of the theory and practice of the religion of Islam. The Islamic Studies curriculum covers a wide range of topics that are presented throughout the Middle School program. It builds on the foundation of the program offered in the elementary school. The Middle School program uses Learning Islam Books 1, 2, and 3, textbooks.

The 6^th grade curriculum allows the student to be introduced to the basic beliefs of a Muslim. The fundamental pillars of Islam (i.e.: Shahada: declaration of faith; Salaah: the five prayers; Zakaah: the paying of alms; Siyam: fasting; and Hajj: pilgrimage) are explored. Islamic law, history, values, ethics, and etiquette becoming of a Muslim are studied. Students are taught to appreciate the progress and contribution of Muslims who carry Islam onto the world stage. They therefore deal with a broad range of historical issues surrounding the rise of Islam in an intellectually satisfying manner by citing historical evidence.  Islam and Muslim Civilization is the supplemental textbook used.

The 7^th grade curriculum continues the themes begun in 6^th grade, by going into greater depth of the Islamic faith. The history of the Quran and the laws derived from it, as a primary source of Islamic law, are further explored. Historical events in the life of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and the Quranic revelations in relation to these events are studied in depth.

The 8^th grade curriculum further explores the topics discussed in previous years, as well as introduces the laws derived from the Haddith as another primary source of Islamic law, by learning about the authentic books of Haddith. The lives of previous Prophets and their relationships with Allah are studied in depth. Islamic ethics, as they relate to everyday comportment, are emphasized. Brief explanations of certain sections of the Quran are also incorporated into the curriculum.

Quranic Studies

Students in the Middle School program take Quranic Studies three times a week. It builds on the foundation of the program offered in the elementary school. Students are expected to memorize the 30^th juza’ of the Holy Quran by the end of the middle school program. By memorizing the Quran, students are guided through the implementation of the meaning of the verses.

Students participate in a school-wide Quran competition yearly. Through this event, students are highly motivated to demonstrate their mastery of their memorization and recitation skills.

Hifz Program

Students are offered the opportunity to join the Hifz Program, which entails memorizing the entire Quran on a personalized schedule. In order to join the program students must already be fluent in Arabic, both in reading and recitation abilities. In order to memorize the Quran, students are offered daily classes, which begin before school, where they are assigned to memorize a new section of the Quran, at least half a page per day. Students are required to review the section previously memorized to ensure retention. Students are expected to complete the program within six years or sooner depending on the individual student’s ability. By joining the Hifz program, students are exempted from participating in Arabic, Islamic Studies, and Quran classes. Students are assessed regularly to ensure that they have absorbed the material and can accurately recite the Quran from memory. Technology is used daily by having students listen to recording of scholars reciting verses of the Quran.