Middle School

Humanities strives to integrate subjects so that students experience continuity in their study and gain the ability to view topics from multiple angles. Students learn to make connections to current issues through the lens of a historical perspective.

This three year course of study is taught as an integrated language arts and social studies program, with the incorporation of other disciplines. While students will study each subject – learning historical facts, diving deeply into the study of the English language, learning content, and improving their reading comprehension and writing abilities – the emphasis is on a program that gives students the opportunity to analyze their own identities and roles as global citizens as they grapple with environmental issues, political systems and power structures, and civic engagement with fundamental ideas about citizenship, freedom, morality, and law.

We seek to engage students in the learning process, challenging them to stretch and wrestle with the world of ideas with depth and sensitivity. The program inspires an appreciation and deepening understanding of history, culture, literature, fine art, poetry, and drama, while cultivating and celebrating independent and critical thinking. Students learn to respect the point of views of others even as they work to develop and defend their own.

6th Grade Humanities

Sixth graders examine Ancient Civilizations, including Ancient Greece, Mesopotamia, Egypt, Rome and China, exploring traditional myths about gods, goddesses, heroes, and monsters as well as historical accounts of remarkable individuals.  Using a variety of texts, which are mostly drawn from primary sources originating in the ancient Mediterranean basin, students begin to understand the societies that created these works and the place of humans within them. By writing across various genres, using historical fiction and literary analysis, and studying greek and latin roots of words, students become adept at analyzing the writing and civilizations of the time to examine whether the approaches that work for explaining the political and social structures of these civilizations are useful for the analysis of another culture that was not part of the same tradition.

7th Grade Humanities

Seventh graders examine Current Events and Comparative Religion, recognizing that learning about the experiences of others allows us to reexamine our own lives in new ways. Essential questions for the course include: How do people create identity? How do groups create and maintain community? and How do groups develop and change?  Students examine the origin, development, rituals, beliefs, and modern communities of Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, and Buddhism through writing across genres, research-based essays, historical fiction book clubs, documentary studies and primary sources.

8th Grade Humanities

Eighth Grade Humanities weaves together U.S. History and Current Events, asking important questions about the dichotomy of America’s association with the ideals of human

Rights without always reflecting reality. Students learn that writing is an act of Social Justice, and will explore such questions as Who is an American? Who gets to tell our American story? Whose voices are omitted? and How did the U.S. get its power? Through reading and literary analysis, studies in historical fiction and Shakespeare, and studying primary documents such as the Constitution, eighth graders will leave the year able to read, write and speak powerfully about our country, its legacy and its future.

Mathematics provides students with a platform to foster the growth and development of analytical thinking skills while also allowing students a space to hone their creative thinking. The Pressman Academy Middle School mathematics department is dedicated to providing a curriculum that develops mathematicians who are resourceful problem solvers, keen strategizers and critical thinkers. We want our students to feel confident and ready to take on math in today’s global mathematics arena. The goal is for all students to complete Algebra I at a middle school level in preparation for entrance into high school math.

6th Grade Pre-Algebra

Our sixth grade pre-algebra course lays the foundation for students to bridge their elementary skill set with higher level algebraic concepts. During the year, students cover algebraic expressions and integers; operations with fractions; decimals and percents; ratios and proportions; and solving one step equations and inequalities. Our sixth grade math classes are grouped heterogeneously with much differentiation to allow all students to thrive in a high school preparation program in seventh and eighth grades.

7th Grade Algebra A

Upon entering seventh grade, students begin the first course in our Algebra I path. Students begin the year with a foundational algebra review and then cover solving linear equations; representing math in multiple ways, slope (including coordinate plane/graphing, slope from two points, writing equations in slope intercept form and slope as a rate of change); probability; and rates, ratios and proportions.

8th Grade Algebra B

Students in eighth grade complete the Algebra I course by taking Algebra B. In Algebra B students cover systems of equations; quadratics (including multiplying polynomials, factoring trinomials using multiple methods, the quadratic formula and graphing quadratics); exponents and logarithms; and algebra and geometry integration.

Middle School Science classes focus on the development of inquiry, organizational, critical thinking, and problem resolution skills. Based on Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), the science program is designed to develop and reinforce understanding and skills through a variety of hands-on activities. Students conduct laboratory investigations to develop mastery of scientific principles and experience them in action. As scientists, they formulate scientific theories, design experiments, and analyze findings to better understand the observations they make about the world around them. As engineers, they experience the application of scientific concepts by designing, building, testing, and modifying working models and prototype solutions to “real world” problems.

6th Grade Earth Science

This course explores energy in earth systems and its relationship with the physical and compositional structure of the planet.  Topics include Earth’s systems, the flow and transfer of energy through these systems, Earth’s physical and compositional structure, plate tectonics, continental drift theory, earthquakes, volcanoes, mountain building, mechanisms that reshape Earth’s surface, and the scientific method.

7th Grade Life Science

This course explores biological, chemical, and physical science of living things. Topics include characteristics of living things, structure and function of human body systems, proper use of the microscope, cell theory, structure and function of cells, genetics, inheritance and variation within species, classification of living things, plant and animal physiology, evolution, natural selection and the scientific method.

8th Grade Physical Science

This course explores the general principles of physics and chemistry. Topics include measurement, properties of matter, structure and function of atoms, physical changes of matter, atoms and molecules, atomic theory, practical use of the periodic table of elements, chemical reactions, balancing chemical equations, density, buoyancy, energy, force, motion, Newtonian physics, energy, astronomy, and the scientific method.

Middle School Hebrew Language classes focus on strengthening skills and improving students’ performance in all four areas of language learning. Through Hebrew language study, students participate in class activities including conversations, grammar exercises, literature study, and presentations. Students are actively engaged in Hebrew conversation and have multiple opportunities to use Hebrew in reading, writing, listening, and speaking while increasing their knowledge of Israel and its culture. Instructors integrate a variety of approaches, using technology in the classroom through recordings and films, and they use many authentic texts drawn from a variety of resources created for native speakers. Through the department’s interdisciplinary approach, students better understand their own language and culture and develop a sense of responsibility and commitment as world citizens.

6th Grade Hebrew

Sixth graders study Hebrew through three major units, including: New Beginnings in School, Friendship, and Leadership. Additionally, students learn language as they celebrate each of the Jewish holidays throughout the year. Hebrew grammar is woven into all areas of study. Sixth grade Hebrew language study takes on an increased authenticity as our students meet their counterparts at our partner Magen School and converse with their peers in Tel Aviv.

7th Grade Hebrew

In seventh grade, students study the Hebrew language through units that include New Beginnings in the Family and Friendship. Additionally, seventh graders incorporate history into their language learning, as they study the story Ha-bekhor L’veit Avi The story of Itamar Ben-Avi, the son of Eliezer Ben-Yehudah (the father of Modern Hebrew) as well as while reading a diary of a Jewish child during the Spanish Inquisition. As in sixth grade, Hebrew grammar is woven into all areas of study as students use text, technology, art and many other media to learn the language.

8th Grade Hebrew

Our eighth graders culminate their Pressman Academy Hebrew education with stories of new immigrants to Israel as well as the story Sarah Giborat NILI about Sarah Aharonson, a story of espionage and bravery during the period of pre-State Israel. Students study Hebrew grammar through literature, poetry, and song. Through in-depth study of current events, cinema, slang, and contemporary literature, students learn to compare Israeli and American cultures and identity. Through extensive exposure to culture variations, students widen their intellectual horizons and develop respect and appreciation for diverse ideas and cultures.

In addition to Hebrew, TaNaKH, and Rabbinic studies, our middle school students also engage in Judaic Studies classes. These classes serve to complement their education by providing a well-rounded understanding of Jewish values, customs, history, and connections.

T’fillah

Middle School T’fillah is a comprehensive course that immerses students in the practice and intention of prayer. They engage in various activities to build both keva (practice) and kavana (intention). Students continue to develop their prayer skills and actively lead communal services, encompassing Shaharit (morning service), Torah service, and Kabbalat Shabbat (Friday night service). Beyond B’nei Mitzvah age, students are encouraged to wear tallit and t’fillin (prayer garb), and all students take turns leading the services. Each day of the week offers unique opportunities for Jewish spirituality and ritual. For instance, there are t’fillah electives once a week, providing options like a D’var Torah (sermon writing) workshop, prayerful yoga, prayerful music, and art. Additionally, students have the chance to deepen their understanding of prayers through teachings from the Rabbi-in-Residence and other guest speakers, enhancing their connection to the spiritual aspects of Judaism.

Sixth Grade Israel Alive

In Israel Alive, students learn about the modern State of Israel, focusing on history, geography, government and people. Students learn about Israel through classic texts, maps, music, and movies and engage in hands-on projects to truly understand how modern Israeli society functions. Students leave the course with an understanding of Israel as a modern state, able to engage in educated conversations about Israel’s government, people and events.

Seventh Grade Life Cycle & Liturgy

In this course, students delve into the rituals and liturgy connected to significant life cycle events, such as birth, coming of age, marriage, and death. They recognize that these Jewish life cycle rituals and liturgy serve several vital purposes: guiding individuals through life’s milestones and transitions, facilitating the assumption of new responsibilities, and enhancing their sense of connection to the Jewish community.

Through reflection on their own experiences, hearing about diverse experiences within our community, and comparative exploration of traditions in different global cultures, students gain a multifaceted understanding of the importance and universality of these rituals and liturgy.

Eighth Grade Jewish History

Eighth grade students gain a broader understanding of the diverse experiences of the Jewish people over time and around the world. Studies begin with participation in the Jewish Court of All Time (JCAT), an online experience with other Jewish schools where students portray a character from history and engage in discussions about the intersection of historical issues and values. Later in the year, studies focus on understanding the Holocaust, including students’ personal family story (if applicable) to this important historical event. The eighth grade students prepare and lead the school’s annual Yom Ha-Shoah commemoration.

Sixth Grade Rabbinics 

Sixth grade students continue to deepen their understanding of the oral law (the Jewish legal system) and its relationship to the written law (TaNaKH). Students are introduced to the five distinct classification categories within each Mishnaic text (Coteret/title, Omer/author, Mikreh/case, Din/ruling, and Taam/reasoning) and learn how to parse and break down a Mishnah into parts. Units of study focus on Seder Moed (Festivals) and Seder Z’raim (Blessings and Prayers).

Seventh Grade Rabbinics

In seventh grade, students progress with a review of Seder Moed (Festivals), delve into Seder Nezikin (property and ownership laws), and are introduced to the Talmud, along with exposure to other Tannaitic literature like Tosefta, Braita, and Midrash Halakhah.

A prominent highlight is the stidents’ participation in the Moot Beit Din competition. Here, they confront a modern scenario, assessing arguments from both sides using Jewish legal texts. This experience deepens their understanding of the development and application of Jewish law, from its origins to the present day.

Eighth Grade Rabbinics

In Eighth grade, students begin their Talmudic studies, familiarizing themselves with the Talmud page layout, including the Mishnah, Gemara, and commentaries. They explore statements by rabbis from different periods (Tannaim, Amoraim, and Shakla v’Tariah), and acquire scanning and mapping techniques for efficient comprehension of Talmudic arguments. Units include in-depth examination of sugiyot (sections) on thematic topics such as Lashon Hara (gossip), Tzedakah (charity), and Kibbud Av Va’Em (parental respect), offering a comprehensive exploration of Jewish legal and ethical concepts.

Sixth Grade TaNaKH

Sixth grade students further their exploration of the written Torah, particularly focusing on the Nevi’im (the Prophets) section. Their studies encompass the transition of leadership from Moses to Joshua and onto the Judges. This historical narrative also delves into the challenges of building community under the Judges and the establishment of monarchy under the guidance of the Prophets.

The theme of leadership in their studies strongly connects with students’ personal experiences as they prepare for their B’nei Mitzvah and assume leadership roles within our community.

Seventh Grade TaNaKH

Seventh graders continue studying Nevi’im by learning about the period of sovereignty in the land of Israel under Saul, David, and Solomon. Readings, discussion, and projects engage students in a deeper understanding of the Torah, help develop independent and peer study skills and cultivate a personal connection to the biblical text.   

Eighth Grade TaNaKH

Students primarily focus on the “Ketuvim” section of TaNaKH, studying the megillot (scrolls) that enrich each of our seasonal holidays, including Yonah (Read on Yom Kippur); Kohelet (Read on Sukkot); Esther (Read on Purim); Shir Ha-shirim (Song of Songs, read on Pesah); Ruth (Read on Shavuot) and Eikhah (Read on Tisha B’Av).  Students engage in discussions and projects to explore the theme of purposeful living raised in the texts.

Tikkun Olam

Pressman Academy is committed to fostering connections and responsibilities toward local, national, and global communities, both within and beyond the Jewish context, through acts of tzedakah (charity) and gemilut hasadim (acts of kindness). Teaching and engaging in tikkun olam (social action) are fundamental aspects of our mission and curriculum. In middle school, each grade establishes a relationship with a specific community and organization, with this connection deepening and evolving over time.

Some examples of Tikkun Olam projects in our Middle School include:

Iranian Jewish Senior Center
Students collaborate with the Iranian Jewish Senior Center (IJSC). They prepare for these interactions in Mishnah class, where they study Rabbinic texts and explore the Jewish values underpinning their Tikkun Olam actions. This partnership also provides an opportunity for students to enhance their writing and literacy skills in Humanities. Activities include celebrating Purim and Hanukkah with the seniors, engaging in play and exercise, and even composing songs together.

“Safety and connection with significant adults are the prerequisites for creating a sense of belonging.”

“It is only once students feel safe and connected that they are able and willing to learn.”

~Conscious Discipline

The Middle School Advisory Program helps to develop student’s character, independence, and responsibility within a supportive and safe community. Students in grades 6th-8th attend a bi-weekly advisory class, which is comprised of executive functioning skill development, community building activities and service learning opportunities. The advisory class is facilitated by a teacher who takes a special interest in all aspects of a student’s life at Pressman and is the child’s “go-to guide” and advocate at the school. Advisors and advisees develop a unique student, teacher relationship that supports the whole child. Advisors also facilitate communication between students, faculty, administration, and parents as needs arise.

The Sixth Grade Advisory Class focuses on acclimating students to the culture of the middle school, developing the skills associated with being a successful student and exploring themes of social justice.

The Seventh Grade Advisory Class integrates themes of identity, diversity, community, philanthropy and service learning. Seventh grade advisors also take a lead role in facilitating academic goal setting and oversight.

The Eighth Grade Advisory Program develops students leadership, fundraising and social activism skills. Particular emphasis is placed on the high school acceptance process.

A STUDENT QUOTE

“Our advisory works together. For example, when one of our classmates got injured, everyone wrote her cards and went to go visit her after school. This is just one example of how our advisory is one. We are kind of like dominoes. When one falls, we all fall and when we all stay standing, we can achieve amazing things, just like our PSA video.” – Talia T., 7th grade

The Hebrew word for connection is Kesher.  The Kesher Program at Pressman was established in 2002 and is comprised of two essential elements: A weekly Kesher-Life Skills class and several Parent-Child Councils throughout the year. The Kesher class centers  around the ancient practice of Council- the art of  deep listening and authentic speech. In this class, the following social/emotional skills are developed: self awareness, self management, social awareness, relationship skills and responsible decision making. In addition to Council, the class uses modalities of film, guest speakers, art, project based learning and interactive games. The curriculum develops with our students, to ensure that the topics remain relevant to each particular age group in our middle school.  Our Pressman Parent-Teen Council evenings take place in grade level communities and provide a meaningful format for families to engage their children in vital conversations as they transition fully into their adolescent years.

SIXTH GRADE KESHER PROGRAM

The sixth grade Kesher course of study focuses on introducing students to social-emotional learning and to the practice of Council.  The main thrust is to support the students going through physical, emotional, and social changes as they transition into Middle School. Students develop the skills of digital citizenship and becoming an online Mensch. The class is also comprised of a Human development component which includes units on puberty, healthy body image, gender identity/expression  and the integration with our Jewish values.

SEVENTH GRADE KESHER PROGRAM

The seventh grade course of study encourages and facilitates the passage from early puberty into adolescence, and further develops the social-emotional learning, digital citizenship and the practice of Council. The focus of the human development curriculum includes units on human sexuality and the integration of Jewish values with healthy relationships. Our partnership with Beit T’shuvah facilitates critical decision making skills around healthy choices in coping with stress.

EIGHTH GRADE KESHER PROGRAM

The eighth grade course of study encourages and facilitates further exploration of teenage issues: individuation from and connection with family; peer pressure; identity; independence and interdependence; healthy choices; diversity; empathic responses. As 8th grade students become prepared to launch into high school, we further explore and expand the ways in which Jewish values influence their perspectives and choices.

Pressman Academy recognizes that giving attention to the social/emotional growth of middle school students is essential. Through our Kesher, Advisory and counseling programs, students develop a deep and meaningful connection with their community that they can take with them into high-school and beyond.

Advisory

“Safety and connection with significant adults are the prerequisites for creating a sense of belonging.”

“It is only once students feel safe and connected that they are able and willing to learn.”

~Conscious Discipline

The Middle School Advisory Program helps to develop student’s character, independence, and responsibility within a supportive and safe community. Students in grades 6th-8th attend a bi-weekly advisory class, which is comprised of executive functioning skill development, community building activities and service learning opportunities. The advisory class is facilitated by a teacher who takes a special interest in all aspects of a student’s life at Pressman and is the child’s “go-to guide” and advocate at the school. Advisors and advisees develop a unique student, teacher relationship that supports the whole child. Advisors also facilitate communication between students, faculty, administration, and parents as needs arise.

The Sixth Grade Advisory Class focuses on acclimating students to the culture of the middle school, developing the skills associated with being a successful student and exploring themes of social justice.

The Seventh Grade Advisory Class integrates themes of identity, diversity, community, philanthropy and service learning. Seventh grade advisors also take a lead role in facilitating academic goal setting and oversight.

The Eighth Grade Advisory Program develops students leadership, fundraising and social activism skills. Particular emphasis is placed on the high school acceptance process.

A STUDENT QUOTE

“Our advisory works together. For example, when one of our classmates got injured, everyone wrote her cards and went to go visit her after school. This is just one example of how our advisory is one. We are kind of like dominoes. When one falls, we all fall and when we all stay standing, we can achieve amazing things, just like our PSA video.” – Talia T., 7th grade

The Pressman Academy Middle School strives to build student leaders by providing many opportunities for individual growth.

Student Council

Cultivating future leaders is a goal of Pressman Academy. Before each school year closes, we hold Student Council officer elections in the Middle School.  Elected positions (which are for 7th and 8th graders only) include President, Vice-President, Secretary, Historian, Tikkun Olam Coordinator and T’fillah Coordinators.  In the fall, two students from each grade are elected to serve as Class Representatives.  Student Council members assist with events throughout the year such as Sixth Grade Orientation and Generations Day.  In addition, they plan a number of events such as Social Night, the annual talent show, Spirit Days, and Field Day.

Student Ambassadors

Student Ambassadors play an extremely important role in the Admission process – they are the first face that a prospective family sees, and they provide invaluable information to parents about Pressman – from a student perspective. The students are assigned as either greeters or panel members for every Open House.  The greeters welcome parents and escort them to the Open House, and the panel members provide information about the school and answer any questions parents pose to them in an intelligent, credible manner.  Student Ambassadors also assist with school-wide events such as Generations Day and ECC Grandparents Day.

Student Judiciary Committee

The Student Judiciary Committee consists of 6-8th grade students, the Rav Beit Sefer, Middle School Counselor and the Elementary School Principal, who assist the committee in reaching their recommendations.The mission of the SJC is to provide a means for a restorative practice after a major school-wide agreement has been broken. Following a major broken agreement, the committee must recommend a fitting means of restoration for the student and wronged party. Restoration is about undoing a wrong, not just confessing up to the wrong.  It is what restores our soul and our community.

Pressman Academy is committed to providing each student with the very best preparation for high school.  This preparation includes the acquisition of knowledge and skills, as well as the development of characteristics and values.

Understanding that the priorities regarding high school selection for each student and her/his family may be unique, Pressman Academy offers guidance and support to students and their families as they determine their high school preferences and, when applicable, assistance in completing their high school applications. Pressman does encourage students and their families to explore Jewish high schools as the next step in their Jewish education. Regardless of their choice of high school, one of the school’s educational goals is for students to continue a lifelong interest in their own Jewish education, in formal and informal settings.

Pressman Academy is committed to helping students and families find the best high school fit for their family. Administrators visit prospective schools and meet with Directors of Admission to learn about schools, facilitate a relationship with Pressman Academy and high school admission, and to ensure a smooth transition for our students.

In sixth grade, students and their families are encouraged to attend our Jewish High School Night in which sixth through eighth grade students and their parents are invited to hear a panel of Pressman alumni articulate their experiences from a range of Jewish day schools.

In seventh grade, students are given information about different high school options, encouraged to tour independent schools (if applicable), and offered ISEE preparation information. The Middle School Principal is available to meet individually with families to assist in exploring all of the options that may be available for your child.

In eighth grade, Pressman Academy will help students to complete applications when applicable. After students are accepted to their individual schools, administrators work with families to evaluate their options and decide on a school that will offer their children maximum success.

In addition, Pressman administrators follow up with a meeting to learn of the progress and success of each student. Our students demonstrate a high rate of acceptance to their top choices and thrive in their respective schools.

Recent graduates are currently attending a variety of Jewish and public schools including Shalhevet, LA Hebrew High, Milken Community High School, de Toledo High School, Hamilton Humanities and Music Magnets, and Beverly Hills High School.