RADNOR MIDDLE SCHOOLS ALTERNATIVE PROGRAMS Preparing Students for
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RADNOR MIDDLE SCHOOL’S ALTERNATIVE PROGRAMS Preparing Students for the 21 st Century 6 th Grade Crossroads est. 2004 7 th Grade Watershed est. 1988 8 th Grade Gateways est. 2007 Soundings est. 1998
Integrated Learning The skills and topics of science, social studies, and language arts are not separated out, but are addressed through a common theme: 6 th: Crossroads – Culture and Community 7 th: Watershed – Darby Creek Watershed 8 th: Soundings – Democratic Classroom Gateways – Science and Technology
Common features of the four programs: �Grouping: 40 Students and two teachers in a double-sized classroom. �Integration of disciplines: No separate language arts, science, or social studies. �Academic Levels: Open to students of all abilities with minimal exceptions. Differentiation occurs within the class. �Classroom Without Walls: More opportunities for learning experiences outside the classroom setting.
More common features of the four programs: � Authentic Assessment Methods � Presentations (group/individual) � Projects (group/individual) � Log Book – written responses � Individual goal setting � Fewer tests, quizzes, and short-term homework assignments � Progress Reporting � Student self assessments with teacher and parent comments � Mid and end-of-year narrative evaluations � Evening open houses � Frequent feedback but no grades or H. A. C.
Crossroads’ Theme: CULTURE AND COMMUNITY
What do we learn? We learn our language arts, science, and social studies skills through the study of four levels of culture and community: n Family n Community n Nation n World
Where do we go from here? � We encourage you to learn more about Crossroads by exploring the Crossroads website, especially the Crossroads FAQs. � Also, be on the lookout for information concerning informational meetings with fifth grade students. These meetings are open to parents. � Click here for the Crossroads website: http: //www. rtsd. org/Page/4770
