The following images are of the Middle School Concert Band performing at Giant Magnet (the Seattle International Children's Festival) (click to enlarge):

Our fifth through eighth graders are entering one of the most exciting times of their lives.  Soundview's Middle School provides the perfect balance of support and encouragement for successful risk-taking and exploration of the physical, mental and emotional changes taking place. Lessons span class boundaries, connecting knowledge to daily life with a rich assortment of short- and long-term projects, field trips and activities that build relationships and awaken innovation. Through small classes of no more than sixteen students, Soundview’s personalized approach strengthens time management and organizational skills, equipping students with the self-control and motivation necessary for advanced independent work.

The middle school curriculum concentrates on building bridges between concepts and the real world. Technology classes explore computer logic in simulated environments, then build and test their circuits. Physics, biology, chemistry and environmental science courses illustrate the governing forces of our universe with hands-on experiments in our spacious new science lab or natural forest sanctuary.

Plays, band recitals and juried contests cement a lifelong passion for the arts and open unique paths of self-expression. Highlights of middle school include the National History Day and Washington State Robotics competitions, a week-long environmental/life science camping trip and a declamation contest judged by professionals. By observation and experience, Soundview’s focus on “real knowledge teaches middle school students to think creatively and construct their own meaning. Middle school students graduate as confident speakers, creative expressionist and team leaders who look forward to challenge and the chance to inspire those around them.

Courses

Language Arts
Word analysis, fluency, systematic vocabulary development,literary response and analysis, writing strategies and applications. Students work on several writing applications such as historical fiction, poetry, research paper, autobiographical events, and persuasive writing.

Humanities
In-depth study into the areas of geography, world civilization, American civilization, and economics. Research into larger topics and present to the class in a variety of formats. Create environments and settings and live through historical periods. Participation in National History competition.

Drama
Learn the art of performing, acting and communicating in front of others. Role playing, debates, and plays. Opportunities to participate in the annual declamation contest, where they recite favorite literary pieces in front of others.

Foreign Language
Increase fluency in Spanish through conversation, reading, and vocabulary development.

Mathematics
Learn geometry, pre-Algebra, Algebra.

Science & Engineering
Hands-on projects using science lab and workshop. Students learn to use tools. Study of physics, chemistry, biology, and engineering. Individual and team projects. Give science demonstrations to neighboring public elementary school.

Art
Learn fine art, ceramics, art history, photography, still-life, watercolor, portraits, perspective, architectural models and drawings. Students study the worlds of famous artists, create work of artists, and visit museums to see their work. Students enter several different local and state art contests.

Physical Education
Emphasis is on exercise, conditioning, and teamwork. Classes have access to two playfields, courts, and running track, as well as an indoor rec-room for inclement weather. Students learn skills in major sports such as basketball, volleyball, soccer, football, field hockey and softball.

Band
Each child chooses an instrument and plays in either beginning or advanced band. The band performs several times throughout the year on stage.

Computers
Graphics, web design, computer programming, databases, and robotics. Specific languages and tools include Adobe Photoshop and programming languages Logo, Stagecast, Javascript, HTML, and robotics languages. Students also learn fundamentals of computers and computer networks. Upper grades work on larger team-based projects and compete in the annual state robotics tournament.