Middle School (Grades 6, 7 &8)

RELIGION: Teachers guide students through the Old Testament, helping them understand God’s covenant and presence throughout history. Students grow in their relationship with Christ through prayer, reflection, and mentorship with younger students.

HISTORY: Students study ancient civilizations and connect historical events to Scripture.

READING: Students read a variety of texts, including fiction, nonfiction, and poetry, while developing comprehension and critical thinking.

LANGUAGE/WRITING: Students write explanatory essays using structured organization, evidence, and clear communication.

SCIENCE: Students participate in hands-on experiments exploring Earth, life, and physical science.

MATH: Students develop fluency in fractions, decimals, ratios, and geometry while showing clear reasoning.

PERFORMING ARTS: Students participate in music and performance opportunities.

SPANISH: Students develop language skills through conversation, translation, and cultural study.

ART: Students explore creative expression through art projects.

STEM: Students engage in STEM learning through classroom and extracurricular opportunities.

TECHNOLOGY: Students use technology for research and presentations.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION: Students develop teamwork and fitness.

LIBRARY: Students build research and media literacy skills.

CHAPEL: Students participate in prayer and faith formation experiences.

RECESS: Students have regular breaks to support social development.

Students develop communication skills through two speech experiences:

EXPOSITORY SPEECH: Students write and deliver structured speeches that explain a topic clearly using evidence and organized ideas.

IMPROMPTU SPEECH: Students practice thinking and speaking on demand, organizing ideas quickly and communicating clearly for different audiences.

Students learn and deepen their understanding of:

• Luminous Mysteries
• Act of Hope
• Vocation Prayer

Students begin to take greater ownership of their prayer life and reflect more intentionally on their faith.

Students lead school Masses, participate in the Veterans Day Assembly, attend Camp Hamilton, and complete service projects such as making blankets for those in need.

RELIGION: Teachers guide students through the New Testament and preparation for Confirmation. Students actively participate in liturgy and deepen their understanding of Christ’s teachings.

HISTORY: Students study Washington State history and connect lessons to social justice and faith.

READING: Students analyze a variety of texts and support their thinking with evidence.

LANGUAGE/WRITING: Students develop persuasive and analytical writing skills, forming arguments supported by research.

SCIENCE: Students study body systems, genetics, and scientific structure through handson learning.

MATH: Students develop fluency with rational numbers, proportions, and algebra readiness.

PERFORMING ARTS: Students participate in music classes exploring different cultures and styles.

SPANISH: Students continue developing language skills.

ART: Students engage in projects that build artistic understanding.

STEM: Students participate in STEM learning opportunities.

TECHNOLOGY: Students use laptops for research and presentations.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION: Students build teamwork and fitness.

LIBRARY: Students develop media literacy and research skills.

CHAPEL: Students participate in prayer services and faith formation.

RECESS: Students have scheduled breaks for social development.

Students develop advanced communication skills through two speech experiences:

EDITORIAL COMMENT SPEECH: Students research an issue, form a clear opinion, and support it with evidence while presenting with confidence and clarity.

IMPROMPTU SPEECH: Students strengthen their ability to organize and present ideas quickly, adapting their speech for different audiences and purposes.

Students learn and deepen their understanding of:

• Sorrowful Mysteries
• Hail Holy Queen
• Angelus
• Act of Love

Students take a more active role in leading prayer and participating in liturgy.

Students participate in service at the Lynnwood Food Bank, Lenten prayer services such as Stations of the Cross, and a three-day retreat focused on faith, service, and personal growth.

RELIGION: Teachers guide students to take ownership of their faith as they prepare for high school and beyond. Through daily prayer, reflection, and classroom life, students deepen their understanding of Christ and are challenged to live their faith through their choices, relationships, and leadership. Students are reminded that they are created in God’s image and called to live with purpose, integrity, and responsibility. Faith is lived out through prayer, service, and participation in Weekly Mass.

HISTORY: Students study the development of the United States from early colonies through the American Revolution and beyond. They examine how religion influenced migration, leadership, and the formation of nations, helping them connect faith to historical events and decisions.

READING: Students grow as independent and critical readers through both assigned literature and independent reading. Texts include novels such as The Watsons Go to Birmingham, A Christmas Carol, and If I Ever Get Out of Here, along with short stories, poetry, and nonfiction. Students analyze themes, make connections, and engage deeply with complex texts.

LANGUAGE/WRITING: Students develop advanced writing skills using the five-step writing process. They write across multiple genres, including narrative, expository, and research-based writing. Grammar and structure are reinforced as students prepare formal writing pieces, including those presented during the school speech competition.

SCIENCE: Students explore a full range of scientific topics including ecosystems, space systems, genetics, energy, forces, and matter through the Smithsonian curriculum. Hands-on labs help students apply concepts and think critically about the world around them.

MATH: Students take Algebra, following Common Core standards for high school readiness. They develop problem-solving skills, mathematical reasoning, and independence through daily practice, assessments, and application of concepts, preparing them for high school math placement.

PERFORMING ARTS: Students continue to build confidence and expression through performance opportunities and presentations.

SPANISH: Students continue developing vocabulary and language skills, including verb conjugation and conversational use.

ART: Students explore creativity through visual art, developing both technical skills and personal expression.

STEM: Students apply problem-solving and critical thinking through STEM activities connected to science and real-world applications.

TECHNOLOGY: Students learn responsible use of technology, including copyright, digital citizenship, and ethical use of information.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION: Students develop teamwork, fitness, and discipline through regular physical activity.

LIBRARY: Students use library resources to support research and independent reading.

RECESS: Students have scheduled breaks during the day to reset and maintain focus across multiple classes.

FORMAL PRESENTATION: Students participate in the STMS Scholars Speech Program, where they research, write, and present formal speeches. They develop confidence, clarity, and the ability to communicate ideas effectively in front of an audience.

Students learn and pray:

• Glorious Mysteries
• The Divine Praises
• Act of Faith
• Act of Hope
• Act of Love

Students participate in daily prayer and are expected to lead prayer, reflect independently, and connect prayer to their daily decisions and actions.

Students participate in:

• Faith Families (serving as leaders for younger students)
• Retreat experiences, including a one-day retreat and high school retreat opportunities
• Living Stations of the Cross
• St. Nicholas Day traditions

These experiences help students grow in leadership, deepen their faith, and prepare for the transition to high school.

Students attend Weekly Mass and take on leadership roles such as lectors, altar servers, gift bearers, and choir members. Students who have not yet received the sacrament of Confirmation may do so during this year.

Eighth grade students at St. Thomas More School are well prepared for the next step. Our students are actively recruited by Catholic high schools, and 99% earn grants or scholarships to attend Catholic high schools.

Students leave eighth grade with strong academic skills, leadership experience, and the confidence to succeed in high school and bey