 Adolescents TodayAdolescence comes from a Latin word and means ´´to blossom, to grow.” Children between the ages of 10 and 14 go through many physical, cognitive and emotional changes. Many parents fear this time of maturation. At Robinson School, we embrace this age group. We believe that they are full of spirit and passion. Throughout the years, Robinson has pioneered new educational initiatives that have revolutionized the learning experience for our students. As such, we have developed The Plus Factor for our “tween” group.
The Plus Factor
The Plus Factor is a program that provides adolescents in seventh and eighth grade with supportive tools that will assist them during the transition from elementary to secondary school. Its goal is to help students become more organized, independent and successful. We have based our program on the research-based characteristics for excellence in middle school programs.
These characteristics are as follows:
- Our faculty values working with this age group and has had specific professional development regarding working with adolescents
- Our administration understands and embraces this age group
- We have a shared vision of our Plus Factor program
- Robinson School provides a safe, nurturing environment
- High expectations are clearly communicated to all our students
- Students and teachers engage in active learning strategies
- Adult advocates work with small groups of students
- Seventh grade students are paired with an Upper School mentor
- Advisors communicate regularly with parents
Robinson´s Middle School serves students with a rigorous academic program designed to promote higher-level thinking skills and meet the unique developmental needs of the age group. Through opportunities that are provided, such as engaging academic classes, advisory time, athletic teams, community service, extracurricular activities, and class trips, students develop a rich sense of themselves, their abilities, and the world.
The Middle School divides its school day into classes that are described as "core" classes (English, math, social studies, science, and Spanish) and classes described as "specials" (music, art, PE, and technology). Core classes meet approximately 200 minutes per week (five 40-minute class periods) with some variation due to the special schedules. "Specials" meet between one and five class times per week.
The individual needs of learners are addressed in a variety of ways. First and foremost, the recognition that all students learn differently is an important shared principle. As part of our Plus Factor program, the faculty presents lessons and information in different modalities to incorporate all learning styles. Science labs, debates, cooperative groups, lecture, recitation, performance, and guided discovery are just some of the approaches that are used. Teachers also provide many opportunities for students to receive assistance outside the classroom. Extra help is provided before and after school. Review sessions are often provided before tests and the library is open after school to provide a quiet place for students to work individually or in groups.
Homework is assigned to reinforce ideas learned in class, practice important skills, extend the concepts studied in class to other applications, preview new material, and provide an opportunity to identify areas of weakness and strength. Students can expect one to three hours of homework a night depending on how long-term assignments are managed.
Our teachers seek to create positive and productive experiences for every student. Grade-level teams work together to coordinate skill development and curriculum across departments and plan field trips, speakers, and other class activities. One unique feature to the schedule is the additional weekly assembly time where the entire Middle School can gather for special events, announcements and programs.
The Middle School is committed to educating the whole person. In order to do this, attention must be paid to issues beyond the classroom. Helping students manage academic loads, communicate with teachers, deal with social issues, and learn to prioritize and balance conflicting expectations falls to the advisory program in addition to classroom teachers. The advisor plays an important role as the main communication link from the School to home, following a student´s academic progress and keeping parents informed. The advisory program stresses character education and community building. Community service projects, ethics discussions, and other important activities done in the advisor group create a small family for the student within the larger school. In addition, the Eye to Eye Mentoring provides additional forums beyond the regular classroom where all voices are heard and students feel valued.
In a Middle School, learning to respect others is an essential component of the program. Learning to serve the greater good is also vital. These issues are addressed in our spiritual life curriculum, the classroom, and the whole school. History classes discuss cultures, significant events, geography and the realities of distant countries. The literature selections often inspire discussions about prejudice, justice, socioeconomic inequality, and issues of tolerance.
Therefore, we provide:
- Curriculum that is relevant, challenging, integrative, and exploratory.
- Multiple learning and teaching approaches that respond to adolescents´ desire for diversity.
- Assessment and evaluation programs that promote quality learning.
- Organizational structures that support meaningful relationships and learning.
- School-wide efforts and policies that foster health, wellness, and safety.
- Multifaceted guidance and support services.
Are you ready for the Plus Factor? We´re ready!
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