Middle School

The Bible curriculum at Jackson Christian Middle School is designed to deepen students’ understanding of both the Old and New Testaments, focusing on the key stories, themes, and people found throughout Scripture.

At the heart of our instruction is the message of God’s unconditional love, the grace of Jesus Christ, and the active presence of the Holy Spirit. Students are encouraged to explore how God's Word speaks into their daily lives by:

• Recognizing God’s ongoing work in the world and in their personal journeys

• Learning to seek and discern God’s will

• Applying Biblical truths to real-life situations

Our goal is not only to build biblical knowledge, but to foster spiritual growth and encourage a lasting, personal relationship with Christ.

Sixth Grade:
In sixth grade, students build a strong foundation in grammar, usage, and mechanics of the English language with a focus on improving writing and speaking skills. Reading comprehension is strengthened through various reading strategies, literary terminology, and vocabulary development. Students engage with a variety of texts, including stories, articles, novels, and poems. 

Seventh Grade:
This course emphasizes writing, literature, oral communication, and critical thinking. Students explore a variety of genres including personal narratives, persuasive essays, reviews, and descriptive writing. Connections between language arts, other academic disciplines, and personal experiences are highlighted to develop well-rounded communication skills.

Eighth Grade:
Eighth grade language arts further develops students’ reading and writing abilities. Through the study of fiction, poetry, and short stories, students examine literary elements and apply them in their own writing. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking, literary analysis, and expressive writing.

Sixth Grade Math:
This course emphasizes a solid understanding of numbers, their representations, and relationships. Students will also explore geometric concepts and spatial reasoning. Major topics include solving algebraic equations, computing with integers, fractions, and decimals, proportional reasoning, and geometric reasoning. These foundational skills prepare students for more advanced concepts in Pre-Algebra.

Seventh Grade Pre-Algebra:
Students will deepen their understanding of real numbers and explore algebraic concepts in real-world contexts. Key topics include solving linear equations, interpreting graphs, and applying rules of exponents. This course builds the skills and conceptual knowledge necessary for success in Algebra I.

Seventh Grade Pre-Algebra A:
This course covers the first half of the Pre-Algebra curriculum. It provides a slower-paced introduction to key algebraic concepts for students who may benefit from extended foundational instruction.

Eighth Grade Pre-Algebra B:
This course covers the second half of the Pre-Algebra curriculum, building on the content from Pre-Algebra A. It continues to develop students' proficiency in algebraic reasoning and prepares them for the transition to Algebra I.

Eighth Grade Algebra I:
Algebra I reviews essential arithmetic skills within the context of algebra. Students solve linear and quadratic equations, work with polynomials, analyze functions and graphs, and apply algebraic reasoning to real-world problems. This high school credit course lays the foundation for all future mathematics courses.

The Jackson Christian Band Program is a Fine Arts initiative designed to nurture students' artistic and creative expression through instrumental music. While fostering a deep appreciation for music, the program also emphasizes essential life skills such as excellence, leadership, responsibility, and teamwork.

The program is structured into three age-appropriate levels:

• Beginning Band (Grade 6): Introduces students to the fundamentals of music theory, instrument care, and performance techniques. No prior musical experience is required.

• Intermediate Band (Grades 7–8): Builds upon foundational skills with increased focus on ensemble performance, musicality, and more complex repertoire. Students continue to grow in their technical abilities and collaborative performance.

Participation in the band provides students with opportunities for public performances, competitions, and enrichment experiences that inspire both personal and musical growth.

The Physical Education program at Jackson Christian equips students with the knowledge, skills, and motivation necessary to lead a healthy and active lifestyle. Through a variety of age-appropriate activities, students learn to:

• Develop and maintain physical fitness

• Build coordination, strength, and endurance

• Practice teamwork and sportsmanship

• Understand the importance of lifelong physical activity

Our goal is to help students value and enjoy physical activity not just during their school years, but as an essential part of a balanced, healthy life.

Sixth Grade – Earth Science
Sixth grade science focuses on Earth science concepts, including geology, meteorology, oceanography, and astronomy. Students engage in hands-on investigations and experimentation to explore these topics, with a strong emphasis on lab safety and the scientific method.

Seventh Grade – Life Science
This course offers an in-depth study of life science, including cells, genetics, ecosystems, and human body systems. Through technology integration and lab experiences, students develop critical thinking skills and apply scientific knowledge to real-world investigations.

Eighth Grade – Physical Science & Chemistry
Eighth grade science explores the foundational concepts of physical science and chemistry. Topics include atomic structure, the periodic table, chemical and physical changes, and forces and motion. The course emphasizes lab-based learning and problem-solving, helping students strengthen their analytical and measurement skills.

6th Grade – World Cultures
This course takes students on a global journey through time, exploring the origins of civilization to the modern era. Emphasis is placed on the cultures, achievements, and the rise and fall of empires and dynasties. Students gain a broad understanding of how past civilizations have shaped the world we live in today.

7th Grade – Geography
Geography explores the relationship between people, places, and environments. Students learn to read and analyze maps, organize and interpret geographic information, and understand the impact of human population, settlement patterns, and global cooperation and conflict. This course helps students apply geographic thinking to understand both historical and current global issues and to plan for the future.

8th Grade – U.S. History: Early America
This course examines the early history of the United States, beginning with Native American cultures and progressing through European exploration, colonization, and the American Revolution. Students study the formation of American government, westward expansion, reform movements, and the Industrial Revolution, with an emphasis on how these events continue to shape American life today.

Middle School Explore classes are designed to enhance and complement the core academic curriculum, offering students a well-rounded educational experience. These classes provide opportunities for creative expression, skill development, and exploration of new interests.

Explore class offerings include:

• Spanish – Introduction to basic language skills and Hispanic culture

• STREAM – Cross-curricular learning in Science, Technology, Religion, Engineering, Art, and Math through hands-on, problem-based projects

• Chorus – Vocal music education with an emphasis on performance and music appreciation

• Drama – Exploration of theatrical expression, performance, and storytelling

• Computer – Instruction in digital literacy, keyboarding, and basic coding or multimedia tools

• General Music – Study of music theory, history, appreciation, and rhythm

• Reading – Support and enrichment through focused literacy instruction and guided reading

These Explore classes allow students to discover and develop their God-given talents, while supporting academic growth and personal development.

8th Grade Honors Program

Jackson Christian is pleased to offer Honors English and Honors Math courses for qualifying 8th-grade students. These classes provide an accelerated, in-depth academic experience for students who demonstrate strong academic performance and a desire to be challenged.

Program Eligibility

Students may qualify for one or both honors classes. Placement is selective and based on the following criteria:

• NWEA test scores

• Final grade from the previous academic year

• Final exam scores

• Teacher recommendations

Each applicant will receive a composite score based on these factors, and selections will be made accordingly.

Program Expectations

• Students must maintain an 85 or higher average in each honors class to remain in the program.

• Performance evaluations will take place at the end of each semester.

• Students who fall below the required average will be moved to the traditional Math or English Language Arts track.

How to Apply

1. Discuss with Your Child
Ensure your child is both willing and motivated to take on the increased academic challenge. Success in the Honors Program requires dedication, effort, and a passion for learning.

2. Complete the Interest Form
Please fill out the Google Form to express your child’s interest in the Honors Program.
On the form, you’ll indicate which course(s) your child would like to be considered for:

• Honors Math

• Honors English

• Both Honors Math & Honors English

Important Notes

• Admission into the Honors Program is not guaranteed and is determined through a competitive selection process.

• These courses move at an accelerated pace and are designed for students who are eager to explore material in greater depth and complexity.

• Students will be expected to engage in higher-order thinking, apply advanced problem-solving skills, and participate actively in class discussions and assignments.