Seventh & Eighth Grade

Why do parents and students choose a 7th and 8th grade class in a K-8 school? smaller class size compared to larger lecture-type classrooms greater opportunity for individual attention teachers know each student well and know how they learn best smooth transition for students from 6th grade to 7th and 7th to 8th strong character development small group electives inquiry based curriculum challenging students better preparation for the intensity of the high school years less opportunities for negative peer interactions as students become a close family What is the Hooker Oak OSC program for 7th & 8th graders? In 2004, Hooker Oak have added a great seventh & eighth grade OSC program at Hooker Oak. It utilizes the Integrated Thematic instruction methods along with many extra activities to make this a great place for students interested in Project-Based and Hands-On learning. Hooker Oak offers an inquiry-based science curriculum, developed by the National Science Foundation.  The entire curriculum is integrated across subjects, using the California State Grade Level Standards to guide instruction. It is a unique opportunity to prepare for the rigors of high school and adjusting to a set of different teachers and changing classrooms throughout the day--in a familiar, supportive environment. The Hooker Oak 7th and 8th grade classes are growing! Credit for its success primarily goes to the wonderful teachers in the Open Structured Classroom program.Students are actively engaged in interactive, stimulating lessons and activities. They use simulations, projects, and technology to enhance student learning. Thematic integrated instruction, based on grade-level content standards, improves higher order and critical thinking skills. The assigned writing, performances and projects are used to assess student learning. Students are regularly working in groups to research, create multimedia presentations, and share with classmates, the knowledge and information they’ve learned. Grade level content standards are embedded in the curriculum developed by the teachers. Ms. Findlay’s writing instruction is linked to “Step Up to Writing” and the Cornell Note Taking strategies are being taught, enabling students to develop exceptional communication skills with their writing. Mr. Brooks’ Mathematics instruction calls on students to analyze math concepts and apply them in meaningful ways while working in collaborative partnerships with other students. They work in teams to develop a working knowledge about the math concepts being learned. Though Hooker Oak is a small K-8 school program, it has developed a number of elective classes for students. This past trimester the following were offered: Beginning Guitar; Computer Applications; Cooking; Studio Art; and music recording. Parents have assisted by teaching desktop publishing and wood working. The desktop publishing students will design a newsletter and wood working group is designing and making their own skateboard. Spanish and Adventure Sports are added in the spring. Fine Arts is provided during the regular school day, every eight days, taught by our excellent Fine Arts Teacher. On the musical front they can choose from Chorus, Strings or BFG Band (all instruments welcome!) taught by Mr. Gimbal. He also teaches musical recording techniques.Students get to choose two electives each trimester, for a total of six elective experiences per year. Hooker Oak keeps the tradition of parent involvement as a focal point. The Hooker Oak Open Structured Classroom (OSC) is an example of how to more fully develop a child’s educational opportunity by having several adults involved in their learning process. OSC K-8 students will: Demonstrate higher self esteem and healthier adolescent development Feel more connected to their peers and assume leadership roles Be more engaged in learning Have excellent preparation for high school

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