Junior High School

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Junior High School

Hamza Academy’s middle school builds on the strong foundation of our elementary curriculum, guiding students toward success in middle school and preparing them for the challenges of high school. Our middle school curriculum strives to provide a comprehensive academic experience grounded in Islamic values and teachings. It is designed to develop intellectual excellence, strong moral character, and a deep connection to faith. Core academic subjects—Advanced Math, English Language Arts (ELA), Science, and Social Studies—are taught at or above national standards, while Islamic studies, Qur’an, and Arabic are integrated into daily learning. This curriculum balances academic rigor with spiritual development, nurturing future leaders who are intellectually capable, ethically grounded, and deeply connected to their Islamic identity.

6th grade is our bridge class between elementary and middle school. Students will graduate from elementary school in 6th grade. However, they will be starting a more rigorous middle school curriculum to prepare them for the upcoming years.

English Language Arts - Into Literature

We use HMH Into Literature for our rigorous Middle School ELA program to prepare our students for High School. Each unit incorporates a variety of literary and informational texts, including short stories, poems, articles, and multimedia resources. It is designed to develop students’ literacy skills through a comprehensive approach that integrates reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Students engage with a variety of complex texts to enhance their comprehension and analytical abilities. They learn to cite textual evidence, determine central ideas, and analyze the structure of texts. Students explore themes, character development, and the use of literary devices in various genres. They are taught to identify authors’ purposes, analyze the impact of word choices, and evaluate the effectiveness of different text structures. We also try to foster a love of reading by exposing students to a variety of classical and modern novels which are integrated into the curriculum.

Writing instruction focuses on crafting arguments, informative texts, and narratives, with an emphasis on clear organization and the use of relevant evidence. Students also develop research skills, learning to pose questions, gather information from credible sources, and present their findings coherently. Writing tasks become more sophisticated as they progress by requiring students to construct well-reasoned arguments, conduct thorough research, and engage in the writing process, including drafting, revising, and editing. Additionally, we teach how to cite texts and create a Works Cited page using MLA style to prepare our students for higher level education. The curriculum also emphasizes the development of speaking and listening skills through discussions and presentations, fostering students’ ability to articulate their ideas clearly and respond thoughtfully to others.

Grade 6 - Into Literature

Our 6th grade English curriculum is designed to engage students in meaningful reading, writing, and discussion as they explore rich, diverse texts. Throughout the year, students reflect on universal experiences such as growing up, facing challenges, and discovering their own strengths. They read personal narratives, short stories, informational texts, and poetry that help them connect literature to real-life experiences while developing essential comprehension and analytical skills. Students also examine themes of perseverance, courage, and survival through stories that highlight resilience and bravery. By encountering characters who overcome adversity, learners gain a deeper understanding of what motivates individuals to persist and how courage is found in moments of fear. In addition, students explore literature that offers new perspectives, including narratives told through the lens of animals, allowing them to consider empathy, relationships, and the world from different viewpoints.

As the year progresses, students learn to uncover deeper meanings within texts by identifying hidden messages and themes. They practice thoughtful reading, critical thinking, and evidence-based writing, all of which support their growth as effective communicators. Overall, the curriculum nurtures curiosity, reflection, and a love for literature while strengthening foundational English language arts skills.

Grade 7 - Into Literature

Our 7th grade English curriculum immerses students in a wide range of literature and informational texts that challenge them to think critically about the world around them. Throughout the year, students explore themes related to truth, perception, and personal responsibility. They examine how individuals make choices, how those choices shape their lives, and how understanding what is true can sometimes depend on perspective. This helps students strengthen their analytical skills while engaging with meaningful, thought-provoking texts.

Students also delve into topics that spark curiosity and creativity, such as the wonders of space and the beauty of the natural world. By reading stories and articles about new frontiers and the inspiration found in nature, learners develop a deeper appreciation for discovery, innovation, and the environment. They also explore the role of games and competition, reflecting on what these experiences can teach us about strategy, growth, and personal development.

As the year progresses, students study powerful narratives about individuals who have made a difference in their communities and beyond. These stories encourage students to consider what motivates people to take a stand and how one person’s actions can inspire meaningful change. Through ongoing reading, writing, and discussion, the curriculum supports students in becoming thoughtful, expressive, and socially aware communicators.

Grade 8 - HMH Into Literature

Our 8th grade English curriculum guides students through a rich collection of literature and informational texts that encourage them to think deeply about the world they live in. Students examine how technology influences their daily lives, questioning whether it enhances or complicates modern experiences. They also explore why certain stories, especially those that evoke fear or suspense—capture human interest, allowing them to analyze literary techniques and understand what makes a narrative compelling.

Throughout the year, students reflect on identity, culture, and the places that shape who they are. They explore historical and contemporary stories centered on freedom, resilience, and the sacrifices individuals make in pursuit of justice. These readings help them build empathy, recognize diverse perspectives, and appreciate the enduring human desire for independence and dignity.

As students prepare for high school, the curriculum also focuses on personal growth and self-discovery. They consider how challenges influence their future paths and engage with texts that highlight the impact of significant historical events on individuals and society. Through consistent reading, writing, and discussion, students strengthen their analytical abilities, deepen their understanding of the world, and develop the communication skills needed for the next stage of their academic journey.

Advanced Mathematics

Our students are placed on an advanced path in mathematics during Middle School. We prepare students to take high school level math by 8th grade. Our 8th graders take the NYS regents to gain High School credits and be ahead of their peers. We also provide students with support through summer bridge programs and tutoring.

Grade 6 - Math Advanced 1

Our 6th grade math curriculum is designed to challenge students with advanced concepts that build a strong foundation for higher-level mathematics. The program emphasizes deep conceptual understanding along with accuracy and fluency, encouraging students to think critically as they explore mathematical relationships. Students learn to apply their skills to real-world situations, strengthening their ability to solve problems efficiently and confidently.

Throughout the year, learners develop a strong grasp of ratios, proportional reasoning, and the number system, including positive and negative numbers. They explore algebraic thinking by working with expressions and equations, allowing them to recognize patterns, analyze relationships, and prepare for more complex algebraic concepts. Geometry is also an important area of focus, where students investigate shapes, measurements, and spatial reasoning.

In addition, students are introduced to statistics and probability, helping them understand how data is collected, analyzed, and interpreted. This broad exposure to mathematical ideas supports logical reasoning and equips students with the skills needed for success in future math courses. Overall, the curriculum fosters confidence, curiosity, and a solid mathematical mindset.

Grade 7 - Math Advanced 2 (Pre-Algebra)

HMH Into Math Advanced 2 is a rigorous pre-algebra curriculum designed for middle school students who are ready to engage with higher-level mathematical thinking. The program strengthens understanding in algebraic reasoning, number sense, geometry, and data analysis while encouraging students to solve meaningful, real-world problems. Its focus on critical thinking and conceptual connections helps prepare learners for the demands of Algebra 1 and subsequent high school math courses.

Throughout the year, students explore advanced topics across geometry, algebra, statistics, and number theory. They investigate transformations of geometric figures, examine angle relationships, and begin working with slope and proportional relationships. The curriculum also guides students in writing and solving multi-step equations and inequalities tied to practical scenarios. Learners extend their understanding of data by collecting, organizing, and interpreting information using measures of central tendency, and they build foundational probability skills through both experimental and theoretical models.

Students further develop number sense by studying the real number system, working with exponents, and applying scientific notation to represent very large or very small quantities. They also apply geometric concepts to calculate area and volume in both two- and three-dimensional contexts. Across all units, students engage in problem-solving tasks that promote deep understanding and support a smooth transition into more advanced mathematics.

Grade 8 - HMH Into Algebra 1 (Regents Course)

HMH Into Algebra 1 is a rigorous high school curriculum that develops a strong understanding of foundational and advanced algebraic concepts. Designed to strengthen reasoning, problem-solving, and mathematical modeling skills, the course prepares students for future study in Geometry, Algebra 2, and other higher-level mathematics. Throughout the curriculum, learners build connections between arithmetic, algebra, and real-world applications, ensuring they gain both conceptual understanding and practical problem-solving abilities.

Students begin by exploring the structure of the real number system, working with rational and irrational numbers, simplifying expressions, and solving linear equations. Their understanding of linear relationships deepens as they analyze slope and intercepts, write and graph linear equations and inequalities, and apply linear models to real-life situations. The curriculum progresses into systems of equations and inequalities, where students use multiple methods—graphing, substitution, and elimination—to solve problems involving multiple variables and constraints.

As students advance, they explore exponential functions and compare them with linear growth, using these models to understand phenomena such as population change and compound interest. They then apply algebraic operations to polynomials, including factoring, which prepares them for an in-depth study of quadratic functions. Learners analyze the structure and graphs of quadratics, solve quadratic equations in various ways, and use quadratic models to interpret real situations. The course concludes with an introduction to data analysis and probability, giving students the tools to interpret data, calculate statistical measures, and make informed predictions.

Science

Our Middle School science based on the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) is designed to build a deep, interconnected understanding of science concepts through inquiry-based learning and rigorous lab experiences. The NGSS framework emphasizes three dimensions of learning: Disciplinary Core Ideas (DCIs), which focus on key scientific concepts; Science and Engineering Practices (SEPs), which develop students’ ability to think and act like scientists; and Crosscutting Concepts (CCCs), which help students connect ideas across different scientific disciplines.

A key component of NGSS-aligned science instruction is rigorous lab work, where students engage in hands-on investigations, design their own experiments, analyze real data, and construct explanations based on evidence. Rather than memorizing facts, students explore phenomenon observable events in the real world—and apply scientific reasoning to understand how and why these events occur. This approach encourages critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving, all while reinforcing foundational content in life science, physical science, Earth and space science, and engineering. The ultimate goal is to prepare students not just for future academic success, but for informed citizenship and STEM-related careers.

Grade 6 - Earth Science

The HMH Into Science Earth Science curriculum for 6th grade provides a comprehensive and hands-on approach to understanding Earth’s dynamic systems. Aligned with the Next Generation Science Standards, it emphasizes inquiry-based learning and the 5E instructional model to guide students through observing, investigating, and explaining real-world scientific phenomena. Throughout the course, learners develop a deep understanding of Earth’s structures, processes, and interconnected systems while strengthening their scientific reasoning and critical-thinking skills.

Students explore the major Earth systems—the geosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere, and biosphere—and examine how these components interact to shape the environment. They investigate weather patterns, climate systems, and the factors that influence atmospheric conditions, including the sun’s energy and the movement of air masses. The curriculum also introduces students to natural resources and human impacts on the planet, encouraging them to analyze issues related to resource use, conservation, and sustainability.

In addition, learners delve into Earth’s internal structure and the theory of plate tectonics, studying the processes that lead to earthquakes, volcanic activity, and the formation of mountains. They also explore Earth’s geological past through the study of rock layers, fossils, and methods used to interpret the planet’s history and the evolution of life. Throughout the course, hands-on labs and inquiry activities support students in applying scientific concepts, fostering curiosity, and building foundational skills for future science coursework.

Grade 7 - Physical Science

This engaging, hands-on physical science course introduces students to foundational concepts in physics and chemistry through inquiry-based learning and real-world applications. Aligned with the Next Generation Science Standards, the program uses the 5E instructional model to guide students as they observe phenomena, conduct experiments, and develop scientific explanations. Throughout the course, learners strengthen their ability to think critically, design investigations, and use models to explain and predict scientific events.

Students explore energy and its many forms, examining how it is transferred and transformed into everyday systems, from simple machines to natural ecosystems. They deepen their understanding of matter by studying the structure of atoms, the properties of elements and compounds, and the distinctions between physical and chemical changes. The curriculum also introduces key concepts related to forces and motion, including Newton’s Laws, gravity, magnetism, and electric fields, allowing students to investigate how these forces shape the behavior and interactions of objects. In addition, learners study mechanical and electromagnetic waves—such as light and sound—and analyze how wave properties are applied in modern communication technologies.

Through collaborative projects, hands-on labs, and structured inquiry, students build a strong foundation in physical science while developing essential problem-solving and scientific reasoning skills. The course prepares learners for high school chemistry and physics and nurtures curiosity about the physical universe.

Grade 8 - Advanced Biology (Regents Course)

This advanced biology course offers 8th graders a rigorous introduction to high school–level life science as they prepare for the new Life Science – Biology Regents. Using the NGSS-aligned HMH Science Dimensions curriculum, students engage in inquiry-based learning that emphasizes real-world problem-solving, hands-on investigations, and the development of scientific literacy. Through this approach, learners build essential skills such as data analysis, evidence-based reasoning, and clear scientific communication—skills that support both future STEM coursework and broader critical-thinking abilities.

The curriculum guides students through major areas of modern biology, beginning with engineering and scientific practices. Here, students use the engineering design process and core scientific methods to explore biological questions and develop problem-solving strategies. They then study cells and heredity, examining cell structure and function, cellular processes, and the principles of genetics to understand how traits are inherited. In ecology and environmental science, students investigate ecosystems, energy flow, human impacts, and the interdependence of living organisms within their environments. Learners also explore the diversity of living things, including classification, evolutionary theory, and the role of adaptation in survival across varied ecosystems.

Throughout the course, students conduct experiments, collaborate on investigations, and create models to deepen their understanding of living systems. By integrating hands-on inquiry with high-level biological concepts, the class builds a strong foundation for advanced study in biology and fosters an appreciation for the complexity and interconnectedness of life on Earth.

Al-Quran

This course guides students in strengthening their relationship with the Qur’an by developing strong reading fluency, accurate recitation, and confidence in their memorization abilities. Students work systematically to refine their pronunciation and apply Tajweed rules, ensuring that their recitation reflects both clarity and beauty. Regular practice, individualized feedback, and steady repetition help learners build consistency and discipline, enabling them to progress at a pace that honors both mastery and spiritual connection.

A major component of the class focuses on Hifz, where students engage in meaningful memorization supported by strategies that enhance retention and understanding. Rather than memorizing verses in isolation, learners are encouraged to connect new passages to previously learned material, reinforcing long-term recall. Teachers help students set achievable goals, track their progress, and learn techniques that make memorization enjoyable and spiritually uplifting. This approach fosters a sense of accomplishment and nurtures the students’ confidence as they take on greater portions of the Qur’an.

Tafsir plays a central role in helping students move beyond recitation to truly understand the message of the Qur’an. Through age-appropriate explanations, storytelling, and reflective discussions, learners explore the meanings of verses, the context of revelation, and the lessons each passage offers for daily life. Students are encouraged to think deeply, ask questions, and consider how Qur’anic teachings guide their character, choices, and relationship with others. By connecting recitation, memorization, and meaning, the course helps students develop not only technical skill but a heartfelt, personal bond with the Qur’an that inspires them spiritually and morally.

Grade 6

Surahs: Al-Kahf (v 1-10) (Revision), Al-Mursalat( Revision), Al-Insan, Al-Qiyamah , Al-Muddathir.

Tajweed: Rules of Waqf & Rules of Madd ( Revision), Rules of Noon Sakinah, Rules of Meem Sakinah.

Grade 7

Surahs: Surah Al-Muddathir(Revision), Surah Al-Muzzammil, Surah Al-Mulk.

Tajweed: Rules of Waqf & Rules of Madd ( Revision), Rules of Noon Sakinah, Rules of Meem Sakinah.

Grade 8

Surahs: Al-Insan (Revision), Al-Qiyamah(Revision) , Al-Muddathir(Revision). Surah Ar Rahman

Tajweed: Rules of Noon Sakinah (Revision) , Rules of Meem Sakinah (Revision).

Arabic Language

Grade 6 – Taalamal Arabiyya (Book 3)

This class builds a strong foundation in both classical and modern Arabic, helping students deepen their connection to Qur’anic language while developing practical communication skills. Students expand their vocabulary, improve reading fluency, and learn essential grammar structures through engaging stories, dialogues, and exercises. The curriculum encourages students to speak and write in complete sentences, strengthening their ability to understand and use Arabic in meaningful contexts. By reinforcing proper pronunciation and introducing short excerpts from Islamic texts, the course supports students in beginning to appreciate the beauty and precision of the Arabic language.

Grade 7-8 – Taalamal Arabiyya (Book 4)

This class advances students’ mastery of Arabic by focusing on more complex grammar, expanded vocabulary, and deeper comprehension of both Qur’anic passages and everyday language. Students read longer texts, analyze sentence structures, and practice expressing ideas with greater detail and accuracy. The curriculum encourages active communication through structured conversations, written responses, and listening activities that strengthen fluency. As learners engage with richer selections from Islamic writings and contemporary topics, they develop the linguistic confidence needed to interpret original Arabic sources and communicate effectively in academic and real-world settings.

Islamic Studies

This course provides students with a clear and structured understanding of the core areas of Islamic learning—Aqeedah, Fiqh, Seerah, and Akhlaq. Through age-appropriate lessons, students explore essential beliefs, learning how foundational concepts such as the Oneness of Allah, prophethood, and the purpose of creation shape a Muslim’s worldview. These lessons help students build a strong spiritual identity grounded in clarity, confidence, and love for their faith.

In addition to belief, students study practical aspects of worship and daily ritual through Fiqh. They learn how to perform acts of worship correctly, understand the reasoning behind Islamic rulings, and appreciate how Islamic law promotes balance, discipline, and responsibility. Seerah lessons deepen their connection to the Prophet Muhammad SAWW by examining key events from his life, his leadership, and his example of compassion, courage, and wisdom. These stories provide students with relatable models for navigating modern challenges.

Akhlaq, or Islamic character, is woven throughout the course to emphasize kindness, honesty, respect, and self-discipline. Classroom discussions encourage students to apply Islamic principles to real situations they face at home, in school, and within their communities. By linking faith to daily life and decision-making, the course nurtures moral awareness and helps students grow into thoughtful, responsible young Muslims who understand not only what Islam teaches but how to live it with sincerity and purpose.

Computer Science

The middle school computer science curriculum draws from a variety of high-quality, student-friendly platforms—including Code.org, Khan Academy, Scratch, ScratchJr., and Hour of Code—to provide a comprehensive and engaging introduction to computational thinking, programming, and digital creativity. Designed to support students in grades 6–8, the program emphasizes hands-on exploration, problem-solving, and creativity through interactive lessons, tutorials, and open-ended projects. This blended approach helps students build foundational skills in computer science while fostering confidence, collaboration, and real-world application.

Students begin developing core computational thinking skills through structured courses offered by Code.org, where they learn concepts such as algorithms, loops, conditionals, variables, events, and digital citizenship. Projects encourage students to experiment, debug, and design their own programs, games, and animations. Khan Academy expands on these foundations by introducing text-based programming, including JavaScript and HTML/CSS. Through guided tutorials and creative challenges, students learn how code shapes the digital world and begin applying programming concepts to visual design, interactive art, and simple applications.

To support creativity and accessibility, the curriculum incorporates block-based programming through Scratch and ScratchJr, empowering students to design animations, stories, and games while strengthening logical reasoning and design thinking. Hour of Code activities supplement the curriculum with short, engaging challenges that introduce new concepts in approachable, game-like formats. Together, these resources create a well-rounded and flexible computer science program that equips middle school students with essential digital literacy skills and inspires ongoing exploration in programming and technology.

Health and Physical Education

Our Physical Education program is centered on fostering a positive and enjoyable experience where students are encouraged to put forth their best effort. We believe that physical education is an integral part of every student’s overall educational journey, contributing to their physical, mental, and social growth. Our goal is to guide students in developing teamwork, physical fitness, and movement skills while emphasizing cooperation and sportsmanship at every grade level. Physical education provides an excellent opportunity to build character and essential life skills. The program is thoughtfully designed to offer a variety of activities in a supportive environment that promotes a healthy and active lifestyle.

Our Health and Physical Education Curriculum is aligned with NYSED Standards. It provides a comprehensive approach to developing students’ physical, mental, and social well-being while meeting state requirements.

Curriculum Core Topics

Skill Development • Fundamental movement skills: running, jumping, throwing, catching. • Sport-specific skills: basketball, soccer, volleyball.
Physical Fitness • Understanding components of fitness: cardiovascular endurance, strength, flexibility, and agility. • Implementing fitness assessments and personal goal setting.
Teamwork and Sportsmanship • Encouraging cooperation and team strategies. • Respect for rules, teammates, and opponents.
Lifelong Physical Activity • Promoting activities like yoga, dance, or swimming. • Understanding the importance of regular physical activity for health.
Mental Health • Understanding emotions and stress management. • Coping strategies and building resilience.
Nutrition and Wellness • Understanding dietary guidelines. • Making healthy food choices and understanding portion sizes.
Personal and Community Health • Hygiene and disease prevention. • Understanding vaccines and public health initiatives.
Substance Abuse Prevention • Recognizing the dangers of tobacco, alcohol, and drugs. • Decision-making and refusal skills.
Human Growth and Development • Age-appropriate discussions on body systems and puberty. • Building respect for self and others.
Safety and Injury Prevention • Basic first aid skills. • Online safety and bullying prevention.

Visual Arts

The middle school art curriculum is designed to build creative thinking, visual literacy, and technical skills through hands-on exploration of various art forms. Students will develop an understanding of the elements and principles of design while working in both two-dimensional and three-dimensional media. The program encourages personal expression, critical thinking, and an appreciation of art history and culture.

Grade 6 - Introduction to Visual Arts

This course provides students with a foundational introduction to creating and understanding visual art. Learners will explore the essential building blocks of artwork—such as line, shape, color, texture, and value—while practicing basic drawing skills that help them observe accurately and express ideas clearly. Activities in shading, contour drawing, and proportion will support students as they grow more confident in representing forms and organizing space.
Students will also develop an understanding of how color functions through hands-on mixing exercises and painting experiences using tempera and watercolor. Three-dimensional thinking is introduced through simple sculptural projects using materials like clay and cardboard, encouraging students to consider structure, balance, and texture in physical form. Throughout the course, they will learn essential art vocabulary and practice offering and receiving feedback in a supportive, structured critique setting.
In addition to studio work, students will explore artistic traditions from ancient and Indigenous cultures, gaining appreciation for the diverse histories and purposes of art across societies. By the end of the course, learners will have a strong foundation in technique, creative problem-solving, and visual communication.

Grade 7 - Exploring Media and Meaning

This course invites students to investigate how different materials, tools, and visual strategies can shape meaning in art. Through hands-on exploration, learners will deepen their understanding of key design principles such as balance, contrast, movement, and unity, applying them purposefully to strengthen composition and clarity. Drawing skills will advance as students practice perspective, proportions, and figure work to better capture form and space.

Students will broaden their creative range by experimenting with mixed media, collage, and multiple forms of printmaking, including stamps, mono-print processes, and carved-block techniques. They will also develop foundational sculptural skills through hand-building methods in clay, learning how surface, texture, and structure contribute to artistic expression.

By the end of the course, students will have a more sophisticated grasp of how artistic choices influence communication, as well as a diverse collection of works that highlight growth in both technical skill and creative decision-making.

Grade 8 - Artistic Voice and Portfolio Building

This course encourages students to explore personal ideas and emotions through artwork while learning how to communicate meaning visually. Learners will experiment with a variety of materials and methods, including acrylic and mixed-media approaches, to build confidence in both expressive and technical skills. Projects will guide students in developing themes, refining craftsmanship, and understanding how artists move between realistic representation and more abstract interpretations of the world.

As students progress, they will begin assembling a collection of their strongest pieces, learning how to evaluate their own work and prepare it for presentation. Classroom activities will also extend beyond the studio, allowing students to engage with collaborative creations that connect artmaking to the broader school and local community. Alongside these experiences, students will examine influential creators working in the modern era, gaining insight into how contemporary practices shape today’s visual culture.

By the end of the course, students will have a deeper understanding of artistic intention, improved technical skills, and a growing sense of their own creative voice.

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Junior High School

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