The MECCA Business Learning Institute (MBLI) Public Charter School

Welcome to the MECCA Business Learning Institute’s (MBLI) Curriculum Details page! At MBLI, students will experience an education designed to empower them with knowledge, skills, and real-world insights that will set them on the path to success. Our curriculum is categorized as CORE, M-CORE, ENCORE, FLEX, and SERVICE LEARNING and is aligned with both Maryland state and as national achievement standards, ensuring that students receive a comprehensive education grounded in academic rigor and practical application.

CORE Components

READING ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS

6th Grade English Language Arts Curriculum

Our English Language Arts curriculum builds literacy, critical thinking, and communication skills aligned with the Maryland College and Career Readiness Standards. Through reading, writing, speaking, and listening activities, students explore diverse themes, analyze texts, and develop their ability to express ideas effectively.

Curriculum Highlights

• Quarter 1: Childhood and Personal Narratives
  Standards: RL.6.1 and W.6.3
  Focus: Students explore themes of growing up and write personal narratives about meaningful experiences.
  Sample Activity: Students write a personal narrative based on a significant childhood event, crafting characters and setting to reflect personal growth.

• Quarter 2: Human-Animal Connections
  Standards: RI.6.1 and W.6.2
  Focus: Students investigate human-animal relationships, using informational texts to conduct research.
  Sample Activity: Students complete a research project on animal welfare, creating an explanatory essay based on their findings.

• Quarter 3: Technology in Society
  Standards: RI.6.8 and W.6.1
  Focus: This unit explores the impact of technology, teaching students to evaluate arguments and construct their own.
  Sample Activity: Students debate the positive and negative effects of technology, supporting their arguments with evidence.

• Quarter 4: Imagination and Storytelling
  Standards: RL.6.3 and W.6.3
  Focus: Students dive into creative writing through fiction, learning to develop plot and character.
  Sample Activity: Students write and present short stories, focusing on plot structure, character development, and theme.

7th Grade Language Arts Curriculum

The Language Arts curriculum for 7th grade emphasizes reading, writing, speaking, and critical thinking through a business-oriented lens, preparing students for future academic and career success. Aligned with Common Core State Standards, the curriculum engages students with diverse literary genres and real-world writing applications.

Curriculum Highlights

• Quarter 1: Generations
  Standards: RL.7.1, RL.7.4, W.7.3, L.7.1
  Focus: Exploration of intergenerational influences and identity.
  Sample Activity: Students write narratives about lessons learned from older generations.

• Quarter 2: A Starry Home
  Standards: RI.7.3, W.7.1, RI.7.6
  Focus: Space exploration ethics and argumentative writing.
  Sample Activity: Classroom debate on the pros and cons of space colonization, followed by an argumentative essay.

• Quarter 3: Turning Points
  Standards: RL.7.2, RL.7.5, W.7.4
  Focus: Key personal and literary turning points.
  Sample Activity: Reflective essays on personal turning points that shaped students' perspectives.

• Quarter 4: The People and the Planet / Facing Adversity
  Standards: RI.7.5, W.7.2, RL.7.3
  Focus: Environmental challenges and overcoming adversity.
  Sample Activity: Research and multimedia presentation on environmental issues, promoting problem-solving skills.

MATH

6th Grade Math Curriculum

MBLI’s Math curriculum integrates foundational math skills with business applications, making learning relevant and practical. Aligned with Maryland State Math Standards, the curriculum covers ratios, geometry, algebraic thinking, and data analysis.

Curriculum Highlights

• Quarter 1: Ratios, Proportions, and Percentages
  Standards: 6.RP.A.1 and 6.RP.A.3
  Focus: Students explore ratios and percentages, applying them to business contexts like budgeting and pricing.
  Sample Activity: Students create a business budget, calculating percentages to manage expenses, savings, and profits.

• Quarter 2: Number Systems and Business Operations
  Standards: 6.NS.B.2 and 6.NS.A.1
  Focus: Emphasis on operations with whole numbers, decimals, and fractions to understand business finances.
  Sample Activity: Students run a class store, managing revenue, profit, and expenses while practicing decimals and fractions.

• Quarter 3: Geometry and Measurement
  Standards: 6.G.A.1 and 6.G.A.4
  Focus: Students learn about area, perimeter, and volume, applying them to product design and packaging.
  Sample Activity: Students design packaging using nets, calculating surface area and dimensions for effective product displays.

• Quarter 4: Algebraic Thinking and Data Analysis
  Standards: 6.EE.B.6 and 6.SP.B.5
  Focus: Students develop algebraic thinking and data analysis skills, applying them to real-world scenarios.
  Sample Activity: Students analyze sales data to calculate mean, median, and mode, supporting business insights.

7th Grade Math Curriculum

The math curriculum focuses on mathematical concepts in real-world business contexts, aligning with Common Core State Standards for Mathematics. Students learn problem-solving, algebraic reasoning, and data analysis, all essential for financial and entrepreneurial applications.

Curriculum Highlights

• Quarter 1: Ratios, Proportional Relationships, and Percentages
  Standards: 7.RP.A.1, 7.RP.A.2, 7.RP.A.3
  Focus: Ratios and percentages applied to business scenarios.
  Sample Activity: Budgeting project where students calculate prices, discounts, and taxes for a mock business.

• Quarter 2: Expressions, Equations, and Inequalities
  Standards: 7.EE.A.1, 7.EE.B.3, 7.EE.B.4
  Focus: Algebraic operations related to financial and business problem-solving.
  Sample Activity: Solve equations to determine profit margins in business scenarios.

• Quarter 3: Geometry and Measurement in Business Applications
  Standards: 7.G.A.1, 7.G.B.4, 7.G.B.6
  Focus: Geometry concepts like area, surface area, and volume in product design.
  Sample Activity: Students design efficient product packaging, calculating surface area and volume.

• Quarter 4: Statistics, Probability, and Data Analysis
  Standards: 7.SP.A.1, 7.SP.B.3, 7.SP.C.7
  Focus: Data analysis and probability for market research and risk assessment.
  Sample Activity: Market research simulation where students analyze customer data to make business decisions.

SCIENCE

6th Grade Science Curriculum

The MBLI science curriculum emphasizes inquiry and hands-on learning. Aligned with the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), it covers Earth, Life, and Physical Sciences to build critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Curriculum Highlights

• Quarter 1: Foundations of Science and Engineering
  Standards: MS-ETS1-1 and MS-PS1-1
  Focus: Students learn lab safety, scientific inquiry, and basic engineering design.
  Sample Activity: Students participate in the "Paper Airplane Challenge," applying engineering principles to improve their designs.

• Quarter 2: Matter, Energy, and Earth’s Systems
  Standards: MS-PS1-4 and MS-ESS2-1
  Focus: Emphasis on properties of matter, energy transformations, and Earth’s systems.
  Sample Activity: In the "State Change Lab," students explore how thermal energy affects states of matter.

• Quarter 3: Ecosystems, Biodiversity, and Human Impact
  Standards: MS-LS2-3 and MS-ESS3-4
  Focus: Students investigate ecosystems and the importance of sustainable practices.
  Sample Activity: Students design "Conservation Proposals" to address local environmental issues.

• Quarter 4: Advanced Physical Science and Engineering
  Standards: MS-PS3-5 and MS-ETS1-4
  Focus: Principles of energy transformation, matter, and engineering applications.
  Sample Activity: Students conduct an "Energy Audit" of classroom resources, learning about energy conservation.

7th Grade Science Curriculum

The Science curriculum emphasizes life sciences, physical sciences, and engineering practices. Aligned with Next Generation Science Standards, it builds students' scientific inquiry and problem-solving skills, with hands-on labs and projects that connect learning to real-world applications.

Curriculum Highlights

Quarter 1: Foundations of Science, Engineering, and The Cell System
Standards: MS-ETS1-1, MS-LS1-1
Focus: Fundamentals of scientific inquiry and cell biology.
Sample Activity: Microscopy lab to observe cell structures.

Quarter 2: Cell Processes, Human Body Systems, and Ecosystems
Standards: MS-LS1-3, MS-LS2-1
Focus: Cellular processes, human systems, and ecosystems.
Sample Activity: Human body lab exploring the interaction of body systems during exercise.

Quarter 3: Energy Flow, Cycles of Matter, and Ecosystem Dynamics
Standards: MS-LS2-3, MS-LS2-4
Focus: Energy transfer, matter cycles, and ecological balance.
Sample Activity: Food chain construction project demonstrating energy flow in ecosystems.

Quarter 4: Waves, Electromagnetic Radiation, and Information Technologies
Standards: MS-PS4-1, MS-PS4-3
Focus: Properties of waves and their application in technology.
Sample Activity: Sound wave lab using instruments to explore frequency and pitch.

SOCIAL STUDIES

6th Grade Social Studies Curriculum

The Social Studies curriculum combines history, geography, and economics, focusing on global cultures and the economic impact of resources. Aligned with Maryland Social Studies Standards, it provides students with a deep understanding of world societies and economic principles.

Curriculum Highlights

• Quarter 1: Geography, Government, and Economics
  Standards: 3.0 – Geography, 1.0 – Civics, and 3.0 – Economics
  Focus: Students learn the themes of geography and types of government and economic systems.
  Sample Activity: Mapping Activity where students explore human-environment interactions across different regions.

• Quarter 2: Asia - Resources, Trade, and Technological Influence
  Standards: 3.0 – Geography and 1.0 – History
  Focus: Examines Asia’s cultural and economic development, including the Silk Road.
  Sample Activity: "Trade Simulation" where students role-play as Silk Road traders, understanding cultural exchange and economic growth.

• Quarter 3: Europe - Cultural and Economic Impact of Historical Events
  Standards: 1.0 – History and 3.0 – Geography
  Focus: Explores European history and how geography influenced historical events.
  Sample Activity: Viking Longship Design Study, where students design ships and learn about exploration and trade.

• Quarter 4: Africa - Resource Utilization and Cultural Influence
  Standards: 2.0 – Culture and 5.0 – Economics
  Focus: Emphasizes Africa’s empires, resources, and cultural exports.
  Sample Activity: "African Music Analysis Project," where students research the global influence of African music.

7th Grade Social Studies Curriculum

The Social Studies curriculum explores the history, geography, and culture of the Western Hemisphere, with an emphasis on Maryland. Students build historical and economic literacy, preparing for active community and global engagement.

Curriculum Highlights

• Quarter 1: Foundations and Maryland
  Standards: Maryland Standards 3.0, 1.0, 2.0
  Focus: Maryland’s geography, economy, and cultural diversity.
  Sample Activity: Case study on Maryland’s geography and its economic impacts.

• Quarter 2: North America
  Standards: Maryland Standards 3.0, 1.0, 4.0
  Focus: Indigenous cultures and early European interactions.
  Sample Activity: Role-play negotiations between settlers and indigenous groups.

• Quarter 3: Central and South America
  Standards: Maryland Standards 3.0, 4.0, 6.0
  Focus: Empires and environmental challenges.
  Sample Activity: Mapping the Amazon’s ecological significance.

• Quarter 4: European Colonies
  Standards: Maryland Standards 4.0, 5.0
  Focus: Motivations for and impacts of European colonization.
  Sample Activity: Debate on the effects of colonization on indigenous societies.

M-CORE Components

BUSINESS EDUCATION AND FINANCIAL LITERACY

The MBLI M-Core Business program introduces middle school students to the fundamentals of personal finance, economics, entrepreneurship, and technology through a hands-on, school-based micro-economy, MBLI’s Micro-Economy (M2E). Aligned with the National Business Education Association (NBEA) Standards, Maryland State Financial Literacy Standards (MSFLS), and the Jump$tart Coalition for Personal Financial Literacy’s K-12 Standards, this comprehensive, year-long curriculum emphasizes career readiness and practical financial skills.

6th Grade Business, Economics, and Financial Literacy Curriculum

Curriculum Highlights

• Quarter 1: Foundations of Money and Personal Finance
  Standards: MSFLS Standard 1 and 2
  Focus: Basics of financial literacy, including budgeting, goal-setting, and understanding the evolution of money.
  Sample Activity: Students create a timeline tracing the evolution of currency, from barter to digital money, and develop a mock personal budget to practice financial decision-making.

• Quarter 2: Introduction to Economics and Entrepreneurship
  Standards: MSFLS Standard 3 and 4
  Focus: Introduction to economic principles and entrepreneurship basics.
  Sample Activity: “Mini Shark Tank” simulation, where students develop and pitch business ideas to their classmates, practicing public speaking.

• Quarter 3: Financial Institutions and Career Exploration
  Standards: MSFLS Standard 5 and NBEA Career Development Standards
  Focus: Basics of banking and financial institutions, with an exploration of business-related careers.
  Sample Activity: "Banking Basics Simulation" where students learn about savings, interest, and financial services.

• Quarter 4: Business Technology Skills and Capstone Project
  Standards: NBEA Technology and Communication Standards, MSFLS Standard 6
  Focus: Development of business technology skills, culminating in a Capstone Pitch project.
  Sample Activity: Students work in teams to develop a business idea and conduct market research.

7th Grade Business, Economics, and Financial Literacy Curriculum

Curriculum Highlights

• Quarter 1: Advanced Personal Finance and Economic Principles
  Standards: MSFLS Standard 2, NBEA Personal Finance III
  Focus: Emphasis on budgeting, financial planning, and the impact of inflation on savings and investments.
  Sample Activity: Students create personal budgets for emergencies and long-term goals in a Budget Plan Workshop.

• Quarter 2: Entrepreneurship and Business Ethics
  Standards: MSFLS Standard 4, NBEA Entrepreneurship II
  Focus: Business plan development and ethical decision-making.
  Sample Activity: Teams develop business plans with market research and financial projections, culminating in a Business Pitch Competition.

• Quarter 3: Advanced Financial Literacy and Career Planning
  Standards: MSFLS Standard 6, NBEA Personal Finance IV
  Focus: Credit and debt management, along with career exploration.
  Sample Activity: Mock interviews to practice professional communication, paired with resume and cover letter workshops.

• Quarter 4: Capstone Project and Business Technology
  Standards: MSFLS Standard 8, NBEA Information Technology I
  Focus: Application of learned skills in a capstone project using technology tools.
  Sample Activity: Students present comprehensive business plans at the annual Business Symposium.

ENCORE

FOREIGN LANGUAGE

The Mandarin Chinese program at MBLI offers students an immersive introduction to the language and culture of China, grounded in the esteemed STARTALK curriculum from the National Foreign Language Center at the University of Maryland. This program is thoughtfully aligned with the ACTFL World Readiness Standards and the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) for Literacy, supporting a comprehensive approach to language acquisition. By emphasizing Mandarin’s critical role in global business and cultural exchange, the curriculum equips students with foundational listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills while fostering an appreciation for the interpersonal dynamics essential to Chinese culture and international communication.

6th Grade Curriculum: Mandarin Chinese

Curriculum Highlights

• Quarter 1: Introduction to Mandarin Basics

  Standards: ACTFL Communication Standards, CCSS Literacy Standards

  Focus: Foundation in listening and speaking skills through Pinyin and simple phrases.

  Sample Activity: Students practice basic sentence structures in a conversational exercise using common greetings and introductions.

• Quarter 2: Reading and Writing Fundamentals

  Standards: ACTFL Writing Standards

  Focus: Introduction to reading and writing with simplified Chinese characters.

  Sample Activity: Character Formation Workshop where students learn and practice basic character strokes and build familiarity with simple characters.

• Quarter 3: Expanding Vocabulary and Sentence Patterns

  Standards: ACTFL Communication Standards

  Focus: Expanding vocabulary and sentence structure for everyday situations.

  Sample Activity: Interactive Question-and-Answer sessions to strengthen conversational skills and build confidence in forming sentences.

• Quarter 4: Cultural Context and Communication

  Standards: ACTFL Cultures Standards

  Focus: Understanding cultural nuances in communication and the importance of relationship-building in Chinese business practices.

  Sample Activity: Students participate in a Role-Play Activity simulating a traditional Chinese marketplace, practicing polite expressions and phrases.

7th Grade Curriculum: Mandarin Chinese

Building on foundational skills from the 6th Grade, the 7th Grade Mandarin Chinese program deepens students’ linguistic abilities while expanding their cultural understanding. Students further develop their listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills with a continued focus on Pinyin and simplified characters.

Curriculum Highlights

• Quarter 1: Intermediate Listening and Speaking

  Standards: ACTFL Communication Standards, CCSS Literacy Standards

  Focus: Strengthening oral proficiency and pronunciation through refined use of Pinyin and structured dialogues.

  Sample Activity: Students participate in Dialogue Practice sessions, using expanded vocabulary to introduce themselves, ask questions, and hold basic conversations.

• Quarter 2: Reading, Writing, and Cultural Connections

  Standards: ACTFL Writing Standards, ACTFL Cultures Standards

  Focus: Progressing in reading and writing simplified characters, with an introduction to Chinese cultural elements.

  Sample Activity: Cultural Exploration Workshop where students research Chinese traditions and practice writing characters related to those themes, such as festivals and family customs.

• Quarter 3: Expanding Sentence Structures and Cultural Themes

  Standards: ACTFL Communication and Cultures Standards

  Focus: Learning more complex sentence structures and expressions, while examining cultural themes in Chinese arts, customs, and cuisine.

  Sample Activity: Culinary Vocabulary Activity where students learn Mandarin phrases related to food and dining and practice ordering in a simulated restaurant setting.

• Quarter 4: Building Conversational Confidence and Cultural Insight

  Standards: ACTFL Communication and Cultures Standards

  Focus: Enhancing conversational skills and understanding of Mandarin’s role in cultural interactions, with a focus on respectful communication.

  Sample Activity: Interactive Storytelling Project where students present short stories in Mandarin, reflecting cultural themes, and practice conversational responses with classmates.

CREATIVE ARTS

The MBLI Creative Arts program provides students with a comprehensive exploration of art and music, fostering creativity, cultural awareness, and personal expression. This curriculum is aligned with the National Core Arts Standards and the National Association for Music Education standards. All students participate in art and music classes, with opportunities to explore diverse cultural expressions through creative work.

ART

6th Grade: Introduction to Art Elements and Principles

• Quarter 1: Exploring Color and Space

  Standards: National Core Arts Standards (NCAS)

  Focus: Understanding the color wheel, primary and secondary colors, and basic color theory. Introduction to the concept of space in art, including positive and negative space.

  Sample Activity: “Color Wheel Creation” – Students create their own color wheels and experiment with mixing primary colors to make secondary colors. They then create a piece using positive and negative space to understand how space affects composition.

• Quarter 2: Understanding Line and Form

  Standards: NCAS

  Focus: Developing an understanding of line types (e.g., horizontal, vertical, diagonal) and their impact on composition. Introduction to form as a three-dimensional aspect in both drawing and sculpture.

  Sample Activity: “Line Art” – Students create a series of line art pieces to explore movement and emotion conveyed through lines.

• Quarter 3: Texture and Value in Art

  Standards: NCAS

  Focus: Learning about texture in both two- and three-dimensional forms, and how value (lightness and darkness) affects the perception of depth.

  Sample Activity: “Texture Collage and Shading Practice” – Students collect various materials to create a texture collage that emphasizes different tactile qualities. In shading exercises, they practice creating gradients to understand how value can create an illusion of depth.

• Quarter 4: Integrating Art Elements in Composition

  Standards: NCAS

  Focus: Combining all previously learned elements—color, line, form, space, texture, and value—to create cohesive compositions.

  Sample Activity: “Personal Project” – Students plan and execute a final project that demonstrates their understanding of all the art elements. Using any preferred medium, they create a unique piece that reflects their expression and mastery of foundational concepts.

7th Grade: Developing Artistic Skills and Individual Expression

Expanding on the foundational knowledge gained in 6th grade, the 7th-grade art curriculum delves deeper into the elements and principles of art. Students will further refine their skills in color, form, line, texture, space, and value, with a strong emphasis on personal expression, creative thinking, and technical skill development.

• Quarter 1: Advanced Color Theory and Composition

  Standards: National Core Arts Standards (NCAS)

  Focus: Expanding understanding of color relationships, including complementary and analogous colors, and exploring color harmony and contrast in composition.

  Sample Activity: “Color Harmony Project” – Students create an artwork that utilizes complementary and analogous color schemes. They experiment with various media to produce a piece that shows balance, harmony, or contrast, reinforcing their understanding of color relationships in composition.

• Quarter 2: Depth and Perspective in Space

  Standards: NCAS

  Focus: Introducing one-point and two-point perspectives to create the illusion of depth, with continued exploration of positive and negative space.

  Sample Activity: “Perspective Landscape” – Students design a landscape or cityscape using one- and two-point perspective techniques. This project enhances their understanding of spatial depth and encourages precision in line and form, helping them create realistic three-dimensional effects on a two-dimensional surface.

• Quarter 3: Exploring Texture and Advanced Form

  Standards: NCAS

  Focus: Developing techniques to create realistic and expressive textures and refining skills in sculptural and three-dimensional forms.

  Sample Activity: “Textured Relief Sculpture” – Students create a relief sculpture using a variety of materials, focusing on textures that enhance the visual and tactile quality of their work. They explore how texture affects the perception of form and space, and use their skills to create both abstract and realistic elements.

• Quarter 4: Integrating Principles of Balance, Contrast, and Emphasis

  Standards: NCAS

  Focus: Applying balance, contrast, and emphasis to create dynamic compositions that reflect personal expression and individual artistic style.

  Sample Activity: “Personal Expression Project”– Students develop a project that combines multiple elements and principles of art, with an emphasis on personal meaning and artistic voice. They are encouraged to use media of their choice to express ideas through balanced and visually impactful compositions.

MUSIC

6th Grade: Introduction to Music Theory and Performance

The 6th-grade music curriculum introduces foundational elements of music theory and performance, aligned with the National Association for Music Education (NAfME) Standards. Students build basic skills in rhythm, melody, and harmony through diverse musical experiences, learning to appreciate music’s role across cultures.

• Quarter 1: Fundamentals of Rhythm and Melody

  Standards: NAfME Standard 5 (Performing), NAfME Standard 6 (Responding)

  Focus: Understanding rhythm, beat, and pitch through hands-on activities.

  Sample Activity: “Rhythm and Movement Workshop” – Students practice clapping and moving to rhythms, focusing on rhythmic patterns and basic music notation to build coordination and rhythmic awareness.

• Quarter 2: Introduction to Music Notation and Singing

  Standards: NAfME Standard 1 (Creating), NAfME Standard 5 (Performing)

  Focus: Learning to read music notation and practice vocal techniques in group singing.

  Sample Activity: “Song Interpretation” – Students learn to sing a simple song with proper pitch and dynamics, practicing reading notation and expressing music through voice.

• Quarter 3: Exploring Cultural Music and Movement

  Standards: NAfME Standard 6 (Responding), NAfME Standard 9 (Connecting)

  Focus: Exposure to music from various cultures, with an emphasis on rhythm and movement.

  Sample Activity: Global Rhythms Activity – Students explore rhythms from different cultures and practice movements in response, building appreciation for global musical diversity.

• Quarter 4: Instrumental Basics and Ensemble Playing

  Standards: NAfME Standard 5 (Performing), NAfME Standard 9 (Connecting)

  Focus: Introduction to basic instrumental techniques and ensemble performance.

  Sample Activity: Class Ensemble Performance – Students perform a simple piece together on percussion or melodic instruments, focusing on timing, coordination, and collaboration.

7th Grade: Building Music Skills and Community Awareness

Building on the foundational skills from 6th grade, the 7th-grade music curriculum enhances students' understanding of music theory, cultural contexts, and community impact. Students refine their vocal and instrumental skills, explore complex notation, and engage in creative improvisation.

• Quarter 1: Advanced Rhythm and Notation

  Standards: NAfME Standard 5 (Performing), NAfME Standard 6 (Responding)

  Focus: Developing rhythmic complexity and learning advanced music notation.

  Sample Activity: “Complex Rhythm Exercises” – Students perform advanced rhythms, identify time signatures, and analyze the role of rhythm in creating mood and structure in music.

• Quarter 2: Developing Vocal and Instrumental Technique

  Standards: NAfME Standard 1 (Creating), NAfME Standard 5 (Performing)

  Focus: Refining vocal and instrumental techniques with challenging pieces.

  Sample Activity: “Vocal Technique Workshop” – Students improve vocal techniques, such as articulation and expression, and practice playing instruments with a focus on tone and accuracy.

• Quarter 3: Music History and Cultural Exploration

  Standards: NAfME Standard 6 (Responding), NAfME Standard 8 (Connecting)

  Focus: Examining music’s historical and cultural significance across time periods and communities.

  Sample Activity: “Music Timeline Project” – Students research a historical music period, present key elements, and analyze how it impacted society, connecting music theory to broader cultural narratives.

• Quarter 4: Improvisation and Musical Expression

  Standards: NAfME Standard 1 (Creating), NAfME Standard 6 (Responding), NAfME Standard 8 (Connecting)

  Focus: Creative improvisation and exploration of music’s role in personal and community expression.

  Sample Activity: “Improvisation Jam Session” – Students engage in improvisation, creating original melodies, and explore how music reflects individuality and cultural identity.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION, HEALTH & WELLNESS

6th Grade Physical Education, Health, and Wellness

The 6th-grade Physical Education, Health, and Wellness curriculum introduces students to essential life skills, basic anatomy, and the foundations of physical fitness. Aligned with the National Standards for K–12 Physical Education by Shape America, this program encourages students to develop healthy lifestyle habits through activities that promote self-image, decision-making, and effective communication.

Quarter 1: Building Self-Image and Communication Skills

• Standards: Shape America Standard 4, Shape America Standard 5

• Focus: Developing positive self-image and foundational communication skills.

• Sample Activity: Team Building Exercises – Students participate in activities that promote self-confidence and teamwork, fostering a supportive environment for personal growth.

Quarter 2: Decision-Making and Stress Management

• Standards: Shape America Standard 5

• Focus: Learning effective decision-making strategies and basic stress management techniques.

• Sample Activity: Stress Relief Workshop – Students explore techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness, and simple exercises to manage stress and build resilience.

Quarter 3: Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology

• Standards: Shape America Standard 1

• Focus: Understanding basic anatomy and physiology, focusing on body system functions.

• Sample Activity: Body Systems Exploration – Students learn about major body systems through interactive activities, reinforcing the importance of healthy choices for optimal living.

Quarter 4: Physical Fitness and Team Sports

• Standards: Shape America Standard 1, Shape America Standard 5

• Focus: Building fitness and teamwork skills through participation in team sports.

• Sample Activity: Sports Skills Development – Students engage in team sports and games to enhance physical fitness, coordination, and collaborative skills.

7th Grade Physical Education, Health, and Wellness

Building on the 6th-grade foundation, the 7th-grade curriculum focuses on applying health knowledge in personal projects, understanding game rules, and developing fitness habits. Emphasis is placed on nutrition, disease prevention, and substance use awareness, supporting students' development into informed and health-conscious individuals.

• Quarter 1: Physical Fitness and Personal Health

  Standards: Shape America Standard 3, Shape America Standard 5

  Focus: Establishing fitness routines and understanding the basics of personal health.

  Sample Activity: Fitness Goals Project – Students set and track personal fitness goals, developing routines to improve strength, endurance, and flexibility.

• Quarter 2: Nutrition and Healthy Habits

  Standards: Shape America Standard 5

  Focus: Applying dietary guidelines and understanding the importance of nutrition.

  Sample Activity: “Healthy Eating Workshop” – Students analyze their eating habits, learn about nutritional guidelines, and develop a balanced meal plan for maintaining a healthy diet.

• Quarter 3: Game Rules, Strategy, and Safety

  Standards: Shape America Standard 2, Shape America Standard 4

  Focus: Understanding game rules, safety practices, and strategies in team sports.

  Sample Activity: Game Strategy Simulation – Students participate in structured team games, focusing on rule application, strategy development, and safety practices.

• Quarter 4: Health Promotion and Substance Use Prevention

  Standards: Shape America Standard 5

  Focus: Exploring the benefits of physical activity, health promotion, and disease prevention.

  Sample Activity: Health Awareness Project – Students research and present on topics such as substance use prevention, physical activity benefits, and lifestyle choices for disease prevention.

FLEX BLOCK

MIDDLE SCHOOL FOUNDATIONS COURSE

The Middle School Foundations course is designed to support students as they transition from elementary to middle school, equipping them with the skills and understanding needed for a smooth and successful entry into this new phase. Recognizing that the move to middle school can be both exciting and challenging, this course provides a structured framework for navigating academic expectations, social dynamics, and personal growth. The primary goal of Middle School Foundations is to empower students with the knowledge and strategies necessary to excel in a middle school environment.

Middle School Foundations: Transition and Success, 6th Grade

The 6th-grade School Foundations curriculum at MBLI is designed to guide students through the transition to middle school, helping them understand academic expectations and social adjustments. Aligned with best practices in adolescent development, this program provides structured support to help students adapt confidently to their new environment and promotes positive academic and social experiences.

• Quarter 1: Academic Expectations and Middle School Transition

  Standards: National Middle School Association Standard 1, CASEL Core Competencies

  Focus: Introducing students to academic expectations, study habits, and the importance of responsibility in middle school.

  Sample Activity: Transition Workshop – Students participate in activities to discuss middle school expectations versus elementary school, covering organization skills, time management, and study techniques.

• Quarter 2: Social Skills and Communication

  Standards: CASEL Core Competencies

  Focus: Building social skills, effective communication, and self-management techniques.

  Sample Activity: Role-Playing Scenarios – Students engage in activities that develop interpersonal skills and explore effective ways to communicate with peers, teachers, and family members.

• Quarter 3: Stress Management and Emotional Health

  Standards: CASEL Core Competencies

  Focus: Strategies for managing stress and fostering emotional health.

  Sample Activity: Emotional Health Check-In – Students learn relaxation techniques, discuss healthy ways to manage school-related stress, and complete activities focused on emotional well-being.

• Quarter 4: Academic and Personal Goal-Setting

  Standards: National Middle School Association Standard 1, CASEL Core Competencies

  Focus: Encouraging students to set and track academic and personal goals.

  Sample Activity: Goal-Setting Workshop – Students identify personal and academic goals for the year, creating action plans and reflecting on their progress regularly.

Middle School Foundations: Building Academic and Social Skills, 7th Grade

The 7th-grade School Foundations program at MBLI builds on the 6th-grade curriculum, focusing on deepening students' understanding of academic skills, personal responsibility, and social awareness. This program is designed to help students navigate the increasing academic and social expectations of middle school, fostering resilience, confidence, and independence.

• Quarter 1: Academic Organization and Study Skills

  Standards: National Middle School Association Standard 2, CASEL Core Competencies

  Focus: Reinforcing organizational and study skills needed to meet the demands of a rigorous academic workload.

  Sample Activity: Academic Planner Workshop – Students learn to use planners and digital tools to track assignments, plan study schedules, and set academic priorities for effective time management.

• Quarter 2: Developing Self-Advocacy and Responsibility

  Standards: CASEL Core Competencies

  Focus: Encouraging self-advocacy, accountability, and taking initiative in academic and personal matters.

  Sample Activity: Self-Advocacy Role Play – Students practice scenarios where they communicate with teachers, peers, and family about academic or personal challenges, building confidence to seek help when needed.

• Quarter 3: Social Awareness and Peer Relationships

  Standards: National Middle School Association Standard 2, CASEL Core Competencies

  Focus: Enhancing social awareness, understanding peer relationships, and promoting respect and empathy.

  Sample Activity: Respect and Empathy Workshop – Through group activities and discussions, students explore the importance of empathy in relationships, addressing conflicts, and appreciating diversity within their peer group.

• Quarter 4: Reflecting on Growth and Setting Future Goals

  Standards: CASEL Core Competencies

  Focus: Reflecting on personal growth, identifying strengths and areas for improvement, and setting goals for 8th grade and beyond.

  Sample Activity: Personal Growth Journal – Students create journals to document their reflections on the year, list achievements, and set academic and personal goals for continued success.

MIDDLE SCHOOL ADVISORY

The MBLI Advisory program is based on the Second Step curriculum, focusing on creating a supportive environment that encourages academic, social, and emotional development. Through small advisory groups led by MBLI teachers, students engage in activities that promote personal growth, community service, and future planning.

6th Grade Advisory

• Quarter 1: Academic and Personal Organization

  Standards: ASCA Mindsets & Behaviors, CASEL Core Competencies

  Focus: Introduction to goal setting, organization skills, and academic accountability.

  Sample Activity: Students create a personal portfolio to track assignments, accomplishments, and areas for improvement, establishing habits for academic success.

• Quarter 2: Self-Discovery and Relationship Skills

  Standards: CASEL Core Competencies

  Focus: Building self-awareness and understanding relationship dynamics in a new school setting.

  Sample Activity: Students engage in guided self-reflection exercises and participate in team-building activities that foster empathy and communication.

• Quarter 3: Community Awareness and Service

  Standards: CASEL Core Competencies, ASCA Mindsets & Behaviors

  Focus: Emphasizing social responsibility and community involvement.

  Sample Activity: Advisory groups identify a local community need, plan a small service project, and reflect on the experience's impact on themselves and others.

• Quarter 4: Reflection and Growth Mindset

  Standards: ASCA Mindsets & Behaviors

  Focus: Encouraging students to reflect on their academic, personal, and social growth throughout the year.

  Sample Activity: Students review their portfolios and share key insights, setting personal goals for the next school year.

7th Grade Advisory

• Quarter 1: Academic Monitoring and Support

  Standards: ASCA Mindsets & Behaviors, CASEL Core Competencies

  Focus: Continuing academic accountability with regular check-ins, focusing on areas for improvement.

  Sample Activity: Students refine their portfolios by compiling academic work and personal achievements, reflecting on growth areas.

• Quarter 2: Future Planning and Goal Setting

  Standards: ASCA Mindsets & Behaviors

  Focus: Expanding on future planning with career exploration and high school course planning.

  Sample Activity: Students research career paths, align their interests with academic goals, and develop a preliminary high school course plan.

• Quarter 3: Leadership Impact

  Standards: CASEL Core Competencies, ASCA Mindsets & Behaviors

  Focus: Cultivating leadership skills through community projects and peer mentoring.

  Sample Activity: Advisory groups design and execute a school-based project, allowing students to take on leadership roles and reflect on their contributions.

• Quarter 4: Personal Reflection and Goal Renewal

  Standards: CASEL Core Competencies, ASCA Mindsets & Behaviors

  Focus: Reviewing personal and academic growth, and renewing goals for the next academic year.

  Sample Activity: Students conduct an end-of-year presentation based on their portfolios, sharing progress and setting goals for the upcoming year.

COMMUNITY SERVICE & SERVICE LEARNING

MBLI’s Community Service and Service Learning program, led by school guidance counselors and student support staff, is built on the K-12 Service-Learning Standards for Quality Practice by the National Youth Leadership Council and guided by the CASEL Core Competencies. This program fosters empathy, social responsibility, and active citizenship by developing self-awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making. Through monthly schoolwide service days, students engage in meaningful projects that address real community needs, gaining hands-on experience in community involvement, strengthening their leadership abilities, and making a positive impact on society.

• Quarter 1: Introduction to Service and Community Needs

  Standards: K-12 Service-Learning Standards, CASEL Core Competencies

  Focus: Introducing students to the concept of community service and identifying local needs.

  Sample Activity: Students participate in a Community Mapping Project, identifying areas in need of service, such as local parks, senior centers, and shelters.

• Quarter 2: Developing Empathy and Service Skills

  Standards: CASEL Core Competencies, K-12 Service-Learning Standards

  Focus: Cultivating empathy and understanding through hands-on service projects.

  Sample Activity: Schoolwide Service Day – Students volunteer at local food banks or community gardens, gaining insights into the importance of service and teamwork.

• Quarter 3: Project Planning

  Standards: K-12 Service-Learning Standards, CASEL Core Competencies

  Focus: Developing leadership skills as students take on more responsibility in organizing and executing service projects.

  Sample Activity: Students lead cross-grade groups in projects like Potomac River cleanup or park beautification, reflecting on leadership and collaboration.

• Quarter 4: Reflection and Community Impact

  Standards: K-12 Service-Learning Standards, CASEL Core Competencies

  Focus: Reflecting on the year’s service work and understanding the broader impact of their contributions.

  Sample Activity: Students create End-of-Year Service Reflections, presenting on their experiences, lessons learned, and the impact of their work on the community.

MBLI’s curriculum goes beyond textbooks, combining standards-aligned instruction with interactive, hands-on activities to make learning engaging and relevant. These sample activities represent just a glimpse of the dynamic experiences awaiting students—activities that are designed to inspire, educate, and prepare them for a successful future.

*Note: Curriculum details