ACADEMICS

English courses focus on strengthening literacy, communication, and command of language through active and engaging instruction. Students work with a range of literary genres while developing skills in writing, speaking, and analysis, with frequent opportunities for discussion and expression. English 5 and 6 emphasize novel studies across multiple genres, along with units in poetry and short stories, with writing mechanics and grammar skills included in every unit. English 7 and 8 include six thematic novel study units with writing and spelling skills interwoven throughout. Our goals and objectives include:

• Reading carefully and thinking critically about a variety of texts

• Writing with attention to form and structure to support clear expression

• Strengthening speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills

• Building proficiency in grammar, mechanics, and editing

English 5 | English 6 | English 7 | English 8

The goal of the mathematics program is to help boys develop basic mathematical skills and apply them with precision. The boys should develop discipline, patience and persistence in problem solving both in school and life. Using this symbolic language, students should be able to communicate the usefulness and power of mathematics.

Math 5 | Math 6 | Math 7 | Topics of Algebra | Honors Algebra I | Honors Geometry

Science courses take an integrated, hands-on approach to earth, life, and physical sciences. Students build a foundation in scientific knowledge while actively engaging in experiments and inquiry that reflect the curiosity and energy of middle school boys. Through lab work and investigation, they develop precision, critical thinking, and an appreciation for the natural world. Our goals and objectives include:

• Applying the scientific method through observation, experimentation, and analysis

• Writing clear and structured lab reports to communicate findings

• Exploring key concepts across physical, earth, and life sciences

• Strengthening critical thinking through investigation and problem solving

Science 5 | Science 6 | Science 7 | Science 8

History courses explore significant periods, individuals, and events through active learning and discussion. Instruction is designed to engage middle school boys with meaningful connections to geography, culture, politics, and economics. Students build knowledge while developing skills in analysis, interpretation, and thoughtful debate, helping them understand the relationship between past and present. Our goals and objectives include:

• Examining key events and figures across world and American history

• Analyzing historical developments through discussion and debate

• Writing clearly through informal and research-based assignments

• Connecting history with geography, culture, and society

History 5 | History 6: World History I | History 7 | History 8: US Civics, Government, and Philosophy

The Spanish 6 introductory course focuses on helping students develop foundational Spanish language skills while exploring the cultures and traditions of the Spanish-speaking world.

Spanish 7 builds upon the foundational skills and helps students expand their vocabulary, develop an understanding of basic grammar concepts, and continue to strengthen their skills.

By the end of Spanish 8, students will have completed the equivalent of Level I high school Spanish.

Spanish 6 | Spanish 7 | Spanish 8

Bridge is a signature 5th-grade Field School course designed to help boys make a confident transition into middle school. Through daily, hands-on instruction, students learn practical systems that build executive functioning, metacognition, comprehension, and organization. Boys learn how to manage their time, develop effective study habits, and become more independent learners. Games and drills make skill-building active and fun, sharpening handwriting, typing, vocabulary, reading, listening, discussion, and math facts. By building these foundational skills early, Bridge prepares students to thrive academically, socially, and personally throughout their years at Field and beyond.

Bridge 5

PERFORMING ARTS

Here at Field School, the performing arts classes are about opening doors for possibility. So often in middle school, students begin to prune areas and categorize themselves, closing doors. At Field, every boy learns the basics of playing an instrument. This skill set can open doors for

1. Establishing habits that translate into other areas

2. Inspiring the boys to go deeper in pursuing and practicing their instrument

3. Becoming a culturally competent citizen

4. Contributing to their community through playing their instrument

5. Building connections with friends

6. Building skills that will carry them into successful pursuits in high school and beyond.

Our teaching artists offer a wide array of instrument offerings. They are accomplished educators and performers who come to teach the boys twice a week. Each boy is placed during the summer in an instrument class, which they study all year. All boys are required to perform for their parents and friends twice a year, creating an authentic assessment as well as a wonderful way to create community using music. In addition, faculty from each class choose boys to represent their program in our yearly Honors Recital in March. Although boys are allowed to change instruments in the summer placement, most boys see the most success and do choose to stay with the same instrument over multiple years.  

We invite you to explore the biographies of our incredible faculty as well as the course descriptions of our wide array of offerings.

VISUAL ARTS

The Field School Visual Arts Program is designed with boys in mind. It is active, tactile, and creativity-forward. Students are exposed to a wide variety of art and media, including painting, drawing, printmaking, textiles, design, sculpture, and collage. They learn technique and proper use and care of materials, while considering the elements of art and principles of design. Through the process, they continue to develop their fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and creative problem-solving abilities. They work individually and collaboratively on projects that are directed but open-ended.

Art 5 | Art 6 | Art 7 | Art 8