Level 5: Seventh & Eighth Grade
Students in seventh and eighth grades encounter an even more challenging program during their final two years at Gaudior, preparing them for the rigors of high-school and the continual trials they will encounter during their pursuit of self-excellence. Level 5 students are encouraged to develop leadership abilities while expanding their multiple skill base and engaging in divergent thinking and problem-solving activities. Built upon a solid foundation of literacy, mathematics, social studies and science, Level 5 students are encouraged to observe and make connections based on past experiences, as well as form their own future hypothesis.
Recognizing the needs of the multiple intelligences, Level 5 offers many opportunities for students to thrive in an independent environment designed for broader application of reading and writing abilities, as well as a variety of self-chosen methods for students to assess their own educational process. Integrated curriculum engages students in a joyful yet challenging atmosphere, allowing them to establish their own methods of self-expression while continuing to learn to reliably communicate their thoughts and feelings with others.
Social studies and literacy continue as an integrated part of classroom activities. Students are encouraged to express themselves through the written language, and oral communication skills are cultivated in preparation for public speaking opportunities; such as the presentation of their Science Fair project at the Detroit Metropolitan Science Fair, and during the 8th grade graduation speech. Students are encouraged to take an active part in their learning process, and many activities are created to establish self-directed learning abilities, such as forming research strategies, extracting information and applying found knowledge.
In addition to traveling bi-weekly to the art studio, Spanish, music, and physical education classrooms, students now rotate through additional math and science classes. Grouped by how they learn, students excel in higher-level math courses, such as algebra and beginning geometry. Science classes provide excellent opportunities for students to participate in hands-on experiments, chart data and discover elements in the natural world, as well as participate in the Detroit Science Fair held annually at Cobo Arena.
Students in Level 5 are encouraged to cultivate a sense of social responsibility and community appreciation on several levels - between peer groups, between student and staff, and throughout the entire school. Students participate in self-chosen service projects that directly benefit their community - such as helping as a lunch program aid, or assisting in the library program by reading with younger children. Designed foster a continuing sense of confidence and public speaking awareness, students participate in Uniquely Gaudior experiences, ranging from Gaudior Night staged performances to a final graduation presentation.
Level 5 provides a unique opportunity for students to teach and learn from one another in a multi-age classroom. Students stay within the same level for two consecutive years, allowing them to create deep and meaningful relationships with their teachers and one another. With small class sizes of 1:24, students are encouraged to become leaders within the classroom in roles they find most comfortable. Community agreements such as mutual respect, attentive listening, and group participation are fostered and cultivated, allowing each student to develop skills at their own pace in a comfortable and friendly environment.
