At The Foundation Academy, middle school learning continues to be grounded in our TFA Senior Expectations and our belief that every student is uniquely created with strengths and purpose. In 6th–7th grade, boys are challenged to grow academically, spiritually, socially, and personally in a supportive classroom community where collaboration and perseverance are daily practices.  

 

Academics & Thematic Learning  

This year, our focus theme is Africa, explored across subjects through project-based, inquiry-based learning. Students connect literature, geography, history, and science as they examine African cultures, communities, and global contributions. We begin the year reading Outcast United, sparking conversations about identity, resilience, and belonging. This theme continues into social studies as students explore African geography, current events, and cultural traditions.  

  

 Mathematics  

Math in 6th–7th grade is rooted in the Florida B.E.S.T. Standards, with pacing that emphasizes algebra readiness while providing differentiation so each student can move forward from their current level. Topics include number sense and operations, ratios and proportions, expressions and equations, functions, geometry, and probability.  

At the start of the year, students reflected on questions like “Why would we need to relearn something?” to help reframe math as a subject that builds across time—not tied to grade labels, but as knowledge and skills that must be deepened and mastered for lifelong use.  

Using the Thinking Classroom approach, students solve problems collaboratively on whiteboards, build mathematical reasoning, and apply concepts to authentic contexts. One highlight is our participation in the Florida Stock Market Challenge, where students compete against peers across the state in an online investing simulation. Many of our boys have won real cash prizes for their success in their region and age group—an exciting way to connect algebra, percentages, and data analysis to real-world financial literacy.  

  

 Literacy & Social Studies  

Reading and writing are central to the year. Alongside Outcast United, students read African folktales such as Anansi stories and nonfiction texts on history and culture. Writing emphasizes narrative, expository, and reflective essays, with opportunities to connect reading through text-to-self, text-to-world, and text-to-text lenses.  

In social studies, aligned with Florida standards for grades 6–7, students investigate African geography, map skills, migration, and global current events. They use inquiry and Socratic seminar discussions to analyze community, conflict, and resilience.  

  

 Science & STEAM  

Through hands-on projects aligned with Florida middle school science standards, students learn to observe, question, and test. Projects include studying erosion with interactive sandboxes, analyzing natural disasters, and exploring African innovations in engineering and science. Students maintain interactive journals to record observations, data, and reflections.  

  

  Character Formation, SEL, & Life Skills  

Our program emphasizes whole-student development, combining faith, reflection, and practical skills.  

Bible Study & Journals: Daily Bible lessons and life journals give students time to reflect on personal growth and connect faith to everyday choices.  

Social-Emotional Learning (SEL): Students practice self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making. This is woven into daily interactions, class discussions, and activities that encourage empathy, resilience, and teamwork.  

Life Skills: Lessons focus on responsibility, hygiene, collaboration, and financial literacy. Real-world applications—such as the Stock Market Challenge—give students opportunities to practice decision-making and accountability in meaningful contexts.  

  

Whole-Person Growth  

Throughout the year, students are guided to become curious learners, critical thinkers, compassionate leaders, and responsible community members. By engaging deeply with Africa as a theme, they gain not only academic skills but also a broader perspective on culture, diversity, and global citizenship.  

  

All students are involved in Performing, visual arts, Physical education and sports.