📘 AI Edge Academy Curriculum Catalog (Grades 5–9)
🔹 General Overview
The middle school and early high school program at AI Edge Academy supports students in developing independent academic thinking, digital literacy, and preparation for advanced coursework. The curriculum is aligned with:
- Cognia Performance Standards for Middle and High Grades
- Common Core State Standards (CCSS)
- Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)
- ISTE & CSTA for Computer Science and Digital Literacy
Instruction is fully online via our LMS, delivered in small peer groups by certified teachers. The approach includes project-based learning, real-world applications, and preparation for advanced placement or dual-enrollment opportunities.
🧹 Core Subjects (Grades 5–9)
| Subject Area | Description | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| English Language Arts | Literary analysis, academic writing, research, grammar, public speaking | Daily |
| Mathematics | Pre-Algebra, Algebra I, Geometry foundations, data & probability | Daily |
| Science | Biology, Earth Science, Chemistry concepts, lab simulations, scientific method | 3x per week |
| Social Studies | World history, U.S. civics, geography, economics, current global issues | 2–3x per week |
| Digital & Media Literacy | Typing, online research, digital safety, media bias, presentations | Weekly |
| Computer Science | Scratch to Python, algorithms, AI basics, logic, cybersecurity awareness | Weekly |
| STEAM Projects | Robotics, 3D modeling, Arduino, creative tech innovation | Weekly (optional) |
| Arts & Design | Digital design, visual arts, music technology, performance | 1–2x per week |
| Physical Education & Health | Exercise routines, nutrition, emotional wellness, growth education | Weekly |
| SEL & Life Skills | Goal-setting, self-regulation, collaboration, career exploration | Weekly |
📚 Grade-Level Highlights
📘 Grade 5
- Introduction to formal academic writing
- Decimal operations, multi-digit multiplication
- Ecosystems, Earth cycles, observation journals
- Colonial America, early government
- Google Workspace, safe internet use
📗 Grade 6
- Paragraph structure, summaries, evidence-based answers
- Ratios, proportions, expressions
- Cells, energy transfer, weather systems
- World cultures and geography
- Scratch & basic Python, digital citizenship
📙 Grade 7
- Persuasive writing, literary critique
- Algebra concepts, graphing functions
- Chemical reactions, Newton’s Laws
- U.S. Constitution, civic engagement
- Robotics, website building
📒 Grade 8
- Research skills, thematic essays
- Algebra I, geometry basics
- Genetics, engineering principles
- American history, civil rights
- Game design, AI project intro
📕 Grade 9
- Literature analysis, argumentation
- Algebra I mastery, Geometry launch
- Biology with labs, scientific method application
- Modern world history and economics
- Python programming, digital portfolios
📟 Assessment & Reporting
- Standards-aligned report cards each semester
- Benchmark testing, progress checks
- Student-led reviews, goal tracking
- Parent dashboard and meetings
🏅 Accreditation & Compliance
- Accredited by Cognia
- Compliant with national frameworks (CCSS, NGSS, ISTE, CSTA)
- UDL, SEL, and project-based learning integrated